016: Everything is Figureoutable.

It’s the moment every owner dreads.

The great employee, hardworking, kind, experienced, seemingly impossible to replace, gives notice. And of course… it’s August. Gut punch.

That happened to us last week. And this week? We’re in hustle mode to prevent fall-out. These are the hardest moments, when you don’t know if it’s even possible to fix.

But here’s the truth: it always gets fixed.

Years ago, I decided my real job wasn’t just running the business. It was teaching others how to solve the hardest problems. Because everything really is figureoutable.

And in this tough moment, here’s what I’m grateful for, the things that make challenges like this a little easier to manage:

1. Hiring on values first.We hired her for her character and core value fit. That matters now, because she gave us a month to get things in order. She didn’t have to, but she cares about the families and the company.
   

2. Flexible coaching model.We intentionally build part-time roles so coaches can balance family life. It’s harder to manage, yes, but it means others can step up in small, meaningful ways when gaps happen.
   

3. Change IS the job.My leaders know before they step in: this role is about solving problems. Change isn’t a disruption, it’s the work.
   

4. The Frankenstein method is OK.Filling a gap temporarily may cause a short-term dip in quality, but it’s necessary for long-term growth. Not every solution has to be forever. Sometimes people are happy to step up for a season.
   

5. Recruiting is everyone’s job.Athletes, parents, the bubbly spin instructor, anyone could be your next great coach. Start the conversation: “You’d be a great coach!” And don’t forget referral bonuses.

So what’s next? Just like breaking down a skill, you’ve got to break down the plan. Don’t keep it all in your head, write it out and KEEP it! Call it the “drawing board” because it’s what you have to go back to.

Start here:

• Coaching schedule (by event)

• Admin duties (with deadlines)

• List of current coaches available at the same time

• List of coaches at other locations + their schedules

• Past applicants

• Former coaches

• Local judges, dance instructors, strength and conditioning coaches (someone that can take a rotation)

• Places you’ve hired from before (hold on to this list): LinkedIn, Indeed, classifieds, etc.

• Job postings where they’ve worked before

It’s not easy. It never is. But everything is figureoutable. (my word 😉) We’ve got this, -Casey

PS. THIS is the very reason NinjaZone was created as a PROGRAM that people could see value in first. Coaches will always be the heart of our businesses, but having a program that kids will stay for during a coaching change… that’s important. 🎯Real Talk - When a star coach gives notice, the first thought is usually: “Cool, cool… everything’s fine. Totally fine.”

But here’s the truth: it happens to everyone. Coaches move, life changes, people chase new dreams. It’s not personal, it’s just the gig.

So give yourself one solid sulk, eat the emergency chocolate, then pull out the drawing board. Because you’ve got this. And if not, well… we’ll figure it out together.