EPISODE 33: Can Your Instructor Steal Your Clients?
Too many studio owners assume loyalty will protect their business.
But when a star instructor leaves — and takes clients or staff with them — it can shake everything.
In this episode, Cory shares a real studio situation and breaks down what legal protections actually work (and which ones don’t) when contractors leave.
Why This Matters
If you rely on independent contractors, most non-competes won’t hold up. And by the time someone leaves, it’s often too late to fix it. The protection has to be built in before problems arise.
Key Takeaways
✔️ Why non-competes rarely work with 1099 instructors
✔️ When non-solicitation clauses can help
✔️ Why NDAs don’t protect your client list the way you think
✔️ How culture + customized contracts create real protection
Cory’s Legal Pro Tip
📄 “If your contracts only talk about rules — but not expectations and culture — you’re already behind. The strongest protection is proactive and clearly communicated from day one.”
🎧 Want to protect your studio before a staff exit happens? Hit play now.
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Law Meets Heart: The Conscious Counsel Podcast
Running a wellness business doesn’t mean you have to fear the legal side. We break down the law in a way that’s practical, empowering, and actually enjoyable.
Tune in for real conversations, legal tips, and support from a lawyer who speaks your language (and loves you).
About Us
Heart-leading health and wellness entrepreneurs, we've got your back. The Conscious Counsel Podcast is the go-to resource for business growth and legal advice for practitioners, solopreneurs, and small businesses dedicated to making a positive impact and spreading love and wellness throughout the world.
Law meets heart. Hosted by Cory Sterling, this podcast shares real stories, practical insights, and legal wisdom for wellness entrepreneurs, fitness professionals, and heart-led business owners. Whether you’re scaling your studio, launching a retreat, or just want to make law feel less scary—this show is for you.
Whether you’re a yoga teacher, personal trainer, life coach, or holistic health professional, this podcast gives you the guidance, support, and protection you need without the confusing legal jargon. Tune in for enlightening conversations with experts, industry-specific legal guidance, and real-life case studies of conscious businesses. You do what you do to make the world a better place, and this podcast is here to clear the path so you can show up fully in your gifts. And, if you need legal help, why not get it from a lawyer who loves you?
Cory Sterling
Lawyer & Founder of Conscious Counsel
Cory is a heart-led lawyer, entrepreneur, and podcast host making law fun, accessible, and empowering for wellness professionals around the world.
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