Episode #426: Building the SKOP Reformer | The Roller Coaster Journey of Entrepreneurship with Kimberley Clayton

Live from the floor of the March 2023 IHRSA Trade Show in San Diego, host Pete Moore welcomes Kimberley Clayton, CEO and Founder of SKOP Reformer, the world's first patented data analytic Pilates reformer. SKOP is positioned to disrupt the physical therapy and telemedicine sectors, allowing people to prevent and predict injuries as well as train, enhance, recover and rehabilitate physical movement.

Not one to enjoy conventional workouts, Kimberley reveals that Pilates is the exception for her, emphasizing its role in building a strong foundation for other activities. She stresses however that Pilates by itself is not enough and emphasizes the significance of cardio health. 

Shifting gears, the conversation turns to the lack of action in providing capital to diverse entrepreneurs in the venture capital and private equity communities. Kimberley believes that fundraising and access to capital still heavily rely on personal connections, rather than democratizing the process. 

On the roller coaster ride that is entrepreneurship, she states "There's going to be moments you are thinking to yourself, why am I doing this? And I'm crazy, and everyone thinks I'm crazy and what is happening? How did I get here? Just in those moments, remember how you feel today, how excited you are about it, how much you believe in it, and how passionate you are about it."

Kimberley reminisces about her upbringing and the early introduction to Pilates through her mother, who is also chiropractor. With a background in sports medicine, Kim's expertise lies in pre and postpartum care. With plans to launch towards the end of 2023, this is definitely a company to keep your eye on! Head to the website and opt-in for more. 

Some key moments: 

[00:06:31] Building unique machine, prioritizing form and wellness, shifting to B2B launch.

[00:08:58] Intense moment of self-doubt in entrepreneurship.

[00:11:17] Discrepancy in funding diverse entrepreneurs, lack of action.

[00:15:44] Building revenue streams through quality training protocols.

[00:20:18] Exciting credible source for home workout recovery.

A few key takeaways: 

1. Kim recommends incorporating different types of workouts, such as cardio, lower body, and upper body exercises, to maintain a well-rounded fitness routine.
2. She is also obviously a proponent of Pilates, but emphasizes that it is not enough on its own and highlight the importance of incorporating cardio exercises for overall heart health.
3. There's a lot of frustration around the current system of fundraising and access to capital, feeling that it still primarily favors certain individuals and does not provide opportunities for a diverse range of entrepreneurs.
4. Clayton feels there should be more focus on long-term planning and injury prevention for young athletes, highlighting the gap she observed in athletic training.

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