Twelve months ago, I found myself scrolling job sites as I was ready to give up my business. I was an Online Personal Trainer with a passion for fitness, but with dwindling finances and just a handful of clients, it felt like my dream was slipping away. The prospect of becoming an employee again was attractive because I was failing at business.
Then I was invited to visit Circle Networks by Jamie. He explained it was an online business community that promised not just connections, but also knowledge and resources to help businesses thrive. Skeptical but out of ideas, I took the plunge.
The first thing the amazing people in Circle Networks did was help me identify my USP; my unique selling proposition. During one session, we were discussing ideal clients and how as a business owner, you need to know everything about your clients in order to serve them. The people I knew best were from my previous industry – the backstage theatre professional. This raised a question: How could I help the theatre professionals, the hardworking individuals behind the scenes who often compromise their health and fitness due to the demands of their jobs? This question changed everything. It helped me see the overlooked niche that was waiting to be catered to – theatre professionals.
This led to the birth of TheatreFit, a brand & movement that shines a light on the health and fitness needs of backstage theatre professionals. It started with a few clients in London’s West End, but as word spread, TheatreFit now has gone international with clients in different countries.
The journey wasn’t easy. From identifying the niche to building a strong brand image where nothing like this had existed before, each step presented its challenges. But Circle Networks was there to support, guide, and provide resources every step of the way. The networking community has been invaluable. I connected with people who helped me refine my business strategy, create a compelling marketing plan, and understand the ins and outs of attracting and winning new clients.
Fast forward to today, and TheatreFit is not just surviving; it’s thriving. With clients across the globe, a robust brand identity, and a niche that loves my services, I am proud to say that my business is more successful than I ever dared to imagine. And I feel like I’m only just getting started.
Looking back at the past year, I can say without a shadow of a doubt that Circle Networks played an instrumental role in this transformation – both personal & professional. From the brink of despair to the heights of success, it has been a journey that I’m grateful for.
To anyone feeling stuck in their entrepreneurial journey or ready to give up, I would highly recommend Circle Networks. The community’s expertise, resources, and dedication can truly help turn things around for you, just like they did for me.
I haven’t won a single client directly from the Circle Networks events, but I credit my success to the network and training that has helped me to transform my business and income.
I feel like I’m winning in multiple areas of my life. Professionally, I get to work with the people I want to work with & help them improve their lives. Personally, it’s allowed me the freedom to travel the world with my partner. I get to tick a bucket list goal of mine to travel the world while doing the job I love doing.
Claudia Hodgson Rodriguez
Founder, TheatreFit