Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Heidi Negron. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Heidi thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?
My journey into starting my business is a blend of organic growth, passion, and perseverance in the face of self-doubt and personal loss.
I was working in the corporate world, surrounded by the stability of a consistent paycheck, benefits, and the financial security most people dream of. Yet, amid this comfort, I felt a deeper calling for more—something that aligned with my values, my passion, what I deeply believed was my purpose. I had already been nurturing this passion quietly on the side. In the beginning days, I had been running a side hustle that began so innocently offering workout sessions to women before and after work in a simple apartment gym.
At first, it was just a handful of women joining these sessions. Word spread naturally.
These workouts weren’t just exercises—they were effective, empowering, and spoke to the needs of women trying to find balance in their hectic lives. It grew to the point where I carved out space in my home, turning it into a small, intimate studio for classes.
I knew I was starting to build something bigger than just a workout space; it was the beginning phases of crafting a wellness brand built around the needs of women’s bodies, with a personalized approach. I wanted to create an empowering environment that resonated deeply with the community.
A pivotal moment in my life that changed everything was the devastating loss of my mother. Her passing became a turning point, reshaping my wellness journey. It was a stark reminder that life is too short not to chase your dreams. I began to realize that my passion was calling more urgently than ever.
That’s when I was faced with a life-altering decision. The opportunity to open a full-scale studio presented itself, and though I am NOT a natural risk-taker, something inside of me knew this was my moment. Fear gripped me questioning my decision making at every turn, imagining the upheaval this could bring to my stable life. The thought of leaving behind the safety of corporate life for the uncertainty of entrepreneurship felt overwhelming.
Yet, as the studio space began to take shape, wall by wall, my vision became real. Even as the renovation stretched on over 5-6 months, and self-doubt would creep in, I was committed.. I had no choice by to press forward.
Today, I have a women’s wellness studio where we inspire and empower women every day. I turned what once was a side hustle into a full-blown business that now serves as a sanctuary for others on their wellness journeys, just as it became one for me.
My story isn’t just about taking a risk; it’s about honoring a deeper calling, pushing through the fear of the unknown, and creating a space for both yourself and others to heal and grow.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I’m deeply passionate about wellness from a holistic perspective. As women, we often focus primarily on physical fitness, aiming to lose weight or get into shape, which is important but wellness is so much more than just the physical—it’s a combination of mental health, nutrition, community, and social well-being that creates a truly balanced, thriving life. That’s why at THE WELL, we take a multi-faceted approach to wellness.
My journey into this industry actually began in college. I wasn’t your typical college student. I started running, and it became a transformative experience for me. Running brought me energy and mental clarity like nothing else. That was when I realized how much movement and mindfulness impacted not only my body but my overall headspace. This is the foundation of my passion for a well-rounded wellness routine that integrates both physical and mental well-being.
At THE WELL, we offer more than just fitness. Our programs include functional strength training, Pilates, yoga, and meditation classes. We focus on movement but also on stillness, knowing how important it is for both body and mind. We’ve integrated a smoothie café into the studio, offering healthy and delicious nourishment to our members. We also regularly host community events because wellness isn’t just an individual journey—it’s a collective one. Building a supportive, connected community is a critical piece of what we do.
What sets us apart is this holistic approach. We’re not just helping women get stronger or fitter; we’re helping them become more balanced and resilient in all areas of their lives. We solve problems that go beyond physical fitness. For women struggling to juggle work, family, and personal well-being, we provide the space and tools to help them reconnect with their bodies and themselves. For those feeling overwhelmed or burnt out, we offer mental and emotional support through mindfulness practices and a nurturing community.
What I’m most proud of is the impact we’re making on women’s lives. Seeing our clients grow in confidence, strength, and overall well-being makes everything worth it. The main thing I want potential clients and followers to know is that THE WELL is a safe space for women at any stage of their wellness journey. We are here to empower, support, and inspire each other, creating a community that thrives on shared goals, mutual respect, and a holistic view of what it means to be well.
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
Building an audience on social media can indeed feel like an uphill battle, especially when you’re constantly navigating changing algorithms, competing with countless creators, and striving to stay true to yourself. But amidst all these challenges, the best piece of advice I can offer is to be authentic.
Authenticity is what sets you apart in a sea of content. People resonate with realness—they can tell when something is genuine versus when it’s forced or overly curated. Share your story, your values, and your passion for what you do. Whether you’re offering fitness tips, wellness advice, or behind-the-scenes glimpses into your life, always stay true to who you are and the message you want to convey.
Another important piece is consistency. Keep showing up, even when the algorithm isn’t in your favor. Over time, your audience will find you, and it’ll be made up of people who truly connect with your message.
It’s also important to engage with your audience. Respond to comments, ask questions, and create meaningful conversations. It’s not just about growing numbers—it’s about building a community around shared values and experiences.
In a digital world where trends come and go, being authentic and consistent will always stand the test of time.
How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?
I make it a priority to connect with clients on a personal level. Each of my clients are uniquely special to me. Whether through direct messages, emails, or face-to-face conversations, I ensure that every client feels seen and heard. This can include checking in on their progress, asking for feedback on their experience, or sending personal notes of encouragement, asking about their kids/family, ect. I want them to feel safe in conversation with me.
By maintaining open communication, creating meaningful connections, and consistently delivering value, I’ve found that clients naturally become loyal supporters of both the brand and the mission behind it.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thewellcollectivecolumbus.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewellcollective.columbus/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555716032820
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-negron-0225b42b/
Image Credits
Annette Ferraro Photography