Hi, my loves! We’re switching things up for this week’s blog! In honor of my new book, The Retreat Leaders Playbook, J from my team has again sat me down for an interview. Today, we’re chitchatting about all things retreats, how I got started, and why I wanted to share this book with the world. She’s giving me the signal: Here we go in 3…2…1.
J: *Straightens t-shirt, sharpens pencil, and adopts a serious journalist look* Hi again, Shannon! It’s story time; please share how you got into the business of hosting retreats.
Shannon: Hahaha…I didn’t realize we would be that serious, but okay. I was in corporate sales for quite a few years, and as part of my portfolio, I was responsible for hosting executive retreats for my teams. My favorite thing was seeing how retreats transformed and motivated everyone who attended. When I followed my calling to work in mental health counseling, I knew from previous experience that retreats could serve as a particularly empowering tool for individuals. The beauty of health-focused retreats is they benefit everyone, reduce stress, and serve as a general mental reset. Beyond that, it can seriously help those struggling with a mental health diagnosis to take a beat, focus, and breathe.
J: Is that why you decided to write a book about hosting retreats?
Shannon: Yes, and the truth is I also get asked ALL THE TIME how to start hosting retreats! My book, The Retreat Leaders Playbook, is meant to be an overview of the retreat planning process. I’ve done my best to capture most of the questions I’ve fielded over the years. For those who want a more in-depth understanding of the retreat planning experience, I’ve also designed a course (which offers unlimited email support!). But more importantly, I’ve also written my book so anyone who reads it can start hosting transformational retreats…. and make a profit…right away!
J: I’ve not yet gotten the chance to finish the book. What are the three main takeaways readers can expect from reading the book?
Shannon: I hope you’re enjoying the book so far:) The biggest takeaway is this: if you don’t believe you won’t be able to do it or are not worthy of the monetary benefits, you won’t. This is very much a go big or go home (literally) type of job. So, either don’t do it or work on improving your belief system!
J: I agree; I’ve found the book pretty empowering so far. I’m sure it will help those with cold feet step out into the sunny land of retreats! What, if any, research did you do to write this book?
Shannon: I’ve been researching material indirectly since I planned my first retreat! While writing this book, I leaned on all I’ve learned (for good or for bad) on my journey as a retreat host. I also pulled from watching other hosts coordinate their retreats at The Retreat Ranch. You can learn so much from simple observation! Over the last 7-8 years I have helped other retreat hosts, in a coaching/mentor capacity and pulled from those experiences. But mainly, I have hosted retreats around the globe for over a decade and pulled lots of experience from the hundreds of retreats I have hosted (and continue to host).
J: I love how dedicated you are to hosting a great retreat. Tell us one thing you love the most about hosting retreats.
Shannon: I LOVE MEETING NEW PEOPLE! I’ve been lucky enough to engage with people worldwide. Along my journey, I’ve genuinely found and learned from some of the most amazing humans ever.
J: What upcoming retreats have you planned for the next few months?
Shannon: I’ll be hosting several exciting events at our Ranch in Marble Falls, Texas: horse yoga (my new fav!), yoga vacation retreats and of course my signature retreat, yoga & wine ladies’ retreat. I also have my annual Destin, Florida retreat in November and one in Tulum, Mexico, next year. To keep updated on all our upcoming events, you can stay subscribed to this newsletter and check out the Retreats tab on our website.
J: Ok, final question! What do you love the most about the retreat planning industry?
Shannon: There are always new ways to grow and learn. I don’t ever want to find myself in a place where I believe I can’t continue to learn, grow, and create more magical workshops and retreats. I especially love collaborating with other experts to expand my retreats and myself.
J: Thanks, Shannon! On behalf of the team, we’re all so excited for you!
To purchase a copy of Shannon’s new book, The Retreat Leaders Playbook, pop over to Amazon or The Retreat Ranch’s website.
