Episode Description

In this deeply personal episode, we're sharing the full story of our gym's forced relocation due to eminent domain. From the shocking initial notice to searching for a new space, we're opening up about the financial realities, emotional challenges, and unexpected silver linings of this journey.

If you've ever wondered what happens when the government seizes private property for public development, or you're facing your own business crisis, this episode offers an honest, behind-the-scenes look at resilience, community, and rebuilding.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

The Eminent Domain Process

• What eminent domain actually means for small business owners
• Timeline from notification to relocation
• Legal rights and compensation negotiations
• The real costs beyond what's covered

Financial & Business Impact

• Relocation expenses vs. compensation received
• Managing existing memberships and contracts during transition
• Impact on staff and operations
• Hidden costs of moving a commercial gym

The Human Side

• How our community reacted to the news
• The emotional toll on owners, staff, and members
• Stories from longtime members
• Finding support during uncertainty

The Search & Rebuild

• Criteria for choosing our new location
• Challenges in commercial real estate
• Building out a gym from scratch
• Managing the physical move

Looking Ahead

• Lessons learned from this experience
• Advice for other business owners
• Silver linings and improvements
• Our grand reopening plans

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About Brandon Smitley

Instagram: @bsmitley @team.thirst

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Website: THIRSTgym.com

Brandon Smitley is a world renowned strength coach and athlete for over a decade. He and his wife, Adrian, own Terre Haute Intensity Resistance and Sports Training (THIRST) where they work with youth athletes and personal training clients of all ages. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Purdue University in Health and Fitness, and his Master’s degree from Indiana State University in Physical Education and Coaching. Brandon has been awarded Personal Trainer of the Year Awards from Purdue University and Indiana State University as well is the 2020 Reader's Choice for Best Personal Trainer in Terre Haute, IN and the Wabash Valley.

Brandon is a sponsored athlete with Elitefts and NutraBio where as a competitive powerlifter he currently holds the all-time world record squat in the 132 pound weight class, with a 567 pound squat. He also holds a 330 pound bench press, and 510 pound deadlift in that weight class, totaling 1377 pounds, ranking 4th all-time. He provides online coaching and programming around the world, and has personally worked with over 200 athletes in the US, UK, France, Italy, Mexico, Canada, and other countries. Brandon’s been published at Elitefts, Muscle and Performance, and Muscle and Fitness magazine.

He holds his Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), Level One Sports Performance (USAW), Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) certifications, and is educated in PRI for Fitness and Performance.