Today we’d like to introduce you to Donovan Roa.
Hi Donovan, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
iFlex Stretch Studios was founded by Steve and Craig Colmar, the creators of The Joint Chiropractic. Our story began on May 12th, 2024, with a mission to help people move and feel better through assisted stretching. Thanks to our incredible community, strong local partnerships, and a passionate team, we quickly rose to become the #1 studio in the franchise. In just a year and a half, we’ve had the privilege of helping over 300 clients each week reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance their overall quality of life.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. We’ve experienced our fair share of ups and downs—especially with marketing partners and learning the ins and outs of the wellness industry. Allan, the owner of our studio, has a long background in business, and I spent nearly a decade in management before opening iFlex Stretch Studios. Still, stepping into wellness was a whole new world to navigate.
Over time, we’ve adapted quickly. Since open, we’ve added new offerings like compression therapy, targeted heat+vibration tools, and more. Along the way, we also experienced a major shift when iFlex Stretch Studios was acquired by Sequel Brands, which brought system upgrades and even a full studio remodel.
Through it all, we’ve had to pivot more than once, but those challenges are exactly what make the journey rewarding and keep us moving forward.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As Studio Manager, I oversee every aspect of our operations—from day-to-day responsibilities like staff training, sales, and member engagement, to broader initiatives in business development and marketing. I wear as many hats as it takes to keep the studio thriving.
What I’m most proud of, though, is building a network of local business managers and owners who not only support us but allow us to support them. Community is what drives me. Whether it’s helping our clients feel their best, hosting charity events, sponsoring local schools, or participating in wellness fairs, I’m passionate about connecting people to people.
What truly sets me apart is the autonomy I’ve been given in this role. I have the freedom to make mistakes, learn, and test creative ideas, many of which have turned into successes. That space to grow has shaped both me and the studio in powerful ways. With ambitions to own my own business down the road, iFlex Stretch Studios has been my training ground.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up, life was far from easy. I spent my early years in a small village called Magdalena, New Mexico — a place with fewer than a thousand people. I was raised by my mother alongside my older brother, Richie. We didn’t have much; my mom lived on disability and couldn’t work, but somehow she always managed to keep food on the table and the lights on.
When I was about 12 or 13, we moved to Alief in Houston, a place known for poverty and crime. Going from the quiet village of Magdalena to one of the largest, roughest parts of Houston was a shock to my system. Life quickly became about survival. My mom was still relying on disability, and it became clear that we didn’t have enough to make ends meet.
By the age of 15, I made the difficult choice to drop out of high school and work full-time. My first job was as an HVAC apprentice, where I learned the value of hard work and discipline. Not long after, I discovered my passion for leadership and found my footing in management at just 17 years old. Along the way, I earned my GED, determined not to let my circumstances define my future.
Pricing:
- $29 25-minute Intro Appointment
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.iflexstretchstudios.com/location/heritage-trace-plaza
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iflexheritagetraceplaza/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iflexHeritageTracePlaza/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iflex-heritage-trace-05228631b/
