001. The Courage to Build It with Kelly Porter
Listen to the episode:
Hey friends! Today I am bringing you a TRUE start-up story! If you ever struggle with comparison, hello don't we all? Or feel a fire in your heart to transform the culture of your industry, you're going to love this week's guest, Kelly Porter!
Kelly is the founder and owner of Barre Roots, a truly unique fitness studio here in Nashville. Kelly's approach to barre is really special, as you'll hear throughout this interview. She holds multiple certifications, hosting a range of classes from spaces like her backyard to our local brewery.
I can say from experience that her barre class is like having a party with your best friends. It's always accessible, always encouraging, and you leave with a lot of sweat and a little more love for yourself.
Today Kelly and I are talking through her start-up story, and I know you're going to relate so much to what she shares. We discuss her journey from her very first barre class to finding the courage to create her own studio. We talk through the expectations and naive beliefs we all have when starting a business and how it feels when it's not as simple as "If I build it, they will come."
I really appreciate how generous Kelly is with her story. I learn about her struggle with comparison while finding her own style and culture of barre. She's taking some incredible steps toward shifting toxic trends in the barre world, and it's so inspiring to see! I know you're going to love her and that infectious energy she brings to every conversation!
Meet Kelly.
Originally from Pennsylvania, Kelly and her husband moved to Bellevue, Tennessee to plant their roots and call it home. After working in the hospitality industry, Kelly and Jason decided to follow their dreams and open their fitness studio, Barre Roots, in 2019.
Holding multiple certifications, Kelly believes in combining a low-impact workout infused with cardio bursts. She also believes barre is not the "end-all." It is a great workout that complements other modalities as well.
When she is not sweating her booty off in barre classes, she is soaking up quality time with her handsome husband, their son Henry, and two German Shepherds. Kelly is passionate about strong coffee, meeting new people, and reading… but who really has time to read that when you have a toddler?
Kelly is the life of the party and is sure to brighten your day each time you step onto the mat!
“The greatest form of therapy is starting your own business.”
The heart behind her business.
Kelly believes that every body is a good body. It all starts there. How refreshing, right?! After experiencing the toxic culture present at many barre studios, she dreamt of creating an inclusive barre experience for her members, both experienced and newbies. Her goal was to set a tone where her students felt comfortable in their environment, confident in their skin, and connected within their community.
That’s when Barre Roots was born! Every class is focused on bringing together people of all shapes, sizes, and levels to accomplish one common goal: the desire to become stronger, more confident individuals.
The power of belonging.
When Kelly walked into her first barre class, she knew she couldn’t do it alone. She needed a friend to come along, understanding that there is so much empowerment in connection! As barre became a passion, she tried several studios at home and while traveling. She began to notice that barre culture wasn’t exactly inviting, and the experiential feedback she got from friends and family felt the same. It just didn’t feel like a safe workout experience and Kelly knew she wanted to have a role in changing that tone.
Community became a big part of Kelly’s pivot towards business ownership, and offering that sense of belonging to others is what she does best! Her classes often begin with an invitation to let go of any previous barre misconceptions and simply embrace your body and what it can do. And let me tell you, it’s such an empowering workout! I loved hearing about Kelly’s passion for belonging and the story behind this heart!
Start with community.
When Kelly felt the dream of owning her own studio stir in her heart, it was instantly hidden behind fear. Like so many of us, it took the act of saying that dream out loud to a friend (me!) to even allow herself to take steps forward. She realized then that community and connection was her secret to movement.
When she got a bit stuck in the “planning” phase, the voices in her life called her out and encouraged the big launch. When she felt overwhelmed, underprepared, or lost in the weeds, it was her people that led her out. It really all starts with community. It starts with that simple whisper of a dream to a trusted friend, and then allowing them to encourage you and speak life along your journey! It ended up being Kelly’s secret sauce!
Best Advice to your younger self.
When it comes to business ownership, do not compare yourself. It’s so important to do your market research and make sure you have a firm grasp on your industry. But have strict boundaries there. Comparing yourself will continuously hold you back and if it becomes a practice, it will be your greatest obstacle.
“What 2020 made me realize is I did not know prior to this who I was as a business owner. And when I was forced into the most unconventional space possible is when I found myself. I have never felt more true to my business than I do now. I feel more me than ever.”
Connect with Kelly.
So how did Kelly find the courage to actually start Barre Roots? How did she work through comparison and lean into her goals? I know her words will inspire you and empower you this week! Press play to listen to the full interview and hear more about building a business out of courage and heart with the incredible, Kelly Porter!
Connect with Kelly and check out the links mentioned in the episode below!
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