Meet Lena Rakijian

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

Hi Lena, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The success of the VERVE Studios brand comes down to one key factor: building a strong team that believes in my vision and aligns with our mission and core values. It’s not just about recruiting and hiring; it’s about onboarding, training, and developing a team that’s willing to roll up their sleeves and work together. This kind of dedication makes all the difference in whether we’re winning or not. We win as a team, celebrate our individual and studio successes or milestones, and constantly push ourselves to innovate and improve the experience for our members and community. Growth isn’t just a goal for us—it’s the only way we can help more people improve their mental health, physical health and performance in fitness and life!

What should our readers know about your business?
VERVE Studios is more than just a fitness studio—it’s a community-driven space where members come to feel empowered, supported, and inspired. What sets us apart is our commitment to creating a unique, results-driven experience that goes beyond the typical gym. We focus on providing dynamic, engaging group classes that bring people together, led by passionate instructors who genuinely care about each person’s journey. From our music-driven indoor cycling classes to our thoughtfully curated strength and yoga sessions, every detail is designed to help members not only achieve their fitness goals but also find mental strength, joy and community in the journey.

One of the things I’m most proud of is the incredible team and community we’ve built. They’re not just employees and members—they’re partners in our mission to change lives. Their dedication to creating a welcoming, positive, and challenging environment is what makes VERVE Studios thrive. I’m also incredibly excited about the way we continue to innovate, whether it’s launching creative challenges like the VERVE Olympics, hosting special events for causes close to our hearts, or finding new ways to engage with our members on and off the mat.

The journey to where we are today hasn’t been easy. Managing multiple locations, leading a team of 34 employees, and constantly striving to deliver an exceptional member experience has been a rewarding yet challenging process. There have been moments of doubt, staffing hurdles, and the never-ending ups and downs of entrepreneurship, but those challenges have shaped me and the business. I’ve leaned heavily on my mentors, life coach and educational trainings to grow as a leader and create systems that support our vision. Surrounding myself with the right people—my team, my supportive husband, and my family—has also been key to overcoming obstacles.

The biggest lessons I’ve learned are the importance of resilience, the power of community, and the value of staying true to your mission. At VERVE Studios, we believe that fitness should be empowering, fun, and transformative. I want the world to know that VERVE isn’t just a place to work out—it’s a place to belong, to grow, and to be the best version of yourself. Our story is about building a space where people feel seen, challenged, and celebrated, and I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve created and the lifelong relationships that have come from this place.

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 my best friend was visiting for a week, I’d plan the ultimate mash-up of North County charm and San Diego vibes. The week would be packed with fitness, foodie heaven, local charm, and plenty of laughs—showing my best friend exactly why San Diego truly is America’s Finest City!

We’d kick things off every day with a workout at VERVE Studios—because nothing sets the tone for an epic day like some sweat and endorphins! Post-class, we’d grab iced lattes from Revolution Roasters and stroll the Carlsbad Beach Boardwalk, soaking in the salty air. The week would be packed with North County adventures: hikes at Torrey Pines Reserve, lazy afternoons at Moonlight Beach, and bopping around Encinitas and Carlsbad Village.

Brunch at Nectarine Grove in Leucadia, sushi at Blue Ocean or Kai Ola, and dinners at Campfire, Dija Mara, or Herb & Sea. One night, we’d grab Cardiff Crack and veggies from Seaside Market for a backyard BBQ (because, grill masters), or maybe head to the Mission Pacific Hotel rooftop to catch a killer sunset. Nightlife would be all about dive-y fun with karaoke at Larry’s Beach Club or Smitty’s Downtown, and for live music – Roxy’s Encinitas or Belly Up Tavern Solana!

When we venture south, it’s time to amp up the city vibes. A Padres game at Petco Park. A comedy show at The Comedy Store in La Jolla. Little Italy Farmer’s Market. Dinner at Wolf in the Woods or Trust. Drinks at The Neighborhood or the speakeasy vibes of Noble Experiment. Oh, and if you haven’t seen a magic show at The Prestige, you’re missing out—it’s unexpectedly amazing.

Maybe we would hit the San Diego Zoo. Explore North Park, live music at the North Park Observatory, or lounging by the retro vibes at the Lafayette Hotel. Bonus points if there’s a Broadway show at the San Diego Civic Theatre, because this big musical theatre nerd can’t resist.

Of course, we could also skip all of that, stick to workouts at VERVE, hit the beach daily, cook dinner or order-in and play board games at home—because sometimes the simplest plans are the most fun!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Most recently, I’d like to give a heartfelt shoutout to my life coach, Meg. I started working with her just over three months ago, and she has truly transformed my life. Her support, coaching, and guidance have been invaluable in helping me navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship—whether it’s managing multiple locations, leading a team of 34 employees, or staying aligned with the vision of my business. Meg has helped me unlock more of my potential and step into my most powerful and radiant energy, no matter the challenge.

I’ve always turned to books for guidance too. Some of my favorites include Dare to Lead by Brené Brown, The 5 Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni, Think Again by Adam Grant, and Multipliers by Liz Wiseman. Over the years, I’ve also invested in several masterminds and industry-specific trainings, which have elevated my skills in leadership, sales, and marketing and contributed to meaningful growth for both myself and my team. These experiences have played a pivotal role in my journey, and I’m incredibly grateful for them.

Last but certainly not least, I owe so much to my amazing husband, Michael, and my supportive parents, family and friends. They’ve always been in my corner, cheering me on, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without their unwavering love and encouragement.

Website: https://thevervestudios.com/

Instagram: @thevervestudios, @lenarakijian

Image Credits
Sara Freitag – photos of instructors on bikes Gaby Edmead – blue bike room shot