Meet Ivory Thierolf

We were lucky to catch up with Ivory Thierolf recently and have shared our conversation below.

Ivory, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

There are many moments in my life where I’ve felt like the only person in the room. Over time, I’ve come to understand that I was never meant to conform to anyone else’s standards but my own. Growing up in a diverse environment—through my education, friendships, and family—I often found myself navigating spaces where I felt out of place. Early on, I developed imposter syndrome, believing I wasn’t worthy of success or capable of achieving my goals. That, however, was the greatest lie I ever told myself.

In response, I became a perfectionist—an approach that, while driven, often added pressure, especially as a business owner. I’ve since learned that true growth comes from daily experiences and setbacks. Each one teaches a valuable lesson.

When it comes to my appearance, I’m often misjudged at first glance—whether because of my ethnicity or the fact that I look much younger than my actual age of 30. But within minutes of engaging with me, people quickly realize that my youthful look is actually a strength. It allows me to connect with a wide range of individuals—from students and athletes to adults—because they sense my genuine energy, passion, and relatability. That connection builds trust and comfort, which is crucial in helping others grow both in their athletic abilities and in their everyday lives.

I used to view failure as a sign of isolation, but I’ve come to see it as a powerful opportunity for learning and growth. That shift in perspective has redefined success for me—it’s about continuously moving forward, learning, and evolving.

Being the “only one in the room” is now something I embrace. It means I am in constant competition with myself, focused on self-improvement rather than external validation. The negativity or doubt from others often stems from fear—fear of what I might accomplish once I fully step into my potential.

And that, to me, is the most powerful part of the journey.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

About Ivory’s Tumble & Cheer

Ivory’s Tumble & Cheer is a premier tumbling facility dedicated to helping individuals reach their full potential through personalized, high-quality coaching. With intentionally small class sizes, we prioritize focused instruction and individualized development. Every athlete receives the attention they need to succeed. For us, it’s quality over quantity.

What sets us apart is our results-driven approach. In private sessions, clients complete a customized skill assessment sheet, identifying three specific goals along with realistic timelines for achievement. This method consistently produces results, often meeting or exceeding the targeted goals much sooner than traditional programs. Our proven track record has earned the trust of local dance studios and competitive cheer teams, who rely on us to refine their athletes’ tumbling techniques. We’re proud to be respected by both athletes and parents for our effective instruction and genuine care.

Now in our third year, we’re thoughtfully exploring our next phase of growth. This may include expanding our recreational classes or evolving into a more competitive focus, such as Trampoline and Tumbling (TNT) or U.S. All-Star Federation Cheer programs.

What excites me most about this journey is the impact I’m able to make simply by showing up as my authentic self. This work constantly challenges me to grow both personally and professionally. By acknowledging my own limitations and pushing through them, I’ve learned to embrace the unexpected. No two days are ever the same, and that unpredictability continues to fuel my passion and purpose.

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?

Lessons from My Journey: Inner Ambition, Proactiveness, and Adaptability

Every entrepreneur faces moments when giving up feels like the easiest option. When plans derail or unexpected challenges surface, it’s your inner ambition that keeps you moving forward. Being your own biggest supporter means training your mind to see quitting as off the table. Returning to your original “why,” the purpose that inspired you to start, grounds you and fuels resilience. That inner drive is what transforms setbacks into comebacks.

Equally important is proactiveness. No one else will care as deeply about your vision or business as you do, which means you must stay disciplined, even on exhausting days. Prioritize your time, make detailed to-do lists, and seek out mentors who have walked the path before you. Listen to their wisdom, adapt their advice, and continuously look for ways to improve your craft. Growth requires initiative, not passivity.

Then there’s adaptability, a vital skill when running a business, especially one that involves working with others. Things rarely go according to plan, but how you respond shapes the experience for everyone involved. Whether managing a class or navigating a crisis, your energy sets the tone. It’s about refueling those you lead, even when your own cup feels half empty. Your personal struggles stay your own, and your clients rely on your strength. When problems arise, don’t dwell on them, focus on solutions and keep moving forward.

These three principals have shaped my entrepreneurial journey and remain daily practices. They remind me, and anyone reading, that growth is continuous. You’re human, you will make mistakes, and that’s okay. What matters is showing up, acknowledging where you can improve, and silencing the noise of outside opinions. Progress isn’t perfection, it’s persistence.

One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?

Absolutely. I’m seeking to connect with a community of like-minded business owners and professionals who value open communication, collaboration, and mutual support. Whether you’re in the tumbling or cheer industry—or in a related field—I believe there is ample room for all of us to succeed together. I’m passionate about rooting for fellow entrepreneurs, even those with similar platforms, because I know firsthand that being a business owner is not for the weak.

The individuals I’m looking to collaborate with are those who are genuine, dedicated, and share a passion for the sport and for helping others grow. If you’re someone who wants to exchange ideas, ask questions, and support one another through the challenges and triumphs of running a business, I would love to connect.

If this column resonates with you, please reach out. Let’s build something meaningful together.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ivorystumbleandcheer.com/
• Instagram: ivory_tumble_cheer
• Facebook: Ivory’s Tumble & Cheer
• Other: Google: Ivory’s Tumble & Cheer