Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Evan Gubera, co-founder of Animalhouse Fitness, located in Simpsonville, SC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are innovators in the fitness market. Our flagship product is MonkeyFeet, the patented device that allows you to use any dumbbell as a leg weight. We want to bring cutting-edge equipment to all fitness enthusiasts, whether it be a beginner or a veteran. Individual or gym, we look to supply the best products possible.
Tell us about yourself
I injured my knee during my professional MMA career, and during rehab, I thought of a new idea to help strengthen my legs (especially hamstring curls). I was a personal trainer for years, so I always thought about exercises and how I could make them better, but this device I thought of had never been made before. So I went to an engineering buddy of mine and got to work on it. I wake up excited every morning to further explore how we can make the fitness industry better.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Eight million dollars in revenue in just one year of business.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The curveballs that come with it. Being able to think outside the box and deal with problems as they come with a level head is essential.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Once you take that first step in, all you have to do is keep pushing forward without second-guessing yourself, and everything will come together.
- Don't be scared to give up a little equity to get a partner. If the project is a big one that you could use help with, sometimes getting a partner is the best decision you can make, don't be too greedy.
- Always think big picture. Don't build yourself into a small box.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
I personally was kicked out of my entire school district when I was 15 years old. I don't have a college degree; in fact, I was a 3-time felon at 19. There is no hole too deep dug that you can't climb your way out of. You don't need to come from a family with money; you don't even need to have had the best education. All you need is the proper will and drive to make your business succeed.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://animalhousefitness.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/evan.a.gubera
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/animalhousefit/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-gubera-3b5019174/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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