From Helping Sick Children to Building Libraries, a Fitness Mogul Embraces Giving

At the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach earlier this month, hundreds gathered for what appeared to be a typical charity gala. GRAMMY winner Babyface performed a custom set. Business leaders mingled with philanthropists. However, for Anthony Geisler, the evening marked a milestone in a year that has seen him pivot from corporate titan to full-time philanthropist.

Geisler, who stepped down as CEO of Xponential Fitness, received the 2024 Miracle Maker Award from Miracles for Kids, a nonprofit supporting families of critically ill children. The award caps a transformative year that began with his surprise departure from the business world and has included multiple major charitable initiatives.

“It’s a privilege to be named this year’s Miracle Maker, and I look forward to continuing to support Miracles for Kids’ essential mission to empower families with critically ill children to focus on what matters most their kids’ health,” Geisler said at the October 12 ceremony.

The recognition comes just months after Geisler’s most ambitious philanthropic project: constructing a state-of-the-art library and educational complex at The Pegasus School in Huntington Beach, California. The facility, named the Geisler Family Wings building, opened in August and features advanced learning spaces, study rooms, and digital teaching tools.

“We sought a school that could nurture her talents and provide a supportive, enriching education,” Geisler said, explaining his family’s connection to the project after transferring their eldest daughter to the school. “Our family is proud to contribute to a space where children can grow, learn, and explore their potential. This is more than just a building it’s a commitment to the future of our children and the community.”

The transition from business leader to philanthropist represents a marked shift for Geisler, who spent the past two decades building Xponential into the world’s largest fitness franchisor. Under his leadership, the company acquired and expanded brands like Club Pilates and Pure Barre into international operations.

Yet those who know Geisler say his increased focus on philanthropy isn’t surprising. In addition to Miracles for Kids, he has long supported organizations, including the Navy SEAL Foundation. The Pegasus School project began after his daughters enrolled there, leading to what he describes as a deep investment in the school’s mission.

The new library complex nearly doubles the school’s book storage capacity and includes features like a “Launch Pad” room with a performance stage and 120-inch digital display wall. “We envision the Geisler Family Wings building as a hub of inspiration and growth, reflecting our commitment to nurturing individual talents and fostering a lifelong love of learning,” Geisler said.

While Geisler hasn’t completely left the business world he hints at future ventures in fitness technology his philanthropic work appears to be taking center stage. The Miracle Maker Award, presented at the organization’s 20th-anniversary gala, recognizes years of support for families navigating the financial and emotional challenges of caring for critically ill children.

The sold-out event raised funds for programs that help families avoid bankruptcy, homelessness, and hunger while caring for sick children. These programs represent the direct community impact that has become the focus of Geisler’s post-corporate career, supporting families through some of their most challenging moments.