Facing Challenges Headstrong with Julianna Curtis
In Episode 40 of the Be A Marketer podcast, host Dave Charest sits down with Julianna Curtis, founder and CEO of The Energy Barre, a boutique fitness and yoga studio based in Massachusetts. Julianna shares her journey of launching the business in 2013 and overcoming numerous challenges along the way.
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During their candid conversation, Julianna reflects on the rapid growth The Energy Barre experienced in its first ten months and the early challenges of managing a new location while maintaining their customer base. One of the toughest moments came about a year into their Stoneham, MA, location, where noise complaints from tenants below led to a court ruling that prohibited the use of amplified music during specific hours. This posed a significant challenge for the rhythm-driven classes The Energy Barre offered, forcing Julianna to adapt quickly under pressure.
In this episode, Julianna emphasizes the importance of community support and being in tune with both her business and her team. As the business evolved, she also shares how she stepped back into a hands-on role after a period of delegation, reigniting the passion she had as a hands-on entrepreneur. Julianna also delves into how mentorship and team dynamics have played key roles in navigating both business and personal growth.
She highlights three major lessons:
- Customer Experience Matters: Retaining customers during the pandemic was largely due to personalized service, ensuring customers felt taken care of.
- Team Support is Essential: Recognizing and valuing her team was crucial during stressful periods.
- Self-Care is Critical: Avoiding burnout requires prioritizing personal well-being, allowing for a sustainable business model.
This episode offers valuable insights for business owners facing similar challenges, especially in balancing personal involvement with business growth and the importance of adaptability.