Q: How did you finance your business?
A: We grew organically. What I mean by that is that we spent only what we had to. Any time we made money, we re-invested it back in to the company. We have tapped in to our home line of credit and credit cards when we’ve had to at various times in the business. Not sure that I would recommend that. We got one small SBA loan after a few years in the business.
Q: How much money have you invested so far? How do you feel about that?
A: I couldn’t begin to answer that one. It’s ongoing. We’ve invested, paid ourselves back, reinvested, etc. It’s definitely surprising to people when they find out how little my husband and I have made in this business to date. We are seeing the long-term goal and would rather pay ourselves less to have the business run right.
Q: What has been your greatest success or “high point” in the process?
A: There have been so many. My team laughs at me because I always say that this month is our best yet and then the next month I say the same. I really believe it. Our first big high point was when The Today Show came out to do a big story on us. It was amazing! That just led to so many more opportunities for us.
Q: Have you experienced a “low point” and if so, how did you rally yourself to get back on track?
A: Yes, a few. We work so hard to do the right thing so when we’ve had some legal issues or financial issues, it can be deflating. To get back on track, I think about the 700+ instructors we have nationwide and the 20,000+ moms who are depending on me to make it work.
Q: Who has been your biggest source of inspiration? What keeps you going?
A: My kids are my biggest inspiration. Failure is not an option, because I want so much to a positive role model for them. I want my daughter to see that she can be a good mom and still have a stimulating, rewarding career.
Q: Did anyone in particular help you along the way?
A: My husband, for sure. He’s not the entrepreneurial type but he has been a source of strength. Whenever I do hit a low, he always gives me the strength to keep plugging away. I feel like if he believes in me, then I must keep going.
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