We had the good fortune of connecting with Chelsea Dornan Ruotolo and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Chelsea, what do you think makes you most happy? Why?
Many things! My husband and my dog, a hot cup of coffee, meals with my friends and family, working with my clients, exercise, fresh sheets, being in nature, kitchen dance parties, conversations about life, sparkling rose’ and much more.
I would summarize that the practice of being present in my life has made me a much happier person and I credit meditation for that.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a guide that gently helps a client navigate forward – I believe my clients are their own gurus and my role is to reconnect them to their inner wisdom. I use mindful listening, curious questions and soul reflections to lead a client to self-discovery. I integrate performance and developmental coaching, meditation, movement and Ayurveda to help facilitate a lasting transformation. I help people who want to find a greater purpose, align with their wellbeing intentions, live authentically and find joy throughout the process.
It has been a wonderful journey. I have been fortunate to work with some amazing studios, practitioners and clients and have learned a lot by being a part of those experiences. I have learned to never stop learning new skills, how important it is to be an active listener and observer and to hold onto a beginner’s mindset. I have also learned to pivot, to start over, to build a brand from the ground up. The key to my growth has come from my support system and believing in myself.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am a Brooklyn gal, so lets start in Williamsburg: Movement first so I would recommend working out/take a class at Chalk Gyms, grab breakfast at Café Collette or Mogador Cafe, Walk along the waterfront and check out all the parks and view of Manhattan, do some shopping in the Bedford Ave area, have a drink play shuffleboard and make friends at The Whiskey Brooklyn, grab a pint of Guinness at Harefield Road. Dinner at Antica Pesa is a must – the owners are incredible and the service is above and beyond.
For a little downtown Manhattan adventure I would suggest starting in Dumbo for some coffee/breakfast, maybe check out the flea market, then walking over the Brooklyn Bridge, do a little spa time at Aire Ancient Baths in Tribeca. Grab a drink and a snack at Whiskey Tavern and meet a cast of characters who will have all the ChinaTown recommendations, then stroll through SoHo for some shopping, grab some lunch / dinner at Gemma at The Bowery or Vic’s. For some culture visit The Whitney Museum or check out a show at Joe’s Pub or the Comedy Cellar.
I would also recommend visiting Modo yoga for a hot vinyasa practice and The Well in the Flatiron for a workout class/ spa treatment and delicious meal.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
For sure! The first person that comes to mind is my husband George. He asked me a very powerful question: “Why did I move all the way around the world? What was it that I truly wanted to do with my life?” That was the kick-start to my journey into helping others feel strong and empowered in their life. He has been a guiding light to many others and me through his success in business and personal and professional relationships. He has incredible leadership skills and he always shows up for people when they need him.
I would also like to shout out three of my lady friends; Meaghan Flynn, Carren Coston and Leanne Shear. Not only are they my dear friends, but also both are brilliant businesswomen who have gone out on their own successfully and shared their journey and learning’s with me. They have always believed in me and are three of my biggest, advisors, cheerleaders’ and supporters.
Website: wellbeingwithchelsea.com
Instagram: wellbeingwithchelsea
Linkedin: Chelsea Dornan Ruotolo
Facebook: Chelsea Dornan
Other: Tik tok: wellbeingwithchelsea
Image Credits
Tilly Blair Photography