How Joey Gonzalez Brought In-Person Fitness Back to Life at Barry's
Jul 31, 2024
52:00
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Joey Gonzalez, the dynamic CEO of Barry's, shares his inspiring rise from client to leader in the fitness industry. He reflects on his journey growing up as a gay Latino in a small town and how fitness transformed his life. The discussion dives into the impact of COVID on Barry's and the innovative strategies he implemented to revive the brand. Joey highlights the importance of community in fitness and shares insights on balancing structure and creativity in workout experiences, while also exploring the role of technology in fitness today.
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Quick takeaways
Joey Gonzalez's resilience and journey from client to CEO at Barry's illustrate the power of passion and determination in pursuing one's calling.
COVID-19 posed significant challenges for Barry's, but Joey's shift from empathy to compassion helped navigate the crisis and guide the company's recovery.
Deep dives
Joey Gonzalez's Inspirational Journey
Joey Gonzalez's journey from being a client at Barry's to becoming the CEO is marked by resilience and determination. Growing up in a diverse household with immigrant parents, he faced challenges that prepared him for an entrepreneurial path. He transitioned from a career in the performing arts to discovering his passion for fitness at Barry's, leading to a drastic change in his professional life. Through hard work and commitment, he not only found his calling but also became an integral part of the company, eventually taking the helm as CEO.
Creating a Unique Fitness Experience
Barry's fitness classes are known for their intense combination of cardio and strength training, fostering a strong community among participants. Joey emphasizes the importance of a supportive atmosphere where clients motivate and hold each other accountable during workouts. He recalls how the camaraderie in his first class helped him embrace the challenging environment, enhancing his fitness journey. The welcoming culture and structured classes are key factors that distinguish Barry's from traditional gym settings.
Navigating the Challenges of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges for Barry's, forcing a complete shutdown that drastically reduced their workforce and revenue. Joey's experience during this time was characterized by long hours, tough decisions, and navigating the emotional toll of losing many employees. However, he shifted his perspective from empathy to compassion, allowing him to cope more effectively with the situation. Through decisive actions and an unwavering commitment to their mission, Barry's adapted to the crisis and began to recover as restrictions eased.
Looking Ahead: Expansion and Innovation
Under Joey's leadership, Barry's aims to expand its presence globally while maintaining a focus on delivering exceptional fitness experiences. The company plans to introduce its original format in new markets and expand its successful Lift and Ride Lift products. Joey envisions having 200 Barry's studios across the U.S. within the next five years, leveraging existing brand popularity while innovating to attract a diverse clientele. The future also looks bright with partnerships that enhance member offerings, creating a comprehensive fitness ecosystem.
On this week’s episode, WHOOP Founder and CEO Will Ahmed is joined by Barry’s Global CEO, Joey Gonzalez. Joey has an incredible story that starts as a client of Barry’s and ends up in the C-suite. Barry’s is known as the original cardio and strength interval workout, revolutionized fitness, and began the boutique movement. In 2018, Gonzalez was named to Fast Company’s Most Creative People in Business list and recently earned his OPM degree from Harvard Business School. Will and Joey discuss Joey’s background and upbringing (2:14), Joey’s first Barry’s class (7:10), what to expect in a Barry’s class (12:25), Joey’s rise through the organization to CEO (19:32), COVID’s impact on Barry’s (33:35), Barry’s today and the vision moving forward (43:58), and Joey’s fitness and nutrition routines (48:22).