Meet Chelsea Leigh | Holistic Nutritionist & Lifestyle Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chelsea Leigh and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chelsea, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
The value that matters most to me is authenticity. Without a doubt.

I believe that you could have the best product in the world, but if people don’t respect YOU, they won’t respect the brand. If they don’t respect the brand, they won’t choose to buy from you.

I’ve been fortunate to grow up in an environment that encouraged confidence, even during moments of doubt. However, I have never forgotten my insecurities, limitations, and the areas where I still need to grow and learn. This awareness keeps me humble and genuine. I am always true to myself; I will never pretend to be someone I’m not. What you see is truly what you get. I genuinely believe that this approach fosters connection with your team, your audience, and your ideal clients, ultimately leading to a thriving business. When it’s built on honesty and trust, it can only lead to positive outcomes. I appreciate when I can witness people’s authentic selves, too, and get a sense of their sincerity. Creating meaningful connections that truly matter in this world is so important to me!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business journey over the past five years has been full of twists and turns, and I am thankful for every unexpected moment along the way. Although the journey hasn’t been easy, it has been incredibly rewarding. I take great pride in the fact that I entered this venture with no prior business experience.

For four years, I had dedicated myself to being the head trainer at a boot camp, fully immersed in the world of fitness. However, I reached a point of burnout and exhaustion. While it was my choice to work so much, I neglected my self-care, peace, and rest. I was operating solely in my masculine energy without even realizing it. When 2020 happened, I faced a crucial decision: remain in my comfort zone or take a leap into something I didn’t even know I could do.

After making the decision to launch my own nutrition and fitness business, everything was thriving. Naturally, there were ups and downs, but overall, things were surprisingly positive… until I got sick. I suddenly faced health challenges that left my “so-called healthy self” at a loss. I dealt with unexplained hair loss, brain fog, gut health issues – the list goes on.

After numerous doctors, each returning with “normal” results for every test and evaluation… I decided to consult a naturopath.

This is when EVERYTHING changed.

My eyes were opened to a world I had never stepped in before. I was operating at full speed, eating all my protein and bland oatmeal yet neglecting my stress, imbalanced hormones, and extreme fatigue. A lesson that hit me the hard way: “Being healthy” is not just about diet and exercise; it is so much more than that. After healing from the inside out, I enrolled in the Institute for Integrative Nutrition to obtain my Holistic Nutritionist degree and help other women reach their health and wellness goals, addressing the root cause first.

My business underwent a complete rebranding to become what it is today. I adopt a holistic approach to my client’s health, emphasizing the importance of every aspect that makes them, them. I am the most proud of overcoming my struggles, to make wellness easy for others.

My brand embodies who I am: compassionate, yet infused with a touch of tough love.
I want women to know that they have the power to transform their bodies, redefine their careers, and enhance their environments. All it takes is a strong belief in yourself to make that leap. While discipline is essential, it doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing approach. You’ll discover your balance as you progress, but it all begins with you.

Thus, Balanced Babes was created. My one-on-one coaching app grants me the flexibility to work remotely, empowering me to guide women all across the world toward becoming the healthiest and most confident versions of themselves.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting, we would have the perfect mix of relaxation, local staples, and movement. (of course).

We would kick Friday morning off by going to Eller Bakery for a Vermont maple latte and a homemade sourdough croissant. I would then take her on a ‘hot girl walk’ near Dover shores… one of the most beautiful walking paths that overlooks Newport Harbor. We would stop by Fashion Island or drive down to Balboa Island on the way home to do a little bit of shopping…and maybe even get a famous “balboa bar” if we were feeling wild.

Friday night, we would head to Fly n’ Fish for happy hour, and get the seat by the window of course. for a breathtaking view of the sunset… paired with a dozen oysters and a bottle of our favorite Sauvignon Blanc.

Saturday, we would hit a workout at home (by me, hehe) or a pilates class at Coeur followed by a frothy matcha at Coffee Dose downstairs. We would drive down to Laguna to the 1,000 steps beach for the most perfect & peaceful beach day and end it with a reservation at Javiers in Crystal Cove. Again, with unmatched views.

Sunday we would spend the morning at the farmers market…cook a late breakfast and enjoy it on the patio with the animals. We would go on a Duffy later that day for sunset, and pick up Trenta on the way for the best pizza in town.

This place is honestly magical – I am so beyond lucky to call it home.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to give special shoutouts to four amazing people. First up are my parents, who are truly polar opposites.

My mom instilled in me the value of unconditional love. She taught me to care for others, to support those in need, to keep my promises, and to always return my shopping cart after unloading the groceries. My dad, on the other hand, made it clear at the tender age of three that I should never forget to “kick butt and take names.” Together, their blend of qualities has made me tough while also nurturing my deep sense of empathy. It’s quite the combination.

Next, I want to highlight my partner in crime and S/O, Dan. I’ve never encountered a more enthusiastic supporter in my life. When I spent far too long contemplating whether to leave my job, he was the first to assure me that I could take the leap, and bring my vision to life…so I did. He has consistently stood by me and is always in my corner. He believes in me wholeheartedly. He makes me feel like I can do it all…and that’s a special person to have on your team.

Lastly, I want to dedicate a shout-out to the author Rick Warren, for writing “The Purpose Driven Life.” I can say with confidence that this book has taught me a great deal about myself and my life’s purpose. It continues to serve as a daily reminder that the work I am doing truly matters.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chelsleigh

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Image Credits
Images: Ariel Rae Esparaza