Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Rachel Knight. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Rachel, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you come up with the idea for your business?

I never imagined opening up my own business. But I’ve always been someone to push boundaries, to stick up for those I love, and to follow my passions.

I began teaching Prenatal Yoga in 2018 and could tell right away that this community was special — I just didn’t realize until a couple of years later just how much my passion for it would grow. My son Leo was born in September of 2021 and I struggled to find the support I needed in my own pre- and postnatal journey. I didn’t really feel seen at fitness spaces, I struggled with my mental health, and – on top of it all – I was exhausted, uncomfortable in my body, and surrounded by people who just don’t get it.

I needed more support but found it overwhelming to seek out, so I just didn’t. I figured it out all on my own, as many women and birthing people have done before me.

I was constantly told to “maybe start smaller,” “test out the concept for bit” and even to “think about my own family and wait a bit.” But the truth is, it could never be small because neither is becoming a parent. And it couldn’t wait because it’s needed now. We’ve waited long enough.

It’s such hard work and it’s definitely not perfect, but every time I walk into my studio I’m reminded of why I, why we, keep doing this hard, hard work. I’m reminded of why this thing couldn’t wait – we’ve put up with the “someone should do something about this” statements long enough.

As I continue my work in this space, I am reminded constantly of the strength it takes to be on this path and the importance that a community can have on your experience. The pre- and early parenthood journey can feel lonely, but it doesn’t have to mean that you are alone. I continue to be humbled by the resiliency of this community and hope to provide a refuge for hopeful, soon-to-be, and current parents. They deserve it.

Opening Whole Heart Space has been a lot like becoming a parent for me. My mantra throughout both has been “do it scared”, and for me that means leaning into imperfection, being vulnerable, and doing the impossible things! It matters for my family and it matters for the families of Richmond.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I have been teaching yoga since 2017 after receiving my 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training in Power Vinyasa. I began teaching Prenatal Yoga in 2018 after receiving my 85-hour Prenatal Yoga Teacher Training. Beyond those certifications I also have continuing educations in Yoga for Resiliency & Trauma, Postnatal, Pre/Postnatal Anatomy & Physiology.

In all my yoga classes and at my studio, I am passionate about offering tools to support the physical body and mental well being of each person so that they leave class feeling stronger, supported, and more at ease with themselves. My goal is to empower each person to tap into their inner strength, find grace for themselves, and to connect more fully with their bodies as they are and their babies.

Essentially, Whole Heart Space is everything I wish I had when my son was born — a space that feels right to keep coming back to at each different turn, knowing that you’ll be in good hands and that you’ll be accepted exactly as you show up.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

Authenticity. Being real with my clients and relating to them on a one-on-one level has been the best thing for growing my clientele. My vulnerability is what makes me strong and definitely what sets me apart in my line of business.

I think also acknowledging and leaning into the fact that this space has a lifespan has helped me create a more effective marketing strategy for getting more clients in the door and keeping them as long as we can. Our clientele aren’t going to be with us forever, and that’s okay. Because of this our offerings are super specific and unique, which sets us apart and speaks to our mission of providing safe and effective classes for this specific time in your life.

Word of mouth will always be our most effective strategy for growing our clientele. But, currently, my focus for growth is on testing and running hyper local social ads to create a more steady stream of new clientele.

Any advice for managing a team?

What’s worked really well for me with my team is being transparent and open with them at every step of the way. I try to be open with both the ups and the downs of the business and include them in on decision and problem solving as much as I can. I also put effort training together as a team – this not only grows my team’s expertise but it also brings us closer together. Community is such a huge part of what we do and that starts with us.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.wholeheartspace.com/
• Instagram: @wholeheartspace

Image Credits

Preston Slaughter