On Episode #170 of the PricePlow Podcast, we had the opportunity to sit down with GNC CEO Michael Costello at the 2025 GNC Global Conference in Orlando, Florida, for an eye-opening conversation that reveals why this supplement-using industry leader truly is "one of us". Michael's journey from a volleyball-playing creatine customer in the 1990s to chemical engineer at Clorox to CEO of America's most iconic supplement retailer represents one of the most authentic leadership stories we've encountered.
The GNC CEO Who Takes Creatine and Understands GLP-1
This episode, part of our ongoing four-part podcast series that began with Episode #169 featuring Jack Sehgal and Ben Benedict of Nutralabz, showcases how Michael's consumer-first philosophy and science-driven approach are transforming GNC's relationship with both franchisees and customers. From his early days buying "suspect" creatine when people thought it might be "steroids" to his current mission of refocusing GNC on consumer needs, Michael's story demonstrates the power of authentic leadership rooted in genuine industry passion.
The conversation explores GNC's unique franchise-corporate hybrid model, the strategic positioning around GLP-1 medications, and Michael's vision for making GNC the trusted destination for personalized supplement guidance. His insights into ingredient trends, consumer education, and the critical importance of knowledgeable staff reveal why GNC remains essential in an increasingly crowded marketplace.
https://blog.priceplow.com/podcast/gnc-ceo-michael-costello-170
Video: GNC CEO Michael Costello Shares His Consumer-First Vision
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rU1j_OaTGJ4
Detailed Show Notes: Michael Costello's Mission to Refocus GNC
(0:00) – Introduction: Meeting GNC's CEO at Global Conference
(1:00) – GNC's Unique Franchise-Corporate Hybrid Model
(4:15) – Personal Journey: From Volleyball Courts to Corporate Leadership
(8:00) – Professional Evolution: From Clorox to GNC
(10:15) – The GNC Turnaround Strategy: Refocusing on Consumers
(12:00) – The Power of Personalized Guidance vs. Big Box Retail
(13:45) – Strategic Positioning Around GLP-1 Medications
(16:45) – Ingredient Trends and Science-Based Decision Making
(18:15) – Daily Routine and Leadership Philosophy
(19:45) – Healing the Corporate-Franchise Relationship
(21:30) – The Global Convention Philosophy
(22:00) – Future Vision and Call to Action: Give GNC Another Chance
Where to Follow Michael Costello and GNC
Michael Costello: LinkedIn
GNC: Website
Related Episodes:
Jack Sehgal & Ben Benedict - Nutralabz Story - Episode #169
Jose Antonio - ISSN & Creatine History - Episode #137
Thank you to Michael for sharing his remarkable journey and vision for GNC's future. His combination of personal supplement experience, scientific background, and consumer-focused leadership provides a blueprint for retail success in the modern supplement in...
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