Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tony Arreola, Founder & CEO of Total Body Project Incorporated, located in Irvine, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My fitness company helps professionals unlock their fitness brilliance by mastering habits one decision at a time. We do personal training and online coaching and have a series of fitness books.
Tell us about yourself
It was Christmas of 1999 in South LA, California. I received the worst news ever, two days before my 21st birthday. My 19-year-old brother, Richard, was tragically killed in a car accident. I hated life. I gained over 50 pounds battling the darkest days of my young life. As my life spiraled out of control, I made a remarkable discovery - I inherited my brother's weight set. Luckily, I started working out. Something amazing happened. The workouts gave me strength, the strength gave me healing, and the healing gave me control.
My old life ended. My new life began. But I still needed to lose weight. A pretty tough challenge, and with all of today's quick-fix gimmicks, I grew more frustrated. It took 50,000+ sessions, 20 years of experience, 11 certifications, and 2 degrees to engineer fitness into what I lovingly call the Live Fit Formula™. I'm a teacher at my core, I taught Calculus and Physics, but I know we learn best through stories. So, I decided to share my Live Fit Formula™ through the Fictional Stories Delivering Proven Results Series. I owe my life to fitness, and I hope you can benefit from its force. We don't get any extra days in life, so don't waste a single one, not living your life fit.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment has been building a business that helps people live a better life from my knowledge. Whether it be losing 100 pounds, marrying the love of their life, starting their own business, or building a healthy family foundation. Optimizing lives for joy is my greatest success.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The road can be long, bumpy, and lonely. Sometimes it's murky, but being your own boss is always worth it.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Build a business that you love. Begin with the end in mind; what does success look like? Build a business that creates a life you desire to live.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://totalbodyproject.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/totalbodyproject
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tony_the_trainer/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tbpfitness
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyarreola/
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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