Nazy, thanks so much for joining us today for this interview, I am excited for my audience to learn more about you and your business. I met Nazy, years back – 2019 I think it was! We immediately connected, we became friends and a few years later I helped her design her bring her website vision to life!

Tell us about your business. What inspired you to start it?

KARDIOJAM was born out of a desire to serve my community during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic. It started as a way to offer people, especially women, an outlet to release stress and stay active during uncertain times. As it began to grow organically, I quickly realized that women were craving more than just a workout—they were searching for a safe space where they could express themselves freely, take up space, and build confidence. The fitness industry often promotes a narrow and unrealistic picture of what fitness should look like, leaving many women feeling disconnected and excluded. This is where KARDIOJAM steps in. Our mission is to create an environment where both physical AND emotional well-being are equally celebrated. KARDIOJAM isn’t just about fitness; it’s about community, acceptance, and women empowerment. At KARDIOJAM, women are encouraged to take an active role in their fitness journey. They can request their favorite songs for me to choreograph, and when they’re ready, they have the opportunity to lead the class, fostering a sense of ownership, liberation, and self-expression. It’s a space created by women, for women, where fitness is just one of the many ways we come together to uplift and support each other.

How has the community played a role in your business journey?

The community has played an essential role in the journey of KARDIOJAM, helping shape and grow it into what it is today. From the very beginning, the support and feedback I received from the women who joined the classes were invaluable. They showed up, and made the space come alive with their energy and enthusiasm. Their sense of belonging and connection to the classes motivated me to keep going and refine the experience. As KARDIOJAM grew, the community became more than just participants—they became contributors. Their input on music choices, choreography ideas, and what they were looking for in a safe and empowering space helped me continually evolve. The women in this community not only created a vibrant atmosphere, but they also empowered each other, lifting one another up and offering support, which in turn fueled the growth of the business. Over time, I realized that KARDIOJAM was not just my vision; it was a shared vision that the community helped bring to life. Their desire for connection, confidence, and personal growth has been the driving force behind everything we do, making it clear that KARDIOJAM is not just a fitness program—it’s a movement. The community has been the backbone of this journey, and it’s because of their energy, support, and passion that KARDIOJAM continues to thrive.

What’s something most people don’t know about your business?

One thing most people don’t know about KARDIOJAM is that it’s not just a fitness program—it’s a space for powerful personal transformation, not only for the women who participate but for me as the owner as well. While many see it as just a fun, energetic workout, the true essence of KARDIOJAM lies in its ability to help women break through emotional and social barriers. It’s a place where women are encouraged to push past self-doubt, embrace their uniqueness, take up space, be bold and find confidence not only in their bodies but also in their voices. What many don’t realize is that KARDIOJAM has also helped me work through my own limiting beliefs and insecurities as the founder. Starting and growing this business challenged me in ways I never expected, and it forced me to confront my own fears of inadequacy and self-doubt. But, just as the community supports and uplifts each other, they have unknowingly helped me along my own journey of growth. We work through it all together, as a collective, supporting one another and creating an environment of mutual empowerment. So, while KARDIOJAM may look like a dance fitness class on the surface, it’s truly about creating a supportive, healing, and transformative space where fitness is the result of a deeper journey of self-empowerment and self-love—for both the women who join and for me as well.

What’s one challenge you’ve faced as a local business owner, and how did you overcome it?

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced as a local business owner is building awareness and trust within the community, especially since I run KARDIOJAM as a sole entity, separate from a larger gym. When I first started KARDIOJAM, there were so many unknowns, particularly since it was born during the pandemic. People can be hesitant to try something new, especially with the rise of online workouts and virtual fitness classes. To overcome this, I focused on building genuine connections with the people in my community. I make a point to engage with local groups, collaborate with other small businesses, and offer events and classes to give people a firsthand experience of what KARDIOJAM is all about. As word began to spread, more and more people started realizing that the vibe of in-person classes is unmatched by online experiences. The more women tried our classes, the more they began to appreciate the true value of small, boutique-style settings where they feel seen, heard, and receive personalized attention, tailored to their needs and desires. Building trust takes time, but by staying authentic, consistent, and always showing up for my community, I’ve been able to foster meaningful relationships that have fueled KARDIOJAM’s growth. The true power lies in our community—in our authenticity and the love we share for one another. That connection is priceless, and it will always help us rise to the top. As a result, people don’t just trust KARDIOJAM; they become passionate advocates, and that sense of belonging has become one of the strongest pillars of KARDIOJAM’s success.

What’s been your most exciting collaboration or project?

My most exciting collaborations and projects have been the ones that allowed me to connect with other passionate, like-minded people who share the same values. Working with small business owners in the community has been incredibly rewarding, as we’ve been able to support each other and create something special together. These collaborations have not only helped expand our reach but have also deepened the sense of community that KARDIOJAM thrives on. I’ve also had the privilege of working with coaches and mentors who have helped me grow both personally and professionally. Their guidance has been invaluable in shaping the direction of my business, providing insights and strategies that I would never have thought of on my own. Learning from their experiences and advice has been crucial in helping me scale KARDIOJAM while staying true to my mission. Connecting with social media influencers who speak my “love language” has also been a game-changer. It’s been exciting to collaborate with individuals who are aligned with the vision of empowerment, confidence, and authenticity. Together, we’ve been able to amplify KARDIOJAM’s message, reach new audiences, and inspire more women to step into their power. These collaborations have not only been fun but have also fueled my passion for what I do. Seeing how these partnerships have blossomed, creating a ripple effect of empowerment, is definitely one of the most exciting parts of running KARDIOJAM!

What’s your favorite Raleigh spot to work from?

My favorite spot to work from in Raleigh really depends on the vibe I’m going for that day! I love working from cozy coffee shops around the city—there’s something about the energy and creativity that flows in those spaces that helps me get into the zone. When I need to get into a deep focus mode or have something creative to work on, I also love spending time at the dance studio. It inspires me to keep pushing forward and stay motivated. But honestly, nothing beats the comfort and peace of my own home. When I need a quiet space to think or get through the details of running the business, I find that working from home lets me focus and be in my own element. It’s the perfect place to really reflect on my goals and take the time to plan my next steps. And when I need some fresh inspiration, the beach is one of my absolute favorite places to go. There’s something about the peaceful energy of the ocean that helps me reset and spark new ideas. It’s the perfect place to get away from the hustle and let my mind flow freely.

Thank you so much for your time today! We have loved getting to know you and your business more! For those that want to connect with KardioJam make sure to check them out on instagram, and their website!