We had the good fortune of connecting with Robyn Strown and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Robyn, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The most important factor behind my success is perseverance and passion. I have always had a passion for helping others and after I was diagnosed with a brain tumor in February 2010, my life changed. I went from being a very active student in college- SGA, student athletic trainer and cheerleader at the illustrious Clark Atlanta University to someone who spent all their time at doctor’s appointments and in and out of the hospital. After moving back home to Memphis when my health got worse, I moved back to Georgia with my older sister and enrolled in University of North Georgia where I obtained my Associate and Bachelor of Science degrees. During my matriculation most of my classes were physical activity classes which required me to do some sort of exercising. At this time, I was undergoing chemotherapy and I started to notice a good change in my mood and appetite. As time went on I grew a love for fitness and I would like to think that fitness saved my life. So then, I decided I wanted to give back to the cancer population by getting my Exercise Cancer training certification to provide cancer survivors with a different outlook on their life. So, because I persevered through my storm and decided to help others do the same I have been successful in building my brand but I am no where near where I want to be. There is always room for growth.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I started Be Strown Fit with no direction, but my passion for holistic living guided me to the decision to encourage others to live a healthy, physically active life, however, life took me on a detour from my purpose-filled path that opened another business venture that was not my original plan. but I welcomed the unknown journey and gave it my all. The non-emergency medical transport business begin with two other partners and the start-up was challenging due to the unfortunate peak of a pandemic which caused many delays. After overcoming those tough learning experiences, business was flowing seamlessly. However, hiring and retaining employees was a reoccurring challenge. In order to maintain exceptional care, my business partners and I rose to the challenge and enrolled in an EMT course to be able to work within the business as employees as well. We set the bar high and created a solid foundation by building genuine relationships with our caregivers, patients, and social workers. In doing so, I was reminded of how passionate I was about serving others, and despite all the bumps in the road, I fell in love with the business so, Monday through Saturday I was up at 4 am serving our patients at 4 am-9 pm or later for 2 months straight. I was able to step out of that role for about a month with new employees, But turnover was still an issue and after resignations, I would be back to the same weekly routine. Despite the ups and downs, I woke up every day and worked and served those who needed my service also while taking advantage of my breaks throughout the day to do administrative work. The community that we serviced showed great appreciation and respect and business was flowing but, unfortunately, working as an employee, serving the community, and running behind the scene operations just became too much to endure. I closed the business with only one regret and that is the fact that our patients will no longer receive the level of care we provided. Now, I am focusing on re-branding Be Strown Fit, After overcoming brain cancer all I wanted to do was help others like me overcome the words “You have cancer” through fitness. So, I now have time to enhance my education through a Cancer Exercise Practitioner course that will provide me with the tools and resources to access and treat cancer survivors through fitness.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oooh, you got me on this one! I am a total workaholic, homebody, and major traveler. I am almost NEVER home and I rarely have visitors because I visit everyone else. It’s not on purpose, I love having visitors I just don’t get a lot of out-of-town visitors. However, when I do, I consult with my Atlanta by way of Houston concierge Jordyn Clark. We’re both from Memphis but she lived in Atlanta for over 10 years before relocating to Houston and she knows all the Atlanta hot spots and good eats. I am more of an outdoor adventure type of person. I like hiking, camping, cycling, water activities, and anything outdoors. So, that is what I consider fun and interesting. I know, it’s boring but that’s me!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My mother Norma is the epitome of selflessness. She has a heart of gold and without her witty advice and supporting me through everything no matter what, I would not be where I am today. So, shout-out to you girl for being my best friend and loving me unconditionally!

Instagram: bestrown_fit

Image Credits
Tre Henderson

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.