Meet Sam | Founder of HipTrain

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sam and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sam, how do you think about risk?
Risk has always been a part of my journey. As an entrepreneur, you can’t really avoid it. I don’t see risk as something to fear, but rather as a necessary part of growth and innovation. From starting my first business straight out of college to launching HipTrain during a global pandemic, every step I’ve taken has involved a leap of faith.

When we started HipTrain, the world was in a state of uncertainty. Gyms were closing, routines were disrupted, and people were searching for new ways to stay healthy. It felt risky to build something new in such an unpredictable environment, but it was also an opportunity to create real impact. That decision, like many others I’ve made, came down to trusting the vision, doing the work, and being willing to adapt.

To me, taking risks means betting on yourself and your ability to figure things out. It’s not about being reckless, but about being willing to step into the unknown with a plan, a purpose, and the understanding that mistakes are part of the process. Some of the best lessons I’ve learned, about leadership, resilience, and customer focus, came directly from moments when things didn’t go as planned.

Ultimately, risk has played a huge role in shaping both my career and who I am as a person. It’s how you discover what’s possible, and it’s what drives meaningful change.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
HipTrain is all about making personal training affordable and accessible. We offer live, one-on-one training sessions over video for just $12, so people can get fit from anywhere, on their own schedule, with real coaches who match their goals.

The idea started during the pandemic when gyms were closed and a lot of people were struggling to stay active. Building the business came with plenty of challenges. We had to get the technology right, find great trainers from around the world, and show people that this new way of training could really work. Every hurdle helped us improve.

What I’m most proud of is the impact we’ve made. We’ve helped thousands of people build healthier habits and feel better in their day-to-day lives.

At its core, HipTrain is about making fitness feel personal, convenient, and welcoming. That mission continues to guide everything we do.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If a close friend was visiting Nashville for the week, I’d want them to get the full experience — a mix of good food, live music, some outdoor time, and a feel for the city’s creative energy.

For hot chicken, we’d go straight to Hattie B’s — can’t visit Nashville without it. For a solid brunch, I’d take them to Biscuit Love in The Gulch. One great dinner spot would be Rolf and Daughters — the food’s incredible and the atmosphere’s relaxed but still feels special.

For live music, we’d catch a show at The Ryman Auditorium. It’s iconic and there’s really nothing like it. For drinks, I’d take them to Attaboy. It’s a cool, speakeasy-style spot and they always craft something amazing based on what you’re into.

To get outside and reset a bit, we’d hike around Radnor Lake. It’s peaceful and a nice break from the city energy.

And for a music history fix, we’d stop by Third Man Records — it’s fun, unique, and totally Nashville.

Simple week, but packed with good memories. That’s my kind of trip.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’ve been really lucky to have an amazing support system around me, and there’s no way I’d be where I am today without them.

First off, my wife and daughters deserve a huge shoutout. They’ve been my biggest cheerleaders through all the highs and lows. Whether it’s listening to me talk through ideas late at night or jumping into HipTrain workouts themselves, they’ve been there every step of the way. Their love and encouragement keep me grounded and motivated.

I also want to recognize my business partner, Jordan Metzner. Jordan and I met back in college and we’ve been building together ever since. Starting something like HipTrain isn’t easy, but having someone like Jordan by my side has made all the difference. We complement each other well and share the same vision for what we want to create.

There have also been mentors and friends along the way who’ve offered advice, asked the tough questions, or simply believed in what we were doing. I’m grateful for all of it.

At the end of the day, nothing great gets built alone. I’ve had a lot of help, and I’m really thankful for the people who’ve been part of this journey with me.

Website: https://www.hiptrain.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hiptrainfitness/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hiptrain/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HipTrain/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@hiptrain