About this Retreat
Corey Martin is a Yale-trained family physician driven to change the delivery of healthcare and improve the mental and physical health of our communities. He is a founder of
Innovations in Resilience and the
Bounce Back Project, a practicing private group physician, Bush Fellow, and a consultant to many healthcare and educational organizations in their response to clinician burnout. Driven to do this work by the loss of two colleagues and friends, Corey strives to create an environment of opportunity in which all of us can do the deep, heartfelt work of changing the way we show up and interact in each other’s lives.
One of the ways he does this is by facilitating resilience retreats across the United States and throughout the world. He is both a Certified Daring Way Facilitator and Center for Courage and Renewal Facilitator in training and facilitates workshops based on the work of Brené Brown and Parker Palmer. In his free time, he enjoys working on his farm which he has recently turned into an event center. He lives in Maple Lake, MN with his three daughters. He is a recovering perfectionist and an aspiring “good enoughist”.
As an individual, Mary strives to be a catalyst for change. She strongly believes in moving towards purpose and meaning by avoiding the focus on what people don't want. Her superpower lies in emotional intelligence (EQ). Mary possesses the ability to quickly understand the motivations, energies, processes, and needs of people, enabling a fulfilling and satisfying life.
Mary's expertise lies in generating momentum. She leads with infectious energy and an open heart, strengthening relationships and propelling progress. Mary specializes in developing and conducting courses that lead to lasting transformation.
With over 25 years of experience, Mary has worked with individuals striving for excellence in both personal and professional lives. At Innovations in Resilience, they understand the tremendous value of working within a retreat community. They also recognize the impact of one-on-one sessions following their retreats, which can be truly empowering.
Through a diverse range of experiences, including traditional business environments, personal retreats, and one-on-one work, Mary has gained a unique advantage that has contributed to her own growth and understanding. Her ultimate goal is to dismantle the narratives that keep problems in place, hindering fulfillment, satisfaction, and self-nurturing.
Details of this retreat
$2599 - $3299
30+ CME/CEUs Available
2026 Deep Dive Retreat — Asheville, North Carolina
April 19–25, 2026
“Don’t you dare settle for fine.”This quote from Ted Lasso captures the spirit of our annual Deep Dive Retreat—an experience designed for those who are ready to explore the depths of their inner life, reimagine their next chapter, and reconnect with their sense of purpose and possibility. Set against the stunning backdrop of Asheville, North Carolina, and the Great Smoky Mountains, this retreat invites you to take a courageous pause from the chaos of everyday life and intentionally turn inward. Together, we’ll create space to reflect on where you’ve been, where you are, and where you’re called to go next. From the lush landscapes of the Biltmore Estate to the peaceful beauty of the North Carolina Arboretum, our retreat begins with inspiration drawn from Asheville’s gardens, mountains, and creative energy. The second half of the week takes us deeper into nature, hiking parts of the Appalachian Trail, visiting waterfalls, and witnessing expansive vistas from Kuwohi, one of the highest points east of the Mississippi. These sacred natural settings offer the perfect container for soulful inquiry and gentle challenge.
This retreat is rooted in purposeful living and courageous reflection. It integrates the powerful frameworks of the Center for Courage & Renewal, Brené Brown’s Daring Way™, Ted Lasso and insights from modern thought leaders in wellbeing, leadership, and meaningful living. Daily sessions will include:
Guided reflections rooted in poetry, story, and metaphor
Open, honest dialogue grounded in trust and shared vulnerability
Individual and small-group inquiry into purpose, identity, and inner wisdom
Tools for resilience, authenticity, and navigating transitions with integrity
You’ll explore your roles as a leader, healer, or helper—whether in your profession, your family, or your community—and how to show up more fully in those roles without losing yourself in the process. We intentionally design this retreat for those who are no longer new to the personal development journey. Participants should either be alumni of previous Bounce Travels retreats or have experience in other inner work or self-discovery practices. This allows us to go deeper, faster, and with greater trust.
There will be time each day for solo reflection, journaling, movement, and meaningful conversations with fellow travelers on the path. And while we don’t promise breakthroughs on cue, we do create the conditions for them to emerge organically.
TENTATIVE DAILY SCHEDULE
7:00am – 7:30am: Breakfast at the hotel
7:30am – 12:00pm: Daily inspirational sessions drawn from the work of Brené Brown, Parker Palmer and other thought leaders in burnout prevention and resilience
1:00pm – 5:00pm: Hiking, sightseeing and exploring beautiful NC locations
5:00pm – 6:30pm: Personal reflection or relaxation time
6:30 pm – 8:00pm: Group Dinner
8:00pm – 9:30pm: Social hour, hot tub, fire pit, pool
If you're longing for something more than just "fine"…If you're craving stillness, insight, adventure, and connection in equal measure…If you're ready to pause, listen deeply, and begin again with greater clarity…
This is your invitation.
DAILY ITINERARY
Day 1 (Sunday April 19)
Welcome to Asheville, North Carolina! As you arrive today, take time to ease into the rhythm of the retreat. Whether you choose to explore Asheville’s rich arts and culture scene, unwind in its renowned dining spots, hike scenic trails, or simply relax by the pool, this day is yours to settle in and ground yourself. We begin tomorrow at 7:30 AM, so enjoy your evening however you choose. Overnight at the Element Asheville.
Day 2
Laying the Foundation: Brave Space & The Reckoning
We begin our retreat by creating a Brave Space—a sacred container for honesty, vulnerability, and deep respect. This opening session introduces "The Reckoning," the first step in Brené Brown’s Rising Strong™ process. We’ll start to name the emotional weight we carry and begin unpacking our stories with compassion and courage. Shame, judgment, and silence will meet their match in honesty, connection, and community. This afternoon, we explore the iconic Biltmore Estate, America’s largest private home. Set on 8,000 acres of meticulously landscaped gardens by Frederick Law Olmsted, Biltmore offers timeless beauty, historic architecture, and rich Appalachian elegance. Enjoy the grounds, sample wine, and walk the estate’s scenic nature trails. Overnight at the Element Asheville. Breakfast included.
Day 3
Letting Go: Detachment, Surrender & the Storm Within
Today is about releasing what no longer serves us. Through guided reflection and group discussion, we’ll examine what it means to let go—of control, of outcomes, and of emotional patterns that keep us stuck. Inspired by the recent hurricane that passed through Asheville, we’ll consider how external storms often mirror our internal chaos. Our afternoon unfolds in the tranquil setting of the North Carolina Arboretum, a 434-acre public garden nestled in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Home to curated gardens and one of the finest bonsai collections in the U.S., this setting invites us to walk, breathe, and listen to what nature has to teach about surrender, stillness, and transformation. Overnight at the Element Asheville. Breakfast included.
Day 4
Healing the Wounds: Forgiveness & Love’s Broken Places
Forgiveness is not about excusing harm—it’s about reclaiming our peace. Today, we explore where love has been fractured and how to move forward with tenderness and strength. Through stories and reflective exercises, we’ll consider what it means to hold pain and possibility at the same time. In the afternoon, we travel to Cherokee, NC. We'll hike to the stunning Mingo Falls, visit the Great Smoky Mountains Visitor Center, and finish with a five-mile riverside walk into town. The day blends natural beauty with cultural insight, grounding our emotional journey in the wisdom of the land. Overnight at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort. Breakfast included.
Day 5
Reimagining the Future: Purpose, Meaning & Transition
This powerful day invites you to consider what's next. What are you being called toward? What is no longer yours to carry? Through a mix of reflective prompts and open dialogue, we explore how to author meaning in a world that doesn’t hand it to us. In the afternoon, we ascend Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smoky Mountains. The half-mile climb leads to a 54-foot observation tower, offering panoramic views across the region. The Appalachian Trail intersects here—a potent symbol of the long walk toward purpose. Overnight at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort. Breakfast included.
Day 6
Closing the Circle: Integration, Anointing & Sending Forth
As we close our time together, we hold space for sacred ritual. In our final circle, we’ll offer anointing, affirm shared insights, and name the commitments we carry forward. This moment of reflection and celebration honors the work done and the journey ahead. In the afternoon, we hike through Deep Creek, known for its serene waterfalls and forested trails. We’ll also explore the historic Road to Nowhere, a powerful metaphor for unresolved stories and unfinished paths. Later, enjoy free time in Bryson City to shop, explore, or simply soak in the magic of these mountains. Overnight at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort. Breakfast included.
Day 7 (Saturday, April 25th)
We return to Asheville by noon. Depart with fresh clarity, a full heart, and a renewed sense of direction.
Element Asheville Downtown
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
WHAT'S INCLUDED
Transportation from our Asheville Hotel to Cherokee and back to the airport in Asheville
Transportation to all activities during the retreat
3 night lodging in Asheville
3 nights lodging in Cherokee
Daily breakfast, 1 dinner
Snacks and water for the daily drive
Entrance to the Biltmore, Arboretum and daily park and trail entrance fees
Expert facilitation of wellbeing and resilience topics
30+ CME/CEUs for healthcare professionals
WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED
Round-trip airfare
Transportation from the airport to the hotel in Asheville
Lunches & dinners
Additional excursions or tours you choose
Travel insurance – Click here to get a quote
CANCELLATION DETAILS
Cancellations prior to Feb 18, 2026 are subject to a $500 cancellation fee
Non-refundable on or after Feb 18, 2026
A minimum of 10 participants are necessary or the retreat will be cancelled. This decision will be made at least 90 days before international retreats and 60 days before domestic retreat start dates.
If Bounce Travels cancels the trip due to any reason, you have your choice of a refund (minus credit card fees) OR use your entire balance towards another Bounce Travels trip through the following calendar year
PLEASE NOTE
This itinerary may change slightly due to accommodation availability, rain, festivals and spontaneous side trips. This is not an endurance race, nor a competition. Please be respectful of all the different paces and walks of life that come together on this group trip.
CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS
This experience is powered by CMEfy – discover unlimited opportunities to capture reflections at the point of inspiration, point of care to unlock continuing education credits via ReflectCE– an accredited activity portal designed for busy Dentists, Nurses, Nurse Practitioners, Pharmacists, Physician Associates, Physicians and other members of the healthcare team.
Reflections based on retreat content can be eligible for up to 25 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits. Learn more about CME/CEU credits for healthcare specialties here.
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