• Episode 18 - The Messaging Mistake That’s Killing Your Membership Growth with Rick Tielemans
    Jul 10 2025
    If you’ve been grinding on social, sending emails, perfecting your landing pages—and still not seeing your membership grow—this episode is your wake-up call. The problem likely isn’t your offer… it’s your messaging. I brought in Rick Tielemans, co-creator of Tribe Secrets and my go-to messaging ninja, to break down the psychology of why people don’t buy—and how to flip that. If you want members who pay and stay, this one’s a masterclass. Inside this episode, we dive into:
    • Why most membership pages fail before visitors even read the offer
    • How to create messaging that stops the scroll and builds instant buy-in
    • The three elements every tribe-building offer MUST have
    • How your personal origin story can 10X your conversions

    Listen to This Episode on Your Favourite Podcast Channel: https://tribemembershippodcast.com/ Subscribe and Listen on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tribe-membership-show/id1789584393 Subscribe and Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1BQ6TZeRRT3hIoIxsa9jsj Timestamps:
    • 00:58 The Importance of Messaging in Membership Growth
    • 01:44 Meet Rick Tielemans: The Messaging Master
    • 02:36 Rick's Journey into Digital Marketing
    • 03:37 The Power of Copywriting in Community Building
    • 05:04 Crafting a Unique and Authentic Message
    • 08:03 The Three Key Elements of a Successful Offer
    • 13:07 Overcoming Common Messaging Mistakes
    • 14:30 Empowering Women in the Workplace: A Case Study
    • 22:39 The Framework for Effective Messaging
    • 24:52 Introducing Cult Creators: Making Your Brand Marketable
    • 27:51 The Importance of Sharing Your Story
    • 29:33 Understanding the Hero's Journey
    • 29:43 Crafting a Shared Identity
    • 36:19 Targeting Your Audience
    • 46:39 Building a Tribe Offer
    • 53:00 Final Thoughts and Resources

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    54 mins
  • Episode 17 – Lurkers into Lifetime Members with Mike Tielemans
    Jun 12 2025
    We’ve all got lurkers in our memberships—the ones who pay but stay silent, never post, never engage, and eventually cancel. In this episode, I sat down with one of the most brilliant minds in membership retention, Mike Tielemans, co-creator of the Tribe Method and co-author of 27 Tribe Secrets. He helped me build the Over 40 Alpha Brotherhood into a retention machine—and today, we’re sharing how YOU can do the same. From crafting emotional onramps to designing rituals that turn customers into tribe members for life, this one’s a masterclass. Inside this episode, we dive into:
    • How to convert silent lurkers into loyal, engaged tribe members
    • Why most memberships fail at onboarding—and how to fix it with MRR
    • The psychological triggers that drive retention and long-term engagement
    • How to use rituals, rewards, and messaging to build a thriving community

    Listen to This Episode on Your Favourite Podcast Channel: https://tribemembershippodcast.com/captivate-podcast/episode-17-lurkers-into-lifetime-members-with-mike-tielemans/ Subscribe and Listen on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tribe-membership-show/id1789584393 Subscribe and Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1BQ6TZeRRT3hIoIxsa9jsj Timestamps:
    • 00:00 Introduction to The Tribe Membership Show
    • 00:55 Meet Mike Tielemans: Co-Creator of the Tribe Method
    • 01:58 Mike's Origin Story: From High School to Digital Marketing
    • 03:46 The Journey to Building Successful Memberships
    • 07:07 The Importance of Indoctrination in Building a Tribe
    • 10:23 Creating a Strong Community Identity
    • 14:16 The Power of Rewards and Milestones
    • 28:47 The Role of Gamification in Member Engagement
    • 32:16 Exclusive Rewards and Status
    • 33:01 The Power of Gamification
    • 34:02 Launching a Sleep Challenge
    • 35:22 The Importance of Rituals
    • 38:19 Creating Community Engagement
    • 48:47 Reigniting Lurkers with Challenges
    • 53:59 The Role of AI in Fitness Communities
    • 01:00:38 Building a Lasting Tribe

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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • Episode 16: Why Milestones Beat Gamification (Even If Everyone Else Swears By It)
    May 29 2025
    If you’re using badges, points, or leaderboards to engage members, you’re missing out on real transformation. Gamification doesn’t cut it. You need MILESTONES—meaningful markers that drive identity, belonging, and progress. In this episode, I’m sharing my 7-step milestone system that creates lasting engagement and motivates members to stick around. This system isn’t just about boosting retention—it’s about building a tribe that thrives. Inside this episode, we dive into:
    • Why chasing badges and points kills long-term motivation
    • How milestones build identity and deep belonging in your community
    • The exact 7 steps to design a milestone system that drives retention and results
    • Why physical rewards and rituals beat digital dopamine hits every time

    Listen to This Episode on Your Favourite Podcast Channel: https://tribemembershippodcast.com/captivate-podcast/episode-16-why-milestones-beat-gamification-even-if-everyone-else-swears-by-it/ Subscribe and Listen on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tribe-membership-show/id1789584393 Subscribe and Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1BQ6TZeRRT3hIoIxsa9jsj Timestamps:
    • 00:00 Introduction to Gamification and Milestones
    • 00:55 The Power of Milestones Over Gamification
    • 01:31 Welcome to the Tribe Membership Show
    • 02:50 Secret Number 15: Milestones
    • 03:08 Why Gamification Falls Short
    • 07:42 The Importance of Identity in Milestones
    • 17:37 Building Belonging and Transformation
    • 19:05 Implementing the Milestone System
    • 30:58 Real-World Examples and Success Stories
    • 40:53 Client Success Story: Implementing Milestones
    • 41:39 The Power of Community and Testimonials
    • 41:58 Systematizing Milestones for Success
    • 44:06 The Impact of Visual Milestones
    • 45:13 Creating a Culture of Achievement
    • 51:45 The Seven-Step System for Milestones
    • 52:41 Mapping the Transformation Journey
    • 57:23 Breaking Down the Journey into Stages
    • 59:09 Naming and Ritualizing Milestones
    • 01:03:34 Adding Visuals and Public Celebrations
    • 01:09:00 The Importance of Earned Milestones
    • 01:15:09 Conclusion and Call to Action

    Resources & Links:
    • Want help implementing milestones in your membership? Apply for Tribe Membership Coaching - https://course.tribemethod.com/book-call

    • 🧠 Grab the Tribe Secrets Book – Your guide to building lifelong members - http://www.tribesecretsbook.com/book

    • 🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TribeMembershipShow

    Remember, you’re not running a video game—you’re building belonging. Milestones are your secret weapon to creating members who don’t just show up—they commit, transform, and stick for the long haul. It’s time to go deeper than badges. Let’s build something that lasts.
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    1 hr and 18 mins
  • Episode 15: Tribe Client Transformation with Deraj Wells: The Power of Identity in Membership Communities
    May 22 2025
    What if…The secret to skyrocketing engagement and retention in your membership community wasn’t more content, but a simple shift in how your members see themselves? That’s right—today, I’m sitting down with Deraj Wells, a master at turning ordinary memberships into powerful tribes. Deraj reveals the game-changing strategy that helps members build an identity so strong, they’ll never want to leave. If you're tired of watching your members drift away, or if you’re struggling to get real engagement, this episode is packed with the actionable insights you need to turn things around. Get ready for a deep dive into the psychology of identity and how it’s the key to creating a thriving, loyal community. Trust me, you don’t want to miss this! What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
    • The secret to getting members to identify as part of your tribe, not just customers.
    • How to leverage emotional connection and identity to increase engagement.
    • Simple but powerful strategies to make your tribe members feel seen, heard, and valued.
    • Why building a sense of belonging is the key to retention and loyalty in any community.

    Listen to This Episode on Your Favourite Podcast Channel: https://tribemembershippodcast.com/captivate-podcast/episode-15-tribe-client-transformation-with-deraj-wells-the-power-of-identity-in-membership-communities/ Subscribe and Listen on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tribe-membership-show/id1789584393 Subscribe and Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1BQ6TZeRRT3hIoIxsa9jsj 🎁 Free Gift for Podcast Listeners: Download the Community Engagement Secrets PDF Discover 10 powerful rituals proven to boost engagement and retention in any membership, program, or online community. ✅ Real-world examples across various niches ✅ Step-by-step strategy guide for creating rituals that stick ✅ Ideal for platforms like Skool, Facebook Groups, or private communities 👉 Click here to download Episode Sponsors: 📘 The 27 Tribe Secrets Book Unlock the 3 Tribe Phases and 27 psychological triggers behind thriving, engagement-based memberships. If you're ready to transform content into culture and products into movements, this is your blueprint. 📖 Grab your copy at TribeSecretsBook.com
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    1 hr and 31 mins
  • Episode 14: Build Belonging: How Identity Shapes Retention, Engagement, and Revenue
    May 8 2025
    Are your members really engaged in your community? If they don’t have a strong identity tied to your tribe, they may drift away. In today’s episode, we’re diving into how to help your members create an identity that sticks—one that drives engagement, boosts retention, and builds lasting connections. I’ll share a strategy that has transformed membership communities, leading to more interaction, stronger bonds, and a sense of belonging. Tune in and learn how to give your members an identity they’ll proudly wear like a badge. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
    • Why your members’ identity is the key to engagement.
    • How to transform passive members into loyal participants.
    • The psychology behind creating a tribe that people won’t want to leave.
    • Actionable strategies for reinforcing your members' new identities.

    Listen to This Episode on Your Favourite Podcast Channel: Subscribe and Listen on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tribe-membership-show/id1789584393 Subscribe and Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1BQ6TZeRRT3hIoIxsa9jsj 🎁 Free Gift for Podcast Listeners: Download the Community Engagement Secrets PDF Discover 10 powerful rituals proven to boost engagement and retention in any membership, program, or online community. ✅ Real-world examples across various niches ✅ Step-by-step strategy guide for creating rituals that stick ✅ Ideal for platforms like Skool, Facebook Groups, or private communities 👉 Click here to download Episode Sponsors: 📘 The 27 Tribe Secrets Book Unlock the 3 Tribe Phases and 27 psychological triggers behind thriving, engagement-based memberships. If you're ready to transform content into culture and products into movements, this is your blueprint. 📖Grab your copy at TribeSecretsBook.com Resources Mentioned:
    • 27 Tribe Secrets Book – Digital
    • 27 Tribe Secrets Book on Amazon
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    1 hr
  • Episode 13: Why Community Is the Future of Your Membership Business (Even in the Age of AI)
    Apr 24 2025
    AI is changing everything, but there’s one thing it can’t replace. Human connection. The secret to success? Building a tribe, not just a community. In this episode, we're diving into why creating a powerful tribe is your biggest asset moving forward. Forget the content overload, forget AI's endless capabilities. It's all about connection, emotion, and belonging. Ready to learn how to build a tribe that will stick with you through thick and thin? Let’s get into it. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
    • Why AI can't replace emotional connection and real belonging
    • The difference between a transactional membership vs. a transformational tribe
    • How to build a community with shared language, rituals, and culture
    • Identity-based interactions that drive retention and referrals
    • The real reason your members stay, engage, and transform
    • Why creating a tribe now is your competitive advantage in 2025

    Listen to This Episode on Your Favourite Podcast Channel: https://tribemembershippodcast.com/captivate-podcast/episode-13-why-community-is-the-future-of-your-membership-business-even-in-the-age-of-ai/ Subscribe and Listen on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tribe-membership-show/id1789584393 Subscribe and Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1BQ6TZeRRT3hIoIxsa9jsj 🎁 Free Gift for Podcast Listeners: Download the Community Engagement Secrets PDF Discover 10 powerful rituals proven to boost engagement and retention in any membership, program, or online community. ✅ Real-world examples across various niches ✅ Step-by-step strategy guide for creating rituals that stick ✅ Ideal for platforms like Skool, Facebook Groups, or private communities 👉 Click here to download Episode Sponsors: 📘 The 27 Tribe Secrets Book Unlock the 3 Tribe Phases and 27 psychological triggers behind thriving, engagement-based memberships. If you're ready to transform content into culture and products into movements, this is your blueprint. 📖 Grab your copy at TribeSecretsBook.com Resources Mentioned:
    • ...
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    49 mins
  • Episode 12: The Secret to Member Retention: Rituals That Build Belonging
    Apr 17 2025
    Ever find yourself wondering why your community is so quiet? Or, how can you get your members to engage more? If you've asked these questions, you're in the right place. Today, we're diving into the number one strategy to 10x your engagement and breathe new life into your community. It's all about rituals—simple, repeatable actions that spark organic interaction and build a sense of belonging. Whether you're running a fitness group, an educational platform, or even a photography club, these engagement rituals can work for you. Let's get into it and show you how to create real results with rituals! What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
    • Why engagement is the biggest challenge in communities today
    • What rituals are (and why they’re backed by psychology)
    • Case Study: How Funk revived a sleepy community with rituals
    • Understanding rituals as identity anchors
    • How rituals trigger social bonding and dopamine feedback loops
    • How to make boring tasks feel meaningful
    • Real examples from Over 40 Alpha (meal prep, burpees, check-ins)
    • How to plan rituals for member success and retention
    • Birthday burpees: a fun way to build belonging
    • How rituals turn members into content creators
    • Rituals in fashion, music, finance, mindset, and more
    • How rituals shape transformation and identity
    • Creating momentum: rituals as your membership’s heartbeat
    • Turning passive members into active participants
    • Your next step: design your own ritual (and Funk tells you how)

    Listen to This Episode on Your Favourite Podcast Channel: https://tribemembershippodcast.com/captivate-podcast/episode-12-the-secret-to-member-retention-rituals-that-build-belonging/ Subscribe and Listen on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tribe-membership-show/id1789584393 Subscribe and Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1BQ6TZeRRT3hIoIxsa9jsj 🎁 Free Gift for Podcast Listeners: Download the Community Engagement Secrets PDF Discover 10 powerful rituals proven to boost engagement and retention in any...
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    51 mins
  • Episode 11: 5 Common Struggles Membership Site Owners Face with Cancellations and How to Solve Them
    Apr 10 2025
    Let’s face it, cancellations suck. But here’s the twist: they don’t have to be the end of the world for your membership. If you handle them the right way, they can strengthen your tribe. Today, we’re discussing how to turn cancellations into opportunities for growth. I’ll share the system that keeps churn low, boosts retention, and leaves your members feeling valued, even when they decide to leave. Stick around, because this could be the game-changer you’ve been waiting for. 📥 Downloadable Guide: "Cancellation Prevention & Member Retention Blueprint" Tired of losing members without warning? This powerful, plug-and-play checklist gives you everything you need to reduce churn, save cancellations before they happen, and even bring lost members back. It’s the exact system Funk uses in his 7-figure membership to maintain high retention and deep loyalty. 🔥 What’s Inside?
    • Exact cancellation form template Funk uses in Over 40 Alpha
    • Step-by-step process for saving cancellations before they happen
    • Personalized outreach script (Loom video/email templates)
    • Checklist for creating a high-retention membership
    • Reactivation email template for bringing members back
    • How to use exit data to improve your membership

    🎯 Download Now What You’ll Learn:
    • How to create a cancellation system that prioritizes retention

    • Why monthly recurring revenue is better than pushing yearly sign-ups What are the key elements of a cancellation page should include

    • How personalization can improve your cancellation process and help reduce churn

    Listen to This Episode on Your Favourite Podcast Channel: https://tribemembershippodcast.com/captivate-podcast/episode-11-5-common-struggles-membership-site-owners-face-with-cancellations-and-how-to-solve-them/ Subscribe and Listen on iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-tribe-membership-show/id1789584393 Subscribe and Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1BQ6TZeRRT3hIoIxsa9jsj Episode Highlights:
    • 00:57 Tackling Membership Cancellations

    • 01:25 Understanding the Importance of Retention

    • 02:21 The Right Approach to Membership Pricing

    • 03:42 Building a Retention-Based Membership

    • 05:14 Creating a Positive Cancellation Experience

    • 08:48 Common Struggles with Membership Cancellations
    • ...
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    52 mins