Founding Third Place Yoga: A Journey of Self-Employment in Germany

Did you know that you can get a job all over the world with the US Military as an American civilian? I didn’t either!

In this episode I talk to Erin Wilson, the founder of Third Place Yoga, who transitioned from a military job as a child care worker in Garmisch, to establishing her own yoga business in Germany.

From South Carolina to Garmisch-Partenkirchen

After a decade as a competitive gymnast in South Carolina, Erin found both excitement and uncertainty in shifting her focus. Her college years, filled with new opportunities and inspiring mentors, led her to discover a passion for yoga and fitness—not just as a student, but as a teacher. A six-month study abroad in Italy in 2014 also cemented her love for Europe.

In 2015, Erin moved to Germany after graduating from Clemson University with a degree in veterinary science (which was no longer her passion), driven by a desire to live abroad. After seven years of juggling part-time jobs with the US Army and teaching yoga locally, she took the leap into self-employment.

Transitioning to Self-Employment

In April 2024, Erin founded The Third Place in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, aiming to grow her yoga and fitness business by hosting European retreats, collaborating with local businesses, and offering more private and group classes.

Her goal is to create a space where students can explore their potential, honor their bodies’ boundaries, and feel guided on their journey to reach their goals.

Third Place Yoga is a space beyond home and work where individuals can feel accepted and have fun. Erin offersyoga classes, personal training, and retreats.

Building a Community as an Expat in Germany

Erin’s journey to build a client base was not without challenges. She started by teaching fitness and yoga classes on the military base and gradually expanded her reach to the local community. Here are some strategies she used to grow her business:

Strategies for Building a Clientele:

Networking: Engaging with parents and children through her work on the base.
Social Media: Utilizing platforms like Instagram and Facebook Groups to connect with potential clients.
Email Marketing: Sending weekly reminders and updates to her email list. In the episode she talks about her brick-by-brick, grass roots and very high-touch method she used to build her list.
Community Involvement: Teaching at local venues like the Volkshochschule and hotels.

Offering Retreats in Beautiful Locations

Erin has successfully organized yoga retreats in stunning locations, including Austria and Portugal. She started small, using venues that did not require upfront payments, allowing her to gauge interest without financial risk.

Upcoming Retreats:

March 2025: Retreat in Leutasch, Austria.
Summer 2025: Two retreats scheduled in beautiful locations.
October 2025: Retreat in Redondo, Portugal.

Take aways from Erin’s story

Erin’s journey from a military job to establishing Third Place Yoga is a testament to the power of passion and stick-to-it-ness. Whether you’re an expat looking to start a business or someone interested in yoga, her story will inspire you.

For more information about Erin’s classes and retreats, visit The Third Place and follow her on Instagram at @thethirdplace_yogafitness