Build a Movement - Flex & Flow

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jamie King, Founder of Flex & Flow, located in Portland, OR, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Flex & Flow is a global community for people that love to move. The Flex & Flow community offers daily live, online, and in-person HIIT & Flow and yoga classes, as well as a robust on-demand library of classes that can be accessed whenever from wherever. Flex & Flow also offers opportunities for the community to connect via events, teacher trainings, and retreats. Many people describe taking a class with Flex & Flow as the "best part of their day."

Tell us about yourself

Over a decade ago, I was working in a super high-stress environment. And I was thriving, at least professionally. The problem was that I was less than thriving personally. I was working long hours, which often included late nights out at events, and networking functions, followed by early mornings at the office, and I didn't feel good in my mind or body. I was drinking too much, getting terrible sleep, and just generally doing a terrible job taking care of myself.

The moment when I finally admitted to myself that I wasn't happy (or truly thriving) - that I actually felt quite lost in my life and career - was the moment I truly discovered yoga. This practice that had once been a purely physical practice for me suddenly became so much more than that. In fact, it became more of a way to heal my relationship with myself than just another workout. And the more I practiced and found the time to tune in to myself, clear my head, and cope with stress in a healthier way, the more powerful I began to feel.

I felt so empowered by my own changes that I started teaching classes (as a side hustle) as a way to inspire others to find their own journey to healing and transformation - to find their power within. In 2011, I finally quit my job and focused on building a community that would support all people in their movement journey - and perhaps inspire others to find more freedom in their bodies, minds, and souls. And thus, Flex & Flow was born.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I think my biggest accomplishment is all of the people's lives this community has touched. I can't think of a better feeling or a big enough paycheck that would top someone coming up to me to tell me that this community - the Flex & Flow community that I've poured my heart and soul into -has changed their lives.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Owning a business means being responsible for everything – from acquiring customers, keeping the money coming in and business doors open, paying taxes, to making sure your employees are happy at work. It's a lot to have on your plate at all times, and it can feel really daunting and overwhelming at times.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

If I were to go back and give myself advice when I was getting started, I would tell myself to stay focused, trust my gut, and ask for more help. It can be hard to stay on track and focused when there are distractions everywhere. But it's important not to waste time chasing things that don't truly matter (beware the shiny objects!!). And it's just as important to trust your gut. If something doesn't sit right with you, you have to trust that instinct and go with it. And if all else fails, you have to get really comfortable asking for help!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.flexandflow.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jamiewalker19
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamiekingfit/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiewalker19/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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