We recently welcomed actress and entrepreneur Nicole Ari Parker to "The Breakdown With Bethany" podcast, and in a candid conversation, Nicole discussed her innovative brand Gymwrap, her journey as a businesswoman, and the balance between entrepreneurship and motherhood.
Nicole Ari Parker’s journey to creating Gymwrap stemmed from a personal need. She explained how her hairstyle often dictated her activities, particularly affecting her time with her husband. “My hair was like a big deal. I had to plan when I was going to the salon,” Nicole shared. The actress found herself choosing between spending time with her husband and maintaining her hairstyle, which led to the creation of Gymwrap.
“I was like, there's something wrong with this picture. Why am I so afraid to ruin my hairstyle and take care of myself and be with my husband?” Nicole recounted. Driven by the desire to find a solution, she began experimenting with exercise material, creating a prototype with the help of her young daughter.
Nicole’s path to entrepreneurship was not without its challenges. She candidly spoke about her initial lack of business knowledge and the hurdles she faced. “I didn’t know anything about business. I had to find out how to get a manufacturer, how to get a patent. I had multiple business partners. I had to pitch my idea to different retailers,” she said. Despite these challenges, Nicole persevered, and today, Gymwrap is a thriving business.
Her journey underscores the importance of resilience and support, especially from her husband, who played a significant role in the business. “My husband also helped me a lot. I love that. I know that he’s part of the business. We see him with the male version of the Gymwrap,” she mentioned.
Initially designed with Black women in mind, Gymwrap’s highly absorbent material has garnered a diverse customer base. “Gymwrap is really for everyone. It sold to multiple races,” Nicole emphasized. Her innovative marketing strategy included creating infomercials, even buying time slots in unconventional hours. “I could only afford the two o’clock in the morning slot. I bought a little time on the tennis channel, and it was my biggest return,” she revealed. Athletes from various backgrounds appreciated the product’s effectiveness, broadening its appeal.
nicole ari parker
Nicole also touched on how motherhood influenced her decisions and the eventual expansion of her business. “I think now that the kids are older, I feel safer. It gave me more confidence to say yes to a job like this,” she said, reflecting on her current work in New York City while her children are in L.A. Balancing her career and family life has been a continuous journey, but one she navigates with confidence and support.
Nicole’s story is an inspiring testament to the power of perseverance and innovation. Her journey from a personal need to a successful business underscores the potential within every challenge. For moms considering entrepreneurship, Nicole’s advice is clear: Don’t feel intimidated by what you don’t know. With determination, support, and a willingness to learn, success is attainable.
Catch the full episode of “The Breakdown With Bethany” to hear more about Nicole’s journey, her tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, and how she balances her thriving career with motherhood.
