What does it take to turn a passion for fitness into a thriving business—and then franchise it successfully across the country? In this episode of the Second Act Success Career Podcast, host Shannon Russell sits down with Devan Gonzalez, fitness entrepreneur and co-founder of Strive 11 Fitness, to explore how he turned his love of coaching into a six-figure in-person training business and later launched a successful gym franchise. Devan shares how mindset shaped every step of his journey—from being a 13-year-old martial arts instructor to opening his own gym during the pandemic and expanding into multiple locations through franchising. This conversation covers the real truth behind franchising a business, why mindset is everything, and how betting on yourself is often the safest risk you can take. Whether you're dreaming of quitting your 9-5, opening a brick-and-mortar business, or scaling your current idea, this episode is packed with advice to help you take the leap with clarity and confidence. Key Takeaways: Why time is your most valuable asset when launching a business The difference between franchising and licensing—and which one fits your goals How to adapt your business model as you grow Tips for negotiating lease terms and working with landlords The role of mindset in overcoming fear, failure, and building long-term success How to support franchisees with real estate, branding, and operations from the start SHOW NOTES: https://secondactsuccess.co/196 Connect with Devan Gonzalez: https://www.strive11fitness.com/ https://www.facebook.com/devangonzalez.official https://www.instagram.com/devan.gonzalez/ https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mindset-cafe/id1650827999 -------- Tell us what you think and what you want to hear on the podcast! You are listening to the Top 2% globally ranked podcast Second Act Success! CONTACT Shannon and share your feedback about what you'd like to hear on the podcast! https://secondactsuccess.co/contact Book a FREE Strategy Call with host and business coach Shannon Russell - https://www.calendly.com/second-act-success/coaching-strategy Work with Shannon https://secondactsuccess.co/coaching FREE Resources https://secondactsuccess.co/resources READ Shannon's Book - Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life https://startyoursecondact.com . LISTEN to the How To Quit Your Job and Start A Business Podcast! https://secondactsuccess.co/listen LET’S CONNECT! Instagram - https://instagram.com/secondactsuccess LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonrussellcoach *Want to be a guest on Second Act Success Podcast? Send Shannon Russell a message on PodMatch,...
