Upcoming Leadership Retreat in Northern Arkansas
Sunday, May 16th - Thursday, May 20th, 2027
A Different Kind of Leadership Retreat
Trade the demands of everyday leadership for five days of outdoor adventure, meaningful connection, and room to breathe in the beautiful Arkansas Ozarks. Experience world-class fishing, scenic river adventures, and authentic conversations that inspire personal and professional growth.
At Catching Leadership, we believe some of the most meaningful leadership lessons happen outside the office, away from packed calendars, constant notifications, and everyday distractions. This May, we're heading to the breathtaking Ozark region of Northern Arkansas for an intimate, five-day retreat where leadership development meets outdoor adventure. From casting a line on the White River to sharing stories around the dinner table, every experience is an opportunity to slow down, gain perspective, and connect with others in a meaningful way. Whether you're an experienced angler, new to fishing, or simply looking for a refreshing change of pace, this retreat offers the perfect balance of adventure, reflection, and connection.
Five days. Two rivers. Endless opportunities to reconnect.
Cast your line in some of Arkansas's most celebrated waters. Experience guided fly or spin fishing for trout on the White River or pursue smallmouth bass on the beautiful Buffalo River. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a first-timer, there's something for everyone.
Take in the Ozarks from a different perspective with opportunities to kayak, float, or explore the waterways by motorized jon boat. Enjoy scenic landscapes, a little friendly competition, and plenty of time on the water.
Step away from traditional meeting rooms and into conversations that matter. Through group coaching discussions, shared experiences, and genuine connection, you'll have opportunities to reflect, exchange perspectives, and grow alongside other leaders.
Not every moment needs an agenda. Enjoy slower mornings, shared home-cooked meals, riverside downtime, and the freedom to simply take in your surroundings. Sometimes the greatest insights come when we give ourselves space to think.
Your home away from home on the White River.
We'll be staying at the beautiful River Villa and Cedar Gables through Riley's Outfitters, a welcoming riverside retreat offering the perfect combination of comfort, natural beauty, and easy access to outdoor adventure.
With private rooms and inviting shared living spaces, a fully equipped kitchen, and a covered porch overlooking the White River, the River Villa is an ideal setting for relaxing after a day on the water.
Gather for morning coffee, prepare meals together, exchange stories from the day's adventures, or simply enjoy the peaceful river views.
This isn't just a place to stay. It's part of the experience.
Discover the natural beauty where two rivers meet.
Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks, our retreat takes place near the meeting of two iconic waterways: the White River and the Buffalo River.
The White River is renowned for its exceptional trout fishing, offering anglers the opportunity to pursue trout amid beautiful scenery.
The Buffalo River offers a different kind of adventure, with scenic bluffs, clear waters, and excellent opportunities to target smallmouth bass.
Together, these rivers create an incredible setting for outdoor exploration, relaxation, and meaningful connection.
With breathtaking landscapes and adventures just steps away, the Ozarks provide the perfect backdrop to step outside your routine and rediscover what matters most.
Enjoy cooking, dining, and connecting together in a relaxed riverside setting.
Each leader will have their own private bedroom to unplug in their own private space.
Kayaking, scenic floats, and opportunities to explore by motorized jon boat.
All fishing gear is provided for each retreat (drift boats, fly rods, reels, lines, etc.) Retreat-goers are always welcome to bring any of their own gear if they'd prefer!
Michael Leytem will lead the group through all the need-to-knows to prepare for the experience, while also giving everyone an opportunity to get to know each other before arriving in Arkansas.
Leaders will receive a copy of Michael's first released Amazon Bestseller, Catching Leadership, published in 2020.
Leaders will be a part of a group that will give them opportunities for networking dinners, fireside chats, and group coaching.
Leaders will receive a copy of the latest release by Michael Leyem, Keep Your Head In The Wind, published in February 2024.
As a thank you for attending, retreat attendees will be welcomed with retreat-themed swag to sport throughout the experience.
Retreat-goers will leave with unforgettable memories amidst scenic beauty, from thrilling catches to serene moments of camaraderie on and off the water.
Single Occupancy — $2,495
Inquires and payment options can be discussed by contacting Michael at mleytem@catchingleadership.com.
*Not included: Airfare, parking, etc. to and from the lodge in Arkansas.
FAQ section
You've got questions. We've got answers.
Our accommodations will be at the River Villa and Cedar Gables through Riley's Outfitters in Northern Arkansas. Every attendee will have their own private room. You can check out the accommodations here: https://www.rileysoutfitter.com/all-whiteriver-buffaloriver-cabins-homes
Not at all! Whether you've been fly fishing for years, prefer spin fishing, or have never picked up a rod, this retreat welcomes all experience levels. Guided fishing opportunities will allow participants to enjoy the rivers regardless of their previous experience.
The retreat will offer opportunities to pursue trout on the White River and smallmouth bass on the Buffalo River. Both fly fishing and spin fishing are part of the experience, providing options for different interests and skill levels.
Although meals, lodging, and gear will be provided, you should plan on bringing a variety of layered outdoor clothing, depending on the weather. It is also highly recommended to bring a water bottle, as well as a notebook, any personal fishing gear, and anything else you may want to have with you for a five day getaway.
In the past, multiple retreat-goers have had all or part of their trip sponsored by their employer. You may want to explore if your employer offers a training budget to help offset your enrollment cost.
No, professionals of all levels are welcome to attend!
Yes, if you need a payment plan option to attend this retreat, please email mleytem@catchingleadership.com.
Yes, but please reach out to Michael at mleytem@catchingleadership.com in advance to discuss accommodations and whether or not they will be participating in all activities.