Building Legendary Gyms with Joe DeFranco and Chris Tutela

In this episode of The Strong New York Podcast, host Kenny Santucci sits down with two fitness industry legends—Joe DeFranco and Chris Tutela—for an honest, insightful conversation about what it takes to build, run, and grow a successful gym.Joe DeFranco is a world-renowned strength and conditioning coach and the founder of DeFranco’s Gym. For over 20 years, he’s trained elite athletes from the NFL, WWE, UFC, and beyond. Joe helped revolutionize the garage/warehouse gym model and built a globally recognized brand known for performance, innovation, and impact. His work has been featured on ESPN, Men’s Health, and in The 4-Hour Body, and he continues to educate through his podcast The Industrial Strength Show and the CPPS certification program.Chris Tutela is a coach, speaker, author, and gym business mentor. He’s the owner of Tutela Training Systems in New Jersey and co-founder of The Iron Business Blueprint, where he helps gym owners grow profitable, purpose-driven businesses. Chris is known for his no-nonsense approach to personal development, leadership, and helping others unlock their full potential—on the gym floor and in life.Together, they share their journeys, lessons from decades in the industry, and strategies for creating strong gym cultures, retaining clients, and marketing in today’s landscape. Whether you’re a trainer, gym owner, or fitness enthusiast, this episode is packed with real talk and actionable takeaways.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:19 Guest Introductions and Backgrounds01:00 Starting and Growing a Gym Business03:38 Training Philosophy and Methods07:19 Challenges and Evolution in the Fitness Industry10:54 Marketing and Business Strategies13:21 The Importance of Community and Personal Connection17:43 Hiring and Training Quality Staff21:30 The Birth of Iron Business Blueprint29:19 Key Marketing Strategies for Gym Owners34:14 Supporting Local Businesses34:40 Maximizing Client Referrals36:15 Reflecting on Years in the Fitness Industry36:51 Memorable Client Encounters38:38 Gym Culture and Vibes48:03 Starting and Growing a Gym Business50:28 Client Retention and Influences56:45 Wrestling and Mainstream Influence01:00:15 Backstage Wrestling Stories01:03:44 Conclusion and Contact Information