A Q & A with Jenniel Steele, an Authentic Fitness Guide with Real Tips that Work
by Kimberly Pangaro
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Hello, Hello, Hello! Today, I had the chance to sit down with the amazingly talented, inspirational, and adored-by-many fitness guru — Jenniel Steele! And by guru, I mean she wanted to get fit, hated her lack of accountability, and found a way to get on a routine that she’s sharing with everyone. How’s that for true inspiration!
She’s a busy mom, just like you and me, and she’s here to share her journey so that the rest of us can find a bit of hope in our own fitness journeys. Want more from her? Follow her on Instagram @jennielsteele.
So, without further adieu, meet the authentic mom fitness guru inspiring us all — Jenniel Steele!
How did your fitness journey start?
I was 20 years old, I had just had my second baby in 2 years. I had watched this girl on instagram for the ending of my pregnancy, she was a mother of 4 and was a fitness coach. I got sick of watching her doing what I wanted to do but felt I couldn’t. I was sick of being depressed, crying in the mirror, and wearing pajamas all day because of how much I hated my body, I had hit my bottom and realized this was not a healthy or sustainable way to live. Two days before my 21st birthday, I realized there was no difference between me and that woman. I launched my business and started my journey that day. I figured I had nothing to lose, and the worst that would happen is, I’d lose out on some money and finally start taking care of myself.
What made you decide to inspire others on their own journey?
Honestly, I’m not sure I ever thought about it, I wanted accountability. Of course the thought of losing out on money scared me, but I just thought if I could help one other woman realize she was capable and worthy of going on a fitness journey, then it wouldn’t matter. Selfishly, it makes me feel more fulfilled knowing I’m helping other women recognize their worth.
What advice do you have towards other moms who want to get fit but feel hopeless?
First of all, mothers are never hopeless. Mothers are the most powerful people in the world. Who else could create humans out of basically nothing? A lot of it really has to do with mindset. When I first started, I felt so guilty. I felt like I was taking time away from my children. I’ve come to realize that taking better care of myself, is taking better care of my babies. I guess my advice is, just do it. Throw away your excuses, throw away the mom guilt, they’re doing nothing for you or your children. Fix your mindset, and do it.
What are your goals on Instagram?
Honestly, just to find my community. All I want is to create a safe, welcoming community of bad ass moms who are willing to motivate, inspire, and empower each other to go on a journey to become our best selves for ourselves, and for our babies.
What do you hope to achieve by sharing your story?
At first it was just to help one woman realize her worth and start her journey. After the first client, I got absolutely hooked. Now I wake up everyday, and push myself, just to see how many women I can make a positive impact on. I feel like moms are often left behind, especially since we spend most of our days taking care of everybody else, but it doesn’t have to be that way. We deserve to be able to take care of ourselves, too.
How do you inspire engagement on Instagram?
I feel like the best thing is to make sure I am providing valuable content to my community. Something that makes them learn something new, or brighten their spirits when they need it. Something that feels good, so that they’ll want more and continue to come back. Plus, I am sure to spend at least 30 minutes a day on my followers pages, loving on their posts and keeping up with them. It’s nice to return the favor, and see what other bad ass moms are up to.
What challenges have you faced? First on Instagram and second, in your journey.
The biggest challenge I’ve had on Instagram, is just finding my community. I have to admit, I am not social media savvy. When I started my business, I had less than 100 followers, mostly family and a few people from highschool. And, of course, the constantly changing algorithm, doesn’t help either!
As for my fitness journey, my biggest problem at first, was mom guilt. Don’t we all know the feeling? I felt horrible, like I was ignoring my children to take time for myself. One night it finally clicked for me, how truly stupid that was. I shouldn’t feel guilty for taking time to myself.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Do not worry about other people’s opinions. Their opinion of you is absolutely worthless. Just worry about yourself, and be the best person you can be.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I see myself still absolutely in love with my husband, hopefully by then I’ll be able to convince him to have another baby or two! We’ll be debt free, homeowners, with lots of land so we can be self-sustaining. We’ll be able to homeschool, and truly be enjoying every aspect of our lives. We’ll enjoy our home, family, jobs, lives, and be free.
Have you noticed your fitness journey has made any impacts on you as a parent?
Absolutely!! I am much happier, calmer. Gentle parenting has become so, so much easier. I have more energy to spend quality time with my children. I am honestly so much of a better mom. It’s amazing what filling your cup up first, can do for you and your babies!
Connect with Jenniel Steele
Instagram @jennielsteele
