Authentic, Affordable, Accessible

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in health and fitness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mary Young, CEO of My Vinyasa Practice, located in Austin, TX, USA.

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

My Vinyasa Practice is a Yoga Studio based in Austin, TX, offering donation-based classes near ACC Highland off Airport Blvd and online yoga teacher training and yoga therapy training. We have over 49,000 students enrolled in our online programs and a healthy community of practitioners in Austin cultivating community through yoga and lifestyle.

Tell us about yourself

I'm a mother of three who was looking for more balance after the birth of my first son. After integrating yoga into my practice, I decided that I wanted to teach others to do the same. Soon after, My Vinyasa Practice was born.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is that we've cultivated a diversified staff that is 50% black, Hispanic, Asian American, or non-white and that we've been able to provide insurance and 401K benefits for our employees.

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

The hardest thing about owning a business is having to think about the health of the business all the time. When you're in business, it's no longer about you at that point; it becomes about the employees, students, patrons, and community. I can't take off my business hat when so many people's livelihoods are in my hands. It's a delicate practice in compassion and non-attachment, for sure.

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

The first tip I would give anyone considering starting a business is to make sure they are clear on their values and that they know who they are and what they want. The second thing I would advise is doing three to four things daily to move you toward your long-term goals. Finally, I would tell people not to be afraid to scale, it can be scary, but it's worth it.

It's an honor to be in business and provide jobs, equity, and inclusion for others. It also comes with responsibility, so it's important to remember your values and reflect on your authentic desire and intention for the company you've created. Don't get caught up in competition. Truth be told, there is no such thing. Competition is a misunderstanding that limits our ability to see the wide-open spaces of abundance available in the market.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.myvinyasapractice.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myvinyasapractice
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myvinyasapractice/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-young-746757111/

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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