Erik Schmaedeke on Staying Human in a Digital Fitness World

In this episode of Founders Future, with host Milan Kohut, we sit down with Erik Schmaedeke, owner and head coach of CrossFit Salvo, to explore his 15+ year journey in the fitness industry. Erik shares how he transitioned from a finance career during the 2008 financial crisis into personal training, eventually opening a CrossFit gym rooted in community, human connection, and long-term lifestyle transformation.Throughout the conversation, Erik breaks down his in-person training model, youth athletic development programs, and online nutrition coaching, while reflecting on the realities of running a gym through industry shifts, personal challenges, and team changes. He opens up about leadership, delegation, and the importance of returning to fundamentals—both in fitness and business—highlighting his focus on delivering deeper value to members rather than chasing scale at all costs.