Talking with Women of Wonder:
The Ness

In celebration of Women’s History Month, SHOWFIELDS wanted to take this moment in time to highlight the female founders and artists who are pushing the envelope with mission-based topics that resonate most with our community. We like to refer to them as our Women of Wonder or “WOW.” This week we will be sharing interviews with the Founders of The Ness.

Introducing Aly Giampolo and Colette Dong, Founders of The Ness

What motivated/inspired you to start your company, The Ness?

It was two fold. We wanted to be able to help others find joy in movement as well as provide a great place to work for trainers and dancers within our industry.


As a female leader, what has been the most significant barrier in your career?

A lot of branding and marketing in the fitness industry is focused on taking advantage of your insecurities in order to profit.


How many times have you participated in a program or purchased a product in hopes for better arms or a flat stomach?

Companies sexualize trainers and fitness influencers to get the most attention on posts that show the most skin. I don't blame them - sex sells, it's a tale as old as time and we would probably make a lot more money if we did that too. The most significant barrier [for being a woman in the industry] has been working to resist this and fuel our company without taking advantage of consumer insecurities and sexualizing ourselves for faster growth. It's difficult to shift an entire consumer mindset, but we're committed to showing people that you don't need to change who you are or what you look like in the name of wellness. Anything you choose to add to your life should only amplify who you already are.


What advice would you give to the next generation of female leaders?

For any generation of leaders, male, female or non - binary we would say lead by example. Get in the trenches and learn what it's like to execute every role in your company. Empathy and understanding of where someone is goes a long way.


If someone is new to your brand - what's the first thing you'd suggest they try?

Book a complimentary consultation with us! Every body is different so the first thing you need to do is to help us understand where yours is at. From there we can point you in the right direction.


What's a desert island product from your brand?

The ness trampoline of course!


Who do you look to for inspiration?

Other founders who are unapologetically themselves.