The Solo Trainer Podcast

PODCAST · business

The Solo Trainer Podcast

Ready to ditch the gym and build a profitable, flexible training business?This podcast is your guide. I’m Jen Gerasimas—former nurse, trainer manager, and independent business owner since 2017. Each episode delivers honest conversations, coaching, and practical steps to help certified personal trainers launch and grow businesses they love. Hear success stories, expert insights on pricing, clients, and systems, plus real strategies to work smarter, not harder. New episodes monthly—follow and start building your solo training business today.

  1. 18

    Why Most Personal Trainers Struggle With Money (Do’s & Don’ts to Fix It)

    I’m kicking off a brand new business finance series, and we’re starting with the foundation.Because here’s the truth—You can be fully booked, working nonstop, and still feel stressed about money.In this episode, I break down the key financial do’s and don’ts every personal trainer needs to know to build a profitable and sustainable business.We’re talking about:Why separating your business and personal finances is non-negotiableThe importance of actually managing your numbers (not guessing)How to approach pricing without undervaluing yourselfWhy raising your rates is necessary—and how to think about itA smarter way to pay yourself so your income feels more consistentAnd why getting help (like an accountant) can save you time, stress, and moneyThis episode is going to set the tone for the rest of the series—where we’ll go deeper into pricing, structuring your services, and understanding your numbers.If you want to build a business that actually supports your life…Start here.Check out my business coaching →  https://thesolotrainer.com/coaching/Get The Solo Trainer Guidebook → https://thesolotrainer.com/guidebook/

  2. 17

    He Was Working 190 Hours a Month… Here’s What I Told Him

    He was working 190 hours a month as a personal trainer…On top of trying to grow an online business, take courses, and pursue new opportunities.And his message to me was simple:“I feel like I have nothing left for myself.”In this episode, I’m sharing a real conversation I had with a trainer after my last episode—When Your Business Runs You: My Confession.Because what he’s experiencing?So many trainers are going through the exact same thing.Doing well.Getting more opportunities.Saying yes to everything……and slowly burning out.Inside this episode, I walk you through:Why this happens (especially when you’re good at what you do)The real reason this isn’t just a time management issueThe simple exercise I gave him to create clarity fastHow to figure out what to keep—and what needs to goAnd the mindset shift that makes saying “no” a little easierIf you’re feeling stretched thin, overwhelmed, or unsure which direction to go in your fitness career…This episode will help you take your first step toward getting your time—and energy—back.🎁 Don’t forget: Grab the free Solo Trainer Guidebook to help you build a business that supports your life—not runs it.👉 Free Solo Trainer Guide & Checklist 📘 Free Resources 🤝 Business Coaching 👉 Main Website

  3. 16

    When Your Business Runs You - My Confession

    I teach trainers how to build a business that gives them freedom… so why did mine start taking it away?In this episode, I’m sharing something I haven’t been fully honest about…While I’ve built a personal training business through 7Core Wellness that truly supports my life—my schedule, my energy, my family—that hasn’t been true across the board.Lately, I’ve found myself doing the exact thing I coach other trainers not to do…Letting my business run me.More specifically, I’ve been feeling it with The Solo Trainer—the emails, the podcast, the content, the pressure to keep up with it all.And the truth is… it’s not sustainable for me right now.So in this episode, I’m getting real about:The moment I realized I wasn’t practicing what I preachHow “doing more” quietly turns into burnoutWhy this season of life is forcing me to make a changeWhat I’m scaling back (and what I’m not walking away from)And how you can recognize when your business is starting to take more than it givesIf you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to “do it all”…If your business is starting to feel heavier than it should…This episode will hit home.🎁 Don’t forget: Grab the free Solo Trainer Guidebook to help you build a business that supports your life—not runs it.👉 Free Solo Trainer Guide & Checklist 📘 Free Resources 🤝 Business Coaching 👉 Main Website

  4. 15

    From YMCA Trainer to Home Studio Owner: A 10-Year Success Story

    Carol proves you can build a thriving independent personal training business without viral marketing.She started teaching group fitness on military bases, grew her career at the YMCA, formed her LLC in 2016, and built a private home studio during COVID. Her clients stayed so loyal that they drove 20 miles to keep training with her.In this episode, we break down the real foundation of long-term success: relationships, listening, adaptability, and deep client care. We also talk about burnout boundaries, raising rates, and how Carol adapted her coaching when clients experienced major health changes, including Parkinson’[email protected]👉 Free Solo Trainer Guide & Checklist 📘 Free Resources 🤝 Business Coaching 👉 Main Website

  5. 14

    How the Fitness Industry Is Changing (And Why Trainers Need More Education)

    Are you still training clients the way you did five years ago? If so, you might be leaving money on the table.The era of generic "weight loss" training is being taken over by AI and medical weight loss. The trainers winning in 2026 are the ones solving complex problems: chronic pain, injury prevention, and longevity.I’m joined by Jeff Melis from the Exercise Therapy Association (ETA) to talk about how you can separate yourself from the pack. We discuss the power of functional assessments and how to deliver "same-day transformations" that turn skeptics into clients for life.Check out the Exercise Therapy Association: Website - https://www.exercisetherapyassociation.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/exercisetherapyassociation/ 👉 Free Solo Trainer Guide & Checklist 📘 Free Resources 🤝 Business Coaching 👉 Main Website

  6. 13

    How Specialization Turns Personal Trainers Into Authorities

    Ever feel like you’re a great trainer but still “blending in”? In this episode of The Solo Trainer Podcast, I break down why specialization is one of the fastest ways to build authority, trust, and long term client loyalty as an independent personal trainer.I’ll walk you through the 3 questions that help you choose a niche that’s credible, sustainable, and marketable, plus a simple one sentence way to explain what you do so the right clients instantly “get it.”When your message is clear, you stop competing on price and start getting chosen for your expertise. Who wouldn’t want that?👉 Free Solo Trainer Guide & Checklist 📘 Free Resources🤝 Business Coaching👉 Main Website

  7. 12

    What High-Demand Personal Trainers Do Differently (And Why Clients Stay)

    Some trainers stay booked year after year.Others are constantly hunting for the next lead.So what’s the difference?In this episode, Jen explains what a high demand personal trainer does differently—and why clients stick around even when cheaper options exist.👉 Free Solo Trainer Guide & Checklist 📘 Free Resources🤝 Business Coaching👉 Main Website

  8. 11

    First Steps to Setting Up Your Independent Training Business

    Leaving the gym is one thing.Setting up your business the right way is another.In this episode, I break down the five areas every independent personal trainer needs to address when starting out — whether you’re still working at a gym or already on your own and second-guessing your setup.This isn’t about finding clients or growing fast.It’s about building a business that actually works for you.If you want clarity before momentum, this episode will help.The Legal Steps Most Personal Trainers Forget (Don't Make This Mistake!) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbSawluVvrcLooking for legal templates?https://thesolotrainer.com/products/#legal👉 Free Solo Trainer Guide & Checklist 📘 Free Resources🤝 Business Coaching👉 Main Website

  9. 10

    5 Truths About Having Your Own Personal Training Business

    Thinking about leaving the gym and starting your own personal training business? Before you do, there are a few things you should know.In this episode, we walk through the five realities of becoming an independent trainer — the parts that are exciting, the parts that take time, and the parts no one really prepares you for. You’ll learn what goes into getting clients, running the admin side of your business, staying financially prepared, and managing the emotional shift to working solo.If you’re exploring independence or actively preparing for it, this episode will give you clarity and direction.👉 Free Solo Trainer Guide & Checklist 📘 Free Resources🛠️ Products for Independent Trainers👉 Main Website

  10. 9

    7 Signs It Might Be Time to Leave the Gym and Start Your Own Personal Training Business

    Thinking about leaving the gym to work for yourself, but unsure if you’re really ready? In this episode, Jen walks through 7 signs it’s time to leave the gym as a personal trainer—the practical signals that often show up long before trainers say them out loud.You’ll hear how each sign plays out in real situations, including:Wanting more control over your time and scheduleFeeling weighed down by quotas and expectationsKnowing your earning potential is capped inside the gymWanting full say in how you coach and programRealizing you’ve outgrown the gym’s cultureLooking for a path with more long-term opportunityFeeling your energy and joy slippingIf these signs sound familiar, this conversation will help you understand what they mean—and whether stepping into independence is the next right move for you.

  11. 8

    How to Boldly Sell and Love it | Interview with Terrell Baldock

    Selling your personal training services doesn’t have to feel uncomfortable.In this episode, Jen and Terrell (“Sell with Trell”) break down a simple, grounded approach to sales conversations for independent trainers who want clarity—not pressure.Terrell’s LinksInstagram: www.instagram.com/sell_with_terrell Freebie: https://the-barbell-balance.kit.com/8c18aa2490You’ll hear how to:Build rapport so clients feel understoodAsk better questions that reduce objectionsShare your pricing without rushing or overexplainingRecognize when someone isn’t the right fitPrepare for calls with a quick intake stepPractice one small habit that builds confidence over timeIf you want a sales process that feels natural and supports steady growth in your independent training business, this episode will help you get there.

  12. 7

    Finding Your First Clients | Live Coaching Conversation

    Mimi is four months into her solo training business and determined to grow through real-world connection — not ads, not social media.We dig into practical ways to find clients in your community, including:Asking for referrals confidentlyGetting in front of senior living groups and neighborhood buildingsPartnering with PTs, acupuncturists, and wellness centersUsing charity events to spark introductionsShowing up at disability-awareness and community eventsChoosing prices that support sustainable growthBuilding momentum with one intentional action a dayIf you’ve been thinking, “I just want to train great clients and build this steady,” this episode will meet you right where you are and guide you forward.👉 Grab your free Solo Trainer Guide & Checklist at ⁠thesolotrainer.com/guidebook⁠📘 Free Resources: ⁠https://thesolotrainer.com/resources⁠🛠️ Products for Independent Trainers: ⁠https://thesolotrainer.com/products⁠👉 Main Website: ⁠⁠https://thesolotrainer.com⁠

  13. 6

    5 BIG Mistakes I Made in My Independent Training Business

    If you want a successful independent personal training business, you need more than passion—you need boundaries, strategy, and systems that protect your time, energy, and income. In this episode, I share the 5 big mistakes I made early in my business, how I fixed them, and what I wish I had done from the start.You’ll learn how to avoid the common traps that lead to burnout—like not charging for travel, waiting too long to raise rates, saying “yes” to too much, and compromising your schedule. My goal is to help you build a business that gives you freedom, not frustration.👉 Grab your free Solo Trainer Guide & Checklist at ⁠thesolotrainer.com/guidebook⁠📘 Free Resources: ⁠https://thesolotrainer.com/resources⁠🛠️ Products for Independent Trainers: ⁠https://thesolotrainer.com/products⁠👉 Main Website: ⁠⁠https://thesolotrainer.com⁠

  14. 5

    How To Create A Long-Term Personal Training Career | Interview with Jessica Maurer

    How do you build a long-term personal training career without burning out? Jen talks with wellness business coach Jessica Maurer about spotting burnout vs. boredom, protecting your energy, building simple systems for steady clients, and mindset tools that actually stick. Practical, honest, and made for trainers who want a career that lasts.LinksGuest: https://jhmfitness.com/Instagram: @jessicahmaurer👉 Grab your free Solo Trainer Guide & Checklist at ⁠thesolotrainer.com/guidebook⁠📘 Free Resources: ⁠https://thesolotrainer.com/resources⁠🛠️ Products for Independent Trainers: ⁠https://thesolotrainer.com/products⁠👉 Main Website: ⁠⁠https://thesolotrainer.com⁠

  15. 4

    How to Create a Sustainable Independent Personal Training Business

    Building a sustainable business as an independent trainer isn’t about luck—it’s about doing the right things consistently.In this episode of The Solo Trainer Podcast, I share the 5 steps that filled my client roster and kept it full for nine years. You’ll learn how I found clients outside the gym, priced my services in a way that worked, built a sales system I could trust, and delivered programming and service that clients didn’t want to leave.If you’ve ever questioned whether you can really do this on your own—this episode will help you see what’s possible.👉 Grab your free Solo Trainer Guide & Checklist at ⁠thesolotrainer.com/guidebook⁠📘 Free Resources: ⁠https://thesolotrainer.com/resources⁠🛠️ Products for Independent Trainers: ⁠https://thesolotrainer.com/products⁠👉 Main Website: ⁠⁠https://thesolotrainer.com⁠

  16. 3

    Why I Stopped Working as a Gym Trainer

    Why I stopped working as a gym trainer wasn’t an easy decision—it was survival. Burnout had stolen my passion for clients, for my family, and even for myself. In this episode, I share the emotional moment that forced me to step away, the 3 biggest reasons I left the gym, and how I rebuilt my career as an independent personal trainer.Want more insight into my entrepreneurial journey and the lessons I’ve learned? Watch my video: Starting My Business Wasn't What I Expected!If you’ve ever felt stuck in the gym grind or wondered if independence is possible, this story will give you hope and practical insight.👉 Grab your free Solo Trainer Guide & Checklist at ⁠thesolotrainer.com/guidebook⁠📘 Free Resources: ⁠https://thesolotrainer.com/resources⁠🛠️ Products for Independent Trainers: ⁠https://thesolotrainer.com/products⁠👉 Main Website: ⁠⁠https://thesolotrainer.com⁠

  17. 2

    Welcome to The Solo Trainer: Your Independent Personal Trainer Journey Begins Here

    Thinking about leaving the gym and starting your own business as a personal trainer? In this first episode, I share the story behind The Solo Trainer—why I created it, who it’s for, and how it can help you become a confident, successful independent personal trainer.You’ll learn the mission of The Solo Trainer, why this podcast exists, and how it’s here to guide you with real stories, expert advice, and step-by-step strategies to grow your business on your terms.👉 Grab your free Solo Trainer Guide & Checklist at thesolotrainer.com/guidebook📘 Free Resources: https://thesolotrainer.com/resources🛠️ Products for Independent Trainers: https://thesolotrainer.com/products👉 Main Website: ⁠https://thesolotrainer.com⁠

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Ready to ditch the gym and build a profitable, flexible training business?This podcast is your guide. I’m Jen Gerasimas—former nurse, trainer manager, and independent business owner since 2017. Each episode delivers honest conversations, coaching, and practical steps to help certified personal trainers launch and grow businesses they love. Hear success stories, expert insights on pricing, clients, and systems, plus real strategies to work smarter, not harder. New episodes monthly—follow and start building your solo training business today.

HOSTED BY

Jen Gerasimas

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