Fireside Chat with the Johnstons
Fireside Chat features Justin and Danielle Johnston, husband and wife duo who own a gym together, as they talk about the all star industry and what it’s like to work alongside one another. Fireside Chat has been a live video broadcast airing for five seasons in the Next Gen owners groups and in 2024, the podcast debuted!
Episodes

Saturday Dec 28, 2024
Saturday Dec 28, 2024
This episode dives into the importance of educatingAll-Star cheer parents to build trust, reduce confusion, and create asupportive team mindset. We cover common parent misunderstandings,strategies for effective communication, and how investing in educationbenefits athletes, parents, and gyms alike. Learn actionable tips likeonboarding processes, regular updates, and visual resources to helpparents feel confident and informed. Hear real-life success storiesand start planning your approach for 2025 with resources like theLet’s Talk Cheer Podcast, Cheer Dad book, and Cheer Gym Owners’Handbook. Tune in and take your gym to the next level.

Sunday Dec 22, 2024

Sunday Dec 22, 2024
Sunday Dec 22, 2024
Are overdue accounts creating stress and straining your gym's operations? Managing late payments is a critical part of running a gym - and it’s about more than just keeping the lights on. In this episode, Danielle and Justin dive into the tough but necessary conversations around handling overdue accounts, especially during the busy holiday season.
From understanding the common reasons behind late payments to addressing the impact they have on your cash flow and even staff pay, Danielle and Justin offer practical insights for turning this challenge into an opportunity to strengthen your business. They also share how to navigate the awkward moments, like addressing overdue bills with parents while balancing empathy and fairness for all.If you're ready to take control of your gym’s finances and protect your program’s success, tune in for actionable advice and encouragement to help you lead with confidence!

Thursday Dec 05, 2024
Thursday Dec 05, 2024
Are you a gym owner juggling a million tasks and still feeling like there’s never enough time? In this episode of Fireside Chat, Danielle dives into practical strategies to help you take control of your to-do list and create a system that works for you. From setting limits to reaching your goals through manageable tasks, I’ll share tips tailored to the unique challenges gym owners face. Whether you’re navigating the busy holiday season or simply looking for ways to stay organized, this episode will help you find a rhythm that keeps you productive and sane. Tune in and take the first step toward mastering your life—one task at a time.

Thursday Nov 28, 2024
Thursday Nov 28, 2024
Are you running your gym as a business that truly works for you? Owning a gym is more than a passion project—it’s an opportunity to create real, measurable success in your life. In this episode, we dive into the tangible benefits that come from turning your gym into a thriving business. From financial stability and consistent paychecks to investments, the rewards of a well-managed gym go far beyond the love of the sport.
Danielle and Justin share how smart business strategies have allowed them to grow their gym while investing in their personal goals. We also explore how owning your own gym can mean freedom: the freedom to set your schedule, control your brand, and prioritize what matters most to you.If you're ready to turn your gym into a profitable, rewarding business, tune in for practical tips and inspiration to make it happen!

Thursday Nov 21, 2024
Thursday Nov 21, 2024
Are you pouring time and energy into your gym without getting a return? Running a gym isn’t just a labor of love—it’s a serious investment, and the returns should go beyond just having “fun.” In this episode, we explore why your gym needs to work for you, not the other way around. Owner burnout and cash flow issues are two of the biggest reasons gyms close. By expecting both tangible and intangible returns, you’re setting yourself up for success and long-term fulfillment.Join us as we break down the practical and inspiring rewards that come from treating your gym as a thriving business. Danielle shares how the challenges of gym ownership keep her engaged and constantly innovating, while Justin highlights the impact of giving back, from hosting community events to supporting local fundraisers. We’ll also talk about how owning a gym can mean building incredible connections—whether it’s having a built-in support network for last-minute favors or creating special memories, like hosting birthday parties and pep rally practices in your own space. Plus, we’ll touch on the freedom gym ownership brings, from setting your schedule to choosing competition locations, with destinations like Vegas, Orlando, and even the Bahamas on the list!If you’re ready to learn how to transform your gym into a source of personal and professional returns, don’t miss this episode!

Thursday Nov 14, 2024
Thursday Nov 14, 2024
This is the final part of the series titled, "The Dark Side of Success" where Justin and Danielle talk about what happens when others try to bring you down. In this episode, they will talk about how to ensure you're not instigating trouble for yourself, while also recognizing when you're the problem. Make sure to like, comment and subscribe for more insights on navigating the highs and lows of gym ownership.

Thursday Nov 14, 2024
Thursday Nov 14, 2024
This is Part 2 of the series titled, "The Dark Side of Success". In this episode, Danielle and Justin will talk about the root cause of this negativity and how to handle it when it happens to you! Make sure to like, comment, and subscribe for more insights on navigating the highs and lows of success!

Thursday Oct 24, 2024
Thursday Oct 24, 2024
Success is what we all strive for, but what happens when it brings unexpected negativity from others? In this Fireside Chat episode, we dive into the reality that sometimes, the more successful you become, the more others may distance themselves or show resentment. We discuss the reasons behind this shift, how to protect your energy, and how to keep thriving even when success comes with its own set of social challenges.
Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if this episode resonates with you!

Thursday Oct 17, 2024
Thursday Oct 17, 2024
In this episode of Fireside Chat, Danielle tells you what it's like to be next door neighbors with your gym! This is a question we've had a lot...Do gym parents maintain boundaries? Do I have solid work boundaries? Listen in to find out!