Ep 123: An unconventional 13 year career with special guest Kara from LSKD

Rogue Business with Rochene Hawley

In this episode of Rogue Business, I’m joined by the incredible Kara Huynh—an industry vet with 13 years in the game, no filter, and a knack for real talk. We dive into her journey from an unconventional start to becoming a connector and leader who’s reshaping what leadership in fitness looks like. Kara’s story highlights how deep empathy, brutal honesty, and a relentless love for people are non-negotiables in her work. If you’re tired of the superficial side of fitness, Kara’s insights on leadership, connection, and the power of understanding your ‘why’ will hit home. Trust me, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone serious about shaking up their approach and leading with purpose. Key Takeaways:⁣ True Leadership is Empathy and Honesty: Leading isn’t about pretending you have it all together; it’s about creating a safe space, meeting people where they’re at, and being radically honest with your team and clients. Ask More ‘Why’ Questions: Surface-level goals aren’t enough. Digging deep into a client’s ‘why’ can be the difference between short-term results and long-term transformation. Connection Over Ego: Whether it’s with staff or clients, leadership in fitness is about making people feel seen, respected, and valued. Drop the ego and show up as your real self. Consistency in Values: A strong leader and community make sure their values are consistently represented—whether that’s through keeping phones off the floor, staff following through, or members feeling respected. Quote: "The best leaders don’t separate themselves from their team—they’re right there, creating a culture that’s authentic, empathetic, and honest." [00:01] Introduction to guest Kara Huynh [01:10] Kara’s journey: From young rebel to seasoned connector [06:35] Kara’s early struggles as a female strength coach [10:01] Leadership’s impact on gym culture and community [15:04] Signs of strong leadership in gyms and fitness spaces [20:43] The importance of empathy in leadership [25:20] Why digging deep into the “why” matters in coaching [32:34] The evolving purpose of fitness: Beyond weight loss to real impact [37:02] Final thoughts on where the industry needs to head If this episode hit home and you’re ready to go deeper on what it means to lead with intention and empathy, follow me on Instagram @rochenehawley for more no-BS business and leadership insights. And if you’re vibing with the show, a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify goes a long way to help spread the word.