Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Carla Frankoviglia-Gilfry, Owner of Polga (pole yoga) Fitness Program, located in Kansas City, MO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am the owner and creator of Polga (pole yoga) Fitness Program. My customers are those who want to live a happier, healthier life and who are willing to step outside their comfort zone and onto the pole. Polga (pole yoga) is perfect for all ages, shapes, sizes, and fitness levels. All you need is the desire to want to have fun when working out.
Tell us about yourself
I am a psychologist turned pole fitness business owner who has over 20 years of business and fitness programming experience. After going from psychologist to “pole dancer,” I have learned to combine my two worlds by highlighting the fun of pole fitness with the mindfulness of the mind. I really enjoy helping people disrupt their lives and disrupt the fitness industry by stepping outside their comfort zone or social norms and stepping onto the pole. I love seeing people get fit in their minds and bodies and feeling better about who they are while building so much confidence.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Over the past 16 years of owning my business, I have helped over 100,000 women improve their lives through my classes, programs, workshops, and events.
Some of my other biggest accomplishments are:
- Building and growing the Stiletto Gym since 2006
- Creating Polga (pole yoga) Fitness and instructor training
- Obtaining three trademarks (the Stiletto Gym, Polga (pole yoga), & Exertainer)
- Establishing the Guinness World Record Holder for the Largest Chair Dance
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Time, hard work, overcoming challenges and obstacles daily. You will work harder than you ever did in a 9-5 job, but it is so worth it!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Stay positive, believe in what you do and why you do it, and resilience will be your friend. Knowing that owning a business is more than being your own boss; it is much deeper than that. The impact you have on others is why you do what you do.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Creating a business of your own will be the hardest and most rewarding thing you will ever do, other than being a parent. Stay positive, enjoy the process, never stop learning and growing, and most importantly, believe in yourself and what you do.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://polgapoleyoga.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PolgaPoleYogaFitness
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/polgafit/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlamock/
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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