Transitioning to Online Coaching: Lessons from Elite Coach & Powerlifter John Gaglione

Описание: In this episode of the Business of Coaching Workshop, host Andrew Jackson sits down with elite powerlifting coach, gym owner, and longtime hybrid coaching pioneer John Gaglione to unpack what it really takes to transition from in-person coaching to successful online and hybrid coaching.

With more than 20 years in the industry, John has built two gyms, coached world-class powerlifters, handled lifters at national events, and evolved his coaching business into a sustainable hybrid model that supports both family life and competitive success.

Andrew and John break down the real friction points coaches face when shifting online—client tracking, communication, programming, culture, and pricing—and why most coaches struggle when they try to scale without systems. John shares how he phased himself out of his original New York gym, built a new community in Delaware, and used TurnKey Coach to maintain coaching quality while gaining freedom and time back.

If you're a gym owner, strength coach, or online coach wanting to grow your client roster, improve retention, transition to hybrid coaching, or build systems that scale—this conversation provides practical, hard-earned lessons you can apply immediately.

What You’ll Learn
How John Gaglione transitioned from full-time in-person to a profitable hybrid coaching model
Why most coaches fail when trying to move clients online
How to reduce friction and train clients to use software effectively
The power of team culture in both in-person and online coaching
How John balances two gyms, online coaching, and family life
Why tracking, video feedback, and systems unlock real scalability
How hybrid coaching increases retention and client lifetime value
The “lighthouse vs tugboat” mindset every coach needs
How to choose the right events, communities, and networks as a coach
Why hybrid coaching gives you time freedom without sacrificing client results

Timestamps
00:00 – Welcome & John’s introduction
03:10 – John’s origin story: wrestling, powerlifting, and early coaching influences
06:30 – Opening his first gym & growing a strength community
11:40 – Building a powerlifting team and coaching elite lifters
17:05 – The moment he chose to go all-in on coaching
20:45 – Creating systems that allow a coach to scale
25:20 – Moving states: phasing out, maintaining culture, and using hybrid coaching
31:10 – How TurnKey Coach reduced friction and improved client results
35:50 – Teaching clients to track, film, and communicate effectively
40:20 – Balancing family, travel, competing, and coaching
44:00 – Choosing events and investing your coaching time strategically
48:40 – Building community online and in-person
52:10 – Hybrid coaching as the path to sustainability
55:25 – Final advice for coaches transitioning online
57:10 – Where to find John & closing thoughts