This marks the second episode of a special CrossFit Podcast collaboration with the CrossFit Medical Society.

This week, we welcome Daniel Chaffey, a longtime leader in the CrossFit space. He owns CrossFit Louvre in Paris, one of Europe’s most established affiliates with over 3,100 members across three locations. 

He also founded the major European competition, The French Throwdown, and Operating With Excellence, a workshop platform dedicated to helping affiliate owners build thriving businesses. 

In this conversation, host Jocelyn Rylee dives into the essentials of CrossFit affiliates with Daniel: leadership, hospitality, and community. Chaffey, known for never mincing words, shares point-blank perspectives on everything from the future of CrossFit to the responsibility of affiliates in shaping that future. 

Topics Covered

• The role of leadership in affiliate success and sustainability


• The difference between service and hospitality in gyms


• Building and maintaining community in CrossFit


• CrossFit’s role in health across generations


• Optimism, anxiety, and the future direction of CrossFit


• The importance of education and HQ’s role in supporting affiliates

Resources Mentioned

• Jordan Peterson/Peterson Academy (leadership courses)


• Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs (applied to member experience)


• CrossFit Level 1 and Level 2 Courses


• Affiliate gatherings/events (e.g., Banff, Canadian Affiliate Gathering)

Community Highlight

Saxon Panchik is having a full-circle moment.

With six CrossFit Games appearances, he’s now putting more energy into giving back to the community that built him.

His message:

1. Get into an affiliate and be active.


2. Uplift those around you.


3. Keep each other accountable.

“It is life-changing. We all have things we wish we knew when starting our fitness journey. Take a minute to share that with someone just beginning.”

Know someone you think deserves to be highlighted? Nominate them here.

Share Your Thoughts: Email us [podcasts@crossfit.com] or complete our survey here.