We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lisa Hirsch-Solomon. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lisa below.
Hi Lisa, thanks for joining us today. Risk taking is something we’re really interested in and we’d love to hear the story of a risk you’ve taken.
Around fifteen years ago, I found myself at a pivotal moment in life, searching for a fresh direction. After returning to Los Angeles, I was still entrenched in the entertainment industry, but something just didn’t feel right. That’s when I had an ambitious plan to open a clothing store called “November” (my favorite month!), but as I crunched numbers and observed the deteriorating economy, I had to face reality – it wasn’t the right path for me.
But sometimes, life has a way of guiding us toward unexpected opportunities. It was during this uncertain period that I discovered Lagree Fitness at a local studio. I was instantly captivated by the unwavering dedication of the community, even amid economic turmoil.
This realization hit me like a lightning bolt. I thought, “What do people continue to do in times like this, especially in a city like Los Angeles? They eat, they socialize, and they work out!” The deeper I immersed myself in this fitness community, the more I felt a profound connection. I knew this was where I was meant to be, despite having no business school background and no prior experience as a business owner.
This newfound inspiration motivated me to blend my unique skills in branding, talent relations, and music with my genuine love for fitness. The result? The birth of our very first (MDR) studio, right in the heart of Marina Del Rey. I can still remember the mixture of excitement and anxiety as we prepared to open our doors.
While it may have been a bit nerve-wracking at first, the prospect of creating a space where people could experience transformative fitness classes and a genuine sense of community was too enticing to ignore. It was a journey that tested our resilience, determination, and work ethic.
Fast forward to today, and I can proudly say that our journey, (MDR)’s journey, has been one of incredible growth and success. Our classes consistently draw enthusiastic clients, and it’s not uncommon for them to be sold out. We’ve come a long way, and it’s been an unforgettable adventure.
Through it all, I’ve learned that taking risks can lead to the most unexpected and rewarding outcomes. (MDR) embodies the spirit of courage and passion, encouraging us to take the leap, even when we lack experience. This risk, whether considered small or big, opened the door to a new chapter in my life and (MDR)’s journey. It’s a testament to the power of following your heart and seizing opportunities.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m the founder of The Studio (MDR), a boutique fitness business centered on the Lagree Method. We’ve been a part of the Los Angeles community for over 13 years, with five locations on the west side of the city. Our mission is to provide a unique and luxurious fitness experience in a class-based setting.
My journey into the fitness industry was inspired by witnessing the unwavering commitment of the community during challenging economic times. This inspired me to create The Studio (MDR), where we offer over 400 classes per week, catering to a diverse clientele.
What sets us apart is our strong emphasis on community and client satisfaction. Our instructors are passionate and highly skilled, fostering an environment where everyone feels welcome. Whether you’re a pro athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or someone simply looking for a rewarding fitness experience, The Studio (MDR) is here to support you.
One of our proudest achievements is maintaining our status as a profitable woman-owned business since our inception (except during Covid). We’ve also gained recognition from prestigious publications, solidifying our position as a premier boutique fitness concept in the country.
The Studio (MDR) is dedicated to delivering top-notch Lagree classes and building a supportive and kind community. We’re excited about our continued growth, empowering individuals on their fitness journeys and helping them achieve their health and wellness goals. Our business thrives on quality, innovation, and, above all, client happiness, which is the essence of what we represent. We hope you will come in for a class!
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
Covid presented an immense challenge to many small business and studio owners, and we were no exception. In those uncertain times, resilience became a defining characteristic for The Studio (MDR).
One of the pivotal moments that filled us with determination was when we secured outdoor space through collaborative efforts with our landlords. This allowed us not only to generate some much-needed revenue but, more importantly, it enabled us to retain our dedicated employees. It was a turning point that gave us confidence in our ability to persevere during the pandemic.
Our journey through and beyond Covid was not one that we embarked on alone. The resilience we showcased was deeply intertwined with the unwavering support of our community, both within the studio and beyond. Our clients, instructors, and staff came together as a strong, cohesive unit, providing the motivation and encouragement we needed to weather the storm.
The sense of belonging and the shared commitment to our mission played a pivotal role in our success. We were all in this together, and our determination to emerge from the crisis stronger than ever was fueled by the sense of community that has always been at the heart of The Studio (MDR).
Through these challenging times, we learned that resilience isn’t just about enduring hardships; it’s also about relying on and nurturing the bonds within a community. It’s about overcoming obstacles together, celebrating small victories, and holding onto the belief that, no matter what comes our way, we can and will endure. As we look back on Covid, we carry this spirit of resilience and unity with us, knowing that it’s our community that truly makes us stronger.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
word of mouth.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
Covid presented an immense challenge to many small business and studio owners, and we were no exception. In those uncertain times, resilience became a defining characteristic for The Studio (MDR).
One of the pivotal moments that filled us with determination was when we secured outdoor space through collaborative efforts with our landlords. This allowed us not only to generate some much-needed revenue but, more importantly, it enabled us to retain our dedicated employees. It was a turning point that gave us confidence in our ability to persevere during the pandemic.
Our journey through and beyond Covid was not one that we embarked on alone. The resilience we showcased was deeply intertwined with the unwavering support of our community, both within the studio and beyond. Our clients, instructors, and staff came together as a strong, cohesive unit, providing the motivation and encouragement we needed to weather the storm.
The sense of belonging and the shared commitment to our mission played a pivotal role in our success. We were all in this together, and our determination to emerge from the crisis stronger than ever was fueled by the sense of community that has always been at the heart of The Studio (MDR).
Through these challenging times, we learned that resilience isn’t just about enduring hardships; it’s also about relying on and nurturing the bonds within a community. It’s about overcoming obstacles together, celebrating small victories, and holding onto the belief that, no matter what comes our way, we can and will endure. As we look back on Covid, we carry this spirit of resilience and unity with us, knowing that it’s our community that truly makes us stronger.
What’s been the best source of new clients for you?
word of mouth.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thestudiomdr.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisanhirsch/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lisanhirsch
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/the-studio-mdr-marina-del-rey
- Other: Recently we were named one of America’s top 70 small businesses for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s 2023 America’s Top Small Business Awards! I went to Washington, D.C. this past October for this national event celebrating all the small business owners nationwide that keep our economy running every day. It was simply amazing!
Image Credits
All images are Annie Edmonds accept last one is Allie Rick