Inspiring Conversations with Leandra Branch of Kettlebell & Company

Today we’d like to introduce you to Leandra Branch

Hi Leandra, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey to starting and maintaining KB&CO has been a complete roller coaster—the kind where you need to be a certain height and have a strong stomach! With a background in physical therapy, I quickly realized my true calling wasn’t just rehab but helping people build strength for longevity. I fell in love with kettlebells, and at 26, decided to start my own business. I had no business experience—just a deep passion for kettlebells, helping others, and a dream of creating a supportive space where every shape and identity was welcomed.

Starting a strength gym as a young woman (with above-average body fat) in a male-dominated field came with its challenges. I had to prove myself over and over—not just as a business owner, but as a coach. I wanted to build a space where strength wasn’t just about lifting heavy weights, but about confidence, resilience, and community—where anyone, regardless of who they are and how they looked, could feel like they belonged.

Today, KB&CO is thriving. What started as a small group of friends swinging bells in a park has blossomed into a community of strong, resilient humans. I’m beyond proud of what we’ve built together. Our mission, along with the KB&CO team of extraordinaires, is dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive space where everyBODY—no matter their age, shape, or identity—can find strength.

Alright, 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?
Not even close! I started this business at 26 years old with zero experience running a business—just a deep love for kettlebells (as silly as that sounds) and a passion for helping people move and feel strong. My only investor was my sister, who bought me my first set of kettlebells. No roadmap, no clue what I was doing—but I had a family and partner who believed in my dream. And for a 26-year-old, apparently, that was enough.

Starting a strength gym in a male-dominated industry came with its own challenges. I was constantly underestimated, had people assume I didn’t know what I was talking about, and had to prove myself over and over—not just as a business owner but as a coach. The fitness industry often glorifies bigger, louder, heavier, but I wanted to create something different—a space where strength wasn’t just about lifting the most weight, but about building confidence, longevity, and resilience in ALL bodies.

Then came the financial struggles, the steep learning curve of running a business, and the rollercoaster of wins and losses. And just when I thought I had my footing, the pandemic hit—with a 4-month-old baby at home and my partner out of work. That was a make-or-break moment. We pivoted fast, adapted to virtual training, and leaned into our community harder than ever. And honestly? That’s what carried us through—the ride-or-die, unbreakable community we’ve built at KB&CO.

It hasn’t been easy, but every challenge has made us stronger. And at the end of the day, that’s what we teach—strength through community…and of course, kettlebells.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
At Kettlebell & Co., we’re more than just a gym—we’re a strength training community built on hard work, real connection, and a no-BS approach to fitness. Our specialty? Hardstyle Kettlebell Training. But really, what we do is help people get strong AF—inside and out.

We work with everyday humans who want to feel strong, move well, and build resilience for life. Whether you’re a beginner who’s never touched a kettlebell or someone looking to refine technique and level up, we meet you where you’re at and push you forward.

What sets us apart?

* We’re a woman-founded, mom & pop-run business—community is everything to us.

* We don’t do ego. No toxic fitness culture. Just people lifting each other up (literally & figuratively).

* We train ALL bodies. Strength isn’t about aesthetics—it’s about showing up for yourself, and we create a space where everyone belongs.

* LGBTQIA+ Inclusive & Affirming: We are proud allies and advocates for the LGBTQIA+ community. Creating a safe, inclusive space for all humans to train and feel seen, supported, and celebrated is at the core of what we do.

*. Global Expertise & Kettlebell Certifications: I don’t just teach kettlebells—I live them. I travel the world assisting Kettlebell Certifications, working alongside some of the best in the industry to ensure that people are learning kettlebells the right way. That experience directly influences how we train at KB&CO—with precision, passion, and a relentless focus on technique.

* Physical Therapy & Rehab Expertise: With a background in physical therapy, I’ve built KB&CO on smart, sustainable training that prioritizes injury prevention, rehab, and recovery through movement. We work with folks recovering from injuries, managing chronic pain, or just looking to move better for life—not just for PRs.

We offer group classes, private training, and our signature “Beast Lab” program, a technique-intensive kettlebell course designed to set people up for long-term success. And while we’re obsessed with kettlebells, we also incorporate bodyweight, barbell, and movement training to help people build strength they can actually use in the real world.

What are we most proud of?

Our community. Hands down. Seeing our clients show up, put in the work, and hit major strength milestones—it’s everything. Watching someone go from feeling weak or unsure to absolutely owning their strength… That’s the good stuff.

Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
At the end of the day, KB&CO is a hidden gem for a reason. We’re not about hype; we’re about real strength, real coaching, and real connections. It’s the kind of place where people show up for themselves and for each other. Some of our clients have been with us for over 8 years, and that kind of loyalty speaks volumes.

Pricing:

• BEAST LAB: $210 six classes over two weeks of Kettlebell intensive training! Lab is followed by a free week of group classes and a 10% discount on any future membership package.
• Monthly Membership: Unlimited $145 | 8 Class Limit : $140 | 4 Class Limit: $100
• Private Training Packages: 10 Pack: $900 ($90/session) | 8 Pack: $800 ($100/session) | 4 Pack: $440 ($110/session)

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kettlebellco.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kettlebellandco/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KettlebellAndCo
• Other: https://www.strongfirst.com/instructors/united-states/leandra-branch.0011G00000tLpP3QAK/

Image Credits
Kacey Cole Photography

Kettlebell & Co. Members