Episode #514: Speir Pilates Approach to Community, Wellness, and Studio Growth with Andrea Speir and Liz Polk

Today we're diving into the Pilates/boutique fitness world with two incredible guests, Liz Polk and Andrea Speir, Co-Founders of Speir Pilates. We explore how Liz and Andrea have transformed their love for Pilates into a thriving business that not only promotes health and wellness but also fosters community and inclusivity.

Liz and Andrea share their journey, from leaving corporate careers, including Liz's decade at Netflix, to building a brand known for its welcoming atmosphere and thier collaborative spirit with other businesses. We'll discuss their strategies for maintaining high-quality instruction, the importance of a strong entrepreneurial management team, and their innovative use of technology to enhance member experience.

These two women have created something unique. Speir Pilates is not just about fitness, but about creating a supportive, family-like culture and pioneering unique events from bachelorette parties to influencer classes. There's something here for any business owner in the HALO space! The episode is packed with insights on adapting to change, building community, and the pivotal role of partnerships in business success. 

"We don't really do we don't do free offers," states Liz. "You're getting high quality instruction from people who are certified in something complex, which is a little different than a Spin class. This highlights the value we place on providing expert guidance over free alternatives."

Key themes discussed

• Seeking input, asking questions, open to learning.
• Discussing Pilates locations, equipment, growth, and uniqueness.
• Select talent and instructors who embody the brand.
• Diverse delivery methods expand Pilates instructor opportunities.
• Customer experience modeled after hospitality industry.
• Investment advice: Build a strong management team!

A few key takeaways: 

1. The partners emphasize the importance of building a strong community within and beyond their 4 walls. They engage in collaborations with peer studios and complementary fitness modalities like boxing to create supportive and cohesive fitness experiences. This fosters a sense of belonging and shared purpose among clients.

2. Liz's journey from a corporate background to Co-Founding Speir Pilates highlights the value of adaptability and being open to pivot when necessary. The duo’s ability to quickly adapt to changing circumstances, such as during the COVID-19, showcases their entrepreneurial resilience and innovative approach to overcoming challenges.

3. Andrea underscores the brand’s commitment to inclusivity, making Pilates accessible to a broader audience without the need for "exclusive invitations." This aligns with their vision of creating a welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of fitness level or background.

4. Speir operates with a hospitality mindset, ensuring that clients feel expected and cared for from the moment they step into the studio. This includes personalized services, gathering client information to enhance their experience, and optimizing relationships to foster a sense of community and belonging.

5. Their choice of locations and the aesthetic design of their studios play a crucial role in the business model. By selecting blank new construction spaces and considering neighboring tenants, Liz and Andrea ensure that each studio offers an optimal client experience.

Click here to download transcript.  

Resources: 

• Andrea Speir: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-speir-65742610a/ 
• Liz Polk: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizmpolk/ 
• Speir Pilates: https://speirpilates.com/ 
• Prospect Wizard: http://www.theprospectwizard.com
• Promotion Vault: http://www.promotionvault.com
• HigherDose: http://www.higherdose.com 

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