#86 | Entrepreneurship Insights With Sarah Larson Levey

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Change. It’s the only constant in life – and business, too. To help us get incite on how to grow our businesses in an ever-changing environment I brought on Sarah Larson Levey. Y7 Studio’s CEO built the one-of-a-kind company from the ground up and maintains top industry status even after the pandemic. CNBC, Forbes, Inc, Women’s Health and a host of other platforms have already tapped her genius. She joined Coffee with Kim to talk all things entrepreneurship, growing a brand, and staying relevant.

Common Misconceptions About Entrepreneurship (02:51)

Y7 Studio was picked for a top secret campaign recently! Sarah shared that it felt really good to be part of something special even after 10 years in business and a pandemic. Many believe getting started is the hard part but she and I agreed that’s a common misconception. 

“As a new company you’re like the hot girl in the bar, everyone is paying attention to you. After a year or two they’ve moved on. So, the challenging part of any consumer facing business is how to stay relevant.”

Timing Is Everything (10:35)

Part of staying relevant is starting your business at the right time. But is there ever a “perfect time”? Yes, if you jump in right when you’re needed. Like Facebook who’s innovation helped them outgrow and outlast Myspace. Or Uber, who came in after its competitor Lyft but topped the charts anyway. 

On the other hand, no. Sarah says sometimes you just have to start and learn to pivot.

“If the pandemic taught us anything it’s that no successful business ever stays the same, you’re always having to adapt. Changing how you operate, your product, your position, and how you talk about what you do is inevitable.”

The Power Of Telling Your Story Well (18:49)

In her early days of building Y7, Sarah worked full-time in fashion. Like most successful businesses she started the company to solve a problem. In sharing her story, customers gravitated towards her – and then her company. Proving my theory that people dont fall in love with products they fall in love with people. 

“I started Y7 to create a yoga space I couldn’t find. I wanted an experience that was inclusive, fun, and didn’t feel like a workout but produced results. That’s the premise behind the environment we build for the clients. As we grew and I got to tell my story more, it resonated with a lot of people.”  

You are the magic. Your story is your Harry Potter wand! If you want to find your tribe but are having trouble sharing your story join the next cohort of Career Capital course. I’ll show you the way!

 Predictions About Fitness & Live Event Industries (23:30)

Sarah and I predict there’ll be a massive resurgence of group fitness and live events this summer. 

“The future of fitness is omnichannel. Group fitness is a piece of life we’ve missed the past two years. Though there needs to be a space for the 10-30 minute online workouts, we know nothing will replace the in person experience.”

The Effect Of Leadership (32:18)

Where do you find leadership tips? Whether you look to books such as The E-Myth like me, or Brene Brown podcasts like Sarah, you should know a company’s leadership will make or break its success. Sarah and I agreed a great product isn’t as important as a great team. 

“Leaders who don’t delegate, take responsibility, or listen will cause the business to implode. If you want to succeed, focus on what leadership is like at companies that have succeeded. What you’re doing and how you’re doing it is important especially when your business isn’t around a concept that is brand new.”

Attracting The Right Clients (36:44)

Attracting the right clients is necessary for business. Sarah says the key is making the consumer feel special. She does so with:

• Acknowledgement and Recognition – Giving milestone rewards, training associates to give eye contact and remember names, etc.

• Having a consistent experience – Clients know what they’re getting at every class. 

Remember: The best brands invoke a feeling and it all has to do with human interaction. 

Speed Round (41:02)

• What is something you have started using or doing lately that you’re obsessed with? Getting fresh air and sunlight first thing in the morning
• What are your favorite social media accounts to follow? Sunday Forever
• What are your favorite newsletters? Notes From The Universe
• Which social media platforms do you spend the most time on? Instagram
• Homework:  Watch WeCrashed

Next week

Ask Me Anything! Next week we’re deep diving into all things entrepreneurship & business in a fun, interactive 30 minute AMA format. Have questions about starting a business? Raising money for your startup? The latest in the marketing world? With over 85 episodes of Coffee With Kim over the last two years I wanted to sit down, cheers to you and toast to more years of lazy learning in the future! I’m bringing my favorite finds & lessons I’ve learned along the way. RSVP Here.

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Want To Learn 1 on 1 with Me?: I’m passionate about making YOU stand out at work. After a 45 minute training, Avery (aka my newest shining star) implemented my tactics and got a new job making $60k MORE than the last. Want some of that secret sauce for yourself? Check out more here. 

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