Your Retreat Works.
Now Build the Empire Around It.
For established retreat creators who are ready to scale — multiple formats, team development, licensing, certification, and strategic growth with a dedicated design partner.
The Challenge
Scaling a retreat business is a different problem than launching one.
You've launched. It works. Participants transform. But now you're facing a new set of questions: How do I add a virtual format without diluting the in-person magic? How do I train other facilitators to deliver my methodology? How do I build a certification program that protects the integrity of what I've created? How do I go from one retreat a year to a full ecosystem that generates revenue year-round?
These aren't DIY problems. They're architecture problems — and they require a different kind of support than a course or a template. They require an ongoing strategic partnership with someone who understands both the psychology of transformation and the mechanics of building a scalable business around it.
In Practice
What Retainer Clients Are Building
Launching virtual retreats alongside in-person flagship events — without compromising what makes the experience transformative
Training and certifying facilitators to deliver their methodology — expanding reach without sacrificing quality or brand integrity
Building tiered program ecosystems — from free tools and self-paced courses through cohorts, retreats, and high-touch private engagements
Expanding into corporate and institutional markets — adapting proven retreat methodology for organizations, associations, and professional development contexts
Developing licensing models for their Transformation Arc — creating intellectual property frameworks that others can access, apply, and build on
Creating post-retreat continuation programs that drive recurring revenue — turning one-time participants into long-term community members and repeat clients
The Partnership
What's Included
Monthly strategy sessions with Ryan
90-minute deep-dive calls focused on your current growth priorities. Not status updates — working sessions where we solve problems, make decisions, and move things forward. Every session produces clear next actions and documented decisions.
Asynchronous support between sessions
Email and Loom video support between sessions. Send questions, share drafts, get feedback — typically within 24 hours. You're not waiting until next month's call when a time-sensitive decision needs to be made.
Design reviews and materials feedback
Every new program, retreat revision, marketing asset, or facilitation guide gets expert review before it goes live. You're not launching anything without a second set of experienced eyes on it — including the things you think are already done.
Quarterly roadmap planning
Every 90 days, we step back and assess: what's working, what's not, and what the next quarter's priorities should be. You always know the plan — and the plan is always grounded in where your business actually is, not where you hoped it would be.
The Rhythm
A Typical Month
Week One
Strategy Session
We open the month with a 90-minute working session. Review progress from last month, identify current blockers, set priorities for the next four weeks, and make any decisions that have been waiting. You leave the call knowing exactly what we're building this month and why.
Week Two
Async Review and Feedback
You build, draft, and create. Ryan reviews deliverables as they come in — detailed written or video feedback on programs, materials, and strategies within 24 hours. This is where most of the real work gets done and refined.
Week Three
Mid-Month Check-In
A focused 30-minute call to course-correct if needed. If priorities have shifted, something isn't working, or a new opportunity has surfaced — this is the moment to recalibrate. Not every month needs major adjustments, but the structure is there when it matters.
Week Four
Delivery and Forward Planning
Finalize the current sprint's deliverables. Wrap any outstanding feedback loops. Begin scoping next month's focus so the strategy session that opens Month 2 is oriented and efficient — not starting from scratch.
The Fit
This Is For You If
This is for you
- You've already launched at least one successful retreat or program
- You're ready to scale — multiple formats, larger audiences, or team growth
- You want a strategic partner, not a vendor or a coach
- You're thinking about licensing, certification, or institutional partnerships
- You need ongoing expert input, not a one-time engagement
This isn't for you
- You're still designing your first retreat (start with The Build Sprint)
- You want someone to do the work for you without active collaboration
- You're looking for a short-term project (The Build Sprint is a better fit)
- You don't yet have an existing program that's generating revenue
Your Partner
Ryan Howard, MS, BS
Educational psychologist and instructional designer with 7+ years building 5- and 6-figure programs. Ryan's methodology bridges rigorous learning science with the real-world demands of scaling a retreat business. The same framework applied in the Monthly Retainer has been used in partnership with organizations including the American Psychological Association and the American Association for Physician Leadership.
Read the full story →Ready for a Strategic Partner?
Book a free Design Strategy Session. We'll discuss your growth goals, assess where a retainer partnership would add the most value, and determine if the fit is right.
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