Today we’d like to introduce you to Shay Palmer.
Hi Shay, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My yoga journey started at an early age. As a former high school and collegiate athlete, yoga was recommended to me as a way to increase flexibility/mobility, reduce injury and sharpen my focus. Naturally, I dove in headfirst thinking it would give me an upper hand, but little did I know at the time how it would shape my future and career to the degree it has. I saw the personal impact it had on my life, and I felt a strong pull to share that with others.
Over the past 12 years in the yoga industry, I’ve had the pleasure of teaching full-time for incredible studios, departments, and organizations all over South Florida and beyond. While this fulfilled me to a degree, my entrepreneurial spirit was always desiring more. That undeniable pull set my sights on opening my studio.
After 9 months of searching for the ideal location, I discovered a vacant building with good bones in the heart of downtown Oakland Park. I knew this place could turn my vision into a reality. The buildout process had many setbacks and challenges, but I was determined to create a studio where people could come as they are and receive the benefits of yoga and other movement modalities without feeling intimidated or unwelcome.
Mission Yoga is the embodiment of that; a place that provides a supportive and beautiful environment to improve the health and happiness of the Oakland Park community and beyond. Mission Yoga is a very “come as you are and take what you need” type of place… with a non-intimidating and non-dogmatic approach to yoga. It is my continuous goal and “mission” to uplift and improve the well-being of every individual that walks through Mission’s doors.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The start-up had many challenges. Most notable was the buildout of Mission. The process was extensive due to the condition of the building. It was truly an empty shell. It was also during the pandemic which made materials difficult to source, contractors hard to pin down and the permitting process incredibly slow.
Many times during the buildout phase, I’d question the sustainability of a brick-and-mortar studio while everything seemed to be shifting to a digital platform, but I trusted my gut and decided the risk was well worth it. I’m glad I stayed the course. Another challenge was hiring the right team and fostering a culture. It’s one thing to be hired at a company where you are brought into a culture, it’s another thing to create it entirely.
I didn’t want to open a studio that lacked cohesiveness, community, or purpose. I knew I had to clearly define Mission’s values, lead by example, effectively communicate my vision, and hire intentionally. I wasn’t just looking for a great yoga teacher, I was looking for individuals with shared core values and similar growth mindsets. This idea of “culture” is an ongoing process, one that I believe drives success.
Pricing:
- 1 week unlimited $49
- single class $22
- 1 month (in person/digital) unlimited $149
- First Responder Membership $112
- 5 class pack $100 & 10 class pack $180
Contact Info:
- Website: missionyogafl.com
- Instagram: @mission.yoga
- Facebook: @Mission Yoga Oakland Park
Image Credits
Maxson Media
