Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Bill Beckham, Franchise Owner of D1 Training - Anderson Township, located in Cincinnati, OH, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
D1 Training is focused on inspiring and motivating athletes to achieve their goals. Our inspiration comes from Division 1 collegiate athletics. There, you'll find the culture, training programs and methodologies, and equipment that improve strength and agility, boost endurance, prevent injury, provide longevity, and help athletes perform at peak performance levels.
We believe that this experience should not be limited to collegiate-level athletes. Instead, for anyone who has a fitness goal, whether it is to go from 2nd string to 1st string, make the high school team, or play in college, D1 Training will help you get there. If you're an adult that wants to get back in shape, stay in shape, shed some pounds, etc. D1 Training will help you get there. We have training programs based on the latest in sports science, industry-leading trainers, and a state-of-the-art facility and state-of-the-art equipment. We train people like they are athletes.
Tell us about yourself
I had a successful 27-year finance career at Procter & Gamble. I had the opportunity to travel the world, lead global organizations, and be a part of some breakthrough projects and initiatives. I had the opportunity to learn and grow with one of the best companies in the world. As I approached retirement, I wanted to apply all that I learned to something that would benefit my local community and me. I wanted to go into business for myself, but I wanted it to be in an area that I am passionate about.
My youngest daughter was a soccer player that had a successful collegiate career, where she became an All-American. Through her journey, I saw how important it was to have supplemental training to build strength and agility, prevent injury, and help young athletes perform and compete at the highest level. Beyond the physical benefits, there is also a significant psychological benefit. A sense of confidence and the ability to rise above challenges and push oneself to the limit are invaluable tools to develop.
Also, from an adult perspective, I've always been passionate about physical fitness and training. I believe that this type of training is very beneficial. Our lives become stressful and sedentary. Having the opportunity to train like an athlete is a tremendous benefit. There are overall health benefits associated with being physically active, and the psychological benefits are immeasurable.
In the back of my mind, I always thought that getting into an athletic training business would be a great way to challenge myself, get involved in something that I am passionate about, and help the community. D1 Training is a great national franchise that affords me the opportunity. They have a very strong national brand and a highly capable and strong corporate team that provides more than adequate training, coaching, and support.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
We won't open until late November. So, as someone who is stepping out of the corporate world and into the entrepreneurial world, I would say my biggest accomplishments to date are as follows:
- Securing an SBA loan
- Negotiating my 1st real estate deal
- Hiring a great General Manager
- Launching our pre-sales marketing campaign
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I spent 27 years working for one of the best companies in the world. The benefit that everyone takes for granted in a corporate environment is that all of the "little" stuff is done for you. Phone systems, electrical bills, workman's comp, taxes, bookkeeping/accounting, payroll, etc...It's all done for you. I've spent the past few months building all of this from scratch. The good thing is that there are a lot of great 3rd party vendors out there that provide this support. However, learning what's needed and where to find it has been challenging.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Know your strengths and weaknesses and find a business model that plays to your strengths and fills in for your weaknesses. This may lead you down a franchising path or one where you're on your own.
- Have someone play devil's advocate with you to take some of the passion out of your decision. Passion is good, but it can blind you as well. Having someone that asks critical questions is vital to make sure that you are going into this with eyes wide open.
- Find a good lawyer and tax professional to help you set things up at the start. There are a lot of pitfalls to avoid and a lot of laws and regulations. Yes, you can Google things, but don't be afraid to invest in good counsel upfront.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
We will be opening in late November. Right now, we are in the midst of our pre-sales campaign. If you're in the Cincinnati area and have a youngster that wants to improve athletic performance, or you're an adult with a fitness goal, we've got some Founding rate specials going on right now. Message me to learn more.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.d1training.com/anderson-township/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/D1TrainingAndersonTownship
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/d1training_anderson/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/D1Anderson_Twnp
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-beckham-5233006/
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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