Episodes

  • Episode 16: Why Milestones Beat Gamification (Even If Everyone Else Swears By It)

    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

    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

    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)

    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

    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

    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
  • Episode 10: The Power of Tribe-Based Onboarding for Membership Success

    Episode 10: The Power of Tribe-Based Onboarding for Membership Success
    Apr 3 2025
    Today, I’m diving into something that could transform your membership game – ONBOARDING. If you’re tired of high churn rates and members feeling lost after they join, this episode is for you. I’ll share the biggest mistakes I made in my early membership days and how a powerful onboarding process can be the key to not just keeping people around but actually turning them into lifelong, loyal tribe members. Ready to build something that lasts? Let’s get into it! Download the Tribe Based Onboarding Success Checklist Want to turn new members into loyal, engaged Tribe members from Day 1? This simple, actionable checklist walks you through the 5 essential steps of the Tribe Onboarding Method—designed to create emotional connection, fast momentum, and long-term retention. Whether you're just starting out or optimizing your current membership, this is your plug-and-play roadmap to onboarding success. 📥 Download it now and start creating a world-class member experience What You’ll Learn:
    • Why onboarding is more than just a welcome email.
    • How a powerful onboarding system can drastically reduce churn and increase member retention.
    • The five essential steps to crafting an engaging onboarding process.
    • How to build emotional connections with new members from day one.

    Listen to This Episode on Your Favourite Podcast Channel: https://tribemembershippodcast.com/captivate-podcast/episode-10-the-power-of-tribe-based-onboarding-for-membership-success/ 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:
    • 00:00 Introduction to Creating Raving Fans
    • 00:18 Welcome to the Tribe Membership Show
    • 01:20 Breaking Down the 27 Tribe Secrets
    • 02:11 The Power of Tribe Bonding
    • 03:32 Real-Life Examples of Raving Fans
    • 08:43 Levels of Customer Commitment
    • 17:11 Creating a Tribe Hub
    • 22:28 The Power of Rituals and Rules
    • 23:21 Creating a Positive and Supportive Community
    • 24:53 The Importance of Mirroring and Unique Verbiage
    • 27:23 Uniformity and Signaling in Memberships
    • 31:43 Implementing Novelty and Challenges
    • 36:47 Building Lifelong Raving Fans
    • 40:22 Conclusion and Next Steps

    Episode Sponsors: This episode is sponsored by The 27 Tribe Secrets Book – the ultimate guide to building a thriving, engaged, and high-retention membership. If you’re struggling to attract, engage, and keep your members long-term, this book lays out the exact playbook to create a membership that people don’t just join—they stay for life. Inside, you’ll discover the 27 psychological strategies that turn a simple membership into a true Tribe—a community where members feel...
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    45 mins
  • Episode 9: Tribe Bonding – How to Create a Lifelong Raving Fans Inside Your Community Who Pay and Stay for Life

    Episode 9: Tribe Bonding – How to Create a Lifelong Raving Fans Inside Your Community Who Pay and Stay for Life
    Mar 27 2025
    Let’s face it: many memberships struggle because they don’t create true loyalty. It’s not about the quality of the product or the pricing. It’s about failing to establish a deep connection with your members. If your members don’t feel like they truly belong, their excitement fades, and they slip away long before they see the transformation they came for. In this episode, I’m sharing the exact strategies I use to build deep emotional bonds with my members, transform customers into lifelong raving fans, and keep them engaged for life. This isn’t theory—it’s the blueprint to building a tribe that sticks. What You’ll Learn:
    • How can you transform your customers into passionate, lifelong supporters?

    • What psychological strategies can help your members feel deeply connected to your membership?

    • How can rituals and unique group identities increase member loyalty and engagement?

    • Why is having a "tribe hub" essential to strengthening your community?

    Check these 10 advanced psychological strategies to create deep emotional connections, build identity, and strengthen your tribe. Listen to This Episode on Your Favourite Podcast Channel: https://tribemembershippodcast.com/captivate-podcast/episode-9-tribe-bonding-how-to-create-a-lifelong-raving-fans-inside-your-community-who-pay-and-stay-for-life/ 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:
    • 00:00 Introduction to Creating Raving Fans
    • 00:18 Welcome to the Tribe Membership Show
    • 01:20 Breaking Down the 27 Tribe Secrets
    • 02:11 The Power of Tribe Bonding
    • 03:32 Real-Life Examples of Raving Fans
    • 08:43 Levels of Customer Commitment
    • 17:11 Creating a Tribe Hub
    • 22:28 The Power of Rituals and Rules
    • 23:21 Creating a Positive and Supportive Community
    • 24:53 The Importance of Mirroring and Unique Verbiage
    • 27:23 Uniformity and Signaling in Memberships
    • 31:43 Implementing Novelty and Challenges
    • 36:47 Building Lifelong Raving Fans
    • 40:22 Conclusion and Next Steps

    Episode Sponsors: This episode is sponsored by
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    44 mins
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