Staying fit and maintaining a healthy lifestyle takes passion, optimism, and of course, energy. Franchising is no different. Backed by these three qualities that are conducive to both physical fitness and success in the franchise industry, 3rd Degree Training and Actual Nutrition Co-Owner and Co-Founder Steve Collette has helped grow the brand to a thriving system of fitness centres with locations across P.E.I., New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. 3rd Degree Training and Actual Nutrition recently sold their first area development, taking a major step towards national expansion across Canada. Franchise Canada caught up with Steve for a little bit of Franchise Fun to see what he and his thriving fitness brand are all about!
The most interesting thing I’ve done recently is…
Delivering a philosophy of wellness speech to the philosophy/theology department at our local university.
In its best form, work is…
Fun, inspiring and full of challenges. If you love what you do you’ll never work a day in your life.
A good franchisee…
Loves the brand, follows the system, communicates, is coachable, and is always passionate about the concept they invested in. Your franchisees are your brand.
A good franchisor…
Listens, communicates, embraces change, and is a solid leader.
My top advice for prospective franchisees is…
Research your franchise options. In order to flourish you must love the franchise system you’re investing in.
My top advice for new franchisors is…
Align yourself with a great team including legal, accounting, and growth management. Create a profile of the franchisees that you feel would best match the vision you have for your brand.
The most important thing in life is…
Family. Once my son Lukin was born, everything changed. I’m fortunate to have my wife as my business partner, which can have its challenges at times but is so rewarding.
One of the most enjoyable things to do is…
Gaze at the night sky and embrace all the questions that you will have.
The hardest thing for me to do is…
Shut my brain off. It is both a gift and a curse.
My favourite drink is…
Of course, water is important but I would have to say my favorite alcoholic beverage is Gahan Iron Bridge Brown Ale.
If I could change one thing…
I would have studied philosophy as a younger man. One of the best things I’ve done for myself is starting that journey in my 30s.
If I could meet anyone…
Thomas Aquinas or Plato.
The person who has had the most positive influence on me as a businessperson is…
I can’t choose just one. I would have to say my father in law, Ray, Ken LeBlanc and the team at Property Guys.com have all been amazing mentors for me. I also have to give a shout out to Sherry McNeil who was my mentor with the CFA mentor/mentee program.
Canadian franchising is…
Booming. The future of franchising in Canada is very bright.
My franchise system began because…
I wanted to expand our awesome concept while creating business opportunities for other passionate entrepreneurs. It was a perfect fit.
The most positive influence on my life as a person is…
My son Lukin. When he was born a switch went off and watching him grow is a great privilege.
The key to success is…
Having grit, optimism, and surrounding yourself with the right people. Also knowing that failure is part of the journey and to learn from your mistakes.
I’d like my friends to describe me as…
Loyal, compassionate, and a true extrovert.
The accomplishment I look forward to the most is…
Having franchises in every municipality across Canada.
My personal motto is…
Well there’s a couple of them. Regret is a byproduct of not trying. If you’re the smartest person in the room you’re in the wrong room.
One necessary item on my life’s “to do” list is…
To complete the journey of getting a PhD in philosophy.