Podcast Summary: "Shiny New Clients!"
Episode: Convos with Course Creators: How Nikki Bergen Scaled Her Pilates Empire Online
Release Date: December 2, 2024

Host: Jenna Warriner
Guest: Nikki Bergen, Creator of the Bell Method and Bump Method, Inc.

1. Introduction to the Series and Guest

In this episode of Shiny New Clients!, host Jenna Warriner introduces a new series titled "Convos with Course Creators", aimed at inspiring and guiding listeners interested in creating and scaling their own courses. Jenna emphasizes the transition from service-based businesses to course creation as a natural progression for service providers looking to expand their reach.

Notable Quote:

"If you want to become a course creator, you absolutely can."
— Jenna Warriner [00:00]

2. Nikki Bergen’s Expertise and Mission

Nikki Bergen is introduced as the visionary behind the Bell Method and Bump Method, Inc. She specializes in Pilates instruction tailored for prenatal and postnatal women, focusing on core strength, recovery, and empowering women to navigate various life phases with confidence.

Notable Quote:

"Saving vaginas, my friend, that is. That is my jam."
— Nikki Bergen [02:45]

3. Scaling Her Business Online During the Pandemic

Nikki shares her journey of scaling her Pilates business, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially managing 25 in-person classes weekly, the pandemic forced her to pivot to online platforms. This transition not only helped maintain her business during lockdowns but also significantly expanded her reach—from 20 to 200 participants per class.

Notable Quote:

"The pandemic was really hard, but for me, it really was a kick in the ass to actually, like, it forced me."
— Nikki Bergen [06:44]

4. Enhancing Value Through Online Offerings

Adapting to an online format, Nikki recognized the need to compensate for the lack of in-person interaction. She integrated additional educational content, such as evidence-based theories, PowerPoint presentations, and expert interviews, to provide comprehensive value beyond physical workouts.

Notable Quote:

"I had to add something back and to add additional value. And for me, that was essentially more theory, more education stuff."
— Nikki Bergen [09:00]

5. Addressing Controversial Topics in Women’s Health

Nikki tackles sensitive and often controversial topics within women’s health, such as birthing positions. She emphasizes the importance of choice and autonomy, advocating for women to make informed decisions based on evidence rather than default medical practices.

Notable Quote:

"You should have complete autonomy over your birthing position... That's not controversial. That's just the fact. The truth."
— Nikki Bergen [12:06]

6. Navigating Authenticity and Personal Sharing

The conversation delves into the balance between authenticity and oversharing on social media. Nikki advocates for sharing personal experiences that align with her mission and add value to her audience, while maintaining boundaries around her private life, such as her relationships and family matters.

Notable Quote:

"I'm not sharing a lot about my kids. And then I don't share a lot about my, my relationship too."
— Nikki Bergen [18:19]

7. Comprehensive Programs and Offerings

Nikki outlines the diverse range of programs offered through the Bell Method, catering to women at various life stages—from preconception and pregnancy to postpartum and beyond. She also offers intense Pilates programs for those seeking advanced strength training.

Notable Quote:

"The Bell method has programs for you at all stages. So whether that's preconception, pregnancy, postpartum... I've got that for you, too."
— Nikki Bergen [15:40]

8. Emphasis on Advocacy and Education

A recurring theme in Nikki's approach is empowering women to advocate for their health needs. Through education and evidence-based practices, she equips her clients with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions about their bodies and health care.

Notable Quote:

"My mission is to help women advocate for themselves and for their needs."
— Nikki Bergen [11:43]

9. Conclusion and Where to Connect

Nikki provides information on how listeners can connect with her and access her resources. She directs them to her website, thebellmethod.com, her Instagram handle, and her podcast, We Go There Podcast, which delves deeper into women's health topics.

Notable Quote:

"You can find me on thebellmethod.com and that's the same handle on Instagram."
— Nikki Bergen [22:04]

Key Takeaways

• Adaptability: Nikki's ability to pivot her business model during the pandemic highlights the importance of adaptability in scaling a service-based business.

• Value Addition: Transitioning online necessitated the addition of educational content to provide comprehensive value beyond physical classes.

• Advocacy through Education: Empowering clients through knowledge fosters autonomy and informed decision-making, particularly in sensitive areas like women's health.

• Authentic Engagement: Sharing relevant personal experiences aligned with business values enhances authenticity without oversharing private aspects of life.

• Comprehensive Programs: Offering a wide range of programs ensures inclusivity and caters to diverse client needs across different life stages.

Final Thoughts

This episode provides valuable insights into scaling a specialized service-based business online, emphasizing the fusion of authentic engagement and comprehensive value addition. Nikki Bergen’s journey serves as an inspiring blueprint for course creators aiming to expand their reach while maintaining a strong, values-driven brand.

For more information and to connect with Nikki Bergen, visit thebellmethod.com or follow her on Instagram at @thebellmethod. Additionally, explore her We Go There Podcast for in-depth discussions on women’s health.