Profile in Commerce - Very Fit Co.
Our first Profile in Commerce of February is Very Fit Co. Located at 12208 Johnson Dr, Shawnee, KS, Very Fit Co. is a gym owned by Christian Buckner and Joel Wright that offers group and private fitness options, a dry sauna, nutrition guidance, and so much more.
Joel Wright: I’m the owner of Very Fit Co., but look at myself as a Performance Architect of sorts. My current mission is building and putting into place as many systems as possible to help our 50+ clients build fitness habits that last a lifetime.
I’ve worked in the fitness industry for over 10 years now as a frontline associate, staff manager, marketing specialist, and coach between various gym systems across the metro.
Tell us about your business.
Very Fit Co. opened as Built Box Training in November of 2021. We’re a premium fitness system that specializes in teaching our clients how to build strength, correct postural imbalances, and integrate positive fitness habits into their lifestyles outside the gym.
What has been the most rewarding aspect of running your business in Shawnee? Are there any highlights or milestones that stand out?
To me, Shawnee is a good representation of the KC metro as a whole. It’s big, with a small-town vibe. The people work hard, but also know how to have a good time. I feel all of our local clients embody that spirit, and everyone I’ve met has been very welcoming. I loved getting a chance to participate in the St. Patrick’s Day parade and adopting a family through Shawnee Community Services as a gym last year.
How do you see the future of your business within Shawnee, and are there any local trends or changes that excite you?
Most importantly, I’m aiming for VFC to be the best resource it can be to help people live better while we’re here. We hope to keep growing and expand our services to be as effective as possible. The growth of downtown is definitely exciting, since we are located nearby.
How has being part of the Shawnee Chamber of Commerce influenced or supported your business? Could you share any specific examples?
I’ve received a few opportunities to meet other leaders in the community and learn how they have navigated previous challenges and prepared to move into the future, as well as participating in different community projects. In the last year, I had a chance to speak with their HR roundtable, and I received the opportunity to participate in the Shawnee Tomorrow program (2025’s the best class, hands down). It was an invaluable experience, learning how things get done locally and the processes/resources that go into building a strong community.
If you could share one piece of advice with a new Chamber member or a new business in Shawnee, what would it be?
The Chamber provides a lot of opportunities to improve your business, inside and out. It’s up to the individual to maximize the value of their membership. I look forward to being more present as a member now and in the future.
Do you have a favorite story about the chamber?
The Chamber staff consulted me on better ways to improve their habits while at work. And they actually used some of my ideas! It showed me that they care about engaging with members, regardless of how big or small their role in the community may be.
Learn more about Very Fit Co. at www.veryfitco.com.
