If we’re just getting to know each other, I want to take this opportunity to introduce myself, and my podcast, The Chalene Show to you. This is my story. With that said, I want to know about YOU too! Please leave me a comment below, and tell me about yourself!
Humble Beginnings
So I grew up in Michigan, the daughter of an entrepreneur. What was so amazing about my upbringing was that it taught me to just go for things in life and to JUST DO IT! I learned at a young age that I could recreate myself and offer specific services to people through my strengths. At a young age I had a strong entrepreneurial spirit. My degree is in Justice Morality and 
Constitutional Democracy. While in college I met my husband, Bret Johnson. We met a week after he transferred to Michigan State. After graduating, we jumped in my Honda and drove to California where I started as a paralegal. My goal was to pursue a law degree. To keep myself busy, I started teaching fitness classes, and surprisingly… I was not good!!! Funny right! So I just started taking classes from great instructors and learning what made them great.
Growth
Eventually I did get hired and my classes started to grow. Around this same time, I started to really not enjoy being a paralegal. So I started a personal training outsourcing company teaching other trainers to train people at home. I also started teaching this class that I called TurboKick. It was a mix of hip-hop, kickboxing, and anaerobic drills. I started realizing that group fitness 
instructors were spending an incredible amount of time putting together their classes, and what If I did that for them!? So I started creating workouts, and eventually Bret ended up leaving his job so we could work together to build this business.
We started our certification company and we were teaching other instructors this style. Our business grew and we started to build a culture around TurboKick. Success unfortunately brought on an overwhelming sense of obligation to many people, and wasn’t investing time in my family. My health and my relationships started to suffer. I found myself unhappy distant and not sure what to do or how to fix it.
Breaking the Chains
So Bret and I created a blueprint to disassemble the prison I had built around us. We realized that we needed to sell our company to someone that could continue what I had created and honor it. Eventually we sold our company to BeachBody. We continue to work with BeachBody and we still are involved in making sure things follow our original vision. This has allowed us to live our lives! We now have our company, Team Johnson, in which we teach and help others avoid the pitfalls we experienced. The Internet has allowed us to build a secondary business that has purpose and I can follow my calling and share what I’ve learned with other people. We now have peace, and are able to live the life we’ve imagined. We’re able to be present with each other and our kids. I’m a woman of faith, a wife, a mom, and a sister.
Listen to more on The Chalene Show!
I just wanted to tell you that I do piyo every morning. You are absolutely fantastic! !!! You have inspired me to get healthy again. Thank you!
Chalene! I was recently introduced to you. I started as a Beachbody Coach at the end of March 2014. I started my Beachbody journey using the 21 Day Fix, and then started PiYo. 3 days into my PiYo journey I injured my ankle… and am still recovering from that injury.
When I really became interested in you, and your entrepreneurship knowledge and skills was when you spoke on our Team FitAddicted Call a few weeks ago. You inspired me to WANT MORE from life and from this Beachbody Business. I have since started the 30 Day PUSH, ordered your PUSH book, and am now working through your “Build your Tribe Podcasts.”
I am SOO excited to find out that you were born and raised in my hometown, Grand Rapids!!! I am curious… where did you go to High School?? I went to Northview HS, on the NE side of Grand Rapids. I then attended GVSU for 5 years where I majored in Nursing, and graduated with my BSN. I was there that I met my now, husband of 2 years, Matt. I moved to the East side of the State to my husbands hometown of Wyandotte (15 min South of Detroit). I have been a nurse for 5 years, and now work in the Operating Room at Wyandotte Henry Ford 🙂
Although I am appreciative for my the education I was able to have, my ease of finding jobs thus far in my career, and being able to fulfill my desire to “help people,” I have recently figured out that I want more out of life.
We have a lot in common, Chalene. I too (at heart) am a perfectionist, a people pleaser, and tend to be over-committed with my time because I don’t know how to say “no.” I also struggle with focus and prioritization, and can definitely relate to being “busy, busy, busy,” but not feeling like I ever accomplish much…. or at least what I am capable of. Listening to your podcasts and starting the 30 Day PUSH has already inspired me to start working on these things. You are helping me define my own journey and what my purpose is. You lit a fire in me (along with my Beachbody Coaching), to believe that I can achieve whatever I put my mind to.
The most important thing in my life is my Faith in the Lord, and my family and friends. Although this nursing position is the best fit I have found so far, working in Operating Room as a Nurse is stressful. It is physically stressful, emotionally stressful, and I am not sure how much longer I can do it. Especially being out on medical leave for the past 8 weeks has really put things into perspective.
I don’t want someone telling me what to do and how to do it all day long. I don’t want to be in a job that takes 35 years of stress to increase your income by $10,000 a year. And I certainly don’t want to go back to school to accrue more debt for a Master’s Degree that will put me into a position I dislike even more than the one I am in now– even if it does mean an increase in pay.
I am a bright, open-minded, positive person. I love helping inspire people to be better. I am creative, and love art, photography, interior design/decorating, and creating new things. I have a desire for financial freedom in order to provide me and my family with more fulfilling lives. By this I mean having the financial means to provide for my children whatever it is that they want or need. (Not that I will always choose to do that, but I want to have that option.) I want to see the world! And we both know that traveling does not come cheap. And at this phase in mine and my husband’s lives, we are barely able to get one week of vacation time together to even take a trip.
I know that money does not buy happiness, and I really connected with your journey podcast this morning because I too can not truthfully call my life “successful” until I have peace. I don’t want to be bogged down with being responsible for more than I can handle. It’s funny because I have always had a hard time working on a team because I always want to do it myself– because I feel like I am the only one who can do it “right.” In nursing I have had to learn how to delegate, because it is not a position that you can fulfill every role and responsibility and get the work done that needs to get done. I am so proud of you for acknowledging your unhappiness, even though you thought you had everything you dreamed of for your life. I am sure that was a difficult journey, and admire your strength. I am glad that you shared your journey, because I could see myself going down a similar path as the first one that you chose, had I not heard and connected with your journey myself.
That being said, I have a lot to learn. About myself, about what comes next for me and my husband, about “what I want to be when i grow up”… But I want you to know that I like you 😉 I connect with you, and appreciate the knowledge and experiences that you are sharing with us. I hope to one day make it to one of your live events– Marketing Academy or Smart Success. I am very intrigued by Social Media, and entrepreneurship using those means, but it also worries me because of the constant changing of things and possible instability of it all. For now I am going to continue to inspire people through my Beachbody Coaching journey to be more positive, lead healthier lives, and “shoot for the stars” when it comes to their hopes and dreams!
Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge. I am excited to continue learning and aspiring for MORE! Keep up the good work Chalene! You are truly an inspiration!
Your “Lifer,”
-Kim
xoxo
I’m 37 yrs old and have been over 200 lbs for over 11 years; ever since I had mylast baby. Now, I make time 5 nights a week for me, for my exercise routine. I’ve gained muscle with Chalene Extreme, got myself down to the 200 lb mark but am confused about caloric intake. I dont want to burn this muscle I work SO hard to build. How much protein should I aim for each day and what should my caloric intake be? Im 200 lbs and 5’5″.
Hi Jessica,
everyone’s body is different, but a good rule of thumb is 0.36 grams per pound of body weight. This can change depending on how much your working out an your fitness goals (gain/maintain/lose weight) 🙂 For caloric intake I recommend an app called myfitnesspal. It can be downloaded on to any smart phone and is a GREAT way to calculate out how many calories you should consume each day.
I think it’s AMAZING that you are taking time for yourself to workout. You and your body deserve 🙂 And when you’re happy your family is happy!
Hi Chalene, my story hmm well I will give you a short version. I recently signed up as a beach body coach. I had never done a program before so my coach recommended 21 day fix. I completed that program and purchased PiYo. Three days in and my up line coach posted that she was listening to your podcast. I immediately got on my phone and located you. I have been listening for about a week now. You have totally inspired me. You got me hooked on Brendon Bruchard as well. Yesterday I found him on you tube and facebook. Then found you on facebook. Now I’m here…lol. Anyway I have slowly been building my business , like I said I’ve only been coaching since September. I’ve made a little money which is exciting, but I want to build a tribe!!! I currently work full time as a custodian for an Elementary school in Bakersfield, ca. I have a 3 yr old daughter and my goal is to eventually be home with her. I want to help as many people on my way to my own goal. I’ve always been a tiny girl of 5 ft and always between 100-115. I gained about 45 lbs and know what it feels like to feel horrible. So I want to help others feel good about themselves. Thank you for what you do!!!
I feel like I am blog-stalking you today because I just posted on another blog….:) I love that you want to know who is following you!! I have been a Beachbody faithful since about 2006 when I ordered my first program, TURBO JAM!! I still remember the home filmed tips that you would do after the videos….your voice is in my head when I choose between a “piece of slimy bacon, or this nice firm avocado!!” Your programs are great for when I’m in home-workout mode, especially after I had my baby boy, but I love your boards on Pinterest too. Great Guns has me struggling to pick up said baby today 🙂 I just love how personal you are, and how you want to know your listeners, which is why I’m so happy you continued your podcasts. I get so much out of them. I am a mental health professional that works in an acute crisis facility in southeastern Washington, as well as a mother of one CRAZY 18 month old little boy, and a wife to, who I think is, the most wonderful man in the world. It’s a crazy life, and I love it. But I love it because I have been taught to prioritize, and how to say NO. I don’t think I’d be able to have the level of passion that I do at this time without the guidance of health and wellness experts like you, because taking care of myself truly is the only way to take care of others, and I’m so grateful that there are people out there who are passionate enough to share their expertise with the rest of the world so positively. Also, I just kind of want to be your bff….is that creepy??
Bonjour Chalene,
As you see I am a French Canadian living in Québec, a beautiful place surrounded of lakes, rivers, mountains and forests. I am a teacher who shows young students the bases of the English language as a foreign language. I am the mother of a three year old boy who asks me a lot of energy and time. So with the family and the job I completly lost myself and gained 23 pounds. I didn’t like myself and I wanted to find myself again. I saw am add on the internet about Beachbody and I look at the different programs and my interest was for the Turbofire as it was a mix of dance and trainning. When I started I was discouraged because I realized I completly lost all the shape I had in my youth. I thought I would never make it through. But I persevered because of you. I always had the impression your were talking to me personnaly and you told me to push harder. There is a sentence you said that particularely touched me : Nobody on your street works as hard as you do ! I felt “someone” ! After 3 months of your program I lost nearly 20 pounds and I restarted to like myself. So I really want to thank you. I love your program, I really really like you and your personnality. I also wondered if are Christian because I liked when you say that it is a blessinge to be able to train as hard as this. I totally agree with you. I am a new bien Christian and I pray for three years to have the Time and the energy to do someone training and be in shape. So thanks Chalene and thanks God !!!
Please keep going your good work !
Hello Chalene, after doing many of your work outs and reading your books I began to wonder if you had any degrees in fitness. So I searched to check and wow you learn something every day. What an interesting degree! I’m currently working on one myself. Congrats on your success.
Chalene- I discovered PiYo at the end of spring break (March 2016) and knew it was something for me. I have now been doing it almost daily for 4 months and I just love it! I am 46 and live in Alabama. I am a mom of a 17 year old amazing daughter and have an incredible 8 year old daughter in our grafted family with my husband Billy. We are both musicians and lead worship at our church. Thank you so much for creating this awesome workout that has made me strong and love working out again. I had gotten a bit lazy with exercise the last 5 years and needed to get back in shape. I am passionate about God, healthy living (spirit, soul, and body), my children and music. I am also a teacher for deaf children but that is about to fade out as I transition into something new and I definitely think it is in the health arena.
Bless you and your family!
Denise W.
So interesting, just looking into Team Beachbody to begin changing lives and inspiring others to raise the bar on their wellness. So far my research has me thinking, there is some kind of Faith base to this business and BOOM! I read your article and I now make the connection. 🙋🏼👍🏼Awesome!!!!
that’s awesome Billie!
I am a a former collegiate gymnast. Pregnant with #5 and my kids think PIYO is pretty interesting. The older boys watch and comment while, my 1.5 year old typically does it with me which means I am far from “not distracted” as he climbs on me, lays under me, imitates you and wants to be held. It is a sight to see.
I needed something I could do at home to burn baby fat. I am not needing “my body back” as I know I have changed my body. However I do need to do something to loose baby fat initially and keep working out. Now that I am pregnant again, it is good to keep me working out and a bit strong. God Bless.
I’m 43 years old I’ve been working out since 20 did every workout system out there chalene is the best especially when vacation time comes her dvds are the only ones that get me in top shape no gimmicks and stupid fads just really good workouts and great energy thanks chalene your the reason I’m still working out 23 years later
Chalene:
I used to be an aerobics instructor, dancer & college cheerleader. Due to some severe injuries & an incredibly stressful career, I’ve gained 100 pounds! I made the decision that this is the year for me to put myself first, starting with my health. I ordered PiYo & Shakeology to get started. The Shakeology has changed my life, so I now have the energy to actually attempt the PiYo! You have come so far and are changing lives for everyone who follows your example. Thank you for inspiring me & I look forward to turning my life around with you guiding me through this much deserved journey I’m embarking upon.
Hi Chalene! I’m from Ontario Canada. I love your Piyo. I had signed up for beachbody and followed it for over a year and then in February I started a Ketogenic diet. I LOVE it so much and feel so healthy. I love your podcasts and I LOVE working out to Piyo still!!
Thank you for your podcasts and your wonderful challenging workouts!! ❤️
Aw! you’re so welcome Cristin!
I’ve just received PiYo. I’ve done so many Beachbody workouts, Focus T25 P90.X, 2,3, Body beast. I’m 64 years old and over the road truck driver. I’m really excited about this new one.
God bless you. Chaplain Bud
That’s awesome! I’m excited for you to start the program 🙂
Hi, Chalene. My name is Shirley. I have a collection of exercise programs that I bought from Beachbody, including yours, turbojam, Chalene extreme. I have been buying different exercise programs because I get tired of one after I finish the routine. It becomes boring afterwards since I know what will come next. I was good for awhile and then I became lazy, just exercising here and there, then stop again. 10 years ago, I hired a trainer for 4 months. She was good. It helped me build my momentum. I continued exercising (gym and home) 3x a week most of the time. That lasted for a year because after the golden anniversary of my parents, I started getting laxed with my exercises and eating habits. I lost everything I have worked for and now, 10 years after, I gained 25 pounds. I am having a hard time building that self initiative, saving time for my exercise, and the inspiration. I am now 58 years old. I bought a yoga course from Beachbody recently. I tried the first exercise but the pain on my left forearm came back. I also feel pain on my knees when I do the lounges. I am getting frustrated because I want to lose weight, and feel good and secure about myself. I believe that my age does not matter but some pain is an obstacle. I was wondering if there is a good advice out there on the best exercise for my situation. I am 58 years old, 4’11 in height. I want to lose fat, lose my hanging belly, gain strength, feel secure, feel good about myself, and be inspired and motivated.
Chalene, I have been doing your programs (TurboJam, TurboFire and PiYo) now for 6 years! I’m a mom to a 15 month old and a busy lawyer. I don’t have time to go to gym, work, and spend quality time with my family. I love how your workouts can be done anywhere with little to no equipment. Over the years I’ve seen so many changes and improvements to my body! Thank you! xo
Hi My name is Cece, a mother of 3. I have been following Chalean Extreme, TurboFire and TurboJam for the past 9 years since I had my first kid. I love working out. My husband got inspired as well, he used to be 240lbs, now down to 180lbs. We also bought a set of those adjustable weights! I love them! Anyways, I just want to say thank you. Thank you for showing the world a new way to live. I love my healthy life.