Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Darcentia Turner. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Darcentia , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What were some of the most unexpected problems you’ve faced in your business and how did you resolve those issues?
One of the most unexpected challenges we faced as the company started to grow was assuming that upgrading our systems would automatically make everything more efficient. We were expanding , more clients, more staff, and testing new regions, so naturally we invested in better scheduling tools, improved HR processes, and new systems to support our operations.
But what we quickly learned is that systems only work if the people behind them are confident using them. At one point, we had all the right tools in place, but the team wasn’t fully trained, and the processes weren’t clearly documented. That created confusion, delays, and a lot of unnecessary stress. Parents weren’t getting the right communication, instructors were unclear on expectations, and small mistakes started piling up.
It was a humbling moment. We thought we were doing the right thing by upgrading, but we didn’t prioritize training and internal alignment early enough.
Since then, we’ve shifted our approach. Before we expand into a new region, we make sure the team already understands our systems and workflows inside and out. Having the right people, trained and aligned makes all the difference. It’s not just about growth anymore; it’s about building something that can scale sustainably.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am the CEO of First Stroke Aquatics, and I specialize in turning beginners into confident swimmers.
With over 20 years of experience in aquatics ranging from competitive swimming to lifeguarding and more than a decade of teaching. I’ve seen this industry from every angle. I hold a degree in psychology and a master’s in education, which shaped how I teach and how I train others to teach. I understand how fear works, how people learn, and how to break things down so swimmers don’t just get through a lesson they get it.
I created First Stroke Aquatics because I knew there was a better way to teach. I saw too many people being rushed through lessons without actually learning the right technique, just going through the motions without real progress. So I built my own system, one that blends structure, real skill-building, and confidence at every stage.
Over the years, I’ve taught swimmers as young as 6 months to adults well into their 70s. I’ve worked with families from all kinds of backgrounds, and that diversity is part of what makes First Stroke Aquatics so powerful. I’ve also trained instructors to follow the same approach I created, because consistency matters when you’re helping people feel safe in water.
In June, I tested a central location in Charlotte for the first time to expand what I built beyond mobile lessons. This was just the beginning. There’s so much more to come, and I’m excited to keep growing, evolving, and reaching even more people on their swim journey.
At First Stroke Aquatics, everything is designed with the beginner in mind. From the way we teach to the way we train, the focus is always the same: turning beginners into confident swimmers.
Can you open up about how you funded your business?
Funding my business wasn’t easy, and it definitely wasn’t handed to me. I didn’t get a loan from a bank. I didn’t have outside investors or family money to fall back on. I started First Stroke Aquatics with my own savings, every dollar carefully spent, every decision made with intention.
There were no shortcuts. Every certification, every piece of equipment, every marketing piece, it all came from me. I believed in what I was building, even when the path wasn’t clear. And because of that, I learned how to stretch a budget, stay focused, and make every move count.
I built this from the ground up, and I’m still growing it with that same energy today. It’s why I’m so connected to this company, this isn’t just a business I launched. It’s something I birthed. And I’ve nurtured it every step of the way.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
I think what’s helped me build a solid reputation is being honest, being fair, and staying grounded in why I started this in the first place.
I didn’t create this for attention or quick success. I started it because I truly love what I do. There’s something incredibly special about helping a hesitant toddler take their first steps in the water or guiding an adult who’s finally ready to overcome their fear.
I’m so thankful for every person who’s trusted me to be part of their swim journey. At the heart of it all, my purpose is simple: to help beginners feel safe, supported, and confident in the water. When something is built with genuine care and intention, people feel that & that’s what builds real, lasting trust.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.firststrokeaquatics.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firststrokeaquatics/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/First-Stroke-Aquatics/100092361323440/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@firststrokeaquatics?si=OW0xNbmvIaJlhHuE
Image Credits
Darcentia Turner
Chanse Yverton
Kathleen Eberhard