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 Welcome

00:19 Guest Introductions and Backgrounds

01:00 Starting and Growing a Gym Business

03:38 Training Philosophy and Methods

07:19 Challenges and Evolution in the Fitness Industry

10:54 Marketing and Business Strategies

13:21 The Importance of Community and Personal Connection

17:43 Hiring and Training Quality Staff

21:30 The Birth of Iron Business Blueprint

29:19 Key Marketing Strategies for Gym Owners

34:14 Supporting Local Businesses

34:40 Maximizing Client Referrals

36:15 Reflecting on Years in the Fitness Industry

36:51 Memorable Client Encounters

38:38 Gym Culture and Vibes

48:03 Starting and Growing a Gym Business

50:28 Client Retention and Influences

56:45 Wrestling and Mainstream Influence

01:00:15 Backstage Wrestling Stories

01:03:44 Conclusion and Contact Information