ALL INCLUSIVE 8-day retreat in waves & wifi, popoyo, nicaragua
Flow Retreat
A retreat to help creatives leave the office
Create your brand, website, and marketing strategy efficiently in a like minded community.
SEPTEMBER 7 2024 - SEPTEMBER 14 2024
Flow is a retreat for creatives that want to quit 9-5 and transition to full time freelancing
At Flow, every aspect of your creative and business potential is nurtured through a carefully structured program. Begin each day with yoga and meditation to enhance focus, followed by immersive sessions on branding, digital marketing, and business automation. Enjoy one-on-one mentoring to tailor strategies directly to your needs, and connect with a community of like-minded professionals. With everything from incredible accommodations to expert guidance, Flow is your gateway to transforming your professional life in an exotic setting.
Empower Your Creative Business
Automate routine tasks and focus on high-value creative activities. Enhance your ability to enter a flow state, where your creativity can truly flourish.
Develop Actionable Strategies
Focus on creating actionable, practical strategies that can be implemented immediately to see real business results.
Experience a Holistic Curriculum
Dive deep into comprehensive sessions on branding, digital marketing, business automation, and website optimisation, designed to transform your business.
Access Exclusive Resources
Access to exclusive templates and frameworks that aren’t readily available elsewhere.
Before Flow
After Flow
We'll help you create a digital machine that automates menial tasks and lets you focus on creating amazing work!
Flow will empower you to leave your 9-5 job behind and thrive as a successful creative freelancer
The Flow Blueprint is divided into seven sections, each designed to supercharge your creative business and help you transition from a 9-5 job to a life filled with adventure and freedom.
Design your offer
- Create a business strategy
- Find your niche
- Create a consistent brand
- Solve problems effectively
- Discover your value
Increase your value
- Understand value
- Map your finances
- Create a pricing strategy
- Increase your value
- Work less and charge more
- Handle payments correctly
Market effectively
- Create a convincing portfolio
- Craft the perfect profile
- Market yourself intelligently
- Get referrals and repeat customers
Win dream clients
- Identify high-value clients
- Stand out from the competition
- Sell projects effectively
- Create fruitful relationships
- Negotiate like a pro
Maximise productivity
- Optimise your workflow
- Handle clients efficiently
- Deliver work effectively
- Create momentum & flow
Create amazing work
- Set yourself up for creative success
- Find inspiring projects
- Increase your creative output
- Receive appreciation for your work
Optimise your business
- Optimize your lifestyle
- Fine-tune your strategy
- Automate tasks
- Outsource work effectively
- Expand your business
Daily Schedule
From Arrival to Mastery: A Week of Strategic Creative Development
- 7:00 AM – Start of the day
- 7:30 AM – Participate in a yoga and meditation session to clear the mind and prepare for the day’s learning.
- 8:30 AM – Personal time to freshen up and prepare for breakfast.
- 9:00 AM – Enjoy a nutritious breakfast to fuel the day’s activities.
- 10:00 AM – Engage in focused workshops or sessions dedicated to various aspects of business and creative development.
- 1:00 PM – Free time to explore local attractions, relax, or engage in personal activities. Lunch is on your own during this time.
- 4:00 PM – Reconvene to apply learning through hands-on tasks, feedback, and group discussions.
- 6:00 PM – Personal time.
- 7:00 PM – Gather for a communal dinner where participants can network, relax, and discuss the day’s learning.
DAY 1
Arrival and Orientation
- Settling In: Arrive at Managua airport, transfer to the accommodation, and get settled.
- Welcome Gathering: Enjoy a meal depending on arrival time and meet fellow participants in an introductory session.
DAY 2
Foundations and Digital Strategy
- Resource Compilation: Begin the day by gathering all available data and resources related to your brand, including past projects, client feedback, and marketing materials, to prepare for a comprehensive analysis.
- In-depth Business Analysis: Conduct a thorough review of the compiled data to identify strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities within your business strategy, setting the stage for targeted improvements.
DAY 3
Branding and Value
- Brand Identity Workshop: Develop your brand’s core identity, detailing mission, target audience, and unique value propositions to resonate with ideal clients.
- Brand Strategy Refinement: Refine your brand in the afternoon using peer and expert feedback, enhancing positioning and preparing for advanced applications.
DAY 4
Website
- Website Building Workshop: Guidance on structuring and refining websites to better align with brand strategies and attract ideal clients.
- Hands-On Application: Participants apply the concepts discussed to start building or revamping their websites with expert feedback.
DAY 6
Portfolio
- Comprehensive Portfolio Development: Start with a planning workshop to select key projects and gather essential materials, followed by hands-on creation of your portfolio that aligns with your brand’s narrative and professional goals.
- Feedback Integration and Digital Enhancement: Present your portfolio for peer review to refine content and design, then learn digital presentation techniques to ensure your portfolio is effectively displayed across various online platforms.
DAY 5
Marketing and Automation
- Marketing Strategies Development: Learn to create and refine digital marketing strategies, including content creation and social media engagement.
- Automation Tools and Techniques: Explore tools and strategies to automate repetitive business tasks, freeing up time for creative endeavors.
DAY 7
Integration and Feedback
- Presentation of Projects: Each participant presents their refined projects and strategies to the group for comprehensive feedback.
- Strategic Integration and Continued Growth: Refine business strategies using feedback, integrate retreat learnings into daily practices, and plan for sustained growth with follow-up support and community engagement.
DAY 8
Departure
- Farewell Meal: Enjoy a final breakfast with your new colleagues, exchanging contacts and sharing last impressions.
- Smooth Transitions: Coordinated airport transfers are provided, ensuring you leave with peace of mind and focus on the next steps for your business.
Build lasting connections with like-minded professionals and receive ongoing support
Immerse yourself in Flow's enriching environment, designed to foster deep relationships with other creative freelancers, solopreneurs, and small agency owners. Beyond building connections, you'll benefit from post-retreat support, personalised one-on-one guidance, and continuous feedback. Gain exclusive access to our retreat community, a valuable network that provides continuous collaboration, support, and inspiration. This extended ecosystem ensures you have the resources and community backing to thrive in your creative pursuits long after the retreat concludes.
Gain Expert Guidance
Led by Thomas Talavera, with over 15 years in the creative industry, providing firsthand insights and effective strategies.
Rich Networking Opportunities
Build lasting connections with other creative professionals, fostering collaboration and future partnerships.
Get Customised Feedback
Daily interactive sessions provide personalized feedback, allowing for real-time refinement and improvement of your projects.
Access Post-Retreat Support
Continue the relationship beyond the retreat with resources and guidance to implement new strategies effectively.
Learn and Relax in Popoyo Nicaragua
Set in the beautiful and tranquil Popoyo, Nicaragua. The location provides the perfect backdrop for inspiration and creativity, enhancing your learning experience with breathtaking views.
You'll be staying at Waves & Wifi
The perfect place to surf and work remote does exist and it’s in this beautiful beach town in Nicaragua called Popoyo. Waves & Wifi is a coworking and coliving space that offers you access to surf at worldclass spots, hang out with the best community, and have a workspace with relaible wifi and an ocean view – what else could you ask for?
Beautiful Setting
Hosted in the incredible Waves & Wifi coliving space in Popoyo, Nicaragua, the serene and inspiring location enhances the learning experience.
Comfortable Accommodations
Our amazing lodging options will provide a relaxing environment to recharge and reflect.
Exquisite Cuisine
Enjoy delicious, locally-sourced meals that cater to a variety of dietary preferences, enhancing your overall experience.
Integrated Wellness
Begin each day with yoga and meditation, promoting mental clarity and focus, essential for creativity and learning.
Accommodation
Private King Room
Enjoy a big king bed, a dedicated work desk, and a private bathroom with an outdoor shower. You’ll have your own balcony with a stunning view into the valley.
Private Queen Double
A comfy Queen Bed is waiting for you and your private bathroom has an outdoor shower. Of course you have. a dedicated work desk with reliable Wifi. The perfect room for solo travellers.
Private Triple (Queen + Twin)
You’ll find one Queen Bed and one Twin Bed in this room. The bathroom is just for you, and there’s a little outdoor space with a cute terrace. You will also have a personal desk and AC.
Why you should take this retreat?
This retreat is designed for those ready to maximize efficiency and effectiveness in their creative endeavors. Participants will achieve a comprehensive integrated marketing setup, including unique branding, strategic pricing, enhanced portfolios, and streamlined marketing and automation processes. This exclusive retreat ensures every aspect of your business is finely tuned and aligned for success, making it the only one of its kind.
What we'll help you'll achieve
CONNECT WITH A CREATIVE COMMUNITY
CREATE A BRAND THAT HELPS YOU GROW QUICKLY
GET JOBS ONLINE
Create an outstanding portfolio
CREATE A PITCH DECK THAT WINS HIGH VALUE CLIENTS
CREATE AN OPTIMUM PRICING STRATEGY
CREATE A WEBSITE THAT AUTOMATES YOUR BUSINESS
AUTOMATE PROCECESS AND REDUCE YOUR WORKLOAD
GET PROJECTS YOU LOVE
Who is Flow Retreat for?
This retreat focuses on creative freelancers or anyone who uses their creative skillsets at work.
Graphic Designers
Website Designers
Illustrators
Photographers
UX/UI Designers
WRITERS
Our Team
Dedicated support for an unparalleled retreat experience.
Thomas Talavera
Retreat Leader
As the main instructor and the creative force behind Start Loaded, Thomas brings his extensive expertise in digital design and marketing to lead the educational components of the retreat. His insights and personal journey as a digital nomad and entrepreneur will be central to the curriculum.
Assistant
The assistant’s role is to ensure that your experience at the retreat runs smoothly from start to finish. They help manage daily logistics, coordinate activities, and provide general support to enhance your stay, allowing you to focus fully on your learning and development.
Mentor
Mentors provide tailored assistance and deep-dive mentoring tailored to each participant’s business needs. This role is critical for translating the retreat’s teachings into actionable strategies, offering one-on-one consultations and targeted advice to help you effectively implement new techniques within your business.
Cook
Our in-house cook will provide nutritious and delicious meals crafted to keep you energized throughout the day. All dietary preferences will be catered to, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for everyone.
Cleaner
A dedicated cleaner will maintain the cleanliness and comfort of our accommodations and location, creating a tidy and inviting environment for you to relax and recharge.
Driver
A professional driver will handle all transfers to and from the airport, as well as any required transportation during the retreat, ensuring your journeys are comfortable and stress-free.
I'm Thomas Talavera, the retreat leader...
I founded Start Loaded to help freelancers create more freedom. Start Loaded helps you work less, charge more and increase your value as a freelancer.
With a decade-long career in digital design and over five years as a digital nomad, I’ve honed my expertise in crafting digital solutions that simplify and empower business operations worldwide. Our work at Atravela, having collaborated with over 190 companies globally, is driven by the motto “Simplicity Empowers.” We specialize in transforming businesses from the ground up.
At Start Loaded, we are dedicated to helping freelancers and creative professionals like you achieve greater freedom and higher value in your work. We provide the tools and strategies needed to work less, charge more, and significantly increase your value in the marketplace.
Flow is more than just a retreat; it’s a culmination of all the lessons I’ve learned and success I’ve enjoyed, packaged into a transformative experience designed to propel you toward a life of meaningful productivity and freedom. Here, you will learn to navigate the complexities of starting new ventures and making impactful decisions with confidence, supported by a community of like-minded creatives.
Join me at Flow, where we are committed to equipping you with everything you need to transform your creative and professional life, ensuring you break free from the mundane and embrace a lifestyle of exceptional creativity and freedom.
We'll personally help you complete our ready made assets so that you're running to your full potential in no time!
We have hundreds of templates, worksheets, eBooks, manuals and many other helpful tools
Exactly what's included
PERSONALIZED SESSIONS
Dedicated mentoring sessions tailored to individual business needs, including customized action plans and responsive problem-solving support, accessible during and after the retreat.
PRE-RECORDED MATERIAL
35 pre-recorded videos with more than 6 hours of content that can be accessed at any time.
Physical Copy of "Laid Back Freelancing"
Every participant will receive a physical copy of this essential guidebook, which covers key strategies and insights for thriving as a freelancer.
DOWNLOADABLE ASSETS
More than 100 assets created specifically to superpower your journey as a creative freelancer.
iNTEGRATED MARKETING SETUP
Participants will leave the retreat with a fully integrated marketing setup, including unique branding, strategic pricing, enhanced portfolios, and streamlined marketing and automation processes, all tailored to boost their creative businesses.
COMMUNITY ACCESS
Join an engaged and supportive community of past and present Flow Retreat attendees. This network serves as a valuable resource for collaboration, support, and networking, available only to members of the Flow family.
What to Bring
Essentials for a Productive and Comfortable Stay
Preparing for your stay at Flow involves packing both essentials and a few extras to ensure you are comfortable and can fully engage with the retreat’s activities. Here’s a list of recommended items to bring along:
Laptop and Chargers: Essential for participating in workshops and accessing digital resources. Ensure your laptop is equipped with all necessary software and that you bring any associated chargers.
Notebooks and Writing Instruments: For taking notes during sessions and jotting down insights as you engage with mentors and peers.
Business Documents: Bring relevant materials such as your business plan, any branding elements (logos, color schemes), current marketing materials, and other documents that will aid in your learning and consultations.
Comfortable Clothing: Pack clothes suitable for a variety of activities, including indoor sessions and outdoor excursions. Include comfortable shoes for walking or hiking, and casual business attire for meetings and presentations.
Yoga and Exercise Gear: As daily yoga and meditation are part of the retreat, bring appropriate attire to participate comfortably in these activities.
Personal Health Items: Include any medications, supplements, and personal hygiene products you use regularly, ensuring you stay healthy and comfortable throughout your stay.
Travel Essentials: Depending on your country of origin, you may need a passport, travel insurance, and appropriate visas.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against the sun during outdoor activities.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day, especially important in warmer climates or during outdoor activity.
What our students loved the most
"For someone looking to abandon the 9-5, this has been an amazing overview of how to leave the office behind and start the digital nomad lifestyle. Really clear presentation and delivery."
Rory Forsyth, Marketeer
"Thomas shows his passion in everything he's doing, Thomas teach us in this course all the things that college doesn't teach us, so as a student you feel the motivation and you'll stop being afraid of making the first move, the knowledge he's been acquiring during his time working in the industry is totally worth it. Do you wanna learn to be your own boss? Do you wanna enjoy your life by working hard and at the same time being in another country that suits you? Then this course is totally worth it!"
Christian Santos, Designer
"Easy to follow and full of great information! Fantastic value for money and will only allow me to keep growing, thanks Thomas!"
Sam Evans, Online Teacher
“The course helped me present better to clients, it motivated me to update my portfolio the right way. This incredible course has revolutionised the way I work, giving me peace of mind on the road due to the fact that I have all the right tools in place. A must for anyone that wants to become a digital nomad.”
Ghazal Amini, Architect
Why Start Loaded?
We're experienced freelancers
We take creativity very seriously and want to share all the knowledge we’ve gained throughout the years. We want you to grow and perfect your trade whilst having more freedom.
We've taught more than 200,000 students
We're experienced teachers that have developed many courses and programs that have helped tons of students around the world.
We're passionate about creating freedom
This is our motto, creating a life of adventure, freedom and creativity is what we live for.
Program FAQ's
What is Flow Retreat?
Flow Retreat is a 8-day retreat designed for creative freelancers, solopreneurs, and small agency owners to enhance their business practices, learn new strategies, and connect with peers in a serene setting.
Who should attend the Flow Retreat?
Creative professionals looking to expand their network, streamline their operations, and enhance their branding and marketing strategies.
Where is the retreat located?
The retreat takes place in Popoyo, Nicaragua, known for its beautiful landscapes and tranquil environment.
Do I need a visa to attend the retreat in Nicaragua?
To enter Nicaragua, travelers generally need a visa, although the requirements can vary based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Here’s a general overview of the visa requirements for Nicaragua:
- Tourist Visas: Many travelers, including those from the United States, Canada, and European Union countries, do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Instead, they must purchase a tourist card upon arrival, which costs around $10 USD.
- Visa Exemptions: Citizens from certain countries can enter Nicaragua without a visa for short stays. This list includes, but is not limited to, the US, Canada, and most European countries.
- Tourist Card: For those nationalities that are exempt from visa requirements, a tourist card is needed instead and can be obtained at the airport or other entry points.
What airport should I fly into?
To attend the Flow Retreat, you will need to fly into Managua International Airport (MGA), the primary international gateway serving Managua, Nicaragua. Here’s a guide on how to effectively plan your travel:
How to Fly to Managua International Airport for Flow Retreat
- Booking Your Flight:
- Major Airlines: Managua International Airport is accessible by several major airlines, including United Airlines, which offers flights from over 200 airports within the United States and an additional 100 airports internationally. Other popular airlines include Copa Airlines, Avianca, and Spirit Airlines.
- Best Prices: For the most economical fares, consider booking your flights from major hubs such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, or Houston. These cities often offer the most competitive rates and direct flight options.
- Arrival Times:
- To make the most of the provided airport shuttle service, try to schedule your flight to arrive between 9:00 AM and 9:00 PM on the start date of the retreat. This timing ensures that you can take advantage of the included transportation without additional waiting.
- Departure Times:
- When booking your return flight, opt for a departure time after 11 AM on the final day of the retreat. This scheduling allows for a relaxed departure and ample time to reach the airport from the retreat venue.
- Airport Facilities:
- Managua International Airport is equipped with the necessary amenities to provide comfort and convenience. It operates 24 hours and includes services such as dining options, currency exchange, and car rental agencies.
- Transportation to the Retreat:
- The retreat package includes a shuttle service from Managua International Airport to the retreat location. Details about the meeting point and shuttle schedule will be provided prior to your arrival.
- Local Travel Tips:
- If you plan to arrive early or extend your stay in Nicaragua, consider exploring local attractions such as Masaya Volcano or the historic city of Granada. Local transportation options include taxis and buses, but for ease and safety, pre-arranged tours or private car hires are recommended.
By planning your flight to Managua with these details in mind, you can ensure a smooth start to your transformational experience at the Flow Retreat. Remember to monitor flight availability and book early to secure the best rates and schedules.
Are airport transfers included in the retreat package?
Yes, we provide airport transfers to and from Managua International Airport on the first and last day of the retreat.
What type of accommodation is provided?
Participants will stay in a private room.
Can I choose who I room with if I am attending with a friend or partner?
Yes, you can request to room with a specific person when you register for the retreat.
Are the accommodations safe and secure?
Yes, we ensure that all accommodations are secure, with staff available 24/7 for any needs or emergencies.
What meals are included in the retreat?
We provide 2 main meals during the retreat: breakfast and dinner. There will be access to unlimited snacks, coffee, tea, and water.
Can the retreat accommodate special dietary requirements?
Absolutely, we can cater to various dietary needs such as vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy-specific meals. Please inform us in advance.
Who prepares the meals at the retreat?
Meals are prepared by professional cooks specializing in a variety of nutritious and delicious cuisines.
What topics are covered during the retreat?
The retreat covers topics such as branding, digital marketing, business automation, and client acquisition strategies.
Is there a fixed schedule, or can I choose sessions to attend?
The retreat has a structured schedule designed to cover all essential topics comprehensively, with some optional sessions available.
How much free time will I have during the retreat?
Each day includes scheduled free time in the afternoon for relaxation or exploring the local area.
What is the cost to attend Flow Retreat?
We still don’t have a cost estimate, but once you join the waitlist you’ll be the first to know.
What is included in the cost of the retreat?
The price includes all sessions, materials, accommodation, meals, and scheduled transfer services.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations made up to 30 days before the start date will receive a 50% refund. Details and conditions are provided at the time of booking.
Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Aside from personal shopping and optional activities outside of the retreat schedule and flights to and from Nicaragua, there are no additional mandatory costs.
What health and safety measures are in place at the retreat?
We follow all local health guidelines, including sanitation, and ensuring access to medical services.
Is travel insurance required to attend?
While not mandatory, we highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for your peace of mind and to cover any unexpected situations.
What kind of medical facilities are available near the retreat location?
The retreat location is near medical facilities that can handle common medical situations. More comprehensive medical services are available in Managua.
What should I bring with me to the retreat?
It is essential to bring a laptop, chargers, documents, casual attire, personal items, and any specific tools you use for your business.
Will Wi-Fi be available at the retreat location?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the accommodations and main retreat areas.
Who can I contact for support during the retreat?
Our dedicated staff, including a personal assistant and mentor, will be available throughout the retreat to provide support and answer any questions.
What type of follow-up support is offered after the retreat?
Participants will have access to an online community and follow-up resources to continue applying what they learned at the retreat.
How can I stay connected with fellow participants after the retreat ends?
We encourage staying connected through our dedicated online platforms and alumni events.
Can I extend my stay at the retreat location?
You can extend your stay if there’s availability at the hotel. We can also point you in the right direction if you wish to stay longer in the area.
Are there opportunities for recreation or tourism nearby?
Yes, the Popoyo area offers a range of recreational activities, from beaches, surfing to hiking trails, which you can explore during your free time.
How can I provide feedback about my experience at the retreat?
We welcome feedback through post-retreat surveys, direct emails, or during one-on-one sessions with our team.
Is there a limit to the number of times I can attend Flow Retreat?
There are no limits; participants are welcome to attend as many sessions as they wish to further refine their skills and expand their network.
