In this episode of the Assemble Podcast, Dan Berger sits down with Anna VanAgtmael, founder of Wandering Roots, to talk about what actually goes into designing retreats that are meaningful, sustainable, and worth running.

The conversation explores Anna’s path from hosting her own retreats to planning retreats for entrepreneurs and leaders around the world. Along the way, they unpack common mistakes retreat hosts make, how to think more clearly about pricing and group size, and why leaving space for downtime and integration often matters more than a packed itinerary. The episode also looks at current retreat trends and how thoughtful planning can extend the impact of a retreat well beyond the final day.

Episode Themes

• Designing retreats that balance intention, logistics, and guest experience
• Why overpacked itineraries often undermine retreat outcomes
• The role of downtime in creating meaningful connection and clarity
• How retreat pricing impacts sustainability and perceived value
• Ideal group size and host-to-guest ratios for deeper engagement
• The shift toward more content-driven, less excursion-heavy retreats
• Helping guests integrate retreat insights back into everyday life

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome to the Assemble Podcast
01:00 – Anna’s path from biotech to retreat hosting
03:30 – Creating approachable, accessible wellness retreats
04:30 – How she first found retreat clients
06:00 – Moving into retreat planning for others
07:30 – Where most retreat hosts get stuck
10:40 – Over-scheduling, travel fatigue, and downtime
12:30 – Current retreat trends
13:30 – Integration and re-entry after retreats
15:00 – When to say no to a client
15:40 – Pricing advice for retreat hosts
17:00 – Realistic retreat pricing benchmarks
18:00 – Ideal retreat size and group dynamics
18:50 – How Anna prices her planning services
19:30 – Final advice for retreat planners

About the Guest – Anna VanAgtmael

Anna VanAgtmael is the founder of Wandering Roots, where she helps retreat leaders and entrepreneurs design thoughtful, well-run retreats rooted in connection, clarity, and sustainability. Her work blends travel planning, logistics, and intentional experience design to support hosts and guests alike.

Website: www.yourwanderingroots.com

Social Media: Facebook | LinkedIn

About the Assemble Podcast

Welcome to the Assemble Podcast. I’m Dan Berger, founder of Assemble Hospitality Group.

We build purpose-designed spaces for small team offsites and retreats, because the biggest things happen in the smallest rooms.

This show explores retreats in all forms—corporate, lifestyle, wellness, and endurance training—and the culture shifts that happen when people step away from the everyday. You’ll hear lessons from operators, facilitators, and leaders who design experiences that move the needle.

Our goal: give you the playbook for building clarity, trust, and belonging on your team—or in your community.

Learn more: assemblehospitality.com

Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube

Credits: Hosted by Dan Berger, Founder & CEO of Assemble Hospitality. Recorded at Assemble’s Boise Retreat House. Produced by KazCM, part of the QuietLoud Studios podcast network. Distributed on SportsEpreneur.