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

Hi Vanessa, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
After a long career as a director, choreographer and professional dancer, I immersed myself in fitness. I found the fitness community, especially in Miami, to be supportive and encouraging and really a big family. Having a love for cycling, when the opportunity to open the first Rukus Cycling Studio in Miami came along, it just felt right.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I started dancing at the age of 3. It quickly became my passion. I began dancing in TV shows, specials, productions at the age of 9. I attended New World School of the Arts for college. After dancing professionally for many years, I went into directing. I became a professor at the University of Miami and went on to direct several dance programs around Miami. Having a career in dance came with many challenges, but passion and determination made me who I am.  All of that experience now helps me focus on making a success of my cycling studio during these difficult times.

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?
Miami is really one of the greatest cities to live. The restaurants, hotels and beaches don’t compare! I would spend a day at the Soho House. Definitely a day walking around the design district to shop and have lunch at Swan. My long time favorite is Bal Harbour shops, ending a day of shopping with dinner at Le Zoo.  And of course, I love strolling through downtown Coral Gables, with all the options for dining and shopping it has.  My latest fave there is TUR, a new restaurant located at Giralda Place.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
John Zuccarini, my partner in life and biggest supporter!

Instagram: @rukuscoralgables @vanessacbauer

Image Credits
Darcy Graf

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