In this episode of the Fitness + Technology Podcast, Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Jeremy Hirsch, Head of Franchise & Multi-Unit Services at Houlihan Lokey, a leading global investment bank. Houlihan Lokey is recognized for providing independent strategic and financial advice to corporations, financial sponsors, and governments, with expertise spanning mergers and acquisitions, capital solutions, financial restructuring, and valuation advisory services.
In this conversation, Bryan and Jeremy explore the latest trends shaping private equity, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic business decision-making across the fitness, wellness, and franchise industries.
Check out FIT-C's 2026 Digital Pulse Report: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0GTV2QT18
Learn more about Fitness Brazil 2026: https://www.fitnessbrasil.com.br/fitness-brasil-expo-2026/
One Powerful Quote:
21:08: "Data is the key to unlocking value."
4-10 Bullet Points (w/ timestamps) - Highlighting key topics discussed:
3:48: Jeremy shares his background in investment banking and the fitness industry.
7:40: Jeremy discusses the key trends driving mergers and acquisitions.
9:20: The conversation explores the industry's shift toward premium-value business models.
11:36: Jeremy explains how strength training, pilates, and other wellness modalities are influencing investment activity and deal flow.
16:17: Jeremy discusses how evolving consumer fitness habits are shaping broader business decisions.
18:13: Jeremy explains how technology stacks are evolving and how operators are rethinking customer relationship management (CRM) systems.
21:03: Jeremy closes by sharing his advice and key takeaways for industry leaders.
Bullet List of Resources:
https://hl.com/
Guest Contact Information:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-hirsch-b739b113/
https://www.bryankorourke.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryankorourke/
http://www.fittechcouncil.org/
https://www.youtube.com/user/bko61163
