Small Business Spotlight: Brittany Hendricks Ellis ’11
To kick off Small Business Saturday, we’re shining a light on a few small business owners from our official UCF alumni Business Directory! Meet alumna Brittany Hendricks Ellis ’11, owner of Killer Body Fitness and Training.
What inspired you to start this business?
Gym culture can often be intimidating, which prevents people from stepping outside of their comfort zone and reaching their goals that many need to survive. I wanted to create a safe space for women who may have never thought of entering a gym. They don’t have to worry about judgment; what they’re wearing isn’t stressful because it isn’t a fashion show. It’s about having a place women with similar goals can grow together, and my industry was missing that.
What is the best part about running your own company?
The best part about running my own company is the freedom to be creative. I’ve never had a job that allowed me to truly do what I do best. I’ve always felt restricted and often like I didn’t get to help the company grow because they had me in a box. I’ve implemented a lot into my business that I’ve learned from these companies, but now I also get to express myself in many ways through my business.
What is your mission statement or goal?
The mission is to help strong women grow and glow unapologetically.
What was the biggest thing you learned during your time as a Knight that you apply to your life today?
The biggest thing I’ve learned as a Knight that I apply to my life now is that collaboration is key. Being part of the UCF National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) showed me that with my sorority many things are possible, but when connecting with organizations and like-minded individuals, anything is possible!
Why did you sign up for the Knights Network Business Directory?
I signed up for the UCF Knights Network Business Directory so that I can expand my network and see how I can communicate and collaborate with others that have similar goals.
How has the pandemic affected your business?
The pandemic affected my business in a major way. My grand opening was 2 weeks before we were forced to close our doors. Honestly, without the support of my members, we would’ve never made it. I’ve truly created a space where women want to succeed and they also want to see me succeed. During the pandemic, News 12 did a news segment on how the pandemic has affected Killer Body and we just won a New York EMMY for our segment.
Why is it important to support small business owners?
It is so important to support business owners because many times, we use all that we have to create something greater than what you get in major companies that have all the funding, but no desire to truly help and impact the community. When you support a small business, you’re not only helping the owner, you’re contributing to their family and legacy.
Where do you see your business in 5 years?
In five years, I see myself with another location, hopefully in Orlando. My father invested into my dreams when I first started, and we have discussed expanding the vision to Central Florida.
Find more Alumni-owned Businesses on UCF Knights Network!
UCF Knights Network is our alumni professional networking platform that promotes career and professional development, entrepreneurship, job opportunities, and mentorship. Once you’ve signed up (it takes only a minute to do if you sign up with Facebook or LinkedIn!), you can access the official UCF Alumni Business Directory via the platform.
Add your alumni-owned business for a chance to be featured in our next small business spotlight!
This service is offered at no cost to our alumni, it’s simply a perk of being a grad! So, join today to reconnect with fellow Knights, support alumni-owned businesses, and expand your professional network.
