We had the good fortune of connecting with Amy Christman and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Amy, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
After spending nearly a decade in the fitness and wellness industry, I was completely burned out. I ended up leaving the industry all together in 2019 to pause and really reflect on what lights me up the most. I knew that I loved helping people build confidence through movement and community, but I didn’t want to teach fitness any more. Thus, The Fierce Collective was born in 2021 when I decided to bring my peers and friends together in a place that is centered around movement, community, and also personal and professional development. I also knew I wanted to continue helping people outside of a fitness setting, and I started to train to become a business and confidence coach for women who need that extra push to start something new.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am the founder of The Fierce Collective, a virtual sweatworking platform that allows fitness and wellness enthusiasts to come together once a month and share in the experience of slowing down, participating in yoga, reflecting and journaling about the month, and partaking in expansive programming that enriches our lives, businesses, and careers. It is a unique experience that has been created for busy solo-prenuers to take a beat at the end of the month and collectively enjoy a unique experience of journaling, networking, and doing what we love most – moving our bodies!
What excites me the most about this business is the connections that the people in this community are making with one another. Some of the members have adopted each other as clients and friends and it warms my heart to see the connections being made in this space.
I also am really proud of my coaching practice. After spending nearly a decade in the fitness industry, I got really burned out. I wanted to continue to help people build their confidence, but now I do it from the sidelines instead of in a fitness studio. I help people stay aligned with who they are, listen to their intuition, and fall in love with themselves so that they feel confident that they can kick ass in all areas of their life!
This journey has not been easy, it’s still been a stop and go process. As a working/stay at home mom it has been really hard to juggle all of the things that come with running a household and business. Not to mention the frustration with the high cost and lack of childcare amenities out there.
I think the biggest lesson I’ve learned from all of this is that we are our own worst enemies. Most people are not poised to watch you fail, they want to see you succeed (despite the stories we make up in our head). Self-trust and tapping into your intuition are key to aligning yourself with the life you want to live. Listen to that voice inside of you that says you want something more, and follow it! Put one foot in front of the other, and allow the journey to unfold before you. For anyone who wants to start something new whether it’s a business, a hobby, or a new routine, just do it! The only person doubting you the most is you. Take the leap!
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m fairly new to the area myself, but some of the spots I’ve been enjoying thus far:
Exploring Ute Valley Park is a must – incredible views of Pike’s Peak!
Red Rock Open Space for hiking and mountain biking.
Palmer Park for a fun easy hike with amazing views of the city.
Red Leg Brewing has the best summer atmosphere with lots of open space.
Love Carter Payne for a great wine selection.
The Well or Homa Cafe for food and cocktails
My favorite place to take my kiddo and grab a chai is Good Neighbors. They have a park outside and they have a really family friendly atmosphere.
One of my favorite Denver spots is Urban Farmer for a delicious steak and cornbread that is to die for.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Just like raising a child, starting a business takes a village. I could not be in the position I am today without my amazing and supportive husband who has always supported me, listened and almost always validated my crazy ideas, and is sharing in the roller coaster ride of parenthood with our 4 year old son. I dedicate this shout out to him, my family, and all of the women who have constantly encouraged me to put one foot in front of the other and keep going on this wild journey! I’m so lucky to have a bountiful supply of support, encouragement, love, and humor that makes this wild ride totally worth it!
I’d also like to thank the endless library of self-help and business books that serve as the reminder we are all worthy of pursuing our big dreams unapologetically. A few of my favorites that have helped me along the way.
Chasing the Bright Side, by Jess Ekstrom,
Atomic Habits, by James Clear, The Big Leap, by Gay Hendricks, Playing Big, by Tara Mohr
Website: https://www.the-fierce-collective.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefiercecollective/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-christman/
Image Credits
Mandie Roberts at Thistle & Pine Photography