Links
- Watch on YouTube.
- Listen on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
- Meet Brian at HomeGymCon.
- Use code GGE to save from Weight It Out
Description & Outline
In this episode of the podcast, host Jake interviews Brian Fleck, the founder of Weight It Out. Fleck discusses his journey into gym equipment manufacturing, the inception of his company during the pandemic, and the unique features of his weight plates, which cater to home gym enthusiasts and strongman competitors. He elaborates on his product development, the challenges faced with pricing and materials, and his vision for future growth, including potential collaborations with other companies.
- (0:00) Introduction to Brian Fleck and His Journey
- (2:32) The Birth of Weight It Out
- (5:28) Design and Market Adaptation
- (8:25) Customer Insights and Market Demand
- (11:10) Target Audience and Product Benefits
- (14:16) Customization and Product Lineup
- (17:26) Challenges and Lessons Learned
- (20:08) Going Viral: Impact on Business
- (23:06) Surprises in the Fitness Industry
- (25:40) Collaboration Challenges and Brand Integrity
- (26:05) Innovative Bumper Plate Design and Development
- (31:26) Target Audience and Customer Feedback
- (40:46) Involvement in Competitions and Marketing Strategies
- (46:11) Innovative Sales Strategies for Home Gym Equipment
- (48:20) Collaboration Opportunities in the Fitness Industry
- (52:12) Marketing Challenges for Small Manufacturers
- (55:39) Building a Community Through Shared Marketing Efforts
- (1:00:50) Sustaining Growth in a Competitive Market
- (1:07:23) Future Aspirations and Market Expansion
Key Points
Origin of Weight It Out
Brian Fleck shares how he started Weight It Out during the pandemic, identifying a lack of available gym equipment. Initially producing weight plates for personal use, he discovered a significant market demand that led him to pursue manufacturing more actively.
Unique Product Features
Fleck’s weight plates are characterized by their solid steel design and space-saving attributes, making them particularly appealing for home gym owners. He discusses how design features like handles and thickness differentiate his products from competitors.
Challenges Faced
The conversation reflects on challenges unique to the gym equipment industry, particularly fluctuating steel prices, and how those have affected business operations. Fleck emphasizes the importance of adaptability and creativity in product development.
Community Engagement
Fleck discusses the supportive nature of the home gym community and highlights how direct feedback from customers has shaped his offerings. He values input from experienced lifters to refine and expand his product line.
Future Aspirations
Looking forward, Fleck aims to grow Weight It Out by expanding its product range and establishing partnerships with other small manufacturers, while focusing on reaching broader markets like bodybuilding and educational institutions.