Can you tell us something about yourself and your passions?
I am Iris Poldervaart, certified Mat Pilates instructor, entrepreneur and brand director. I live in Amsterdam-Zuid with my partner Jeffrey Janssen, founder of The Color, and our two children, River (5) and Skyler (11). My passion lies in building strong brands and helping women to become physically and mentally stronger. With Sculpt with Iris I combine my experience in Pilates, branding, fashion and digital marketing to create a luxurious, yet accessible Pilates community.

How did you get to where you are now in your career/life?
My career started in the fashion and beauty industry, where I worked as a PR specialist and brand manager for brands such as Tommy Hilfiger, Escada and Karl Lagerfeld. Later I co-founded hair and beauty platform The Chair, The Color Salons and The Color College, where I focused on branding, marketing and education within the luxury beauty sector. At the same time, my passion for Pilates grew. After 11 years of intensive training and certification with Polestar, I decided to combine my knowledge and entrepreneurial experience in Sculpt with Iris—a Pilates platform that combines luxury and effectiveness.

What are some challenges you've faced along the way and how did you overcome them?
One of my biggest challenges was balancing entrepreneurship, family life and personal growth. As a mother and entrepreneur I had to learn to prioritize and delegate tasks (work in progress). In addition, it was a challenge to make Pilates a strong, commercially viable brand. By combining my knowledge of branding and digital marketing with my passion for Pilates, I created a unique positioning that connects with my target group.

How do you use your platform/(work) environment/influence to make a difference?
With Sculpt with Iris I want to help women integrate Pilates and strength training into their daily routine, regardless of their busy schedule. Think of me as your personal accountability partner. I offer workouts from 10 to 40 minutes, weekly live classes and personalized training schedules. In addition, I create a community where women motivate each other, whether that is through my online platform, social media or private lessons on location.

What achievement are you most proud of and why?
I am incredibly proud of the launch of Sculpt with Iris. This platform is a reflection of my passion and expertise, and it gives me the opportunity to inspire and help others. I am also proud of how we have positioned The Color Salons as a high-end brand within the beauty industry and the impact I have had on branding and marketing within the sector.

How do you integrate The Insiders into your daily routine or work?
Hair care and luxury beauty products have always been an important part of my work and lifestyle. The Insiders fits perfectly with my vision of self-care and premium hair care. The Glow Hair Oil is one of my favorite products because it provides a luxurious finish without weighing down the hair. As an entrepreneur, mother and Pilates expert I am always looking for products that are effective and easy to use, this oil fits perfectly. It helps me keep my hair healthy and shiny, even after intense workouts and a busy day.

Who or what inspires you the most?
I get a lot of inspiration from entrepreneurs and creatives like Emma Grede and Melissa Wood Tepperberg. My own community also inspires me daily, the energy and dedication of the
women training with Sculpt with Iris motivates me to continue developing new content and programs.

What's the best advice you've ever received?
"Consistency beats perfection." You don't have to have everything perfect to get started; starting and continuing to improve is the key to success. This advice has helped me in both building my brands and my personal growth.

Do you have any tips or advice for women who want to follow your path?
Stay true to your vision and build a strong brand around your passion. Use social media strategically to reach your target audience and don’t be afraid to ask for help or enter into partnerships. Success doesn’t come overnight, but by consistently working towards your goals.

What are your plans or goals for the future?
My focus now is on the official launch of Sculpt with Iris and further expanding the platform. I want to organize retreats and offer group lessons on location. In addition, I am increasingly delving into financial freedom and investments, so that I can grow sustainably both personally and professionally.