From Rockette to CEO: Building a Fitness Empire Where Women Rise Together

By Jacey Lambros-Carrino

My journey from the stages of New York City to the helm of a trailblazing fitness brand isn’t just my story; it's a testament to what women can do when they dare to dream and DO.

Reflecting on my time as a professional dancer, I was immersed in a world that, while female-dominated on stage, often saw the strings being pulled from behind by an overwhelmingly male leadership. The same could be said for the world of fitness, where women, for the longest time, have been participants rather than leaders. Jane DO was born out of a desire to change that—to create a space not just for women to work out, but to own their strength, both physical and emotional.

My career as a Rockette taught me discipline, the importance of precision, and the power of a group of women working together towards a common goal. I’ve brought these lessons into Jane DO, aiming to foster an environment where women support and uplift each other in every class and interaction.

At Jane DO, strength isn't just about how much you can lift or how many miles you can run; it's about the resilience within. It’s about walking into a class after a day that felt like an uphill battle, and walking out feeling like you can conquer the world. Our classes are designed not only to challenge the body but to inspire confidence that permeates through all facets of our lives.

I remember, during the early days of Jane DO, a woman approached me after class, her eyes glistening with a mix of sweat and tears. She shared how, in the course of taking our classes, she found the courage to leave a job where she felt undervalued and pursue her dream career. In that moment, she embodied everything Jane DO stands for.

As a mother, I’m acutely aware of the messages we, both directly and indirectly, send to our daughters about their value, capabilities, and place in the world. I envision a world for my daughter where her voice is heard, her strength is celebrated, and her potential is limitless. Jane DO is a microcosm of that world—a place where every woman, regardless of her fitness level, background, or personal story, is welcomed.

We pride ourselves on being a studio where a first-timer can stand next to a seasoned athlete, both finding value and challenge in their workout. It's this sense of inclusivity and community that propels us forward and has cultivated a fiercely loyal following.

The path of female entrepreneurship, particularly in the male-dominated realms of leadership and the fitness industry, is fraught with hurdles. Each step forward at Jane DO feels simultaneously like a personal victory and one for women everywhere. By situating ourselves as leaders in the fitness industry, we are not just providing a service; we are claiming space and challenging norms.

One of our most significant challenges has been navigating the financial and operational aspects of growing a business from the ground up. The fitness industry is competitive and relentless. Yet, with every studio we open and each new member we welcome into our community, we affirm our belief: women belong at the forefront of the industries they contribute to, shaping the narrative and breaking the mold.

As we look towards the future, our vision for Jane DO is one of continued growth—not just in the number of studios we open, but in the depth of our community's impact. We’re fostering a movement that transcends the walls of our studios, encouraging women to claim their power in every aspect of their lives.

Moreover, we are committed to evolving and innovating in ways that reflect the needs and voices of our community. This means expanding our digital presence, exploring new class formats, and always, always listening to the women who walk through our doors.

My dream for Jane DO is that it becomes more than just a place for women to work out. I envision it as a sanctuary of empowerment, a catalyst for change, and a testament to what women can achieve when they lift each other up. It's about showing my daughter, Leni girl, and girls everywhere, that their potential is boundless.

In every drop of sweat, every laugh shared across the studio floor, and every milestone celebrated, there’s a piece of a larger story being told. It’s a story of resilience, of beauty in strength, and of women taking the lead. Through Jane DO, we're not just making history; we're shaping the future—one empowered woman at a time.

And to every woman reading this, remember: your strength is limitless, your potential is boundless, and your place is wherever you choose it to be. Let's DO this, together.

Thank you for being a part of this journey. Here’s to many more years of strength, empowerment, and breaking boundaries, together.