SE02E25 From 300 Sq Ft to a Thriving Business | Jaclyn Forrester
By Scout · May 14, 2026 · 47:34 read
Category: But First, Principles
Show: But First, Principles
Today’s Guest: Jaclyn Forrester of Niche Pilates Studio Don’t forget! Like – Comment – Subscribe Guest Links: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclynforrester/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclynforrester
Today’s Guest: Jaclyn Forrester of Niche Pilates Studio
Don’t forget! Like – Comment – Subscribe
Guest Links:
[https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclynforrester/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclynforrester/)
This Episode:
In this conversation, Jaclyn Forrester, owner of Niche Pilates Studio, shares her entrepreneurial journey in the fitness industry and the lessons she learned while building a thriving Pilates business in Richmond. Jaclyn discusses the importance of bravery, preparation, and vulnerability when starting a business, along with the hard work required to grow from a small 300-square-foot studio into a respected wellness brand. She reflects on her early influences, career transition into fitness, and the value of building a strong and aligned team.
The conversation also explores how COVID forced rapid innovation in the fitness industry, accelerating virtual classes and reshaping how clients approach wellness and mind-body connection. Jaclyn emphasizes the importance of core values, disciplined hiring, emotional intelligence, and strong brand identity in long-term business success. She also shares insights into effective marketing strategies, lessons learned from hiring mistakes, and why Pilates continues to evolve alongside strength training and broader wellness trends.
Key Takeaways
* Be brave in your entrepreneurial journey
* Preparation is key, but so is taking risks
* Vulnerability is essential for growth
* Pilates is trending, and that creates opportunity
* Running a studio requires hard work and skill
* Building a strong team is crucial for success
* Hiring should align with your brand and values
* Emotional intelligence is important in leadership
* Marketing is essential for business growth
* Community support is invaluable for small businesses
* COVID forced a rapid shift to virtual fitness classes
* The fitness industry is shifting toward mind-body connection
* Core values and mission statements matter
* You can’t system your way out of business challenges
* Brand identity drives customer recognition
* Listening to client feedback shapes business direction
* Pilates is increasingly recognized as a complete workout
* Connecting with other business owners reduces isolation
But First, Principles with Colin Davis
Real stories. Real principles. Real growth for business owners.
Each episode reveals the mindset, systems, and turning points behind small business success so you can grow without burning out.
This season, Season 2, we are featuring innovative entrepreneurs shaping the Richmond region and beyond.
Helpful Links
Want practical tools to build a business that actually works?
Visit: First Principles Coaching
Ready for clarity, structure, and momentum in your business?
Email Colin: [colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com](mailto:colin@firstprinciplescoaching.com)
About Colin
Colin Davis is a business and leadership coach with a background in ministry, psychology, and organizational leadership. A former missionary and monk turned entrepreneur, he helps small business owners create focus, build systems, and achieve lasting growth through First Principles Coaching. He lives in Virginia with his wife and children.
Cast: innovative entrepreneurs shaping the Richmond region and beyond.