CPR to CEO is the go-to podcast for CPR and Lifeguard instructors ready to build thriving, life-saving education businesses. Hosted by Dave Kotz — founder of the National Safety Training Center and veteran American Red Cross and AHA instructor — this show is designed for current and aspiring entrepreneurs who teach American Red Cross and American Heart Association programs.
Whether you're running your own classes or dreaming of launching your training agency, you'll get real-world advice, smart business strategies, and insider tips to grow your impact and income. From scheduling your first class to scaling a multi-state operation, we cover the tools, stories, and lessons that matter — all from folks who’ve been in your rescue-ready shoes.
Turn your teaching into a business. Turn your mission into a movement. Welcome to CPR to CEO.
In this episode of CPR to CEO, Dave Kotz shares the roadmap to landing your first corporate client—and why it could be a game-changer for your training business. From dental offices to gyms to regional restaurant chains, there are countless industries that need CPR training. The trick is knowing how to approach them, how to speak their language, and how to make yourself indispensable. Whether you’re just starting out or want to diversify your client base, this episode breaks it all down into ...
6 May 2025
Building Your Lifesaving Brand
In this episode of CPR to CEO, Dave Kotz dives into what makes a CPR business memorable—and profitable—in a saturated market. Spoiler: it's not just your logo. Your brand identity is everything from your visual style and service reputation to your community presence and the way you answer a phone call. If you're ready to stand out and become the go-to name in lifesaving education, this is where you start. You’ll Learn: Why Branding Matters in CPR TrainingThe Elements of a Strong Brand Identit...
6 May 2025
How to Get Repeat Customers for Your CPR Classes
In this follow-up to our marketing episode, Dave Kotz dives into what really turns a one-time CPR student into a loyal, repeat customer. Spoiler: it’s not just about the curriculum—it’s about how you deliver it. From professional polish to timely follow-ups and discount strategies, this episode walks you through building a base of customers who come back every two years—and bring their friends. Whether you’re just starting your CPR business or looking to boost client retention, this is your r...
6 May 2025
How to Fill Your Classes
In this must-listen episode of CPR to CEO, Dave Kotz lays out the foundational marketing strategies that will get people into your classes—and keep them coming. Whether you're just launching your CPR business or looking to boost attendance, this is your go-to guide for building a steady flow of students through smart, simple, and cost-effective outreach. From websites to word-of-mouth, flyers to Facebook, Dave shares battle-tested tactics and a few surprises you might not have tried yet. You’...
6 May 2025
How to Become a Lifeguard Instructor
Welcome to the kickoff of the CPR to CEO's Lifeguard Trainer Series! In this episode, Dave Kotz breaks down everything you need to know about becoming a certified lifeguard instructor—whether you're a seasoned guard ready to step up, or someone looking to add a rewarding (and flexible) role to your career portfolio. Drawing from decades of experience training lifeguards, instructors, and instructor trainers across the U.S., Dave walks you through the good, the challenging, and the truly life-...
6 May 2025
How to Price Your Classes and Why
Pricing your CPR classes can feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube blindfolded. But in this episode of CPR to CEO, Dave Kotz lays out a clear, practical approach to help you find that pricing sweet spot—so you’re not just filling seats, but actually turning a profit. From calculating your true costs to reading your local market, Dave shares what works (and what doesn't) when it comes to CPR training economics. Whether you’re just launching your side hustle or looking to refine your busines...
5 May 2025
4 Common Pitfalls New Lifesaving Business Owners Face
In this episode of CPR to CEO, Dave Kotz shares the four most common missteps that new CPR instructors and training business owners make—and how to avoid them from the jump. Whether you're just starting your side hustle or scaling your training company, these lessons are crucial if you want to save yourself time, money, and a few grey hairs. Drawing from decades in the field, Dave offers honest insights and actionable advice that can help you run a more sustainable—and more profitable—lifesav...
5 May 2025
What to Expect When Starting Your Own CPR Training Business
Welcome to the very first episode of CPR to CEO! Today, we’re diving into what it really takes to launch your own CPR training business—from side hustle to full-on success story. Dave Kotz shares real-world experience and candid advice for those thinking about stepping into the world of public safety education. Whether you're a firefighter, nurse, schoolteacher, or simply someone with a passion for saving lives, this episode walks you through the early stages of setting up your business the r...
5 May 2025
How to Choose the Right Curriculum to Teach: American Red Cross vs. American Heart Association
In this episode of CPR to CEO, Dave Kotz breaks down one of the biggest decisions you'll make as a CPR instructor: Which training agency should you align with—American Red Cross or American Heart Association? Drawing on over 20 years of experience with both, Dave offers a no-nonsense, side-by-side comparison to help you make an informed choice. Whether you're brand new to the field or a seasoned pro looking to expand your certifications, this episode provides clarity on cost, course delivery ...
5 May 2025
The Must-Have Tools for Running Your CPR Business
In this equipment-packed episode of CPR to CEO, Dave Kotz breaks down everything you need to launch or upgrade your CPR training setup—whether you're teaching one class a month or running a full-blown operation. From high-quality CPR manikins to reliable AED trainers, this episode is your go-to checklist for the essential gear and tools of the trade. Dave shares decades of hands-on experience to help you invest wisely, stay efficient, and keep your classes running smoothly. You’ll Learn About...
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YouTube views
1,294
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Podcast Authority Score: 56 / 100
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Quality
86
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YouTube
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Engagement
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