A Business Born from Passion

Jenny McCuiston, a former competitive swimmer, always dreamed of going to the Olympics. After a successful career in competitive swimming, she transitioned into teaching swimming lessons at a local country club, realizing a strong demand for quality swimming lessons in her community. This realization sparked her passion project – Goldfish Swim School.

Overcoming Challenges in Starting a Business

Jenny's journey into the world of business was not without its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles was securing funding, as banks were initially hesitant to support a young, aspiring entrepreneur. But Jenny's determination and unwavering belief in her vision ultimately paid off.

• Finding funding for a startup is a common challenge faced by many new business owners.
• Jenny's initial experiences with banks highlighted the need for persistence and resilience in pursuing business goals.

The Importance of Research and Expertise

Jenny recognized the significance of research in establishing a successful business. She and her husband embarked on a nationwide tour of swim schools to understand the industry, identify key success factors, and gain a competitive edge. This research led to the development of the Science of SwimPlay® Curriculum, which focuses on teaching swimming and water safety skills through guided play, setting Goldfish Swim School apart from its competitors.

• Jenny's commitment to research highlights the importance of understanding your industry to create a successful business.
• Investing time in gaining expertise and developing a unique offering can be a crucial factor in setting your business apart from the competition.

Building a Successful Swim School Franchise

Goldfish Swim School has grown into a multi-million dollar swim school franchise with over 125 locations in the United States and Canada. Jenny attributes this success to her passion for teaching swimming, her commitment to providing quality lessons, and her focus on building a strong brand and a safe learning environment.

• Jenny's journey showcases the potential of turning a passion into a thriving business.
• The success of Goldfish Swim School highlights the importance of providing high-quality services, building a strong brand, and establishing a trusted reputation.

The Importance of Water Safety

Jenny emphasizes the importance of water safety and promoting the lifesaving skill of swimming. She initiated a partnership between Goldfish Swim School and the USA Swimming Foundation to raise funds and resources for swim lesson providers across the country. This partnership demonstrates Jenny's commitment to making a positive impact on the community beyond just running a successful business.

• Jenny's focus on water safety reflects her dedication to creating a positive social impact through her business.
• The partnership with the USA Swimming Foundation highlights the potential of businesses to contribute to important social causes.

Lessons Learned from Building a Business

Jenny's journey as an entrepreneur has taught her valuable lessons about navigating challenges, the importance of research and expertise, and the impact of passion in building a successful business. Her story inspires other aspiring business owners to embrace their passions, persevere through challenges, and use their businesses to make a positive impact.

• Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.
• Invest time in research and development to build a strong foundation for your business.
• Harness the power of your passion to drive your business and inspire others.