Why Chasing Skinny Is Outdated: Kelsea Nannini on Strength, Nutrition, and Sustainable Health

Intentional Health for Women

In this episode of the Intentional Health for Women Podcast, I’m sitting down with Kelsea Nannini, an inspiring coach, athlete, and someone who truly understands the rollercoaster of health, fitness, and life itself. Kelsea’s journey from being an active kid to navigating torn ACLs, diet culture pitfalls, and finally rediscovering her love for movement is one that so many of us can relate to.
We dive into what it really means to chase strength, not skinny, and how years of battling nutrition misconceptions shaped Kelsea into the coach she is today. She opens up about the hard lessons learned through injury, how post-ACL recovery led to an emotional low point, and how she climbed out stronger mentally and physically. Her wisdom? It’s not just about shrinking your body; it’s about building one you’re proud of.
This conversation isn’t just about fitness, it’s about finding purpose, challenging excuses, and living intentionally. We talk about work ethic, being present where your feet are, and redefining what health truly means.
If you’ve ever felt stuck chasing the same 10 pounds, this one’s for you. Kelsea reminds us that when we focus on how we feel and how we show up for ourselves and others, everything changes.
Key Moments:
1:00 Who is Kelsea Nannini?
6:50 The First ACL Tear: A Turning Point
15:25 Post-COVID Darkness: The Second ACL Tear
27:00 Fitness Coaching: The Good, Bad, and Ugly
30:35 The Ripple Effect of Coaching
41:25 Living Intentionally: Be Where Your Feet Are