Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sundey Allan, Founder of Organic Functional Fitness, located in Koloa, HI, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
OFF Kauai is a fitness studio that grew from a single mother training for marathons who got convinced to train the other moms from the school drop-off. I started as an outdoor boot camp, and once capacity and need for a covered indoor setting became an issue, we opened the first fitness studio on the island in 2010. Kauai had not gotten the boutique studio trend until recently- so we achieved widespread popularity amongst young moms all the way to grandparents. Our classes are modeled around all-level fitness with the ability for all to reach maximum potential in a club-like setting- amazing lighting and playlists to empower and light the fire in us all.
Tell us about yourself
My name is Sundey- I was a single mom raising three children, which in itself creates commitment to hard work and hustle. I have been blessed to adapt and grow naturally in this industry from passion and love for feeling strong. When you lead with passion instead of attempting that Instagram model "perfection," it ingratiates others to feel comfortable investing in what you do. The passion is infectious, and the bonds made have given me so much to be grateful for.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Some might think my biggest accomplishments would be the fitness modeling or monetary successes- purchasing our Commercial property instead of leasing. Those are great things. But my biggest pride has been the opportunities I have had to help local families in need. One fundraiser in particular, Run for Pa'a, was an annual event I ran for five years for my dear friends whose son was born with an extreme heart defect. He needed ten surgeries in his first years of life. We were able to raise enough over the years to cover hospital expenses, travel to Oahu (*Kauai doesn't have the large hospitals for most surgeries), and other burdening debts they had incurred. Having a hand in promoting health in a family fun run to benefit people I love so much fills my heart.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The hardest thing is being a business owner. Trying not to take things personally. You can't please everyone while managing employees or serving clients. Things don't always go right, but leading with passion is the purpose of rolling with the struggles.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Lead with Passion. Trust your instincts. Never be the smartest person in the room.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://offkauai.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getoffkauaifitness/
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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