We recently connected with John Aquino and have shared our conversation below.

John, appreciate you joining us today. Is there a heartwarming story from your career that you look back on?

In 2019, I met a woman who nervously walked into my community yoga class, unsure of what to expect. It was her very first yoga class. Week by week, she kept coming back, and soon, we began to build a connection. One day, she shared something that completely changed how I view the impact of teaching…

The day before attending that first class, she had been at her lowest. She had planned to check herself into rehab for alcohol addiction, feeling like there was no way forward. But something nudged her to try yoga instead. That one hour on her mat became her turning point. Through yoga, she found clarity, peace, and the strength to choose sobriety.

Now, five years sober, she’s thriving in every way. She’s built a successful business, married the love of her life, and lives with purpose and joy. We still stay in touch, and seeing her journey unfold has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.

Her story is a reminder of how meaningful the space we create in class can be. My classes are designed to be more than just movement—they’re a sanctuary for healing, release, and growth. It’s an honor to hold this space for people and to witness their transformations, one sweat at a time. This is #THEJOHNEXPERIENCE.

John, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My fitness journey began in 2018 when I taught my first spin class in Houston. After losing my first job out of college, I took a leap of faith and pursued group fitness full-time. In full circle moment, it was a weekend trip to Austin, TX that helped me make the decision to change my life and follow my passion.

In 2019, I moved to Austin and helped open a new fitness studio, teaching almost 2,000 people over five years. Inspired by the connections made in class, I launched *The John Experience* (TJE) in August 2023—a Filipino-queer-owned brand focused on inclusivity and community.

TJE is more than just a class; it’s a lifestyle. Through events like “TJE TOGETHERS” and branded merch, I aim to build deeper connections and celebrate the joy and pride that define the experience.

I love what I do because it’s about creating a space where everyone feels seen, celebrated, and part of something bigger. My goal is for TJE to continue growing and inspiring pride in all who join.

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

The most effective strategy for growing my clientele (TJECLUB) has been all about connection and being truly present with people during my cycle classes. I believe in showing up as my authentic silly self and creating a space where everyone feels welcomed and seen.

Whether we’re pushing through a challenging ride or celebrating a personal milestone, I focus on creating moments where students can connect with themselves and each other. When people feel that warmth, support, and sense of community, they return not just for the workout, but for the connection. It’s these shared experiences—where we encourage each other and grow together—that build trust and loyalty, naturally growing the community.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

When it comes to managing a team and keeping morale high, my advice is to build trust through regular check-ins and genuine recognition. Taking the time to really connect with your team shows that you care and that their thoughts and contributions matter. Celebrating their wins, big or small, goes a long way in making everyone feel appreciated and valued. It’s also important to offer challenges that help them grow—when people are given the chance to shine and stretch their skills, it not only boosts confidence but also fosters a sense of purpose and belonging.

Not many people may know this, but outside of teaching, I work full-time as an HR professional specializing in DEI and Talent Development. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with teams of all sizes, from 5 to 20+, and through that experience, I’ve seen how meaningful connection and the right opportunities can create an environment where everyone feels motivated and supported. It’s all about creating a space where people can be their best selves!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bonfire.com/store/thejohnexperience/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnpaoloaqui
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnaquino14
• Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/KzwoPgdkkyjzh87r8

Image Credits

Kevin Corona (@kevvcorona), Tiaira Wilson (@photosby.ti)