Today we’d like to introduce you to Kenneth Burnett.
Hi Kenneth, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m at IT professional by training. After 7 spending about 7 years in AZ, I moved back home to work for ALSAC/St Jude. About 15 years ago, I decided to take my fitness seriously. I found an accountability partner and hit the gym. Before too long, I got bit by the fitness bug. My friends and family began to take notice and it only inspired me to keep going. I started running 5Ks, doing Spartan races and even started training a few friends.
Right before the pandemic, I opened a personal training studio called Master Fit Club. A few months later, the pandemic hit and everybody was stuck at home. I found myself on social media like trying to keep track of what was going on out in the world when I saw a classmate working out at this studio. Most gyms were closed, so I was curious about where she was. Turned out it was a HOTWORX. Immediately, I started investigating on how they could be open when everyone else was forced to stay close.
After looking into the concept, I was convinced that this would be a fantastic business venture to pursue. A a little more than a year later, I was working on my first HOTWORX studio in Collierville, TN. It opened in June 2022. Fast forward to early 2023, after 18 years, I decided to take the leap and quit my job at ALSAC to pursue my entrepreneurial dreams. In September 2024, I opened my second HOTWORX location in Ithaca, NY.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Anything worth having, it worth fighting for. And I can tell you that my first year or so with my first studio was indeed a struggle. The good thing about opening a franchise is they already have a game plan for success. However, it’s not 100% foolproof. I found out really quickly that you must have the right team in place and there are NO shortcuts to success. I certainly learned more from my missteps that my successes.
While I am a native Memphian, I rarely visited Collierville before I opened by studio. One of the things HOTWORX recommends is really getting involved in the community. Because I was still working a full time job, I was depending on my team to do the legwork for me. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen to the degree needed to create early momentum. I spent the next year and half trying to make up for lost time. It was brutal and humbling. But persistence pays off. We are in a MUCH better place now. And now we know what’s required to keep that growth for all of our studios.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a serial entrepreneur with a 30-year track record in technology, fitness and leadership and mentorship. I currently own Master Fit Club, a personal training studio and two HOTWORX 24 hour training studios in Collierville, TN and Ithaca, NY. I am also a business/life coach with Kensyd Companies.
I spent nearly 18 years in Information Technology Services at ALSAC / St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital with responsibility for the implementation of technology solutions that support the fundraising goals of the organization.
One of the things I pride myself on is my ability to lead and inspire teams. I’ve always believed in the power of servant leadership, and I strive to create inclusive environments where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute. Whether I’m working with impressionable teenagers, young adults just starting their careers or seasoned executives, I’ve found that open communication, empathy, and a genuine desire to help others grow are the keys to success.
Simply put, I love pouring into young people. And I give freely to anyone seeking advice on their career in Corporate America or their entrepreneurial pursuits.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My advice is to find a mentor as soon as possible as they can make your path in life so much easier. As for finding one, pay close attention to the people who are doing positive things around you. Usually, if you ask, they won’t mind helping. The biggest mistake most people make it NOT asking. These people can be teachers, business owners, colleages of family members. Basically, you should seek counsel from anyone who is where you want to be.
And you will likely have more than one mentor. As you progress in life, it’s not uncommon to find other people who can take you to the next level.
Pricing:
- Sweat Elite Membership: $79/mo
- Sweat Basic Membership: $59/mo
Contact Info:
- Website: https://hotworx.net/studio/collierville
- Instagram: hotworxcollierville
- Facebook: https://fb.com/hotworxcollierville
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/sirken
