We recently connected with Rashad Tucker and have shared our conversation below.

Rashad, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What sort of legacy are you hoping to build. What do you think people will say about you after you are gone, what do you hope to be remembered for?

I hope to leave a legacy that is unforgettable. It does not happen overnight but over time. Leaving a legacy that is not what is etched in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others. Touching many hearts, one day at a time. The most important thing for me is to try to inspire people so that they can be great in whatever they want to do in life. I believe leaving a legacy is about the impact I have on others, not the possessions I leave behind. This is why I started a business that gives back to the community, while treating others with kindness and empathy. The hard work, the grind, the discipline, focus and consistency.

Rashad, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I started by always being active, playing sports, being in the gym, and studying hard in the classroom. My father was a professional boxer, so the gym was our second home. I was always putting in the work as a student-athlete. My motto has always been Student first, athlete second, with hard Work & God’s Work being the foundation of life. My mother & father consistently molded me into being the best I can be!

I attended Bishop Miege High School, where I played Varsity football. Then, I went to Ottawa University and Kansas State University, where I played D1 football and achieved my Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration & Management. Once graduating, I moved from job to job, knowing that I always wanted to open up my own business; I didn’t know what type of business. I then got into the automotive industry, washing cars, selling cars, and selling software innovative solutions.

My wife, then-time girlfriend, was a member at a 9Round location, and she had me try it out; I fell in love with the concept and quickly became a member. The owner at the 9Round location we were a part of was selling, and I started asking questions about the possibility of purchasing the business. In my research process about 9Round, I did a lot of thinking and decided to start fresh and open my 9Round in what better area than Downtown KC? Little did I know I would be a first-time small business owner opening my business during a pandemic. With many trials and tribulations, I officially opened 9Round Downtown KC on June 1st, 2020, 4 years ago today. While reflecting, I can say it wasn’t easy, but I wouldn’t have had it any other way. I have learned so much over the past 5 years of being a small business owner. And I am grateful to be able to be a part of a fantastic community and bring out the best in people, one round at a time!

9Round Downtown KC is a specialized fitness center and semi-private studio for people who want a unique, fun, proven workout. 9Round offers a kickboxing-themed fitness program incorporating functional, interval, cardiovascular, and circuit training regimens. The workout is only 30 minutes; the average member burns about 500 calories each workout! The first workout is FREE. We love working with our members and the community, showing them a fun, effective way to work, motivating them, and growing stronger physically and mentally. We offer 1 on 1 personal training along with group training.

Have you ever had to pivot?

Everyone wants to skip the struggle, not knowing that is where the character is built—no smooth roads even to this day. Looking back, my biggest struggle was opening up during the pandemic in 2020, and not knowing what to expect. My opening date got pushed back several times, and gaining/retaining members wasn’t the easiest. While obstacles & challenges are expected, it is something I look forward to every day. I enjoy growing and getting better with those obstacles and challenges. I strive to be 1% better daily; that is the goal.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Having a great product, platform, amazing trainers, team and community. We are a 5-star business over the past 5 years. Created from consistent, everyday great work!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.9round.com/locations/mo/kansas-city/washington-st
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/9rounddowntownkcmo/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/9round1200WashingtonStKansasCityMO/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rashad-tucker-3886b795?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG_m5B5sopIbkuP7GFLmHhg
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/9round-fitness-kansas-city-3?utm_campaign=www_business_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct)

Image Credits

Reilly Wadsworth, Email: [email protected], Website: www.reillywadsworth.com, Social: @reiwadsmedia