Meet Erika Proctor

We were lucky to catch up with Erika Proctor recently and have shared our conversation below.

Erika, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.

Imposter syndrome is something I’m all too familiar with, especially coming from my first career in the corporate world. Before I launched Pushups + Prosecco, I had hustled as a fitness instructor on the side while climbing the ladder at my 9-5, and as a result, I never felt like I was 100% a part of the fitness community. When I came up with the idea to launch the business, I was juggling a lot, feeling like a jack of all trades/master of none, and I found myself questioning, “Am I really the right person to do this?” I spent a solid few months talking myself out of it.

What helped me overcome the imposter syndrome wasn’t a single moment or epiphany, but rather small, consistent steps. First, I learned to trust my own experience. I knew group fitness, I knew Nashville, and I knew what it was like to be a 20-something woman looking for a fun, inclusive, and meaningful wellness experience for her friends. I realized that I am the expert on this very specific thing — no one else could bring my unique perspective and passion to it. So, I did the thing. I launched the business and held my breath. Imagine my surprise when it took off!

Second, I found validation in client feedback. Hearing my groups say, “This is exactly what we were looking for,” or “I didn’t know working out could be this fun!” helped me recognize that my vision for Pushups + Prosecco was valid, and I had product market fit.

Lastly, I leaned into the discomfort, and still try to do the uncomfortable thing every day. Whether it’s publishing the silly TikTok trend, putting myself out there to build new partnerships, or responding to interview requests, Imposter syndrome never fully disappears, but learning to operate alongside it, knowing that those doubts often come when you’re pushing your boundaries, is empowering. Every time I hit a new milestone, I remind myself that I’m not just faking it — I’m doing it. And that’s enough.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

Pushups + Prosecco (voted “#1 Best Bachelorette Workout” 2023 by Nashville Fit Magazine) hosts private workout classes for groups visiting Nashville, Charleston, Austin, and Scottsdale. We offer strength, pilates, and yoga classes and bring the workout and all equipment directly to your rental! The experience is fully customized to your group, from difficulty level to a tailored playlist to make sure we keep the party rolling. Our vibe is inclusive, body positive, and sparkly! After the workout, we celebrate everyone’s hard work with a complimentary prosecco toast.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

The biggest assets I feel have set me up for success are a willingness to try (and fail), listen to feedback, and adapt. This takes some uncomfortable leaps, experimentation, and being customer-obsessed. I regularly check in with my team of instructors and clients to get their feedback on how things feel, what could be improved, and any ideas they have that would elevate the experience. A lot of it boils down to recognition that you won’t come out of the gate with everything figured out. Hell, I’m 2.5 years in and some days I feel like I have nothing figured out! In my experience, that’s just part of the journey.

Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?

When Pushups + Prosecco first launched in Nashville, I never imagined we’d expand into other cities, but here we are, 2.5 years later, operating in four locations! It’s been an exciting ride, but one of the biggest challenges I’ve faced is realizing how much I rely on building strong partnerships to keep things running smoothly. Each market is so different — what works in Nashville might not translate to another city. I’ve had to acknowledge that I can’t be the expert everywhere, and that’s okay.

What I’ve learned is that growing a business like this really takes a village. I’m always looking to connect with people in the tourism and bachelorette space across major US cities — whether it’s rental property management companies, experience providers, or even restaurants and venues for fun pop-up collaborations.

If you’re reading this and feel like we should connect, I’d love to hear from you. Drop me a line at hello@pushupsandprosecco.com — I’m always up for a conversation.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.pushupsandprosecco.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pushupsandprosecco/?hl=en