by Marianne Biangardi and Jennifer Bardot
When you began your career did you ever imagine you would have a leadership role like you have now? What advice would you give your younger self?
Not in my wildest dreams! I started my career in nursing because I wanted to help people heal, not necessarily lead a business. But over time, I saw how many people were stuck in cycles of illness that could be prevented with the right education, support, and lifestyle changes. That realization lit a fire in me to create something more--something that could empower people to take charge of their health in a sustainable, holistic way. I never imagined I’d be running a business, let alone teaching others how to reclaim their health and vitality but I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Who inspires you and why? What is your most valued attribute in the leaders you respect or mentors you have had?
Lately, I’ve been deeply inspired by practitioners and leaders who blend science with soul, who stay rooted in evidence but never forget the human experience at the center of it all.
The quality I admire most is humility. True leaders are curious, willing to admit what they don’t know, and open to learning from others, no matter their title or experience. The best mentors in my life have made me feel seen and safe, while also calling me to rise. They don’t just give advice; they ask powerful questions and help me trust my own instincts. That kind of leadership creates lasting transformation.
Have you experienced any hardships and how did you overcome the obstacles. When did you know, the business was going to make it?
Absolutely. Starting and growing a business, especially one rooted in integrative nutrition and personalized care is full of obstacles. I’ve had seasons of doubt and moments where I wondered if I was really cut out for this. Balancing motherhood, client care, content creation, and backend logistics, sometimes all in the same hours, has stretched me in ways no degree or job title ever prepared me for.
What helped me overcome those hardships was staying anchored in why I started. I leaned into prayer, asked for help, and kept taking imperfect action. I gave myself permission to grow slowly, to learn as I went, and to not quit when it got uncomfortable.
I knew the business was going to make it when clients started telling me that, for the first time, they were experiencing real healing in their bodies--sleeping better, feeling more energized, getting their labs back in range. That’s when it clicked: this work isn’t just helping people feel better, it’s helping them reclaim their health and their confidence. That’s when I knew this business was creating lasting change.
What do you attribute your success too? Secret to your success?
I attribute my success to a combination of staying deeply connected to my why and the incredible support of those around me. At the core, I’m passionate about helping people regain their health and vitality, and that purpose drives me every single day.
There is no magic formula but a willingness to show up authentically and be consistent has made all the difference. And I’d say the real secret to my success is focusing on transformation, not just transactions. When you are truly invested in someone’s long-term well-being, everything else falls into place.
What advice would you give other local women leaders?
Leadership isn’t t about having all the answers it’s about creating space for others to rise alongside you. Surround yourself with a supportive community of women who uplift and challenge you. And most importantly, take care of yourself. Leadership can be demanding, but when you nurture your own well-being, you are able to show up fully for your family, your business, and your community. n
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https://www.linkedin.com/groups/8987243/
Jennifer Bardot (left) (ownyourgrit@gmail.com, or 314-630-1451) is CEO and Founder of G.R.I.T. Community For Women.
Marianne Biangardi (right)(mbiangardi@uhy-us.com or 314-322-4871) is Sr. Associate, Marketing and Business Development, at UHY LLP.