Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Amanda Towstego, Owner of Bedrock CrossFit, located in Calgary, AB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a CrossFit gym based out of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Most of our gym clientele are between the ages of 30 and 60, but we also have Teens and Jr Teens programs and a childminding class for parents during the day.
Tell us about yourself
I started coaching at Bedrock in 2016 and had the chance to take over ownership in 2020. I want our gym to be a sanctuary for people to be able to take 1 hour a day just for themselves. Whether someone has a stressful job, has parents all day, or just needs the community of others, as the only solely female-owned CrossFit gym in our city and being a mom myself, I understand how important that hour can be. For me, it was a time I could feel like an athlete and a woman and be myself. Being a mom is such a privilege, but it is the hardest job around, and parents tend to sacrifice their own time for their kids and make themselves the last priority. It was the one time a day that was just for me to honour my own body and soul, and I want to bring that feeling to everyone who walks through our gym doors. CrossFit and our gym community saved me during some of the most challenging times of my life, so if I can help even one person, it is all worth it.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Community is such an important part of our business, and I am most proud of my staff for helping facilitate such a welcoming environment and helping carry out the mission I have for the business. Our community is our lifeblood that keeps people coming back to our industry, and I am really proud of what we continue to build.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
For me, it's operating the business with no partners. In one way, it's nice not having to vote on ideas, but it can be challenging when it comes to making tough decisions, and all o fit lies on just you at the end of the day. Especially in a small business where you have to wear many hats, or someone has sick days, it falls down to one person to cover it.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Ask for help. Make sure to delegate and divide up tasks. Stress can take you out of being able to run your business efficiently.
- Find the right people. Anyone involved in your business, from staff to social media managers, represents you. Bring in the right people for the job who will share your vision and have the same passion you do for your organization. Your people are your most valuable asset.
- Be honest and open. It only takes a small light to see through the fog, and if you're not honest and open with your customers, they will be able to see it.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.bedrockcrossfit.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BedrockCrossFit/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bedrock_crossfit/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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