As an introvert whose greatest fear was public speaking, Brandy Besler never expected to become a group fitness coach and business owner. But when the opportunity fell into her lap, she found the courage to embrace it and build an entirely new lifestyle—an entrepreneur lifestyle that allows her to help people every day!

“Before opening my fitness center, I ran a children’s daycare center out of my house for 10 years,” explains Brandy. “I knew what it felt like to be self-employed, however, it was a far different experience than owning my own business today because I was the sole employee. Eventually I realized that I didn’t want to be a solopreneur; I wanted to get out of the house and do something involving personal fitness (something I had always been interested in), but I wasn’t sure how to turn that hobby into a fulfilling career.” 

By chance, Brandy happened to receive the right phone call at the right time—one that would eventually send her down the path toward entrepreneurship. It was from a local fitness instructor, asking her if she was interested in developing a fitness class for the community.

Brandy explains, “My first response was to listen to my self-doubts. As a naturally shy person, I couldn’t possibly be an instructor and lead classes full of people, right? But something told me to ignore those negative thoughts, get out of my comfort zone, and say yes. I’m so glad that I did!”

That one decision led Brandy to coaching fitness classes, accruing experience before eventually taking the next big leap and owning a gym of her own—FUEL Fitness & Nutrition, located in Beausejour. “I took over a local gym and did some major renovations. The biggest change was transforming it into a 24-hour facility so that members could work fitness into their unique schedules. We also offer life coaching and nutrition education for a comprehensive approach to wellness. These changes have made a huge difference to our members.”

Making a difference… it’s hands-down the best part of being an entrepreneur, according to Brandy. “I love having an impact on people’s lives, not just physically but also mentally and emotionally. There’s something so powerful about seeing a FUEL member’s potential and believing in them, even if they don’t quite believe in themselves. I help them transform, achieve challenging wellness goals, and regain their confidence. Every day is a reward for me.”

This deep sense of gratitude has kept Brandy going through the tough times. “There have been bumps along the road to owning my own business and I know there will be more in the future. But I love what I do and choose to view mistakes as learning experiences. I can tell you firsthand that it’s true what they say: if you love what you do, you will find a way to make things work and make money! Cheesy but true.”

It doesn’t hurt to have a few mentors and business experts in your corner as well, explains Brandy. She attributes some of her success to two fantastic mentors—her nutrition instructor Jorie and her life coach Abe—as well as her friend Liana and Community Futures employee, Lindsay.

“Lindsay has been incredibly helpful throughout my small business journey. At certain points I was really lost since I don’t have a business background, so I threw question after question her way. Lindsay was very patient, no matter how many times I called or emailed. I can’t tell you how grateful I am for her business advice and support along the way.”

Now that Brandy has much more business experience herself, she has a few words of advice for other potential entrepreneurs who want to start their own companies: “Don’t listen to that little voice inside your head that says you can’t do it. We all doubt ourselves sometimes but we can choose to ignore those doubts and push forward. With a little help from friends, family, and Community Futures, I completely changed my career and started a business that I love. You can, too!” 

We love your enthusiasm, Brandy. Congratulations on your small business success!