Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Hirsch.
Hi Rachel, 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 got into yoga because I danced as a child but hated performing. I found yoga as a form of movement that made me feel so good mentally and physically, and it was a constant practice. I was free to move as my body and mind allowed each day; ever evolving and changing, progressing and regressing, growing and learning. From a career perspective, I always knew I wanted to work in finance. The world of Wall Street mesmerized me, so starting in college, I began working on Wall Street whilst delving deeper into my yoga practice. Eventually, I got my MBA at London Business School when I knew I needed to combine my finance career with my passion and “side-hustle” of yoga. Empowered Yoga came to be during Covid when I finally felt it was time to cultivate a physical space. Empowered is meant to empower our students, our teachers, and our community. We offer programming that supports everyone and everybody to feel better in their bodies and minds.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I’m smiling at this question because we’ve definitely encountered some struggles. I’ve learned so much. Prior to opening Empowered, I worked at a large chain of yoga and fitness studios. We opened hundreds of studios in the time I was there, so because of that, I felt like I knew many of the obstacles we would face. I was prepared for quite a few roadblocks and mistakenly thought we were ready to navigate it. The reality is that being a business owner is incredibly rewarding and I truly wouldn’t trade it, whilst it’s hard as hell. There are daily challenges that are far from glamorous; I make frequent mistakes that I continue to learn and grow from. It requires more perseverance, grit, open-mindedness, compassion, and learning than any other job I’ve had (including working on a trading floor). But again, it’s helping me evolve into a better version of myself, and for that, I’m forever grateful.
As you know, we’re big fans of Empowered Yoga. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Empowered Yoga is a fully inclusive yoga studio where all persons and bodies are welcome to move and feel safe. We are Latinx, Black, LGBTQ+, and Female owned, with a community of members of all ages and backgrounds. We offer movement that serves every BODY no matter your age, experience or fitness level.
Our mission is to cultivate community and empower everyone. At Empowered, community is at the heart of everything we do as we believe together, we elevate each other to the greatest versions of ourselves.
Our business is a co-op ownership model with the goal of making yoga and fitness more equitable for everyone. As our revenue grows, we pay our teachers proportionately. We believe in democratizing the business so everyone can succeed and we can support each other’s growth as a community.
We offer daily classes at the studio, in addition to a variety of movement, sound, and meditation events and workshops. Empowered works with a range of corporates in Los Angeles to provide yoga, breath and sound classes, as well as private sessions, wellness retreats, and yoga teacher training.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
If you’re interested in working with us, please email us at [email protected]. We’re always looking to work with new brands, companies, people and ideas, so please reach out!
If you’re local, we’d love you to come by the studio and try out a class. We have so many incredibly talented and knowledgeable teachers; you’re in for a treat!
We look forward to meeting you and seeing you on your mat!
Pricing:
- In-Studio Intro Offer for new students: 2 classes & a buddy pass for $50
Contact Info:
- Website: www.empoweredyogastudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empoweredyoga/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/empoweredyogastudioLA/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/empowered-yoga-studio-los-angeles
