Hi, I’m A.E. Howland—a writer who thrives on exploring the boundaries of perception, truth, and human potential. My work is where storytelling meets strategy, blending ancient wisdom, modern insights, and timeless leadership principles to inspire growth and transformation.I write books for thinkers, dreamers, and doers—people who aren’t afraid to challenge the status quo and ask the hard questions. From uncovering the unspoken truths that shape our world to guiding readers toward… Show more Hi, I’m A.E. Howland—a writer who thrives on exploring the boundaries of perception, truth, and human potential. My work is where storytelling meets strategy, blending ancient wisdom, modern insights, and timeless leadership principles to inspire growth and transformation.I write books for thinkers, dreamers, and doers—people who aren’t afraid to challenge the status quo and ask the hard questions. From uncovering the unspoken truths that shape our world to guiding readers toward self-discovery, my writing is about sparking curiosity and empowering meaningful change.Beyond the page, I bring my passion for ideas into the world of strategy and innovation. With a background in advising and partnering on purpose-driven ventures, I aim to connect big ideas with real-world impact, whether that’s through thought leadership, collaboration, or simply sharing what I’ve learned along the way.What can you expect from me?📚 Books that challenge your perspective and make you think deeply.🎙️ Talks that inspire action and leave you asking better questions.🌟 Ideas designed to help you uncover your purpose and lead with clarity.If you’re looking for bold ideas, fresh perspectives, or just a conversation about what truly matters, I’d love to connect. Show less

Bringing the 'WOW Factor' to strategy and operations—one innovative move at a time.Gymlete is transforming the fitness, wellness, healthcare, and hospitality industries through cutting-edge technology and gamification, creating hyper-personalized, engaging experiences that transport customers, teams, and users into a "World of Wow." By harnessing the power of data and game mechanics, we deliver immersive solutions that make fitness more fun, rewarding, and impactful.As Chief… Show more Bringing the 'WOW Factor' to strategy and operations—one innovative move at a time.Gymlete is transforming the fitness, wellness, healthcare, and hospitality industries through cutting-edge technology and gamification, creating hyper-personalized, engaging experiences that transport customers, teams, and users into a "World of Wow." By harnessing the power of data and game mechanics, we deliver immersive solutions that make fitness more fun, rewarding, and impactful.As Chief Strategy & Operations Officer, I lead the charge in blending strategic innovation with operational excellence to maximize Gymlete’s potential. My focus areas include:-Developing Scalable Strategies: Expanding Gymlete's reach while maintaining its core mission of delivering personalized, gamified fitness experiences.- Optimizing Operations: Streamlining processes to enhance customer satisfaction and operational efficiency, amplifying the WOW Factor at every touchpoint.- Gamification at the Core: Embedding engaging game mechanics that inspire users to achieve their fitness goals, driving deeper connections and retention.- Fostering Innovation: Bridging the gap between technology, data, and human-centered design to create groundbreaking solutions that redefine fitness experiences.- Strategic Partnerships: Building alliances that align with our mission, fueling growth and innovation for members, partners, and stakeholders alike.At Gymlete, we’re not just changing the way people approach business—we’re gamifying the journey to make it exciting, meaningful, and unforgettable. Together with our passionate team, I’m committed to creating a culture of WOW that inspires and empowers every user to reach their potential. Show less

As a Strategic Innovation Advisor, I collaborate with forward-thinking founders and industry leaders to shape the future of fitness, wellness, and healthcare. My role focuses on identifying and implementing cutting-edge technologies, including AI, data integration, and wearables, to create transformative solutions that enhance member experiences, optimize operations, and drive new revenue opportunities.Leveraging my expertise in both innovation and strategy, I work to bridge the gap… Show more As a Strategic Innovation Advisor, I collaborate with forward-thinking founders and industry leaders to shape the future of fitness, wellness, and healthcare. My role focuses on identifying and implementing cutting-edge technologies, including AI, data integration, and wearables, to create transformative solutions that enhance member experiences, optimize operations, and drive new revenue opportunities.Leveraging my expertise in both innovation and strategy, I work to bridge the gap between fitness and healthcare, guiding organizations through the complexities of a rapidly evolving industry. My goal is to develop scalable, data-driven ecosystems that empower individuals to live healthier, longer lives while positioning companies at the forefront of the wellness revolution.Currently collaborating with forward-thinking companies to drive innovation and strategic growth in the fitness, wellness, healthcare & Tech sectors, including:GymleteRAMP GroeFitNexGen MD360 MedHealthFit LifeCore Group FireFly Holdings BARU Show less

With over 18 years of leadership experience, I’ve led complex projects across Fitness, Healthcare, Family Entertainment Venues, Manufacturing, Big-Box Retail, Non-Profit, and more. I specialize in strategic transformation, operational excellence, and driving profitability through innovation and streamlined operations.Strategic Rebranding & Market Expansion: Restructured and rebranded a family entertainment venue (bowling, restaurant, bar, gaming), boosting revenue by 300% through a… Show more With over 18 years of leadership experience, I’ve led complex projects across Fitness, Healthcare, Family Entertainment Venues, Manufacturing, Big-Box Retail, Non-Profit, and more. I specialize in strategic transformation, operational excellence, and driving profitability through innovation and streamlined operations.Strategic Rebranding & Market Expansion: Restructured and rebranded a family entertainment venue (bowling, restaurant, bar, gaming), boosting revenue by 300% through a community-led engagement strategy and organic growth.Multi-State Operations Overhaul: Restructured a multi-state service company, streamlining operations and cross-training staff, reducing labor complexity, cutting expenses by 15%, and improving service response times by 50%, leading to six-figure tax savings.Business Transformation & Operational Efficiency: Directed initiatives to transform businesses across industries, improving growth and operational efficiencies through strategic re-evaluation and process optimization.Mergers, Acquisitions & Integration: Led high-level acquisition strategies, managing due diligence and post-acquisition integration, developing succession plans, and ensuring smooth transitions.Financial Restructuring: Optimized corporate structures and reduced costs, leading to 20-30% efficiency gains and sustained profitability through comprehensive financial restructuring.Innovation & Technology Integration: Spearheaded digital modernization projects, aligning technology with business goals, improving performance by up to 30%, and enhancing customer experience through cross-functional training programs.Community & Legacy Programs: Developed community-driven campaigns and philanthropic initiatives that built brand loyalty and social impact, including the creation of educational legacy programs. Show less

Co-created and launched The Eye Spa, a distinctive blend of medical spa and specialized optometry services, addressing both aesthetic and functional eye concerns. Offering a hyper-specialized focus on Dry Eye Management. Helped develop a comprehensive approach to tackle the increasing epidemic of dry eye disease, incorporating innovative treatments and cutting-edge technologies.Offering of diverse treatments, including skin treatments, botox, laser hair removal, body treatments,… Show more Co-created and launched The Eye Spa, a distinctive blend of medical spa and specialized optometry services, addressing both aesthetic and functional eye concerns. Offering a hyper-specialized focus on Dry Eye Management. Helped develop a comprehensive approach to tackle the increasing epidemic of dry eye disease, incorporating innovative treatments and cutting-edge technologies.Offering of diverse treatments, including skin treatments, botox, laser hair removal, body treatments, vascular lesion management, and more, effectively positioning The Eye Spa as a holistic eye and skin care destination in the tri-state area. An ACTUAL Turnkey Solution for Entrepreneurs looking for a seamless integration for optometrists aiming to diversify their services and offerings. Through our Patient-Centric approach, we have cultivated a luxurious and therapeutic ambiance, emphasizing patient comfort, safety, and satisfaction throughout their treatment journey. Established strategic partnerships, marketing campaigns, and referral programs leading to steady growth in clientele and revenue streams.Continuous Learning & Innovation: Regularly attended industry seminars, workshops, and conventions to stay updated with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in both the medical spa and optometry sectors, ensuring The Eye Spa's position at the forefront of the industry. Show less

Initially engaged as consultant to design succession plans, the journey unfolded into the personal acquisition of the company. I leveraged my deep understanding of the healthcare industry to overhaul the business strategy, implementing comprehensive improvements from patient service optimization to financial health revitalization.Navigated the complexities of business acquisition to ultimately secure ownership alongside my spouse, ensuring a seamless transition that maintained the… Show more Initially engaged as consultant to design succession plans, the journey unfolded into the personal acquisition of the company. I leveraged my deep understanding of the healthcare industry to overhaul the business strategy, implementing comprehensive improvements from patient service optimization to financial health revitalization.Navigated the complexities of business acquisition to ultimately secure ownership alongside my spouse, ensuring a seamless transition that maintained the brand's integrity and staff morale. Under our management, we introduced innovative clinic and dispensary layouts, optimizing space and workflow, while deploying data analytics and CRM tools to fine- tune marketing strategies. We championed educational initiatives for staff, nurturing a harmonized and proficient team poised to deliver superior patient care.The transition to our leadership heralded a remarkable 90% increase in new patient acquisitions and more than a 300% surge in gross revenues, propelled by targeted marketing and a renewed brand strategy. Our vigilant cost containment strategies and vendor relationship optimization drove a 9% reduction in operational expenses, all while sustaining the highest standards of care, cultivating a booming business characterized by high patient retention and a markedly enhanced customer service experience. Show less

Co-created a global technology-based community hub, capturing groundbreaking ideas and pairing them with the right resources to create and launch sustainable, socially responsible businesses. In essence, we founded a non-profit social enterprise incubator with a mission to foster innovative entrepreneurial thinking, turning profit into purpose by addressing social inequalities on a global scale.Incubated 10+ StartupsDirected the successful incubation of over 10 startup businesses… Show more Co-created a global technology-based community hub, capturing groundbreaking ideas and pairing them with the right resources to create and launch sustainable, socially responsible businesses. In essence, we founded a non-profit social enterprise incubator with a mission to foster innovative entrepreneurial thinking, turning profit into purpose by addressing social inequalities on a global scale.Incubated 10+ StartupsDirected the successful incubation of over 10 startup businesses within 5 years, significantly reducing social inequalities through innovative business models focused on social impact.Leader in Social EntrepreneurshipPositioned The IDEA Hub as a global leader in social entrepreneurship, advocating for business-driven solutions to address pressing social issues.Fostering Change-MakersLed a vibrant community of change-makers, promoting the birth of numerous businesses that use profit for purpose, further advancing global efforts to reduce social inequalities.Innovation through CollaborationIntegrated cutting-edge technology to foster collaboration between idea generators and resource providers, driving innovation and sustainable growth in social enterprises. Show less

In a critical role at IBM, I was entrusted with turning around underperforming projects and managing high-stakes client engagements globally. My approach combined deep analytical insight with a strong focus on tactical execution to address and resolve project challenges effectively.Strategic Project Recovery: Took charge of projects in jeopardy, diagnosing core issues swiftly and deploying tailored strategies to realign with business objectives. My targeted interventions restored… Show more In a critical role at IBM, I was entrusted with turning around underperforming projects and managing high-stakes client engagements globally. My approach combined deep analytical insight with a strong focus on tactical execution to address and resolve project challenges effectively.Strategic Project Recovery: Took charge of projects in jeopardy, diagnosing core issues swiftly and deploying tailored strategies to realign with business objectives. My targeted interventions restored project health and drove them to successful completion, consistently meeting and exceeding client and corporate expectations.Client Relationship Management: Specialized in rejuvenating strained client relationships. Through transparent communication and cus-tomized solution development, I transformed potential losses into wins, fostering durable partnerships and securing client trust. This effort directly contributed to substantial revenue increases, with multiple engagements resulting in high seven-figure growth.Innovative Leadership and Data Integration: Co-Pioneered the use of advanced data analytics to enhance project oversight and decision-making processes. My leadership in integrating innovative metrics and feedback mechanisms significantly improved project outcomes and operational agility.Team Development and Performance Enhancement: Cultivated a culture of excellence and accountability, leading a team of data specialists and project professionals. My focus on mentorship and performance optimization resulted in heightened productivity and reinforced IBM’s reputation as a reliable leader in technology services. Show less

Founded and fully developed Area 51 Gaming Zone, overseeing business plan creation & execution, market analysis, financing, and strategic marketing to launch a successful gaming center.Operational and Financial Management: Directed all facility operations, including procurement, staffing, and maintenance, while managing financials to ensure profitability and operational efficiency.Innovative Event and Community Engagement: Created and promoted high-engagement events, enhancing… Show more Founded and fully developed Area 51 Gaming Zone, overseeing business plan creation & execution, market analysis, financing, and strategic marketing to launch a successful gaming center.Operational and Financial Management: Directed all facility operations, including procurement, staffing, and maintenance, while managing financials to ensure profitability and operational efficiency.Innovative Event and Community Engagement: Created and promoted high-engagement events, enhancing brand visibility and community integration, which significantly boosted customer base and retention.Team Development: Cultivated a high-performance workplace culture, focusing on training and development, which drove staff efficiency and service excellence.Step into Area 51 Gaming Zone – the ultimate dimension of gaming excellence!Area 51 Gaming Zone isn’t just a gaming center; it’s an experience. Meticulously designed for both seasoned gamers and newcomers, our digital haven promises an unparalleled gaming journey.1. Elite Membership Opportunities2. Premier PCs and Consoles: Dive into gaming with: - 22 cutting-edge PCs, loaded with high-end specs and immersive graphics - 15 Xbox consoles, delivering seamless gameplay - 15 PlayStation setups, curated with the most sought-after titles3. Battle Arena: - Showcase your skills in our regular tournaments. 4. Musical Game Nights: - Transform into a music legend on our gigantic 12-foot projection screens, dedicated to heart-pounding Guitar Hero and Rock Band sessions. It's your time to shine!5. Gamer's Grub: - Intense gaming requires intense snacks. Grab a bite or sip from our eclectic menu of delicious snacks and power-packed energy drinks.Dive into an environment that pulsates with excitement and energy as you immerse yourself into the depths of Area 51. Show less

Envisioned and executed a complete acquisition, new design, rebranding and relocation of Phoenix Fitness Center, transforming it into 'The Gym,' a vibrant fitness community. Developed the Standards and Operational Framework for the first location of a franchise business model that would redefine traditional fitness experiences.Introduced unique fitness programs like karaoke spin, cardio strip tease, and "EX-GRESSION" fight clubs, making fitness fun and engaging. These innovative… Show more Envisioned and executed a complete acquisition, new design, rebranding and relocation of Phoenix Fitness Center, transforming it into 'The Gym,' a vibrant fitness community. Developed the Standards and Operational Framework for the first location of a franchise business model that would redefine traditional fitness experiences.Introduced unique fitness programs like karaoke spin, cardio strip tease, and "EX-GRESSION" fight clubs, making fitness fun and engaging. These innovative offerings dramatically enhanced member engagement and community spirit.Oversaw all aspects of business operation including P&L management, facility management, and strategic marketing. Achieved a 400% increase in membership within nine months and escalated personal training revenue from under $1,000 to over $30,000 per month.Fostered a unique fitness culture centered on inclusivity, fun, and personal growth, which significantly boosted customer satisfaction and retention.I've always believed that fitness should be about more than just working out; it should be a journey filled with laughter, camaraderie, and personal growth. At "The Gym," we embraced the philosophy that fitness should be FUN, DIFFERENT, and EXCITING. We were not your typical health club; we were a community that loved to have fun while working toward our fitness goals."The Gym" was a vibrant fitness community that welcomed people from all walks of life. From neurosurgeons to new age hippies, everyone found their place under our roof. We cherished our motto: "JUST HAVE FUN," and it truly defined us. Show less

Designed and Directed a comprehensive overhaul of the Chicagoland marketm (32 Clubs), transforming it from the lowest performing to one of the most profitable regions. Conducted thorough analyses to devise and implement a full strategic pivot that revitalized operations and customer engagement.Innovative Staff Optimization: Conceptualized and implemented a cutting-edge staff optimization plan that redefined compensation strategies, significantly enhancing profitability and productivity.… Show more Designed and Directed a comprehensive overhaul of the Chicagoland marketm (32 Clubs), transforming it from the lowest performing to one of the most profitable regions. Conducted thorough analyses to devise and implement a full strategic pivot that revitalized operations and customer engagement.Innovative Staff Optimization: Conceptualized and implemented a cutting-edge staff optimization plan that redefined compensation strategies, significantly enhancing profitability and productivity. This plan set a new company-wide benchmark, reflecting a robust profit-centric approach.Leadership in Customer Experience: Launched the "Executive Vice President of the Customer's Experience" initiative, leading to a 6% increase in market penetration. This program enhanced customer satisfaction and employee morale by embedding a culture of continuous improvement and a people-first philosophy.Quality Assurance Initiatives: Spearheaded a targeted mystery-shopper audit program across over 100 clubs, markedly improving service standards and establishing new precedents in customer service delivery. Show less

Entrepreneurial Leadership: From inception through operations, launched Powerhouse Gyms of Bloomington; then Founded and strategically developed Bloomington Health & Fitness Centers, achieving an exceptional ROI and Profit Margins near 30% (Industry Leading) within the first year through innovative business strategies and prudent financial management. Business Expansion: Drove the expansion of the company's portfolio by strategically acquiring and integrating several other brands… Show more Entrepreneurial Leadership: From inception through operations, launched Powerhouse Gyms of Bloomington; then Founded and strategically developed Bloomington Health & Fitness Centers, achieving an exceptional ROI and Profit Margins near 30% (Industry Leading) within the first year through innovative business strategies and prudent financial management. Business Expansion: Drove the expansion of the company's portfolio by strategically acquiring and integrating several other brands including the regions first 24 hour fully accessible clubs and ladies-only health clubs, significantly enhancing brand diversity and stabilizing business operations.Operational Strategy and Development: Designed and executed a profitable business model, leading to the launch and successful management of four high-revenue fitness and wellness cen-ters, exemplifying strong operational leadership and market acumen. Show less

Founded and led a boutique consulting company specializing in the fitness industry, offering expert services in three key areas:1. Presales & New Club Openings: - Directed comprehensive pre-launch strategies, including market analysis, membership presales, and promotional campaigns. - Collaborated closely with clients to ensure seamless facility openings, ensuring membership targets were met and exceeded. - Assisted in hiring, training, and developing full-time teams to… Show more Founded and led a boutique consulting company specializing in the fitness industry, offering expert services in three key areas:1. Presales & New Club Openings: - Directed comprehensive pre-launch strategies, including market analysis, membership presales, and promotional campaigns. - Collaborated closely with clients to ensure seamless facility openings, ensuring membership targets were met and exceeded. - Assisted in hiring, training, and developing full-time teams to drive operational success and membership growth post-launch.2. Staff Training Seminars & Workshops: - Delivered tailored staff training programs, focusing on sales, customer service, and operational excellence. - Provided ongoing coaching and development to ensure teams remained highly skilled and motivated.3. Owner/Manager Workshops - Conducted 3-day workshops, 1-day seminars, and on-site consultation services designed to equip fitness club owners and managers with the skills and tools to operate successful, sustainable businesses. - Key topics included financial planning, member retention strategies, operational efficiencies, sales leadership, staff development, and marketing strategies. Show less

Great College Job and 2nd Job- As a part-time (4am-8am) preloader