When you meet Liberty Bernal, you’re instantly struck by her radiant energy, unstoppable drive, and deep passion for helping others thrive—whether they’re launching a franchise or navigating middle school. Her journey is anything but typical, which makes her story one worth telling.

A “Reverse Career” That Took Off Fast

Liberty’s entrepreneurial roots run deep. At just 20 years old, she launched Liberty Fitness, a boutique fitness franchise that expanded to 65 locations within 18 months. The business caught the attention of a private equity firm, which acquired the company, making Liberty the youngest female franchisor recognized by the International Franchise Association.

But despite her early success, Liberty knew she needed more than accolades—she needed balance.

“I had founder syndrome,” she laughs. “After the sale, the company shifted in ways I couldn’t align with. I resigned, moved back to California, and jumped into the unknown.”

That leap of faith led to a thriving coaching and consulting business in franchising that’s now 17 years strong. Along the way, she’s worked with countless business owners across industries, helping them grow, pivot, or get started—always with their happiness and well-being in mind.

Helping Entrepreneurs Find the Right Fit

Today, Liberty is laser-focused on franchise coaching and matching would-be entrepreneurs with the right franchise opportunity.

“People usually come to me saying they want a restaurant or a fitness studio. But when we dig deeper—into their goals, lifestyle, and values—often we land somewhere unexpected,” 

This personalized approach has earned her accolades, including the Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce’s New Business of the Year Award. But what fuels Liberty isn’t recognition—it’s transformation.

“Helping someone find a business that fits their life, not the other way around, is my sweet spot.”  “Especially women. We crave balance, fulfillment, and purpose. Franchising can offer that—if you choose wisely.”

A New Mission: Empowering the Next Generation of Women

Inspired by her 11-year-old daughter, Liberty is launching a passion project that’s close to her heart: coaching pre-teen girls on confidence, body image, and balance.

“These girls are in such a tender, transformative time—and no one’s really guiding them through it. Whether they’re athletes or not, the pressure is real. I want to create a program that empowers them with self-esteem and life skills.”

It’s still early days, but the vision is crystal clear.

“This isn’t about fitness or food—it’s about building self-worth from the inside out. If I could have reached some of the women I’ve coached today when they were 11, imagine how different their path could’ve been.”

Why She Fits Right Into Twine

Liberty embodies the Twine mission: to help women Prosper, Rebel, and Thrive. She’s done all three—building a multimillion-dollar franchise from scratch, breaking from the status quo to honor her own values, and creating space for joy, family, and purpose.

“I don’t fit neatly into one category. But that’s kind of the point. Business is holistic. Prosperity, health, joy—they all matter.”

She’s also the first to acknowledge the harder side of entrepreneurship.

“There’s failure. Disappointment. Burnout. I’ve had nuclear meltdowns in business—and learned from every one of them. Now I know: you don’t have to go big or go home. You can start small. You can start now.”

On Support, Vulnerability, and Being Real

While Liberty draws strength from her husband, Ryan, and their daily walks filled with deep convos, she admits it’s hard to open up about challenges.

I’m all sunshine all the time. It’s annoying, I know. But I’m working on it. That’s why communities like Twine matter—spaces where we can talk about the real stuff, not just the wins.”

That same ethos is what she hopes to bring to young girls in her new program: real talk, human connection, and the knowledge that it’s okay not to be okay.

A Franchise Queen with a Human Touch

Liberty may be a powerhouse in the franchise world, but she’s not in it for the ego. She’s in it for impact. Her favorite part of the work?

“Motivating and inspiring others. Helping people build legacies. Showing them they can build a life they love, not just a business.”

Her advice to others: Don’t fear failure. Take the leap. Stay aligned with your values. And when in doubt, go on a walk and talk it out.

Connect with Liberty:

• Website: www.libertybernalcoaching.com

• Instagram: @libertybernalcoaching

• Facebook: @libertybernalcoaching
• Podcast: Motivated with Liberty