Why This Athlete Couple Chose To Open a KidStrong Franchise

Shaun Wade has spent years competing at the highest level of football, currently playing in his fifth NFL season with the Chicago Bears. But off the field, he and his wife Jordan are focused on a different kind of goal: building kids up from the inside out. The couple is set to open two KidStrong locations in Georgia, with the first coming to Snellville and a second following in Lawrenceville.

The Wades were introduced to KidStrong not as investors, but as parents. After trying several programs for their son, Shiloh, nothing felt quite right until they walked into a KidStrong center in Johns Creek. From day one, they saw something different.

“When we stepped into KidStrong and I saw them pull Shiloh aside and say, ‘Hi, what's your name? Shake my hand. Look me in the eye.’ That just made me smile because that's real life,” Shaun said. “Especially as a man, you have to look somebody in the eye and let them know that you're confident. Since that day, I fell in love with KidStrong.”

Jordan, a former collegiate high jumper and heptathlete who also represented Team USA, had taken time away from her previous job to raise their son full-time. But after three years at home, she was ready to get back into the workforce and wanted to do something that combined her passion for child development and sports. As a mom with a background in psychology and performance, KidStrong’s mission hit home.

“We became members and we felt like it aligned not only with our values but with what we want our kid to be raised in,” she said. “At the end of the day, it's not only setting him up for athletic success, but you can use those same principles in everyday life and whatever he plans to do.”

Rather than start something from scratch, Jordan explored franchising and quickly saw the potential to create impact through a proven system. KidStrong’s Discovery Day made the decision clear. Even without a business background, she left feeling equipped and energized to take on the challenge. “You can’t teach passion, so that was already there,” she said.

Jordan will lead day-to-day operations at both centers, while Shaun contributes when his football schedule allows. Together, they want to make their locations more than just programs — they want to create community hubs where families feel supported and kids grow stronger mentally, emotionally and physically.

“We want to create a tight-knit community where families feel like our facility is their second home,” Jordan said. “We want them to know that their child will benefit every day.” 

The Wades care about helping kids grow up confident and strong. For Shaun, the way KidStrong teaches kids to handle both wins and setbacks really stood out. “There are no participation awards in life,” he said. “Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, and you have to learn how to handle both.”

Opening a KidStrong isn’t just a career move; it’s personal. Jordan wants to show her son and other kids what it looks like to pursue a dream with purpose. “There’s nothing like seeing your kid watch you chase your dreams,” she said.

Their advice to others considering franchise ownership? Know your passion and don’t be afraid to take a risk. “You can own a franchise,” Jordan said. “You don’t need a fancy background — just a real reason for doing it.”

To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong.