KidStrong Franchising, LLC

Childhood developmental delays are on the rise, and parents are looking for better enrichment activities — especially options that go beyond traditional team sports or excessive screen time. For entrepreneurs, this demand represents a unique opportunity.&nbsp;<a href="https://franchise.kidstrong.com/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=why-doctors-love-kidstrong-franchise-2730198" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">KidStrong</a>, the trailblazing kids' enrichment franchise that addresses this need, is positioned for success. And with a powerful endorsement from the medical community, the brand is even further differentiated as a standout investment opportunity.“I have been a pediatrician for over 10 years, and since the beginning of the COVID pandemic, I’ve witnessed increasing developmental delays in children,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlon-brathwaite-53602689/?utm_source=1851franchise.com&utm_medium=article&utm_campaign=why-doctors-love-kidstrong-franchise-2730198" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Marlon Brathwaite</a>, a pediatrician and&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong/info">KidStrong</a> area developer in South Bend, Indiana. “Having received my pediatric training prior to the COVID pandemic, and later establishing my general pediatrics practice during the pandemic, childhood social, emotional, and developmental stimulation seemed to decline, and I saw increasing screen exposure and more sedentary lifestyles in my patients.”&nbsp;“I work with a lot of kids who are medically fragile at the start of their lives. Some of them are in the NICU for a really long time," said Kimberly Brathwaite, a neonatologist and co-area developer of KidStrong South Bend. “We can make appropriate medical decisions to improve their health and survival, but we know that if their developmental and physical stimulation is not what it needs to be, they will not have great outcomes. It’s a big feat and accomplishment to ‘graduate’ from the NICU, but their lives really start when they get out. Having the platform for those kids to maximize their potential is so important.”Post-COVID, a lot of parents' and children's behaviors have remained, resulting in fewer interactions and increased screen time. KidStrong is perfectly positioned to fill this gap.<h2>More Than Developing Skills, KidStrong Encourages Empowerment</h2>“I’m passionate about fitness, children and the community, and KidStrong is the perfect combination,” Marlon said. “They’re teaching kids to be mentally tough and brave. It’s a great concept to address all aspects of kids’ development.”The brand’s approach to child development means kids participate in well-rounded development programs that build future-ready kids, not just fitness activities. This is where the brand’s enrichment philosophy shines, offering a distinct advantage in a crowded market.“A lot of kids' activities will teach a skill,” Kimberly said. “A soccer class might teach you to dribble, but two years later, you may never use that skill again. KidStrong teaches skills that, no matter what you do in life, you’ll use.”These empowerment skills include things that are needed to complete everyday tasks, like ordering at a restaurant or making new friends, and working as a team. Developing a child’s confidence in their own decision-making skills and teaching them to speak clearly and make eye contact will help them win at life now and in the future. Other skills like introducing oneself with a firm handshake, speaking in front of a group, and serving as the leader of a group are also developed through KidStrong.“It’s about being confident and having the mindset that you can do anything,” Kimberly said. “That’s what a lot of kids are missing. They don’t interact with the world. KidStrong helps them step out of their shell.”<h2>A Forward-Thinking Model for a Modern Need</h2>The Brathwaites, who have enrolled their own children in numerous activities, recognize that KidStrong offers something fundamentally different, and something that will be more enduring than fitness fads that come and go.“We love that KidStrong is always thinking, ‘What is the next thing we can do?’” Marlon said. “From the standpoint of what else we can offer, they’ll explore things like getting physical therapists to provide more programming ideas or ways programs can be adapted to be more friendly to neurodiverse kids.”This helps the brand stay relevant as it continues to meet the changing needs of families and creates an environment that is both challenging and accepting.For medical professionals, an approach that caters to the development of the whole child is a refreshing new resource. For prospective franchise owners, the combination of a purposeful model and an in-demand industry is a powerful formula. With KidStrong, you’re investing in a solution to a well-documented and still-growing need, providing a vital community resource that helps children become physically healthy, emotionally strong, and developmentally prepared for what lies ahead.To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong/info.">https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong/info.</a>&nbsp;

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Why Doctors Endorse and Invest in the KidStrong Franchise

1851 Franchise

For two doctors turned franchise owners, KidStrong provides a solution to address widespread developmental delays and build confidence and empowerment in kids.

This brand page has been paid for by KIDSTRONG FRANCHISING, LLC. Content within this page that is paid will showcase a Sponsored icon. This means the brand has engaged 1851 FRANCHISE to write the content. Content without the Sponsored Icon is aggregated media placements the brand earned. Questions can be sent to editorial@1851franchise.com

A Clinical Endorsement: Why Medical Professionals Endorse and Invest in KidStrong

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As&nbsp;<a href="https://franchise.kidstrong.com/">KidStrong</a>, the science-based child development franchise helping kids grow stronger, smarter and more confident, continues its rapid national expansion, one market stands out as a prime opportunity for growth: San Diego, California.&nbsp;“California in itself is just an economic powerhouse,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-patrick-49576a90">Josh Patrick</a>, Senior Vice President of Franchise Development at KidStrong. “You have some of the most densely populated areas with active families. The median age of San Diego is around 35 years old, which is our target customer.”&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong">KidStrong</a> already operates six locations across California, with eight more in development throughout 2026. In San Diego County, the brand’s Carlsbad center has proven there’s a significant appetite for its unique blend of physical, social and cognitive training.“We have a location on the northern side of San Diego that does very well,” Patrick said. “We’re in the market and we see that potential.”&nbsp;<h2>A Strong Market Fit for KidStrong’s Mission</h2>The brand estimates up to 10 potential locations across the greater San Diego area, stretching from Oceanside down through Mission Valley, including target neighborhoods such as Encinitas, Santee and Carmel Mountain Ranch, where a new center is already under development.“The families here are health-conscious and always looking for things to do with their kids,” Patrick said. “That’s exactly where KidStrong fits in — we offer something fun, impactful and science-based .”Patrick noted that the Carmel Mountain Ranch location, led by existing franchisees and former members Gabe and Melissa Urib, is expected to open next year. The couple had previously driven 45 minutes each way to attend classes in Carlsbad — a strong validation of the program’s value and the regional demand.<h2>Growing the KidStrong Footprint in California</h2>KidStrong’s momentum in California reflects the brand’s broader national success. The brand has experienced record-breaking growth, including&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong/kidstrong-q3-growth-2025-2730649#featured">45 new franchise licenses sold in Q3 alone and 114 year-to-date</a>.&nbsp;From its roots in Kentucky to more than 170 open locations and 75,000 kids coming to class weekly, KidStrong has redefined what it means to invest in child development. The program combines physical training, character building and cognitive skill development for kids aged 1–9, led by certified coaches using a research-backed curriculum and patented equipment.“San Diego is exactly the type of market where KidStrong thrives,” Patrick said. “It’s full of engaged parents who want to help their kids develop confidence, leadership and resilience. Our centers become a hub for families who want to do something meaningful together.”<h2>A Scalable, Purpose-Driven Franchise Model</h2>With investment levels ranging from&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong/franchise-deep-dive-kidstrong-franchise-costs-fees-profit-and-data-2727179">$448,100 to $600,000 and average annual revenues exceeding $1 million for top-performing centers</a>, KidStrong offers franchise partners a purpose-driven business with strong ROI potential. The brand’s efficient 3,000–4,000 square-foot model, proprietary curriculum and franchise-owner-first culture make it an attractive option for entrepreneurs seeking both impact and income.“We could develop eight to ten locations in San Diego County,” Patrick said. “We’ve already seen proof of concept here, and the data tells us this market is ready for expansion.”As KidStrong continues to grow across North America, San Diego represents one of the most promising frontiers for the brand — a place where fitness, education and family values converge to create lasting impact for the next generation.For more information about franchising with KidStrong, visit<a href="https://www.kidstrongfranchise.com">&nbsp;</a><a href="https://franchise.kidstrong.com/">https://franchise.kidstrong.com/</a>&nbsp;

Why KidStrong is Targeting San Diego for Franchise Growth 

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FRISCO, Texas —&nbsp;<a href="https://franchise.kidstrong.com/">KidStrong</a>, the science-based child development franchise helping kids grow stronger, smarter and more confident, announced another record-breaking quarter marked by major expansion, record attendance and continued franchise momentum.“It was a big quarter,” said&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-patrick-49576a90">Josh Patrick</a>, senior vice president of franchise development. “We’ve traditionally been a suburban brand, but now we’re starting to enter more urban markets. We opened our first location in Manhattan. The center is already growing quickly, and we have two more locations coming soon to that area. It’s a really exciting step forward for us.”In total, KidStrong opened 10 new locations in Q3 across the United States and Canada, including strong growth in the Southeast. The brand also signed 10 new franchise partners and saw four existing franchise owners acquire additional territories, bringing the total to 45 franchise licenses sold this quarter alone.“We’ve seen great traction in key markets like Atlanta,” Patrick said. “It was a really strong quarter for us overall — a mix of new franchise partners joining the system and existing ones doubling down. That tells you a lot about confidence in the brand.”Year-to-date, KidStrong has sold 114 franchise licenses and signed 37 new franchise partners, with 12 existing franchise owners expanding into additional territories.As KidStrong grows, so does the impact of its programming. The brand saw its highest attendance records in company history during Q3.“For all of our members attending classes, participation is at its highest it’s ever been,” Patrick said. “It shows that what they’re getting from the program is valuable. We’re seeing that reflected in our net promoter scores as well. The experience is resonating, and parents are seeing real results.”KidStrong’s curriculum combines physical, cognitive and character development for kids ages 1 to 11. Backed by a team of experts in child development, occupational therapy and sports performance, the program helps children build strength, confidence and leadership skills during their most critical developmental years.Looking ahead, Patrick says the brand is focused on continuing its nationwide expansion with a clear long-term vision.“We should end the year with about 177 open locations, which will mean roughly 43 new centers opened in 2025,” Patrick said. “Next year, we expect to open 60 units, and it’s really shaping up to be a great year. 2026 should be our best year yet, and we’re building the infrastructure to handle 15 to 20 openings per quarter. Q4 is setting the pace for what’s ahead.”From its roots in a Kentucky gym to more than 150 open locations and 65,000 kids served weekly, KidStrong’s growth story continues to accelerate. With a lean, scalable model and purpose-driven mission, the brand is redefining what it means to invest in youth enrichment — and the momentum shows no signs of slowing down.For more information on franchising with KidStrong, visit<a href="https://www.kidstrongfranchise.com"> www.kidstrongfranchise.com</a>.About KidStrongKidStrong was founded in 2015 by Matt and Megin Sharp because they wanted a program focused on developing strength and confidence for their daughter Ella and other kids like her. Together, they partnered in 2017 with Matt's best friend and Co-Founder Lincoln Brown to help grow the program. Later, Megan Stein joined as a Co-Founder. Together they developed KidStrong, a science-based kid's training program focused on brain, physical and character development for ages walking through 11 years old. KidStrong offers a science-based curriculum that is parent-focused and taught by professionals to help accelerate milestone development and promote social and emotional strength. Today, KidStrong has grown exponentially, with more than 400 franchises sold to date since the company opened its first center in 2015. Over the next five years, KidStrong plans to have 500 open centers nationwide. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kidstrong.com">www.kidstrong.com</a>.

KidStrong Opens Manhattan With 45 New Franchises in Q3

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Unlocking Superpowers: How KidStrong Is Building the Next Generation of Confident Kids — and Thriving Franchise Owners

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<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-wade-18b732137/">Shaun Wade</a> 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&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-wade-25bb1521b/">Jordan</a> are focused on a different kind of goal: building kids up from the inside out. The couple is set to open two&nbsp;<a href="https://franchise.kidstrong.com/">KidStrong</a> locations in Georgia, with the first coming to Snellville and a second following in Lawrenceville.The Wades were introduced to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong/info">KidStrong</a> 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.”&nbsp;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&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong.">https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong.</a>&nbsp;

image of kidstrong franchisees NFL player Shaun Wade and his former Team USA Heptathlete wife Jordan

Why This Athlete Couple Chose To Open a KidStrong Franchise

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Franchising for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/nghia-steve-do-9a080a70/">Nghia “Steve” Do</a> and Sabrina Du is less about spreadsheets and more about family. After a decade of long-distance marriage split between Asia and the United States, they chose a path that would bring them under one roof and let them build something together. As Steve put it when he moved stateside after their second son, Jarvis, was born, “Let’s pause my track and find something we can do together.”That commitment snapped into focus during&nbsp;<a href="https://franchise.kidstrong.com/">KidStrong’s</a> discovery process. When a last-minute opening came up, Sabrina booked Steve’s flight and hotel while caring for their newborn so he could be in the room the next day. They ultimately chose&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong/info">KidStrong</a> — a science-based youth enrichment franchise — because its structured, curriculum-driven model mirrors their values around child development, fitness, and community in their Tampa neighborhood.They’re opening close to home so they can be present for parents and kids — and for their own children. Steve says the business is ultimately about creating space for their family to thrive. “We want a business where both kids can grow and benefit,” he said.Sabrina’s push toward entrepreneurship set the plan in motion years ago — and still guides their decisions today. With KidStrong, they believe they’ve found the right vehicle — one that aligns with their purpose, supports their lifestyle and turns a long-distance story into a local, hands-on future.Steve and Sabrina sat down with 1851 Franchise to discuss their life before franchising, their journey with KidStrong and their plans to grow the brand in the Tampa Bay area. Here’s what they had to say:1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What do you want us to know?Steve Do: We’re first-generation immigrants. We met in grad school at Temple University in Philadelphia, got engaged a month or two after we met and then got married. I built my career in Asia for the past 10 years while Sabrina returned to the U.S. to earn her doctorate and start teaching. We lived long-distance for a decade. Our first son, Dennis, bounced between Asia and the U.S. as we traded caregiving. Our second son, Jarvis, was born this year, and we decided that was enough long distance. I want to be next to Dennis to guide him through his teenage years and, together with Sabrina, ensure that Jarvis will grow within the presence of love from both mom and dad.&nbsp;We chose to base in Tampa Florida not only because Sabrina changed her job to the University of South Florida, but also because of the kid and family friendly environment. We live in Westchase, about 10 minutes from our first location.Sabrina Du: Our story is “unordinary and crazy” in some ways. We got engaged before some classmates even knew each other, then lived apart for 10 years, and now we have two kids. Focusing on kids is really what brought us together, and we want to bring that same “unordinary” commitment to running KidStrong now.1851: What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?Steve: We’ve been living an American dream – we received an amazing U.S. education and became so-called high achievers — I worked for Citibank, McKinsey &amp; Co. and now Visa Inc.&nbsp; — all are great U.S. companies — while based in Asia. Sabrina became a well-respected professor in risk management and finance.&nbsp;Earlier this year, during my 14-week parental leave for our second son, Sabrina and I had a very deep discussion: What’s next for our future,? Are we going to continue pursuing our “personal success” or “happiness”? I guess the answer is clear, I have been doing very well in corporate, but I started to realize that my happiness is fading away. I wanted to be closer to my family, to be able to spend the moment with them every day. Then I said, “Let’s pause my track and find something we can do together.”We weighed between building something from scratch versus buying a franchise. To our surprise, franchising is not only about burgers and pizza. We love fitness and we want to combine that with the love and care we have for kids, and that’s how KidStrong fits in perfectly. We love the product, the support system and a strong demand for this service.&nbsp;Sabrina: A couple of years ago I told Steve, “We should start a business.” In my culture, building business runs in our blood. He was skeptical about the risk and always has a belief that he is a “corporate” guy. This year, something just clicked and we finally made our move.1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchise owner, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?Steve: We assumed franchising meant food and beverage — McDonald’s, Five Guys. Up until June, we still thought we’d flip burgers. I reached out to some chains and found that either they were out of licenses in our area or not expanding there.&nbsp;I felt like I was walking in the dark. Somehow, I stumbled onto a franchise broker site, started calls and realized there’s so much you don’t know and so many industries to choose from.Passing 100 stores is a signal that the product and system can scale; only a small percentage get there. When you see what’s out there, you can pick what resonates with your values instead of defaulting to burgers. If you pick franchising, you can “cut the corner” by three to five years. You pay a franchise fee and royalties. The question is whether those fees justify the value and time saved. The more I learned about KidStrong’s team, the more I felt, “I can run with this — proven product and strong support.”Sabrina: We chose franchising because of the established system — well developed curriculum, tech systems and personal support. With KidStrong, the curriculum is the most important product. I teach and I know how hard it is to develop a curriculum weekly; franchising gives you exactly that — leveraging a well-proven product to scale. The learning curve is still very steep as there are so many things to do — registering for your business, contract dealing for real estate leasing, funding options and so on — but we definitely love the process.1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?Steve: We mystery-shopped a KidStrong in South Tampa and let our son try a class. We realized KidStrong isn’t just an activity; it’s a program. The curriculum is structured. There’s a 45-minute class with a full system behind it. They show the curriculum on the TV in a well-developed way and gamify it so kids understand what they’re doing, and why.&nbsp;We believe that those are proprietary assets and will be hard to copy. That sets KidStrong apart from other similar kid businesses and makes us feel protected.Sabrina: KidStrong engages parents, too. I mean, this could be a double-edged sword. It could be both the challenge and the beauty of it. Many parents look for a place where they can drop off their kids and run errands, not realizing how much their children long for someone to witness their little victories, even the tiniest milestones. That’s why parent participation is such an essential part of any child enrichment program. The atmosphere KidStrong creates is one where kids burn off energy while having fun, and parents stay connected and involved. We believe that a truly successful “kid business” should inspire not just the children, but also capture the hearts and interest of their parents.1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?Steve: We bought three territories in the Tampa Bay area — Citrus Park/Westchase first, then Clearwater and St. Petersburg. We’re taking it one at a time. We hope to open the first by April to catch summer camp. Our goal is financial freedom eight years from now. For us, that means not worrying about money, living comfortably in Tampa and having time for each other and our kids. With each center at steady state, the path is solid.&nbsp;Sabrina: Steve is bursting with excitement about the new center and has countless ideas for engaging kids and their parents. I truly believe in the power of community, so I‘ve been brainstorming ways to add those little touches to make every family feel genuinely welcome and cared for. We chose locations close to home so we can be present, stay involved and truly get to know our families.1851: Is there anything else about your story you want us to know?Sabrina: Steve wants his title to be “Iron Man.”Steve: I train for the Ironman triathlon and did my first Ironman in Australia last year. Fitness matters to me. That’s also why our second son is Jarvis — like Iron Man’s AI — a fun family fact.When I did the final talk with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewjschuler/">AJ [Schuler]</a>, the director of sales, he said the next Discovery Day was next month. I asked for something sooner. He said, “Not unless you can fly in tomorrow.” I called Sabrina. Jarvis was sick, and I needed to be out for two days. She said, “You go. I’ll book the ticket and hotel.” That was a profound moment — if we support each other, we can go far. I picked up Dennis and told him I was flying to Texas because we were close to buying the franchise. I told him, “If Mom and I do this, it’s for you and for Jarvis.” We want a business where both kids can grow and benefit. Dennis is 10 and can help in the center; Jarvis can join the program. Money matters, but our kids come first.1851: What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?Sabrina: Don’t rely too much on AI and always check. Do validation calls with existing franchise owners. Visit. Talk to people who have skin in the game. There’s a lot you don’t know until you start exploring.Steve: Don’t do it alone. A good franchise broker can help a lot — and the franchisor pays them. The deeper you go, the more you realize you don’t know, so having a companion in the process helps. Also, make sure your spouse is supported and on board. You need a strong support system.About KidStrongKidStrong was founded in 2015 by Matt and Megin Sharp because they wanted a program focused on developing strength and confidence for their daughter Ella and other kids like her. Together, they partnered in 2017 with Matt's best friend and Co-Founder Lincoln Brown to help grow the program. Later, Megan Stein joined as a Co-Founder. Together they developed KidStrong, a science-based kid's training program focused on brain, physical and character development for ages walking through 11 years old. KidStrong offers a science-based curriculum that is parent-focused and taught by professionals to help accelerate milestone development and promote social and emotional strength. Today, KidStrong has grown exponentially, with more than 400 franchises sold to date since the company opened its first center in 2015. Over the next five years, KidStrong plans to have 500 open centers nationwide. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kidstrong.com">www.kidstrong.com</a>.

KidStrong Franchise - Sabrina Du - Steve Do - Tampa - 1851 Franchise

Why a KidStrong Franchise Fits This Family’s Next Chapter

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<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-macfarland-95802263/">Ryan MacFarland</a> spent nearly two decades in the U.S. Navy learning how to lead under pressure, care for his people and keep missions on course. Now, as an owner and area developer for the science-based youth enrichment franchise&nbsp;<a href="https://franchise.kidstrong.com/">KidStrong</a> in Hampton Roads, Virginia, he is channeling that experience into a business built on discipline, mentorship and measurable impact on families.<h2>A Navy Career That Forged a People-First Leader</h2>MacFarland enlisted right out of high school and served across Washington state, Hawaii and Virginia, with deployments to Japan, South Korea and the Middle East. “Early on in my career I was able to find good leaders to gravitate toward,” he said.Promoted from aircraft mechanic to crew lead, he discovered a style that put people first. “This time was pivotal in developing my leadership style and truly focusing on taking care of my people,” he said. “This led to building a team that wanted to work together and would push through tough days or difficult tasks as one unit with one mission.”<h2>Why KidStrong: Purpose That Matches the Mission</h2>In 2016, MacFarland and his wife, Jessica started to plan a civilian path alongside his service which led a husband-and-wife real estate team in Virginia’s Hampton Roads while also mentoring fellow sailors into second careers. During the COVID-19 shutdown he began exploring franchising. A friend introduced him to&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong/info">KidStrong</a>, and it clicked. “This was the first time a business model really caught me,” MacFarland said. He traced the fit back to a moment years earlier: “Around 2012, while on a mission trip to Costa Rica, I really felt my purpose was in building relationships and helping children.”KidStrong’s mission — help kids “win at life” — felt familiar to a veteran who had led diverse teams toward a shared objective. “We create a community that starts within our four walls but doesn’t end at the door,” he said. “In the military, you see groups come together from all over the world and all different backgrounds; KidStrong builds that same community.” For MacFarland, the daily standard echoes a squadron’s cadence: “Our purpose is simple: lead one another to be a better version of yourself than yesterday. Focus on getting even 1 percent better each and every day and bring others up with you.”<h2>Turning Military Discipline Into Daily Operations</h2>Operationally, he runs his centers like a mission-critical environment — structured, flexible, accountable. “The military has taught me to be ‘Semper Gumby,’ as we would say, or always flexible,” MacFarland said. “There are always new and unforeseen challenges from staffing, equipment readiness, rapid timelines and mission-critical objectives that arise. You have to be able to stay emotionally balanced and adjust to meet the mission.” He rejects top-down posturing in favor of shoulder-to-shoulder leadership: “A true team doesn’t have a ‘boss,’ only leaders that are right there in the trenches with the team doing whatever needs to be done to meet the mission.”<h2>Navigating Challenges With a Calm, Consistent Standard</h2>That stance has helped him navigate the everyday turbulence of small business. “We have encountered difficulties from contractor issues, hiring challenges and membership seasonality,” MacFarland said. “The focus remains the same: don’t settle. Do the small things well and the big things fall into place.” The result is a culture where standards are clear and buy-in is real. “Focus on the right people to build the right team,” he said. “The team has to have a collective buy-in, and that is only done when each person trusts one another enough to lean on them.”<h2>Impact Beyond the Four Walls</h2>KidStrong gives MacFarland a platform to pursue impact that goes beyond monthly metrics. “The ability to watch lives transform, the confidence grow and to hear the success stories is unparalleled,” he said. “Jessica and I also get to impact our parents’ lives, not only by building a bond with their child but by doing life with them.” That relational focus shows up internally, too, in how he recruits and develops coaches. “We like to get to know all of our coaches — what they enjoy outside of work, what their goals are and how we can help them achieve them,” MacFarland said. “We give feedback and challenges for growth little by little until the old them is unrecognizable.”<h2>The Veteran Advantage — and the Road Ahead</h2>When it comes to youth- and family-focused concepts, MacFarland says veterans make steady, service-first coaches and mentors. “I believe veterans bring a certain mental toughness and a sense of calm in the chaos,” he said. “I also think that the veteran mindset of putting others before themselves and constant desire to mentor others to bring them up helps with the whole child development.”Looking ahead, MacFarland sees scale anchored in a shared ethos. “We plan to develop centers all throughout the Hampton Roads area and possibly beyond,” he said. “I would love to curate military ownership groups across the country with one mission, one mind.” The vision is both operational and cultural: consistent standards, local roots and leaders trained to lift others. “The veteran drive, I believe, would push for franchise success while building others up beyond limits they didn’t know they could reach,” he said.<h2>Advice to Veterans Considering KidStrong</h2>His guidance reads like a pre-mission brief. “If you have a desire to help others succeed and constantly push for others around you to be better, KidStrong is the right place for you,” MacFarland said. The work is demanding, but purpose keeps the team aligned. “Not every day will be easy, but every day will be worth it,” he said. “Prepare for creating a team environment, a great community presence and a sturdy mentality to overcome challenges.”To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong">https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong</a>.

KidStrong Franchise - Ryan MacFarland - Franchisee Feature - 1851 Franchise

Mission-First Leadership: How a U.S. Navy Veteran Is Building the Future With KidStrong

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<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-reyes-866ba6/">Michael Reyes</a> spent years climbing the corporate ladder at a major insurance company, overseeing a territory that generated millions in annual revenue. Despite the recognition, he felt he had reached a ceiling.“I knew my ability to grow was going to be stifled, and I had more to offer,” Reyes said. “There was too much politics. I learned a lot, built great relationships, and had success, but it was time to make the leap. I was confident in my ability.”That became even clearer in 2022 when he took a corporate leadership role. “That experience showed me my comfort zone was running, owning, and growing my own businesses,” he said. “It was the best move to leave corporate and dive back into entrepreneurship.”Having spent 15 of his 20 years as a 1099 contractor, Reyes said he was “wired to be an owner.” He had already built a real estate portfolio and co-owned multiple Orangetheory Fitness locations, so ownership wasn’t new — but&nbsp;<a href="https://franchise.kidstrong.com/">KidStrong</a> offered a fresh opportunity.<a href="https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong/info">KidStrong</a> is a science-based youth enrichment franchise focused on helping children build confidence, strength, and character. For Reyes, it represented a chance to build a business that combined strong unit economics with meaningful community impact.<h3>Comparing Two Franchise Systems</h3>Reyes’s time as an Orangetheory franchisee gave him perspective on how great systems operate. “Being an Orangetheory franchisee for the last 10 years gave me perspective on how strong systems work,” he said. “It also let me compare both brands and share best practices with other operators. The franchisor–franchisee relationship is critical. Both Orangetheory and KidStrong provide tremendous support — and if you’re aligned and scaling successfully, they reward you with more opportunities.”He also stressed the importance of financial discipline. “The four-wall unit economics are strong, but only if you follow the operating system,” Reyes said.<h3>Doing the Homework</h3>When it came time to choose his next move, Reyes went beyond surface-level research. “You can look at FDDs all day long, but I go deeper,” he said. “Franchisor calls are helpful, but they’re high-level. You’ve got to know your numbers and talk to the right people.”Reyes spoke with operators across the entire spectrum of the KidStrong franchise system. “I wanted to understand why some were winning and others were still climbing. That’s the only way to connect the dots,” he said.He focused on fundamentals: profitability, break-even timelines, and performance in the field. “Anybody can sell licenses,” he said. “The real question is, how many centers are thriving and how quickly can they ramp?”Another key factor was territory selection. “Site selection and strong demographics are critical,” Reyes said. “You want to be where families live, where kids are, and where there’s a long runway for growth.”He also warns new franchisees not to overlook lease alignment. “If your franchise renewal and lease don’t line up, you could face a tough decision.”And patience is essential. “Too many people think the day you open is the day you’re profitable,” he said. “It takes time. Plan properly, know your numbers, and execute consistently.”<h3>Leveraging a Sales Background</h3>Reyes believes his background in enterprise sales gave him a clear advantage in franchising. “Our sales process is consultative because the product is powerful,” he said. “When parents see how our programming supports their child’s development, there isn’t much ‘selling.’ We’re showing families an experience that delivers results.”Before KidStrong, he had already led large teams. “In insurance, I hired and developed thousands of 1099 associates and leaders,” Reyes said. “That taught me one of the biggest lessons in franchising — hiring the right people can make or break you.”Those skills, paired with KidStrong’s playbook, allowed him to build momentum quickly. “If you follow the playbook and then add your strengths — in my case, sales and leadership — you’ll scale faster,” he said.<h3>All In on KidStrong</h3>“I left a lucrative career in sales for KidStrong,” Reyes said. “I was on a strong track, but it was eating me up inside. Once I made the decision, there was no looking back.”His mindset was simple: ownership couldn’t be a side project. “I’m either all in or all out. Once I bought into the vision&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattsharp321go/">Matt</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/megin-sharp-a5b3bb13a/">Megin Sharp</a> created, I committed fully,” he said.That commitment fueled rapid growth. In a short time, Reyes scaled from one center to 12, with plans for up to 30. He attributes the expansion to starting from the ground up. “I immersed myself — sold memberships, cleaned floors, followed SOPs, hired. Then I replicated it through managers,” he said.He also follows what he calls the “I, We, They” model of leadership. “I had to do it first. Then we had to do it together. Now they are doing it with success,” Reyes said. “That’s how you build a team that can scale.”To keep his team accountable, he poses a challenge: “If your name was on the front and it didn’t say KidStrong — it said John Strong — how would you think about the business?”<h3>Lessons Learned</h3>After scaling quickly, Reyes said a few lessons stood out as critical for any new franchisee. These are the points he emphasizes most when others ask about his journey.<ul><li>Nail pre-sales. “You get one chance at pre-sales. Hire someone who owns sales and marketing and is willing to put in the effort.”</li><li>Follow the system. “KidStrong’s development, marketing, and opening teams kept us on track. Their support was key.”</li><li>Match lease and franchise terms. “If your lease runs past your franchise term, you could get stuck. Line those dates up.”</li><li>Pick the right territory. “Strong demographics and the right location set the foundation for long-term success.”</li><li>Go deeper than the FDD.&nbsp;“Don’t just stop at averages on paper. Talk to operators and learn the business behind the business.”</li><li>Plan for ramp-up. “Profitability doesn’t happen overnight. Execute consistently, and it will come.”</li></ul><h3>Fulfillment Beyond Corporate Life</h3>Reyes admits the shift hasn’t been easy, but it has given him more flexibility and fulfillment than corporate life ever did. “My success has always come from work ethic and persistence,” he said. “That’s what drives growth in franchising — not shortcuts, just consistent execution.”The transition also reshaped his lifestyle. “Working from home, visiting stores, and being present with my family has created flexibility,” Reyes said. “But you carry the business with you everywhere. You have to learn to compartmentalize.”Despite the risk, Reyes says he has no regrets. “People said I was crazy. But they’re not writing the book of my life. I believe in myself, I believe in my team, and KidStrong gave me the chance to own my future.”<h3>The Story So Far — And the Value Reyes Is Building</h3>Looking back, Reyes says his journey has been about more than just opening centers. “Our story so far is really about building a community,” he said. “Every family that walks through our doors becomes part of something bigger. We’re helping kids win at life, but we’re also creating a place where parents connect, coaches grow, and communities thrive.”For Reyes, that’s the real value behind his platform. “It’s not only about unit economics or scaling locations. It’s about impact,” he said. “The more centers we open, the more lives we touch — and that’s the measure of success that matters most to me.”To find out more information on costs to buy this franchise, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong/info.">https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong/info.</a>&nbsp;

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With prior involvement in community recreation programs and later professional work in franchise growth and mental health counseling for children and families of first responders,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobby-montoya-152078191/">Bobby</a> and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-montoya-lpcc-090659251/">Jessica Montoya</a> have long shown their commitment to community involvement and support.&nbsp;Over time, Jessica observed a lack of regulation, structure and body awareness among the children she worked with. While her husband Bobby was advancing his career as an Orangetheory franchise business manager and regional sales and operations team member, he came across&nbsp;<a href="https://franchise.kidstrong.com/">KidStrong</a>, the youth enrichment franchise with a science-based curriculum focused on developing socially and emotionally strong kids who will “win at life.” Though the two were not looking for business opportunities, they realized just how important this type of program would be to the Albuquerque, New Mexico, community, and they decided to leap into franchise ownership. After opening their first location in late 2023 and a second last year, the two are seeing marked improvements in students and children in their own communities, and they’re setting the stage for further growth.The Montoyas spoke with 1851 Franchise to discuss their journey to franchise ownership, the unique value&nbsp;<a href="https://1851franchise.com/kidstrong/info">KidStrong</a> provides to both students and coaches, and their plans for the future. Here’s what they had to say:1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What do you want us to know?Jessica Montoya: I want people to know that we are not only enriching kids’ lives but also those of our coaches. We have seen many coaches — the majority being younger adults, juniors, or seniors in high school or college — develop confidence, public speaking, and professional skills. Even though we are teaching six-year-olds, those same skills are important for a 25-year-old as well.My background is in mental health; I am still a licensed counselor, having worked with kids and families of first responders for close to 10 years, focusing on trauma work and adjustment.Bobby Montoya:&nbsp;My background is in franchising, having been involved in regional fitness sales and operations for Orangetheory, and also working as a franchise business manager, helping area developers and franchise owners with training and ongoing success. That is how I heard about KidStrong. I checked out KidStrong while I was in Dallas. At the time, our son was too young, but our daughter was in gymnastics, so we knew what those classes entailed, and I saw that KidStrong had a lot more value than a standard gymnastics class. Albuquerque is often one of the last places to get new concepts, and I thought it was needed here. While KidStrong isn’t purely a fitness class, the moving, learning, and socialization aspects caught my eye.Jessica:&nbsp;Our motivation was our kids and wanting to enrich their lives. We both worked with youth in recreational settings when we were younger, and we saw areas where kids could be helped, and we wanted to bring that to our community.1851: What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?Bobby:&nbsp;Our mission wasn’t to be business owners. We knew about franchising because of my experience with Orangetheory, but it’s nearly impossible to get into business with them in our market; it’s already so saturated. Finding out about KidStrong was what pushed us into franchising. It wasn’t a situation where we said, “It doesn’t matter what the business is; we’re going to own a business.” We loved and were aligned with KidStrong’s values, and we knew it was a need in our community.1851: What was your perception of franchising before becoming a franchise owner, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?Bobby:&nbsp;We were pretty prepared. A lot of that had to do with my experience having worked for a franchise owner and franchisor in the past.&nbsp;Jessica:&nbsp;This wasn’t necessarily a surprise for us because it was our plan all along, but there did come a time when the system began talking about the fact that locations are often more successful when the owners are involved. People should know that this is the case sometimes and should be aware of this when choosing their opportunity.1851:&nbsp;What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?Jessica:&nbsp;The mental health side of things and my past life working with kids — focusing on regulation, mindfulness, and body awareness — excited us. Studies have shown that movement helps that connection, and there is a lack of this in schools where kids must sit.&nbsp;KidStrong integrates skills like regulation and structure that are lacking in youth. We don’t outwardly say we are teaching mindfulness, but the skills are integrated. We’re teaching students mindfulness and how to be in their bodies and how to move their bodies in productive ways.1851:&nbsp;What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?&nbsp;Bobby:&nbsp;Our five-year plan is to open up two more locations in El Paso, Texas, which we have already secured. Beyond that, we are not sure, but our goal is to ensure all four centers are operating at a high level and reaching as many kids as possible to help them grow confidence and skill sets.Jessica:&nbsp;We looked at other franchises, but nothing crossed our table that we felt connected with or aligned with our values. Venturing out to open more KidStrong centers made the most sense when we thought about how we wanted to grow.Bobby:&nbsp;KidStrong has allowed us to have a really healthy work-life balance with our family. As an area developer, you are never really "off," but you can be on and off at your convenience, allowing us to find balance and be present parents for our kids, volunteering and attending sports during the day.Jessica:&nbsp;We’re also looking forward to the growth we’ll support throughout our community. Our kids have attended KidStrong since we opened, and we’ve seen so much growth in them over the past few years. We also see it in the community — kids who started and are now leaps and bounds ahead in speech, occupational skills, and awareness.1851:&nbsp;What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?Bobby:&nbsp;Make sure that you’re passionate about the purpose, regardless of which brand you’re choosing. There were other brands we researched that were great brands, but we didn’t have passion for them. In business, just like in life, there will be good days and bad days. Passion for the purpose of the business will help push you through. Make sure you choose something that you really want to get behind. If you have that, you’ll be able to get through any rough waters.Jessica:&nbsp;Do your research, but go for it. If you have the opportunity to work for yourself, why not? At this time, why not work for yourself and build your own future?&nbsp;About KidStrongKidStrong was founded in 2015 by Matt and Megin Sharp because they wanted a program focused on developing strength and confidence for their daughter Ella and other kids like her. Together, they partnered in 2017 with Matt's best friend and Co-Founder Lincoln Brown to help grow the program. Later, Megan Stein joined as a Co-Founder. Together they developed KidStrong, a science-based kid's training program focused on brain, physical and character development for ages walking through 11 years old. KidStrong offers a science-based curriculum that is parent-focused and taught by professionals to help accelerate milestone development and promote social and emotional strength. Today, KidStrong has grown exponentially, with more than 400 franchises sold to date since the company opened its first center in 2015. Over the next five years, KidStrong plans to have 500 open centers nationwide. For more information, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kidstrong.com">www.kidstrong.com</a>.&nbsp;

KidStrong Franchise - Franchisee Spotlight - Jessica and Bobby Montoya - 1851 Franchise

A Clinical Endorsement: Why Medical Professionals Endorse and Invest in KidStrong

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