AUSTIN LORD/GATHER PORTRAIT STUDIO
Christi Beth Adams
Whether they’re working behind a desk, in the field, or on the road, trailblazing women are paving their own way in Music City. Now they’re taking a break from their busy schedules to share their success stories with us.
THE DAILY HUSTLE
I own and operate a local retail franchise, Fleet Feet, that specializes in running and walking shoes, clothes, and accessories. But really, we just help people find the right gear that will help them move more comfortably and safely, whether they’re walking, running, or spending all day on their feet at work. I have a holistic view of what healthy means and it’s not just physical. It’s mental, spiritual, and social. You might look at Fleet Feet like any other retail shop but come interact with our team and you’ll be blown away by their knowledge, patience, and kindness. We want everyone to feel welcomed in our space and we do the work to make sure that happens!
EARLY ASPIRATIONS
I came into the organization as an employee right as the existing store in Brentwood was turning four. At the age of 26, I was having a career crisis, feeling as though I was far behind my peers who had been climbing corporate ladders for years. I figured I’d work this fun retail job until I figured out what I wanted to do for a career. Turns out, the work was a natural fit for me and the woman who started the store was wanting out. I didn’t have the money to buy it from her outright, so I thought that was the end of it. Fortunately for me, Fleet Feet created an employee to ownership pathway, and I was one of the first folks they offered the position to. I said yes and three long, hard years later I bought the store and became an owner!
CHALLENGES FACED
I never saw myself as an entrepreneur so that was a self-imposed challenge. I had always confidently stepped into leadership positions in sports or school, but I was totally unprepared for the level and frequency of decision making that happens at the helm of a small business. I cried every day for the first six months and would call my mentor. She’d ask me, “Is anyone bleeding? Did the store burn down?” I’d manage to answer no and she’d say, “Then it’s just another day of business. You’re doing great.”
WORK PERKS
[I love] the relationships with long-time customers, new to town or new to running customers, our kind-heartened employees, my run specialty counterparts across the country, and our dedicated business partners. Everyone in my “work” world from top to bottom are actually dear friends. We don’t just work together; we do life together. We live in community together and we’re all very motivated to be our best selves. And we’re optimistic. I don’t know if you see that in every industry, but we are a group of folks that think the best of others.
ADVICE FOR OTHERS
When I was struggling to find my career path, a mentor told me that it was more important to find a great company than it was to find the perfect position. Great companies recognize talent and will help you find your way into the right role. The industry I work in is filled with incredible people, plus I find so much joy and purpose in what I do. I believe people should love what they do. Find the things that set your soul on fire or break your heart and lean into that work.
Meet Christi Beth Adams and other women in the local community who are the best in their fields at our annual Women in Business event.
>>> PURCHASE TICKETS
The mix and mingle reception will be held on August 18 from 5-7:30 p.m., to network with our Women in Business honorees plus 300 other local business professionals. Throughout the evening, we will be doing live Q and A sessions with each woman!