When opportunity knocks, most people say no the first time. For Travis Matheny, that happened twice. Burn Boot Camp reached out about a franchise, and he passed. But the third time, something clicked.
Fast forward, Travis is now the co owner of Burn Boot Camp Williamsville, a thriving fitness community known for its energy, childcare support, and culture of high fives. His journey shows how doubts can turn into direction, and how leadership is less about being right and more about creating the right outcomes.
Here is what entrepreneurs can learn from his story.
1. The Power of Saying Yes
Travis almost missed the chance to own his business. He was studying to become a physical therapist assistant and training in commercial gyms when Burn Boot Camp called.
“I told them no twice. The third time, I finally decided to explore it. Call it God or fate, but I realized this was my path.”
Sometimes opportunity does not come wrapped in perfect timing. It comes when you are willing to explore.
2. Lessons From a Leadership Mistake
Early on, Travis mishandled feedback about a new trainer.
“I went in guns blazing, and when it was over the owner looked at me and said, ‘That was harsh.’ Then she asked me, ‘What outcome were you hoping for?’”
That question changed how Travis leads. Instead of reacting, he now pauses and asks, what outcome do I want here?
3. Accept That Not Everyone Will Grow With You
As the business expanded, not every trainer or team member stayed. Life changes, schedules shift, and sometimes the pace of the business does not match the pace of the individual.
“It is tough, but our lives just take on different paths. What matters is having honest conversations early and often.”
For business owners, this is a reminder that turnover is not always failure. It is a natural part of growth.
4. Systems Prevent Chaos
Like many entrepreneurs, Travis was drowning in group texts and scattered communication. The fix was simple but powerful.
“We finally bucked up and got Basecamp for all communication. That was a game changer.”
Clear systems free up mental energy to focus on what really matters.
5. Culture Is the True Differentiator
Burn Boot Camp is not just another gym. It is community. The difference is felt in the details.
- Complimentary childcare so parents can actually show up
- High fives are mandatory
- Trainers held to some of the highest standards in the industry
“We want this to be the one place people love showing up, no matter their age or fitness level.”
6. Personal Growth Fuels Business Growth
Travis invests in coaching, continuous learning, and accountability.
“The best advice I ever got was to look in the mirror first. I can only control my effort and attitude.”
When leaders grow, the business follows.
Why This Matters for Business Owners
Travis’s journey shows that entrepreneurship is not about having it all figured out. It is about:
- Saying yes when the right opportunity comes
- Learning from mistakes instead of repeating them
- Putting systems in place so the business does not depend on chaos
- Building culture that sets you apart from competitors
- Growing yourself so your business can grow too
📩 Connect with Travis Matheny
Email: travis.burn.matheny@gmail.com
Instagram: @burnbootcampwilliamsville or @travismatheny
Location: Burn Boot Camp Williamsville – 5221 Main Street, Williamsville NY