Conversations with the Inspiring Sandra Letenzi

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sandra Letenzi.

So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I was tempted to say this all started in early 2016 when I became certified as a health coach, but my story really starts long before that. I lost my mom to breast cancer when I was five (she was 38). I always had a fear of cancer growing up since my relatives talked about it frequently (that’s how it seemed as a kid anyway). I grew up thinking I had a 50/50 chance of also getting breast cancer. I’ve been interested in health and nutrition for as long as I can remember, but took a different route in college and pursued a business degree. I spent about six years in the defense contracting industry and I started my business as a side hustle after graduating from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition in 2016. I ultimately left to pursue health coaching full time shortly after. I gave talks at Whole Foods, chiropractors’ offices, schools and anywhere that would let me speak!

As I went down the rabbit hole of becoming a health coach, I learned that genetics is such a small piece of the puzzle with many conditions/diseases and that diet & lifestyle account for about 80-90% of this whole equation (some experts would argue even 95%). I’m extremely passionate about educating and empowering others with this truth, as so many of us are led to believe we’ll suffer from the same ailments that our parents or grandparents do because “it runs in our family.” This leaves us feeling powerless and trapped in a victim mentality.

I am a true health nerd and I’m constantly reading, attending conferences, listening to expert interviews/podcasts and learning as much as possible. It’s so rewarding to help people live healthier, more vibrant lives and see them truly feel better, learn to take care of themselves and take ownership of their health. I keep busy with running my business and health coaching for a startup company. I’m also in the middle of getting certified as a yoga teacher. I’m really grateful to be on this path and doing work I’m insanely passionate about!

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Is it ever a smooth road?! 🙂 I started my business in Maryland and then my husband and I moved to South Carolina a few months later so, in a way, I had to start over with networking and relationship building. Then, a little less than two years later, we moved out to Colorado! Moving out here has been so positive for my business since Colorado is more progressive and there’s a different mindset around health. As an (extroverted) introvert, I’ve had to get real used to being uncomfortable — often. There is no growth, no change, no excitement without discomfort. I’d say one of the most crucial things is embracing discomfort! And starting before you’re ready. You’ll never be ready, you just have to make moves right now and learn as you go. I also realized that by not sharing my gifts and my passion with the world due to being nervous and fearful, I was just doing people who needed my help a huge disservice.

What should we know about Steadfast Health? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I help people feel better, have more energy and become bulletproof in their health. I like to say I’m a prevention pro because I’m really passionate about helping people take specific action in their lives that will stack the odds in their favor against the diseases they may be fearful of. I specialize in gut health and liver health. Not many people are talking about the liver. It’s easy to believe that if you don’t drink much alcohol, your liver is fine, but it’s just not the case. Our livers desperately need some TLC, as they perform over 2,000 critical functions for life day in and day out – and they rarely get acknowledged. It actually blows my mind just how many symptoms and conditions can be traced back to a liver that’s overburdened and toxic. I’m also known for hosting monthly cleanses (you get to eat plenty, I promise!) that have some pretty phenomenal results, if I may say so myself! I’m most proud of my integrity and the value I bring as a coach. I take my work seriously and I absolutely love helping people who are receptive to change; it’s beyond rewarding!

It would be great to hear about any apps, books, podcasts or other resources that you’ve used and would recommend to others.
Books: All of Tim Ferriss’ books! Daring Greatly by Brene Brown; Braving the Wilderness by Brene Brown; Unshakeable by Tony Robbins; The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins; Liver Rescue by Medical Medium (all the Medical Medium books are phenomenal honestly); The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz

Apps: Insight Timer, Audible, The Skimm, Be My Eyes

Podcasts: The Tim Ferriss Show; How I Built This

Contact Info:

• Website: sandraletenzi.com
• Email: sandra@steadfasthealth.com
• Instagram: @steadfast_health
• Facebook: facebook.com/steadfasthealth

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