Meet Madison Heard: Business Owner & Aspiring Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Madison Heard and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Madison, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
I think that for me, in my earlier life, giving up had always been the easiest option. I disliked being uncomfortable and for some time I fooled myself into thinking I was content that way. Eventually, I realized that the regret of never even trying was far worse than the feeling of discomfort or even the prospect of failing. I think I came to this realization when I chose to focus on forces outside of me. A bigger picture, if you will. Things like, relationships, people, making a difference… all of these things were bigger than myself. When I think of giving up, I think of all of the people that count on me. I think of all the people I have yet to meet that I would be giving up on. When it’s difficult to get out of bed in the morning, (almost impossible somedays) these bigger and greater things push me to keep going. Now, I feel more dread about not making the most out of my days, then I do to simply face my fears and keep moving forward. The hardest part is showing up. But, I believe when you show up for the people and the things you truly care about, it’s impossible to give up. 

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My father and I own a Fit Body Boot Camp, which is a group fitness facility. We specialize in 30 minute high intensity and strength training classes. What sets us apart from other gyms is that you will never walk through our doors feeling uncared for. We know our members by name, we know their stories, we laugh, we cry and everything in between. Our gym is so much more than a gym. Yes, we specialize in fitness and provide our clients with awesome results, but that wouldn’t be possible without a strong community of people standing beside you. For as long as I live, I will be able to say that we successfully opened during a pandemic. Who would have ever thought such a thing? I think somehow, being able to start small and slowly build a community has been so much more meaningful to us. Of course it was never easy and it still continues to be a challenge. I don’t run away from challenges and as I said, the wonderful people that fill the gym’s 4 walls is the sole reason we overcome anything. I’ve learned that people are always as good as you make room for them to be. I think this is a true underdog story. We’ve been through the mud this year, but never once did we even mention the notion of giving up. I think that speaks true to how we feel about our clients as well. We will never give up on them, just as they haven’t given up on us.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If there’s one thing I love to do, it’s try new places to eat. I love great food and great company so I find I’m constantly looking for the next best thing. I love Olde Town Arvada! It is the quaintest, cutest spot. My go to is the School House and then of course, ELVTD Seltzer for a low carb seltzer. Carbon Cafe is also a cool place for food, cocktails, and coffee. If you’re looking for a brewery, look no further than New Terrain. The vibe is great and it’s close to a dog park, which I love. In true Colorado fashion, I of course would say Red Rocks is a favorite of mine because, duh! Favorite outdoor venue in not just the city, but the world. Lookout Mountain is a great spot to take in the city views. Bear Creek Lake Park is somewhere I would suggest for paddle boarding and hanging with friends.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First and foremost, without the efforts of my parents, many of my accomplishments would have been inconceivable to me. Not because I was or am incapable of them, but because nobody believed in me or pushed me in the way my parents did. My mom taught me such strong character traits, that have encouraged me to be brave. I think the loss of her, only ignited a passion and a drive in me that I never knew I had. I work everyday to make her proud. My dad gave me the tools, and took a massive chance on me when he decided to invest in a business venture with me. All it takes is one person to believe in your vision and your mission. He continues to support me and remind me of that vision, when I, myself start to forget. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention my wonderful boyfriend, Dan. He was no doubt, one of the key people who told me to take a risk, take a leap, and open my own business. He has seen the fear that I face, but reminds me of all that I am capable of.

Website: https://fitbodybootcamp.com/10451-northwest-arvada-co/about-us/
Instagram: @arvadafitbody
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/arvadafitbody