We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Salar Shahini. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Salar below.

Alright, Salar thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

The idea for SweatPals was born out of a deeply personal journey of seeking belonging and connection. Over the years, I moved to many new cities—each time feeling like I was starting over from scratch. As an immigrant, I faced the additional challenge of cultural and language barriers, which often made it difficult to build meaningful connections.

But every time I joined a local fitness group or participated in a workout class, something magical happened. The usual social barriers fell away, and I found myself surrounded by people who were just as passionate about health and wellness as I was. These were spaces where everyone, regardless of their background or where they came from, was welcomed with open arms. That sense of community, of being part of something bigger than myself, was something I craved. It was through these experiences that I realized the powerful role fitness and sports could play in bringing people together.

As I traveled more and met people from different walks of life, I saw that I wasn’t alone in this feeling. Many people were searching for a community where they could be themselves, meet like-minded individuals, and pursue their passions. Yet, I also noticed that while there were plenty of apps for booking gym classes or finding personal trainers, there wasn’t a dedicated platform for building real, meaningful communities around fitness and wellness.

That’s when it clicked: Why not create a platform that helps people find their tribe through fitness? A space where entrepreneurs, instructors, and fitness enthusiasts could create, grow, and monetize their communities, all while connecting people in a meaningful way. SweatPals was my answer to this gap in the market. I envisioned a platform that would empower fitness and wellness creators with the tools they needed—like ticketing, group chats, and event hosting—to build vibrant communities that people could easily discover and join.

What excited me the most about this idea was its potential to solve a problem that many people face: the challenge of finding community and connection in an increasingly digital and disconnected world. Unlike other fitness apps that focus solely on exercise or competition, SweatPals was designed to foster genuine human connection. We were offering a unique approach by combining the social aspects of fitness with the tools needed to build sustainable communities.

I knew this was a worthwhile endeavor because it wasn’t just a business idea; it was a solution to a problem I had experienced firsthand and had seen others struggle with. The logic was simple: people crave connection, and fitness is a powerful way to foster that. With SweatPals, we weren’t just helping people stay fit; we were helping them find their people, their tribe. And that, to me, is the heart of what makes SweatPals special. It’s more than just an app; it’s a movement to create spaces where everyone feels like they belong.

Salar, 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’m Salar, the founder and CEO of SweatPals. My path to this point has been anything but straightforward. I grew up in Iran and, driven by a passion for entrepreneurship, I started my first business at 16, making and selling pinback buttons with Persian cartoon characters to my classmates. This early experience sparked my love for creating and building things from scratch. Seeking greater opportunities, I eventually moved to the U.S. to further my education and career. After earning a Master’s degree in engineering, I co-founded a deep tech company that developed a platform to help cities manage their assets. Over time, that business grew to serve over 250 cities across two countries. I sold that company in 2022.

Despite these professional achievements, I often found myself struggling with the challenges of moving to new places and the loneliness that can come with it. That’s when I discovered the incredible power of fitness communities. No matter where I was—be it a new city in the U.S. or abroad in Istanbul—I found that joining local fitness groups was the fastest way to connect with people and feel a sense of belonging. These communities were always warm, welcoming, and eager to bring new members into the fold. It was through these experiences that I saw the universal language of fitness as a way to build deeper connections.

We’d appreciate any insights you can share with us about selling a business.

Yes, I have sold a business before, and it was an incredibly valuable learning experience. Before founding SweatPals, I co-founded a deep tech company that developed a platform to help cities manage their infrastructure assets more efficiently. Our technology used advanced data analytics to provide cities with actionable insights on everything from road conditions to street lighting, ultimately helping them save time and money on maintenance and planning.

**The Sale Journey:**
The decision to sell the business came after several years of growth and expansion. Our platform was being used by over 250 cities across two countries, and we had built a solid reputation in the industry. We reached a point where we saw a significant opportunity for the company to scale further, but it required resources and expertise that were beyond our current capabilities. That’s when we started exploring potential acquisition opportunities.

**Key Lessons for Entrepreneurs Looking to Sell Their Businesses:**

1. **Know Your Why:**
Understand why you’re considering selling your business. Are you looking for a strategic partner to help you scale? Are you seeking financial security or looking to move on to a new challenge? Having a clear reason for selling will guide your decision-making process and help you choose the right buyer.

2. **Build a Strong Foundation:**
A successful sale often depends on the foundation you’ve built within your company. This includes having a solid team, strong financials, a clear business model, and a scalable product or service. Buyers are looking for businesses with potential for growth, so make sure your company is well-positioned for the future.

3. **Know Your Numbers:**
Before you even consider selling, make sure you have a deep understanding of your financials. This includes your revenue streams, profit margins, customer acquisition costs, and other key metrics. Buyers will scrutinize your numbers, so it’s crucial to have accurate and up-to-date financial information.

4. **Find the Right Fit:**
Not all buyers are created equal. Finding a buyer whose vision aligns with yours and who will respect the culture and values you’ve built is essential. During the sale process, I was fortunate to find a buyer who not only saw the potential in our technology but also valued the team and culture we had built. This made the transition smoother and ensured the company continued to thrive post-acquisition.

5. **Prepare for Due Diligence:**
The due diligence process can be intense and time-consuming. Be prepared to provide detailed information about every aspect of your business. This includes financial records, customer contracts, employee agreements, intellectual property, and more. Being organized and transparent can make this process much smoother.

6. **Keep Your Team Informed:**
One of the most challenging aspects of selling a business is managing the impact on your team. It’s important to communicate openly and honestly with your employees throughout the process. They are the backbone of your business, and keeping them informed will help maintain morale and ensure a smooth transition.

7. **Plan for Life After the Sale:**
Selling a business is a major life event, and it’s essential to think about what comes next. For me, selling my first company allowed me to reflect on what I truly wanted to do next and led to the creation of SweatPals. Take the time to consider your next steps and what will bring you fulfillment.

**Final Thoughts:**
Selling a business can be a complex and emotional journey, but it’s also an opportunity for growth and new beginnings. For entrepreneurs looking to sell their businesses one day, my advice is to be strategic, stay true to your values, and make sure the timing and terms are right for you and your team. Remember, a successful exit isn’t just about the financial outcome—it’s about finding a path that aligns with your long-term goals and aspirations.

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

Managing a team and maintaining high morale are essential for building a successful business. A motivated and cohesive team can achieve incredible things, while a lack of morale can undermine even the best strategies. Here are some pieces of advice that I’ve found invaluable in managing my team and keeping spirits high:

### 1. **Communicate Openly and Honestly:**
Transparency is key to building trust within a team. Keep everyone informed about the company’s goals, challenges, and progress. Share both the wins and the setbacks. When people feel they have a clear understanding of what’s happening and why, they’re more likely to feel invested in the company’s mission and less anxious about uncertainty. Open communication also means being approachable as a leader—encourage feedback, listen to concerns, and be willing to engage in tough conversations when necessary.

### 2. **Recognize and Celebrate Achievements:**
Recognition goes a long way in boosting morale. Celebrate both big wins and small victories. Acknowledge individual contributions as well as team successes. Whether it’s a shoutout in a meeting, a personalized note, or a formal recognition program, showing appreciation can make team members feel valued and motivated to continue doing their best work.

### 3. **Foster a Positive and Inclusive Culture:**
A positive work environment is crucial for maintaining high morale. Create a culture where everyone feels included, respected, and safe to express their ideas and opinions. Encourage collaboration and ensure that team members have opportunities to connect with one another, both professionally and personally. Promote a culture of kindness, where supporting one another is the norm. When people feel they are part of a supportive and inclusive community, they are more likely to stay engaged and committed.

### 4. **Empower Your Team:**
Trust your team members and give them autonomy in their roles. Empowering your team means providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed but also allowing them the freedom to take ownership of their work. When people feel they have control over their tasks and are trusted to make decisions, they are more likely to be engaged and take pride in their work.

### 5. **Encourage Professional Growth and Development:**
Invest in your team’s professional development. Provide opportunities for learning, whether through workshops, courses, or mentorship programs. Encourage team members to pursue their passions and expand their skill sets. When people feel they are growing and developing in their roles, they are more likely to stay motivated and committed to the organization.

### 6. **Lead by Example:**
As a leader, your behavior sets the tone for the entire team. Show up with the enthusiasm, dedication, and work ethic you expect from others. Be resilient in the face of challenges, and demonstrate how to handle setbacks with grace. Leading by example builds trust and respect, encouraging your team to follow suit.

### 7. **Provide Constructive Feedback and Support:**
Constructive feedback is essential for growth, but it should be delivered in a way that is supportive rather than discouraging. Focus on providing actionable advice and be sure to balance critiques with positive reinforcement. Additionally, be available to support your team through challenges, whether it’s offering guidance, resources, or simply being a listening ear.

### 8. **Create a Shared Vision and Purpose:**
Make sure everyone on your team understands the bigger picture and how their work contributes to the company’s overall mission. When people feel connected to a shared purpose, they are more likely to be motivated and find meaning in their work. Regularly remind your team of the impact they are making and how their efforts are contributing to something greater.

### 9. **Be Adaptive and Open to Change:**
The business landscape is constantly evolving, and so are the needs of your team. Be open to change and willing to adapt your management style to meet the current needs of your team. Solicit feedback regularly and be ready to make adjustments to improve the work environment and maintain high morale.

### **Final Thoughts:**

Maintaining high morale requires continuous effort and attention. By fostering an environment of trust, respect, and growth, you can create a positive and productive workplace where everyone feels motivated to do their best. Remember, a happy and engaged team is one of the most valuable assets a business can have.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sweatpals.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweatpalsapp
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/salarshahini/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/SalarShahini

Image Credits

SweatPals