My First Million

From Nonprofit Founder To Building A $300M Pilates Business

176 snips
Sep 18, 2024
Anne Mahlum, founder of SolidCore and Back on My Feet, shares her inspiring journey from launching an $8M nonprofit to building a $300M Pilates empire. She discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship, including the risks of betting her life savings on a fitness studio. Mahlum touches on the importance of negotiation skills, community engagement, and unique marketing strategies that fueled her business growth. Alongside heartfelt stories from her nonprofit work, she emphasizes the transformative power of physical activity in fostering resilience.
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ANECDOTE

Back on My Feet Origin

  • Anne Mahlum quit her corporate job to start Back on My Feet, a non-profit aiding homeless individuals through running.
  • Initially, she faced skepticism but secured media coverage by highlighting the unique narrative of a young woman working with this population.
ADVICE

Play to Your Strengths

  • Find a business opportunity that aligns with your authentic self and leverages existing strengths.
  • Anne Mahlum's passion for fitness and experience in scaling organizations led her to the Pilates studio concept.
ANECDOTE

Negotiation and Early Funding

  • Anne Mahlum negotiated favorable terms with suppliers and landlords, demonstrating her negotiation skills.
  • She rejected a $75,000 investment to maintain full ownership and motivation.
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