Here are the top 5 takeaways from this episode:
From client to owner – Andrea’s journey went from client (2015) to instructor (2018) to franchise owner. She opened her studio in October 2025 after relocating to the Chicago North Shore area where there was no Barre3 nearby.
Barre3’s inclusive, low-intimidation approach – The studio serves a wide range (ages 14–70+), with small class sizes (max 29), a welcoming “cozy” atmosphere, and a philosophy of offering options/modifications rather than pushing people to the breaking point. The mindfulness element — listening to your body and taking breaks — is woven throughout every class.
Franchising was a clear advantage – Rather than starting from scratch, the franchise model let Andrea focus her energy on clients and her team instead of building operations manuals, training programs, brand identity, and tech infrastructure from zero.
Community and local partnerships are a core strategy – Andrea is intentionally building relationships with other local businesses (especially female-owned ones), leaning on the DBR Chamber for visibility, and revitalizing the Bannockburn Green Plaza together with neighboring businesses.
The business is AI-resistant but AI-assisted – Human connection and in-person fitness can’t be replaced by AI, but Andrea is actively using AI tools for communications, social media, newsletters, and event brainstorming — crediting her tech-savvy husband for pushing her to adopt them.
