How to start in stealth mode, Candace Bertram, Studio88

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Candace Bertram, founder of Studio88, a fast-growing Pilates community in Birmingham. After opening her first Reformer Pilates studio in November 2024, she expanded just six months later with a second location in Hall Green.

What started as one small space has quickly become more than just a Pilates studio, it’s a welcoming community where inclusivity sits at the heart. 

As a young, Black female founder and single mum, she has faced pushback along the way, yet her resilience and determination have carved out a space that is both empowering and trailblazing. Stay tuned to hear her insights on taking the leap from job security into entrepreneurship, navigating the realities of financial pressures, and how she’s embedding diversity, inclusion, and true community into the very foundations of her business.

Candace’s advice: 

• Community inclusion tip: Candace has always believed in building community and fostering inclusion.
• Customer experience insight: Her customers appreciate the security of a small space, familiar faces, and a feeling of safety.
• Entrepreneurship lesson: She was spurred into taking on a second studio simply by the belief that it was the right time and place.
• Mindset advice for founders: She didn’t let imposter syndrome or external doubts hold her back. Instead, she trusted her timing and her vision.
• Business growth advice: She did not allow the pressure of fixing an opening date to dictate her decisions.
• Inclusivity approach: She believes in creating space for everyone, but if a female-only class is preferred, that’s fine too.
• Hiring advice for fitness businesses: It’s vital to find the best possible instructors who have an open mind, a positive outlook, enthusiasm for learning and improving, and strong communication skills.
• Leadership mindset: Try to adopt a philosophical attitude toward any problems that arise.
• Values-driven business tip: Always stick to your original aims and ethos, no matter how much you grow.

FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.
Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at [e-mail] or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. 

FF&M recommends: 

• LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.
• Google Workspace is brilliant for small businesses
• Buzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directory
• Canva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.

MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  Licence

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