Detroit Mom’s Local Love series highlights local women and the businesses they have built. We love supporting small business! Today’s Local Love Spotlight belongs to Sandra Brand, owner of Motor City Gymnastics.
To start, we asked Sandra to share a few fun facts about herself with us!
- She is originally from Germany and has lived in the U.S. for 11 years, with time spent in Birmingham, AL, and Birmingham, MI, since 2019.
- She loves immersing herself in stories through audiobooks—they’re her favorite way to relax and learn.
- Her family is excited about planning to welcome a dog into their lives, and they look forward to the adventure ahead!
We asked her to share a little bit more about her business with us, too. Get to know Sandra and her business, Motor City Gymnastics, below!
How did you come up with the idea of your business, and how did you start?
“The idea for my trampoline and tumbling gymnastics business was inspired by my two daughters’ passion for trampoline gymnastics and my desire to create a place where kids of all ages and skill levels could grow, learn, and have fun. I noticed a gap in our community for an exclusive program focusing specifically on trampoline and tumbling, which are fantastic ways to build strength, coordination, and confidence. I wanted to create a space that welcomes everyone, from toddlers to competitive athletes, where they can progress at their own pace in a safe, supportive environment.
“Community is key. When I started this journey, it was crucial for me to understand my local community’s needs. I spent a significant amount of time researching and listening to what was needed. It was apparent there was a demand for a space that catered to all ages where you could come to develop skills, coordination, and build community in a safe and supportive environment. With that, I secured a location with enough space for trampolines, mats, and safety equipment. I knew I wanted Olympic-sized, high-quality, specialized equipment for students to fully enjoy and to recruit certified coaches who share my passion for working with kids.
“It was also important to me to develop various programs, from beginner classes to competitive team training. I wanted to ensure that there was something for every age and skill level. We launched with a mix of marketing efforts, including social media outreach and advertising campaigns, which helped build excitement and enroll our first students. I’m thrilled to share we have our first competitive team of eight and growing who will represent Motor City Gymnastics in this season’s U.S.T.A. competition.”
Knowing what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently when you were first starting out?
“If I would just start over again, I would put more emphasis on marketing our gym earlier and creating brand awareness prior to launch.”
What is the best business advice you’ve ever been given?
“The best business advice I’ve ever received is always to stay connected to your “why.” Remembering the purpose behind your business keeps you grounded and motivated, especially during challenging times.
“Another piece of invaluable advice is to focus on building relationships, not just transactions. In a service-oriented business like mine, creating a supportive community and building trust with families will be the key to long-term success.
“Finally, I am highly motivated to be adaptable. Listening to customer feedback and being willing to evolve will help the business grow and thrive.”
Have you faced adversity in business due to being a woman? How did you navigate that?
“I wouldn’t necessarily say that being a woman hindered my ability to chase my dreams. I stay focused on my goals, and letting the work speak for itself is the best approach to overcoming doubts or biases.”
How do you persevere in challenging times?
“I persevere in challenging times by focusing on actions that help me stay grounded and resilient. Going for a walk clears my mind and gives me a fresh perspective. I focus on moving forward, learning from each experience, and tackling obstacles head-on. Setting clear priorities helps me stay organized and ensures I put my energy into what truly matters. This combination keeps me motivated and steady, even in challenging moments.”
What impact do you want your business to have?
“I created an environment for students to feel supported, empowered, and motivated to reach their potential. So, I want my business to have a lasting impact on the lives of young people in our community by helping them build confidence, resilience, and a love for trampoline and tumbling gymnastics. I hope that through our programs, kids gain athletic abilities and learn life skills like teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. Ultimately, I want to contribute to a positive, active culture in our community, where families see our gym as a place that uplifts and inspires their children.”
What are the pros and cons of being a woman business owner in 2024?
“Being a woman business owner in 2024 comes with unique pros and cons. On the positive side, there’s a growing support network for women entrepreneurs, from grants and funding opportunities to mentorship programs and networking groups. Social awareness around women’s leadership has also led to an increased appreciation for diverse perspectives in business, which can help create a strong, loyal customer base. Additionally, being a woman in business can empower and inspire others, especially in fields like sports and fitness, where female representation is so impactful.
“However, challenges persist. Balancing business ownership with personal or family commitments can also be challenging, as societal expectations around caregiving often remain skewed. Women may also face pressure to “prove themselves” more than their male counterparts. Navigating these challenges requires resilience, but fortunately, with today’s resources and a supportive community, women business owners are increasingly equipped to succeed and thrive.”
What knowledge would you share with someone who wants to become an entrepreneur?
“If you’re thinking about becoming an entrepreneur, one of the most important things to know is that passion and resilience are essential. You’ll face challenges, setbacks, and unexpected twists, but staying connected to your vision will help you push through.
“Another valuable lesson is to do your research—know your industry, your market, and your customers’ needs inside and out. Building a network is also essential; connecting with other business owners, mentors, and community members can open doors and provide support when needed.
“Lastly, be prepared to learn constantly, adapt, and embrace change, as flexibility can often be the difference between growth and stagnation.”
What do you do for personal and professional development?
“For personal and professional development, I work with a business coach who helps me set and achieve strategic goals for my business. Additionally, I regularly listen to business, leadership, and coaching podcasts to stay inspired and informed about new trends and strategies. These resources help me continuously grow and improve as an entrepreneur. Here are a few I recommend to other entrepreneurs: Modern Wisdom podcast by Chris Williamson and the book The Women by Kristin Hannah.”
What mantra or quote do you live by?
“A mantra I live by is “Progress, not perfection.” This mantra reminds me that growth and improvement matter more than achieving flawless results. It keeps me focused on taking consistent, small steps forward. This mindset has been incredibly helpful, especially when challenges arise. It reminds me to learn from each experience and keep moving forward, knowing that every bit of progress is valuable.”
What’s your favorite place in Detroit or Michigan?
“The Detroit Riverwalk is my favorite place in Detroit because it perfectly blends natural beauty and urban charm. It’s a peaceful escape where I can enjoy breathtaking views of the river, the Detroit skyline, and even across Canada. The wide, open space makes it easy to walk, bike, or relax by the water, which is especially enjoyable on sunny days. It’s also a place where the city’s revitalization is evident, with art, parks, and recreational areas that make it feel vibrant and welcoming. Whether I’m there for a peaceful stroll or to take in an event, the Riverwalk is always a refreshing place to unwind.
“One of my favorite places in Michigan is Sleeping Bear Dunes. The views of Lake Michigan from the top of the dunes are absolutely stunning, and I love the mix of adventure and relaxation it offers—whether hiking, climbing the dunes, or just enjoying the beach. It’s a place that feels both grounding and inspiring, perfect for recharging.”
Where can our readers find you on social media?
You can follow Motor City Gymnastics on Facebook, Instagram, and on their website!
