Fashion Gxd Magazine presents "Beverly K. Johnson" CEO of "Genesys Fitness " (Entrepreneur Cover)
Written By: Samantha Cee
This month we at, Fashion Gxd Magazine, covered Beverley K. Johnson for our digital entrepreneur cover. Beverley K. Johnson is the CEO of Genesys Fitness. Genesy’s Fitness is a mobile personal training service that provides onsite services to its clients. Genesys Fitness can tailor plans for individuals and small groups. Genesys Fitness strives to create a partnership with their clients and work to help them achieve their goals.Take a look at our exclusive cover with the rising brand.
Life and Body Transformations |www.beverlykjohson.com
Email: info@beverlykjohnson.com | Instagram: www.instagram.com/bevkjohnson
Facebook: www.facebook.com/genfitness2015
“Not just personal training, more than exercising. It’s a lifestyle change. It’s a new beginning. A true genesis.”
FGM: It’s an honor to sit down with you all. Tell us a little about your brand and how you've come to this vastly successful peek in your career.
Thank you for this wonderful opportunity to chat with FGM. It’s truly an honor to sit down and chat with you. How did I get started? I started my business four years ago. Newly single from a divorce with an extra 30 pounds, I felt lost and my confidence was shaken. I needed to heal and discover who Beverly Johnson was meant to be. I eventually lost the weight and found myself. Often, we underestimate the emotional toll that divorces take on us. During my healing process, I grew to realize that I was not alone in navigating the healing process. Healing requires us to make a change involves a shift in all aspects of our lives. I decided to use my newly acquired tools to help others.
I had a goal to encourage women who are emotionally ready for change to do the work required to rediscover who they are after suffering a personal setback or loss. I wanted to create a safe space where women can transform their mindset, body, and life in a caring and non-judgmental environment.
Over the years, this has been a long journey of success and failures. I attribute my success to my faith, a strong work ethic and being to push myself and grow. I also surround myself around a great group of friends who hold me accountable to my goals.
FGM: Who are the clients/what are the projects that you most enjoy working on?
Many of clients are mid-30s and older. They’ve become started families, possibly become caregivers to elderly parents and have grown to discover that they’ve put themselves last. She's the one who makes sure her family eats, yet often takes the smallest plate. She's the one who people know by name, but because she's so tired and overwrought, she sometimes forgets her own. Often, she is a beautiful and selfless spirit who, in everything she does, puts other's needs ahead of her own.
Because I’m a part of this demographic, I can relate to the struggle. I’ve learned that the process is easier because we’ve shared similar life experiences and my clients are willing to listen. I enjoy working with clients who have a great sense of humor and willing to ask questions. That's when I know that they're invested in their success. It becomes a partnership.
I volunteer with a local women's fellowship group called, "I am H.E.R.": H.E.R. stands for Healed, Esteemed, and Restored. It's a non-profit organization that seeks to motivate, inspire, encourage, and empower women and young girls to openly communicate, identify, and deal with issues that could affect the way they live their lives. I facilitate the section called, “H.E.R. Temple” and offer fitness and wellness coaching sessions for women.
FGM: How do you feel you make a difference in the world?
My tagline is “Not just personal training, more than exercising. It’s a lifestyle change. It’s a new beginning. A true genesis.” I believe that fitness involves mental, emotional, spiritual and physical wellness. We cannot neglect our total wellness. I remember one afternoon, my client walked in and immediately started crying. She was having a bad day and told me that she was looking forward to our session. That day, I was a safe space for her to be vulnerable and express her frustrations. It was at the point where I had to shift from "trainer" to "friend". That day, she needed a friend who will listen.
I believe that I offer a safe space that we all need where we can focus on ourselves. Self-care is a necessity. We can’t pour out of an empty vessel.
FGM: Tell us about a time when you showed determination to continue as an entrepreneur.
That would have been earlier this year. I live in a city that was heavily impacted by the partial government shutdown that occurred earlier this year. Many of my clients were affected by the shutdown. Understandably, when finances are impacted, you seek to trim the excess from your budget. It was the first time since I started my business that I’d experienced such a drastic shift.
I went back to the drawing board and began to think about my next steps. I knew that quitting wasn't an option. During that time, I began booking more speaking engagements and offering group classes. I was able to share my business with more audiences and the classes offered a budget-friendly option for those impacted. That decision has increased speaking opportunities and clients.
FGM: Give me the three best qualities of your brand.
Trustworthy
Results-driven
Compassionate
FGM: Give me an example of when you worked irregular hours?
Many times, I wonder when I ever work regular hours. I have a full-time day job so having long days are my norm. My irregular hours normally happen around the first of the year. That's when everyone commits to become fit and get ready for summer vacation. For the first three months of the year, it’s normal for me to work 7 days a week averaging 70+ hours a week.
FGM: Being an entrepreneur is a 24/7 job, how did you get ready for that?
I’ll admit that I was hesitant initially because I didn’t feel “ready”. As an entrepreneur, you have to accept that there will always be some risks involved and you will never have all of the answers. I've always been organized and goal-oriented. After graduating from Alabama A&M University, I was commissioned into the Army as a logistics officer. The military teaches you to plan, organize and execute. Many of the skills I learned while I served, I've transferred them to my business. Over the years, I’ve committed myself to constantly learning new things related to the tech space and how to improve my business.
FGM: How did you acquire the ability to work under pressure to beat meet deadlines as an entrepreneur?
Our greatest asset is time. Being a solopreneur, I have to decide what gets my attention. I developed my skills from working under pressure from both the military and various assignments that I've worked over the years. As I look back, every assignment has prepared me for entrepreneurship. It’s taught me to keep my focus on the big picture and limit distractions.
FGM: What is your favorite inspirational point, place, to develop new brand developments?
My absolute favorite place would be the beach. There’s something about connecting with nature that clears my mind. My perfect spot is a lounge chair with my notebook and pen. When I’m relaxed, the ideas usually start to flow.
FGM: Which current public figure, are you inspired by or appreciate the most?
Ohhh… That’s a tough one! I’m most inspired by director and producer, Ava Duvernay; journalist and author, April Ryan; and my forever First Lady Michelle Obama. From each person, I’ve learned valuable nuggets.
From Ava, I learned that it’s never too late to pursue your goals and there’s a space for your voice. April Ryan reminded me that even in the face of adversity, always stand firm and speak your truth. And our Forever FLOTUS taught me to remain graceful under pressure. When stones are thrown, use them to build a throne.
How do you handle stress?
In the early days, I was an emotional eater. It was customary to turn to food to ease the stress. After focusing on my healing and developing skills to cope with stress, I’ve learned to calm myself through meditation and prayer. I’ve learned to slow down and identify the source of my stress, process it, and determine how to resolve the situation.
FGM: What are the three qualities you feel an entrepreneur must have?
An entrepreneur must be resilient, confident, and humble.
Resiliency-entrepreneurship is a rollercoaster ride. Don’t allow a rejection or one bad moment to derail you. Use each success and failure as a chance to improve your product or services.
Confidence- you must believe in yourself before others can believe in you. I am my brand and I love what I do. Never be afraid to share your business with others. Someone is waiting for you and your gift.
Humility- Never be afraid to ask for help. Seeking a mentor can help you in so many ways. A mentor will provide accountability and honest feedback. Don't be afraid to seek out collaborations with fellow entrepreneurs. Never feel as if it’s necessary to do everything by yourself. Developing a relationship is with others is key.
FGM: Where do you see your business in 10 years? How do you plan to get there?
I'd like to own a studio that offers a total wellness experience. I’d like to host a weekly program and podcast with topics including health, wellness, and lifestyle topics. Eventually, I’d like to venture into the merchandising and offer relaxation accessories such as candles and spa products.
FGM: It was a pleasure speaking with you thank you for joining us!
It has been my true pleasure speaking with you too!
