Where human potential meets cutting-edge technology, the fitness industry is undergoing a powerful shift—and few people understand that better than Bryan K. O’Rourke. As Founder of Vedere Ventures, Co-Founder of Moon Mission Media, CEO of Core Health & Fitness, and Founder of the Fitness Technology Council, Bryan has a front-row seat to the future of fitness.
We recently caught up with him to talk about his vision for 2025, how he approaches innovation and the hard-won lessons he’s picked up along the way.
The Strategic Vision
When asked about his strategic vision for 2025, Bryan O’Rourke speaks with clarity and intention: “Empower innovation, optimize performance, and redefine the fitness industry through technology, strategic partnerships, and a relentless focus on customer experience.”
It’s a vision that shows up in tangible ways across his ventures. At Core Health & Fitness, it means building IoT-connected cardio products that enhance personalization and data insights. Through Vedere Ventures, he invests in emerging fitness technologies with long-term potential. And at Moon Mission Media, the focus is on smart, creative media strategies that help brands connect and grow.
Bold Moves and Strategic Risks
One of Bryan’s most pivotal decisions was committing early to the development of IoT-connected cardio equipment. “This decision was about more than just improving products,” he explains. “It was about building a connected ecosystem—one that gives gyms smarter tools and delivers a better experience for members through AI-driven insights, member tracking, and digital integration.”
But this shift wasn’t just about adding features. It signaled a deeper transformation in how Core approaches its business model—evolving hardware into a smart platform that delivers continuous value.
Looking back, he sees integrating AI and personalization before the market was ready as his biggest strategic risk. “The market wasn’t ready, but we saw the writing on the wall,” he reflects. “The lesson? If you wait until everyone’s asking for innovation, it’s already too late. You have to be willing to lead.”
Balancing Short-Term Execution with Long-Term Vision
In an industry that moves fast, Bryan relies on 90-day sprint cycles to stay nimble while keeping long-term goals in view. “It’s about being agile and staying ahead,” he says.
This approach requires consistent investment in emerging technologies like IoT, AI, and predictive analytics—while also nurturing a culture of disruption that welcomes new business models and ways of thinking.
Leadership in the Age of AI
The demands of a fast-moving, tech-driven environment shape Bryan’s leadership style. He values adaptability over rigid plans and favors decisions grounded in both data and intuition.
“I believe in empowering my team through mentorship and autonomy, not micromanagement,” he shares. This leadership style allows his organizations to pivot quickly while staying aligned with a clear strategic direction.
AI has played a transformative role in how decisions are made. “Now, we make data-driven decisions before issues arise—not after,” he says. “Real-time insights allow us to forecast trends and adjust strategies quickly.”
A Game-Changing Trend for the Next Five Years
Looking ahead, Bryan believes many leaders are underestimating a major shift: the move from automation to AI-driven personalization, especially in B2B spaces.
“People often think of AI as just a way to streamline operations,” he says. “But its real power is in creating more meaningful, personalized experiences—for businesses and their customers.”
At Core Health & Fitness, this vision is already unfolding. His team is leveraging IoT, AI, and predictive analytics to deliver personalized fitness experiences, monitor equipment in real-time, and offer data-driven insights for gym operators.
His message is direct: “If you’re not using AI to understand and serve your customers better, you’re going to get left behind.”
Learning from Mistakes
Despite his many accomplishments, Bryan is candid about past missteps. “One of my biggest mistakes was not pushing for aggressive international expansion sooner,” he admits. “We were slow to move on markets like Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, even though the signs were there—they were ready for something new.”
Rather than dwell on missed opportunities, he uses them as turning points—reminders that growth often comes from reflection and course correction.
The Future of Talent and Digital Transformation
In the wake of the pandemic, Bryan has rethought what makes a strong team. While experience still matters, adaptability and digital fluency are now top priorities.
“We’re looking for people who are comfortable navigating change,” he says. “The tools will keep evolving. What matters is whether someone can grow with them—and stay aligned with Core’s long-term mission.”
On the topic of digital transformation, he shares a clear warning: “The biggest mistake I see is when companies invest in technology without a clear strategy. It’s not just about having AI or automation—it’s about understanding how those tools support your business model. Otherwise, it’s just noise.”
Starting Fresh in 2025
If he were to start from scratch in 2025, Bryan knows where he’d begin. “I’d build a digital-first, data-driven business from day one,” he says. “The future belongs to integrated ecosystems—where IoT, AI, and personalization all work together to deliver real value.”
That philosophy—of using technology with intention—is at the core of everything he does. For Bryan, innovation isn’t about chasing trends. It’s about creating meaningful change, empowering teams, and building deeper connections with customers.
The Habit of High-Velocity Decision-Making
Of all the leadership habits he’s developed, Bryan points to one as a game-changer: high-velocity decision-making.
“I’ve learned to make quick, high-quality decisions with the information I have,” he says. “In our industry, hesitation can cost more than a wrong move. Great leaders act, learn, and adapt.”
It’s a mindset that reflects his broader approach—decisive but thoughtful, informed by data, and open to iteration.
Bryan K. O’Rourke’s journey is a reminder that leadership in today’s world requires more than vision—it demands adaptability, courage, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. By blending strategic foresight with a deep commitment to innovation and people, he continues to shape the future of fitness and technology. As we move into 2025 and beyond, O’Rourke’s example serves as both a roadmap and an inspiration for leaders ready to embrace change, think differently, and build something that lasts.
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