Jeff and Nicole Essink, proud owners of FXB of Yankee Ridge and Meadowlane in Lincoln, Neb., are celebrating 12 successful years of transforming lives through their dedication, passion, and commitment to the Farrell’s Extreme Bodyshaping mission.
Nicole and Jeff’s journey began with Nicole as the head coach at the Altoona, Iowa, location, while Jeff was working in sales for his dad’s business. United by their shared passion for fitness and helping others, they took a leap of faith and became franchise owners of the Altoona location. In 2018, they made a life-changing move to Lincoln, Nebraska, to take over two FXB gyms, impacting not only their own lives but those of countless members in their new community.
“Farrell’s helped change our lives, and we wanted to give back and do the same,” said Jeff. “We have a passion for helping others, and we want our members to be the strongest, healthiest, and best they can be.”
Over the years, the Essinks have built a welcoming and inspiring community rooted in connection and support. The friendships they’ve formed have been truly life-changing. Even in the face of challenges, such as the 2.5-month gym closures during the pandemic, Jeff and Nicole’s strong leadership, combined with the dedication of their incredible team and members, enabled them to pivot quickly, launching virtual workouts that are still offered to members today.
“Those times showed what kind of heart, compassion, and love our members have not only for Farrell’s, but also for Nicole and I,” shared Jeff. “Another big challenge was leaving everything we knew in Altoona and moving to Lincoln to take over two gyms without knowing anyone, but we’re so glad we did.”
For the Essinks, the most rewarding part of owning FXB is witnessing the incredible transformations their members achieve. “Seeing the smiles on their faces after class, getting high fives, hearing their amazing stories, and watching their self-confidence grow — I mean, we get to hang out and work out with our friends every day. How cool is that?”
The Essinks are also proud of their all-inclusive kickboxing program for kids and adults with intellectual disabilities: Kickboxing Friends.
The best piece of advice that has guided their success came from Lance Farrell, founder of Farrell’s Extreme Bodyshaping, “If you make this about the members, you will never fail.” Jeff and Nicole have taken that to heart, making every decision with their members’ best interests in mind.
Today, Jeff and Nicole are celebrating not only 12 years of FXB ownership but also 27 years of marriage and a fulfilling family life with their two children, Kaity (22) and Ben (18). Married at just 18 and 19, they share a love for roller coasters, football, Gilmore Girls, and simply spending time together. Every Sunday, they co-host their radio show, Fitness Fanatics, on 93.7 The Ticket, where they share their passion for health, wellness, and community.
As they mark this milestone, the Essinks remain grateful for the lives they’ve impacted and the community they’ve built. Here’s to many more years of transforming lives together!
