What it really takes to grow a values-led Pilates studio with Leah Hart

You can build a successful Pilates business without burning out or losing yourself in the process!

In this week’s episode of Beyond the Reformer, Nic is joined by Leah Hart, founder of Glow Pilates in Limerick, Ireland, podcast host, and Polestar educator.

Leah shares her journey from dance and academia to studio ownership and becoming a mentor to the next generation of Pilates teachers.

Nic and Leah have an honest and insightful conversation about what it really looks like to run a Pilates business, including learning to lead a team, navigating burnout, motherhood, and the industry’s ever-evolving trends.

Timestamps

00:00 Leah's early life and introduction to Pilates

03:45 Transition from Pilates as a hobby to a career

05:32 Opening her first studio

08:26 Challenges with opening a studio in Limerick

16:19 Leah’s philosophy in her studio

24:44 Recruiting teachers and training

26:52 Encouraging curiosity in teaching

27:20 Challenging traditional fitness language

29:10 Opening a second studio

31:42 Leadership skills and team management

37:33 Balancing business and family

41:34 Starting a podcast

45:33 Future plans for Glow Pilates

48:40 Quick-fire questions

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your Pilates friends. It helps more people find the show and supports meaningful conversations like this one.

If you’re looking to take your Pilates practice one step further and sign up for Nic’s comprehensive teacher training programme, use the code BEYOND at checkout: Soul Pilates Teacher Training

Connect with Nic:

• Beyond the Reformer Instagram
• Soul Pilates Instagram
• Soul Pilates Education
• Nic’s Instagram
• Join Soul at Home
• Book a Pilates Class

Connect with Leah:

• Glow Pilates Instagram
• Leah Harte Pilates Instagram
• Move Well Be Well Podcast on Spotify