Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ben Wales, Owner of The Wilderness Fitness and Coworking, located in Minneapolis, MN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We're a coworking space providing offices and desks to entrepreneurs and businesses needing in-person workspaces. What separates us from other offices and coworking businesses is our focus on incorporating health and wellness into peoples' workdays. We have daily fitness and yoga classes that are free for members, a large functional fitness gym, healthy food vending machine, lots of standing desk options, hundreds of plants, great natural light, and a community built around the shared value of working in a healthy environment.
Tell us about yourself
I've worked in the fitness industry for over a decade as a personal trainer, group fitness instructor, and gym manager. My motivation behind opening The Wilderness was to build a space where it's easy for people to make healthy choices and meet other health-conscious individuals. A gym is great, but in my opinion, a coworking space can be a more holistic approach to improving people's well-being due to the time spent in the space and the connections that members form. Your friends, coworkers, and environment have a huge impact on your activity level and diet.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Seeing the relationships that are formed as a result of building a space that encourages collaboration and connection.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
It is always on my mind, and it can feel difficult to totally relax and disconnect.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Pick something you are passionate and knowledgeable about where you constantly find inspiration and motivation to improve.
- Do your homework. Market research and learning your trade are never-ending pursuits.
- Find business partners that are strong where you're weak.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.thewildernessmn.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewildernessmn
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewildernessmn/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-wilderness-fitness-coworking/
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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