It Was an Accident. The Why Wasn't with Nikki Russell
We got a chance to catch up with FemCity Global Member Nikki Russell, mother, entrepreneur and always on the go and growing.
What was your “why” for starting your business?
Honestly? It was an accident. The opportunity fell into my lap and I ran with it before I had any kind of business plan — that part came later. But the reason I said yes was simple: I wanted women to have a place where they felt genuinely supported in the fitness space. That's still the why.
What was a big challenge you faced initially that you surpassed?
We're not a chain, and there's a gym on nearly every corner here. Since we aren't a chain, and there's a gym on nearly every corner here, we had to carve out our niche authentically and organically, which simply takes time. But women gravitated toward us, and I've gotten to follow my passion for women's health because of it.
What advice would you give to a FEM going through some business challenges?
Pray about the big decisions. Then stop second-guessing yourself. Ride out the storm — there's always something beautiful on the other side of it.
Final advice for women launching their business or wanting to grow?
Find your people. Having a supportive community of women around me has made all the difference. It really does take a village! And know your why. When you hit the stretch where you're not pulling a paycheck, your why is what keeps you finding the joy in it anyway.
And then add your website link and the way you want your name and title to appear.
Nikki Russell
Owner, Aptitude Fitness
Co-Owner, Pause