Jenelle Manzi is an elite performer who dances professionally with the New York City Ballet. She’s also an entrepreneur with big ambitions and a passionate team behind her.

I’ve been eager to share Jenelle’s story ever since I heard it for the first time. I think that’s because there are so many different ways to connect and relate to it. She touches on universal themes that include chasing down a huge dream, suffering significant setbacks, and bouncing back with everything she has.

In this episode, Jenelle talks about her passion for ballet, the importance of family and friends in the pursuit of her goals, and how she discovered a big idea for a business venture while recovering from a severe injury. Listen and you’ll learn what it’s like to commit fully to something much bigger than yourself and how to rebound when adversity throws you off-course.

Note: this was the first in-person recording I’ve ever done for my podcast. Perhaps, then, it won’t surprise anyone to discover that a few times during our conversation, the audio quality isn’t the best. I chalk that up to being a podcast rookie, but I don’t think it will detract from your enjoyment of Jenelle’s story.