Behind every successful retreat is a strong business foundation. From pricing and marketing to insurance and partnerships, the business side of retreats is what allows your vision to become sustainable and impactful. In this session, we’ll explore the key elements that retreat leaders need to navigate, from financial planning and risk management to building authentic relationships with host communities. You’ll walk away with practical tools, ethical frameworks, step-by-step guides, and inspiring case studies to help you design retreats that are both professionally viable and deeply aligned with your values.
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Identify essential business components of retreats, including pricing, insurance, and venue partnerships.
- Create actionable strategies for marketing with integrity and building sustainable, culturally respectful relationships with host communities.
- Apply practical tools and ethical frameworks to create retreats that are financially viable, socially responsible, and resilient in the face of challenges.
Supporting Documents
The Marketing Timeline (PDF)
Step-by-Step Pricing Framework (PDF)
The Core Elements of Registration & Detail Management (PDF)
Participant Communication Checklist (PDF)
About the Author
Joshua Canter is the Founder and Director of True Nature Travels, a global retreat organization that has guided thousands of participants through transformational experiences over the past 20 years. A seasoned retreat leader and teacher of mindfulness meditation, Joshua’s work bridges ancient contemplative traditions with modern holistic practices.
Joshua’s journey began with a deep calling to explore the intersection of spiritual practice, service, and community. He has since dedicated his life to creating sacred spaces for others to reconnect with themselves, each other, and the Earth. His retreats are known for their intentional design, compassionate leadership, and integration of yoga, meditation, experiential learning, karma yoga, and inner reflection.
Joshua holds a Master’s degree in Contemplative Psychology and a BA in Sustainable Community Development. He has taught and spoken on topics ranging from mindful leadership and global citizenship to the art of sacred space holding. Joshua is also a musician, writer, death doula, and a devoted husband and father who lives in the mountains of Asheville, North Carolina.
Joshua believes that when we pause and truly listen to ourselves and the world we begin to uncover the wisdom, clarity, and transformation that lives within each moment. He is honored to share his experience and be part of the Yoga Alliance community.
The views expressed in this online workshop/virtual event are those of the participant(s) and do not purport to reflect the policy or position of Yoga Alliance (YA) or the Yoga Alliance Foundation (YAF). Further, the participation by an individual or entity in this event, and any reference to a product or service, do not constitute an endorsement or recommendation of such by YA or YAF. This content of this online workshop/virtual event is intended to be used for informational purposes only, and not intended to impart any medical or other advice. YA and YAF make no representations or warranties as to accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information provided in connection with this online workshop/virtual event and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information, or any losses, injuries, damages, or other harm arising from its display or use.
