HOTWORX congratulates franchisees, Sean Conneen and Dustin Runkle, who were awarded 3 franchise licenses in the Charlotte market and recently opened their Charlotte, NC (South End) studio!
What originally motivated you to consider a business opportunity?
Sean: I've worked with Toshiba as VP/GM for 23 years and looking for an exit strategy. My wife and I also own a CrossFit affiliate. We both attend HOTWORX in addition to attending CrossFit classes. We feel like this is not only a great business opportunity but an opportunity to help improve the lifestyle and fitness around our community.
Dustin: My family has been on a search for over 2 years for a franchise that fits with our lifestyle goals and objectives.
What led you to explore franchising rather than an independent business?
Sean: We were looking at a franchise so we could follow a proven business strategy with little variables. We also wanted a brand name that was recognizable but also still in it's early stages of growth.
Dustin: With a systems engineering background, the advantages of working with a company that allows franchisees to simply follow a proven system were invaluable in our decision.
What was your initial impression of your first HOTWORX session?
Sean: Hot and sweaty! We loved it!
Dustin: I discovered HOTWORX by looking for hot yoga. As someone who struggles with allergies, I enjoyed the feel of the dry heat for breathing and it also allowed my muscles to warm up quickly. I was also surprised by how much of a workout I got in the short session.
How was your experience going through the HOTWORX Discovery Process?
Sean: It was good. I slowed down the process to ensure I was comfortable moving forward.
Dustin: I appreciated the Discovery Process. It did not have the same feel as other Discovery Processes I had been through where I felt like I was being pressured to make a quick decision. Patricia was great at getting through the information, while also being patient with my numerous questions along the way.
How would you describe your Orientation Day and meeting the HOTWORX Executive Team?
Sean: Excited to get the ball rolling. Let's do this!
Dustin: I enjoyed meeting the team. HOTWORX has a personable, human dynamic that allows you to feel comfortable approaching anyone on the team.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs considering the opportunity to franchise with HOTWORX?
Sean: Take your time going through the process and ask as many questions as you can to feel comfortable about your investment.
Dustin: What helped me that might help others was getting most of my ducks in a row before starting the process. I felt more secure in my decision because I approached financing, partnerships, and other advisors before making my decision.
What are the top 3 reasons you chose to franchise with HOTWORX?
Sean:
1. My wife and I love the fitness industry.
2. We believe we are entering into this franchise at the right time - a lot of heavy lifting already completed with a breakthrough moment at 500 total franchise licenses.
3. I feel this will help me begin my exit strategy from Toshiba.
Dustin:
1. The processes and systems in place
2. The people at HOTWORX
3. Dynamic workouts in the saunas
What excites you the most in offering HOTWORX to your community?
Sean: The ability to help people reach their fitness and wellness goals
Dustin: I am most excited about how many people would benefit from HOTWORX to start, continue, or improve thier journey in becoming healthier versions of themselves.
What goals do you plan to accomplish in your first year as a HOTWORX franchisee?
Sean: To be profitable and provide the best of class service in the fitness industry in our community
Dustin: The first year I hope to have a top-notch, customer service-focused team and have a membership of over 600.
How will HOTWORX help you achieve your personal and professional goals?
Sean: HOTWORX will help me financially exit from the corporate world of 25+ years.
Dustin: HOTWORX allows me to pursue my dreams of being an entrepreneur, making a positive impact in the community, and being a part of a growing company.
