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

Hi Shakila, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
The Ladies Athletic Club of Dallas (LACD) began as a vision to create an empowering space for women to prioritize their health, fitness, and overall well-being in a supportive, community-driven social club. I recognized that Dallas lacked female-focused athletic clubs that catered specifically to the unique fitness goals and wellness needs of women. I wanted to create a place that wasn’t just about working out, but where women of all ages and fitness levels could come together and create a community of support.

What started as a small group of enthusiastic women has quickly grown into a community of over 1,000 members since June 2024, supporting one another both inside and outside of fitness activities. We’re so proud of space we’ve created, and we continue to be inspired by each member’s unique journey. LACD is here to help motivate every woman as she achieve her goals — whether it be in fitness, personal development, or simply forming life-long friendships.

What should our readers know about your business?
The Ladies Athletic Club of Dallas (LACD) is a community dedicated to empowering women through fitness, professional growth, and meaningful connections. Founded in June 2024, we’ve grown to over 1,000 members, offering unique athletic and social experiences, from group classes and tennis clinics to charitable initiatives like “Serving Sundays,” where we give back by feeding the homeless.

LACD was born from a desire to foster a structured social life and personal growth for women in Dallas, inspired by the challenges of forming meaningful friendships in such a big city. While building this community hasn’t been without challenges, we’ve learned the importance of listening to our members and creating an inclusive environment that meets their needs.

What sets us apart is our commitment to blending fitness, philanthropy, and camaraderie. We’re more than just a club—we’re a movement empowering women to connect, grow, and make an impact together.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Giving my best friend the ultimate LACD itinerary would be an awesome way for her to get the ultimate experience of being a member of our social club.

For a day full of variety and connection, I’d start with our signature LACD Hot Girl Walk at White Rock Lake. The brisk morning air and upbeat energy from fellow members would set the tone for a productive and inspiring day. Nothing beats starting your day with movement, a fire playlist, and motivation alongside a supportive community!

After the walk, we’d head to Soirée Coffee Bar in Trinity Groves for a chic and delicious brunch. As an LACD member, you can enjoy perks like a 10% discount on all orders and even a free coffee each month—so we’d definitely take full advantage of that! The lively vibe, paired with their amazing menu, would make this the perfect post-walk pit stop.

Next, it’s time to unwind and recharge with a luxurious massage at The Lady Brazilianaire Waxing Studio. This would be the ultimate treat to reset our minds and bodies, embracing a little self-care in the middle of a busy day.

For lunch, we’d indulge at Felix Culpa, where the glamorous décor and bold menu would make it feel like a special occasion. From their signature dishes to creative cocktails, this spot truly embodies the vibrant social experiences that LACD members enjoy.

To keep the energy high, we’d close out the day with an evening hot yoga class at Soul Sweat Yoga. The heat and flowing poses would help us detox and reconnect with ourselves, leaving us feeling balanced and completely relaxed by the end of the session.

This curated day would be the perfect mix of movement, connection, and indulgence—truly showcasing the dynamic and enriching lifestyle that comes with being a part of LACD!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Nyla Bland with Peach Marketing – https://www.peachmarketingfirm.com – What we love most about Nyla Bland and Peach Marketing Firm is her unique ability to understand and amplify a brand’s voice. Nyla is not only a creative powerhouse but also incredibly strategic. She truly cares about her clients, ensuring that each campaign and strategy is deeply rooted in authentic storytelling and data-driven insights. The Peach Marketing Firm team is dedicated to helping businesses connect with their audiences in meaningful, memorable ways. It’s inspiring to watch Nyla’s passion for marketing come to life as she works tirelessly to build brands and support the local business community.

Te Mccutcheon-Raper – Power House Dollz – https://phdollz.org- What we love about Te Mccutcheon-Raper and her nonprofit, PhDollz, is their unwavering dedication to empowering young women. Te’s passion for mentorship and development shines through every program PhDollz offers. By providing guidance, resources, and support, she creates a nurturing environment where young women can grow, pursue their dreams, and build lasting self-confidence. PhDollz is more than an organization—it’s a movement that uplifts, educates, and inspires. Te’s vision for fostering resilience and leadership in the next generation is truly impactful, and I’m honored to witness the difference she’s making in our community.

Website: https://www.ladiesathleticclubofdallas.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladiesathleticclubofdal/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Ladies-Athletic-Club-Of-Dallas-61560638352225/?locale=mt_MT

Other: https://www.threads.net/@ladiesathleticclubofdal

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