Life & Work with Chrissy Gust of East Valley

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chrissy Gust.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I believe that when you follow your purpose, doors open in ways you never expected. I am a wife, mom of three boys, teacher, coach, and now the proud owner of Special Strong Mesa. My journey has been rooted in education, athletics, and advocacy, especially as a mom to two sons with special needs. I’ve spent nearly a decade in the classroom teaching middle school, ran a daycare franchise, and coached volleyball at all levels—from youth to college. Through it all, I’ve felt called to lead, mentor, and create spaces where people are seen, supported, and empowered. When I came across the opportunity to start Special Strong in the East Valley, I knew it was a mission I could get behind. The more I learned about Special Strong, the more I knew I had to get this going here. Our community is excited about the services we are offering to allow people of all ability levels live a healthy lifestyle.

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?
Starting a brand-new business is scary. There isn’t anyone else in doing what we are doing and the market it new for these kinds of services out here. We had some financial hang ups getting going, which actually delayed our opening by several months. We are continuing to take financial steps of faith and work through the start-up pains, but I know once we get going, we will be helping a lot of people so it will all be worth it!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At Special Strong Mesa East Valley, we are more than just a fitness community — we are a family committed to building strength and fostering empowerment for individuals. We offer science-based private and group training programs that are designed to meet the unique challenges of children, adolescents, and adults with mental, physical, and cognitive challenges. Our mission is clear: to help each person live a more abundant life. We believe in the power of inclusivity, where everyone is welcome and celebrated for their unique abilities.

Our community is a safe space where individuals find not just a workout, but a network of support and encouragement. Strength goes beyond the physical. Together we redefine strength to include resilience, determination, and the courage to overcome challenges. Our purpose extends beyond fitness; it’s about enabling abundant living. We work tirelessly to break barriers, create opportunities, and cultivate an environment where each person can thrive, regardless of the challenges they face.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
Some would probably consider me a risk-taker in business. Before even launching my first Special Strong location in Mesa, Arizona, I committed to a second territory in Chandler—driven not by a rigid plan, but by unwavering faith and a sense of divine timing. Despite the uncertainty that comes with early expansion, I leaned into the momentum and peace I felt, trusting my calling and taking decisive action. My proactive mindset, from scouting gyms to envisioning partnerships before even signing on, impressed Special Strong’s founder, who recognized a rare and driven entrepreneurial spirit.

My risk-taking doesn’t stop with rapid growth; I am forming creative partnerships that extend our impact. From collaborating with Special Olympics Arizona to engaging school districts, I am working to embed adaptive fitness into our community’s fabric. With a team of like-minded trainers and a mission-first attitude, I am not waiting for success to find me—I’m creating it. My journey reflects a powerful blend of faith, courage, and vision that is already transforming lives before our grand opening has even begun!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://specialstrongmesaeastvalley.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/specialstrongmesaeastvalley/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/specialstrongmesaeastvalley
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SpecialStrong
• Other: https://specialstrongmesaeastvalley.com/

Image Credits
The personal photo is just a headshot of myself. We haven’t begun training sessions yet, so all of the athlete and coaches are from other franchises. The pictures highlight private training sessions and group classes that we will be offering.