Add Row

Add Element

update

Fitness Center Profits

update

Add Element

Home
Categories
Profiles

Turn Workouts Into Wealth
Marketing & Profit Tools for Fitness Pros

July 12.2025

2 Minutes Read

Discover How Neil Hershman Went From Customer to CEO of 16 Handles

Cheerful staff and customer in vibrant dessert shop

From Customer to CEO: A Sweet Success Story

Neil Hershman’s journey from avid customer to CEO of 16 Handles is a heartwarming tale that reflects ambition, resilience, and a deep understanding of the consumer experience. After years in a finance career that left him unfulfilled, he sought to create something meaningful, ultimately discovering his passion amidst the frozen yogurt swirl of 16 Handles.

Hershman didn’t just step into his role as a franchisee; he dove headfirst into the operations. His mantra of retail leadership included open and close shifts, allowing him to intimately understand what worked and what didn’t in customer engagement at his New York City store. Unlike many who faltered during the pandemic, Hershman seized the opportunity to expand, recognizing that the initially daunting environment allowed for reduced competition and affordable leases.

Innovative Flavor Strategy: Marketing with a Twist

One of the standout strategies Hershman employed in his rapid expansion was tying product offerings to pop culture phenomena. By launching unique, themed flavors like the Harry Potter-inspired butter beer and a playful ‘french fry’ froyo, he not only captured customer interest but created a buzz that resonated across social media platforms. This connection to contemporary culture not only drove revenue up by an impressive 30-40% initially, but also solidified the brand’s relevance among diverse audiences.

Building Trust and Lifelong Loyalty

However, successful business leadership goes beyond innovative flavors. For Hershman, trust and loyalty play a crucial role in cultivating an engaged community. His first hire, Lisa Mallon, was a pivotal decision rooted in loyalty—not just to the brand, but to the core values of customer service. Understanding the dynamics between customers and franchise operations is critical, and hiring someone with extensive experience shared those values was a calculated way to establish trust right from the start.

Lessons Learned: A Community-Centered Approach

Hershman’s story doesn’t just showcase business acumen; it emphasizes a community-centered philosophy that can inspire aspiring entrepreneurs. By viewing the brand through the eyes of the customer, leveraging innovative marketing tied to culture, and nurturing strong relationships with team members, Hershman exemplifies how compassion and keen observation can translate into significant business growth.

Sweet success is achievable, and the journey from customer interaction to CEO teaches a profound lesson for anyone looking to build a thriving enterprise—a reminder that understanding your audience and maintaining heartfelt connections can pave the way for remarkable achievements.

Success Stories

5 Views

0 Comments

Write A Comment

Related Posts All Posts

03.01.2026

Unlock Your Potential: Goal Achievement Strategies for 2023

Update Setting Goals: The Journey to Achievement Have you ever set a New Year’s resolution only to abandon it weeks later? It’s a tale as old as time, with research indicating that only about 9% to 19% of people achieve their New Year’s goals. Contrast this with EMPath’s impressive 72% goal achievement rate among program participants, a testament to effective goal-setting strategies that not only inspire but empower individuals to realize their dreams. The Importance of Writing Down Goals One of the critical elements to achieving your goals is the act of writing them down. According to research led by Dr. Gail Matthews, a psychologist at Dominican University, individuals who write down their goals are 42% more likely to achieve them. This commitment transforms abstract ideas into concrete plans, setting the stage for success. Applying a structured approach like the “Goal Action Plan” from EMPath can help individuals document their aspirations and subsequent steps toward achieving them. Transforming Dreams into Actionable Steps After articulating what you desire, the next step involves breaking down your dreams into manageable goals. This method aligns with the insights from Harrison's article on goal achievement, which emphasizes the need for clear and challenging yet reachable goals. By identifying concrete milestones, you can create a roadmap that leads from your initial vision to tangible results, reducing feelings of overwhelm and paving the way for success. Celebrating Small Wins Achieving dreams often involves a series of small victories rather than a single grand achievement. As you progress through your steps, don’t forget to celebrate each accomplishment, no matter how small. These celebrations can act as powerful motivators. EMPath encourages participants to reflect on and reward themselves for each small step completed. This not only reinforces positive behavior but also builds momentum toward larger goals. Anticipating Challenges and Staying Focused While setting goals is a crucial step, anticipating obstacles is equally vital. By considering potential challenges ahead of time, individuals can develop proactive strategies to overcome them. Instead of fixating on external factors beyond your control, shift your focus to what you can influence directly. This approach promotes mental well-being and fosters a sense of agency as you navigate your path toward achievement. Defining the Greater Purpose Behind Your Goals Understanding the ‘why’ behind your goals can reinforce your commitment and provide clarity amidst distractions. As Harrison suggests, engaging with the greater purpose of your dream helps to ensure that your goals resonate with your values and aspirations. Connecting your personal ambitions to a larger impact can enhance motivation and deepen your resolve. Final Thoughts: The Path to Success is Within Reach Achieving your goals may seem daunting, but with the right strategies and mindset, it is entirely within reach. By writing down your ambitions, breaking them into actionable steps, celebrating small victories, anticipating challenges, and connecting your dreams to a greater purpose, you set yourself on a path to success. As the New Year unfolds, take the leap and turn your dreams into achievable goals—it's a journey worth embarking on.

02.28.2026

Uncover the Secrets of Shredded Fitness Through Calisthenics

Update Discovering the Power of Calisthenics: A Shredded Journey Have you ever wondered how certain individuals achieve that astonishing shredded look, often leaving many of us in awe? In a recent captivating short video featuring Waffle Kozik, we dive into the inspiring story behind his impressive transformation through calisthenics and pole dancing. This article explores both the physical and emotional aspects of his journey and how these fitness styles can ignite not just a transformation of the body, but also the spirit.In 'Asking guy how he got shredded,' the discussion dives into the world of calisthenics, exploring key insights that sparked deeper analysis on our end. How Calisthenics Changed His Life Waffle Kozik's story is a testament to the transformative power of calisthenics—a workout style that utilizes body weight for strength training. Unlike traditional gym workouts that often require heavy weights and specialized equipment, calisthenics emphasizes movement, control, and creativity in exercising. For Waffle, it was not just a physical routine; it became a way of life. His journey began with a commitment to fitness that gradually evolved into a passion for pole dancing, showcasing the versatility of these forms of exercise. A Commitment Beyond the Gym Waffle’s decision to embrace these fitness styles highlights an important shift in how people approach their health and wellness. Instead of merely focusing on aesthetics, he emphasizes the importance of enjoying the journey. The vibrant community found in both calisthenics and pole dancing often fosters camaraderie and support, encouraging individuals to motivate one another along their paths. Waffle’s story serves as a beacon of this bonding experience that transcends the physical aspects of fitness. Building Community Through Fitness The excitement of sharing fitness experiences is palpable. Many individuals looking to achieve their health goals often seek out communities that encourage accountability and inspiration. Waffle’s journey reminds us that through calisthenics and pole dancing, individuals can form connections that not only enhance their fitness journeys but also strengthen the very fabric of their communities. Engagement with others fosters an atmosphere of support, often resulting in lasting friendships and partnerships. The Inspirational Benefits of Fitness What can those of us on similar journeys learn from Waffle’s experience? It’s vital to focus not just on visible outcomes but also on personal growth and emotional resilience. Engaging with such diverse forms of exercise can unlock new horizons, tapping into our innate potentials. Waffle’s commitment is a gentle reminder that fitness is ultimately about more than just strength; it’s about challenging ourselves, overcoming obstacles, and celebrating every victory, no matter how small. Your Fitness Journey Starts Today If you’re inspired by Waffle's story, consider exploring calisthenics or even trying out pole dancing classes available in your community. These activities don’t just work your muscles; they create avenues for social engagement, personal development, and historical connections within your health journey. By embracing these experiences, you might just find a pathway to not only physical change but also a profound connection with those around you. So why not take a step forward today and see where your journey can lead?

02.26.2026

Dive Into the Cold Plunge Craze: Fun Trivia and Community Bonds Await

Update The Magic of Cold Plunges: More Than Just a Trend In a world where fitness trends come and go, cold plunges have emerged as a solid contender that not only invigorates the body but also stimulates engaging conversations among enthusiasts. Offering someone $500 to win cold plunge trivia, as seen in a recent social media video, encapsulates the fun and community-driven spirit surrounding this wellness practice. But what is it about this icy ritual that has piqued the interest of fitness lovers and everyday individuals alike?In 'Offering woman $500 if she wins cold plunge trivia,' the discussion dives into the intersection of fitness and community interaction, exploring key insights that sparked deeper analysis on our end. Why Cold Plunges Are Gaining Popularity Cold plunges, or ice baths, are gaining traction for their health benefits, including improved muscle recovery, reduced inflammation, and even enhanced mood. As more research sheds light on the physical and mental advantages of extreme temperature exposure, many find themselves diving into chilled waters to experience these benefits firsthand. The trivia challenge featured takes the communal enjoyment of cold plunges one step further, adding an element of friendly competition and curiosity. Interaction like this not only promotes healthy lifestyle choices but also encourages participants to dig deeper into the science and history of what makes these practices beneficial. The Thrill of Trivia: Engaging and Educating When was the last time you had fun while learning? The cold plunge trivia not only entices participants with the chance of winning $500 but also successfully engages people in sharing fascinating facts. This intersection of fun and education fosters deeper connections within the community and can spark discussions about health, wellness, and even local resources. Building Community Through Fun Challenges The vibrancy of local communities often shines brightest through events that are centered around shared experiences. The cold plunge trivia challenge exemplifies how fun and exciting activities can motivate individuals to come together. It illustrates an inspiring mindset where community members support each other’s well-being, sparking joy and fostering relationships in the process. Final Thoughts: Join the Cold Plunge Movement! Cold plunges might seem daunting at first, but they symbolize more than just a wellness trend. They represent a growing community of individuals who are committed to exploring new ways to enhance their health while building camaraderie. Next time you see an opportunity—be it through trivia or fitness challenge—take the plunge! Not only will you soak up the benefits, but you might just connect with a neighbor who shares your enthusiasm for helping one another thrive.

Discover How Neil Hershman Went From Customer to CEO of 16 Handles

From Customer to CEO: A Sweet Success Story

Innovative Flavor Strategy: Marketing with a Twist

Building Trust and Lifelong Loyalty

Lessons Learned: A Community-Centered Approach

Terms of Service

Privacy Policy

Core Modal Title