Bob Wells is one of our most iconic KBC members and the perfect example of “start before you’re ready.” At 54, he took over his wife’s membership, showed up to a brutally hot August class, moaned his way through the warm‑up, and had other students quietly convinced he’d never return. But he did. Again and again. Now, more than a decade later, Bob is in his mid‑60s, running 5Ks whenever he wants, lifting heavier than ever, and holding onto muscle that most people his age would love to have.
In this episode, Bob and Kelly walk through how one Saturday class turned into a full routine, how a single Winter Challenge and a nutrition workshop with Amy Beyer changed everything, and how tracking his food daily (for nearly 10 years!) helps him enjoy travel, lobster rolls, and pizza without losing control of his goals. They talk about family history, longevity, MyZone, steps, and why the real magic isn’t in extremes—it’s in layers, community, and showing up when you’re not quite ready yet. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s “too late” to start, this story will shut that down in the best possible way.
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IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
This week on Start Before You’re Ready, Kelly sits down with her longtime friend and original boot camper, Christine Varanelli—a mom of four, lifelong learner, marathon runner, and one of the most quietly powerful women you’ll ever meet. From the early boot camp days to crossing finish lines across the country and chasing new degrees and dreams in her fifties, Christine’s story is a masterclass in perseverance.
She opens up about life’s twists—the hard seasons, the evolving identity of motherhood, and the courage it takes to keep reinventing yourself no matter what’s happening around you. If you’ve ever wondered how to keep moving forward when life feels heavy or you’re unsure where to start, Christine’s story will remind you what’s possible when you refuse to give up on yourself.
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IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
Kelly welcomes her lifelong friend and Great Energy co‑founder, Daniela Hess, for a raw, and real conversation about energy, autoimmune issues, and what it actually takes to feel like yourself again. From Friendly’s shifts at 16 to navigating brain fog, hair loss, puffiness, and crushing fatigue in her 40s and 50s, Daniela shares how she uncovered anemia, Hashimoto’s, gut issues, and the hidden gaps in “normal” lab results so many women are handed.
They dive into why so many midlife symptoms (weight gain, mood swings, low libido, are really rooted in inflammation and gut health, how the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) and smarter labs can change the game, and why midlife can actually become your most creative, intimate, and joyful chapter. If you’ve ever felt, “What is happening to my body?” this episode will give you language, direction, and serious inspiration.
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IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
This episode of Start Before You’re Ready is a full-circle conversation with longtime KBC member turned instructor, educator, breast cancer survivor, and all-around community spark plug, Lori Molnar. Lori shares how a love of movement shaped her journey from Virginia Tech exercise physiology major and to 25 years of teaching middle school health and PE, to finally stepping onto the mic as a group fitness coach at KBC. She and Kelly talk candidly about navigating motherhood, career pivots, changing bodies in midlife, and how Lori used clean eating, strength training, and accountability tools like InBody to lose significant body fat, rebuild strength after cancer treatment, and arrive at 53 feeling better than ever—in her body and in her relationship with food.
The conversation also dives into Lori’s experience with breast cancer, the mindset work behind “everything is figureoutable,” and the small daily choices that help her keep showing up for herself and her community.
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IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
In this episode of Start Before You’re Ready, Kelly sits down with one of the most important people in her life, longtime friend and honorary family member, Chris Kerns, From a 16‑year‑old “cafe kid” at an American Family Fitness in Richmond to the guy doing burpees in Annapolis after a long night, Chris has always been about movement, hard work, and making everyone around him feel seen. Kelly shares how he became part of the Young family—living in their basement, helping with the boys, and evolving from employee to uncle, brother, and trusted friend.
Chris opens up about the losses that broke him—first his father, then his sister—and how, after completely checking out on life, he was pulled back into purpose through a idea from his best friend Jay: leading a free 6 am Wednesday workout called November Project. He talks about pouring grief into something bigger than himself, showing up in every kind of weather, and helping grow a grassroots movement in Richmond from a handful of people to hundreds each week. Kelly reflects on how her own boot camp became a lifeline during dark seasons, and how both of them found healing and meaning by creating spaces where other people could come to move, connect, and feel alive again.
Together, they trace the parallel lines of their stories: losing their dads weeks apart, relocating, raising kids, building community, and leaning on fitness as therapy for anxiety, nervous energy, and “too many screws loose.” They laugh about late cafe shifts, brutal burpee streaks, KBC parking‑lot creativity, Dude Camp, and Myzone leaderboard rivalries that keep them honest. Most of all, they honor a friendship that neither of them saw coming but now can’t imagine life without—a friendship that has stood beside each of them in the best and worst moments, quietly proving that sometimes the workout, and the person waiting for you at the crack of dawn, really can save your life.
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Let’s connect!
IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
In this episode of Start Before You’re Ready, Kelly welcomes Amy Beyer, a standout fitness and nutrition coach whose programs have become community favorites. The conversation kicks off with the return of Project Zero—a journaling-based accountability challenge designed to help participants navigate the holidays without gaining weight. Amy shares why writing things down and community support matters, especially during high-stress, high-sugar seasons. They discuss the holistic impact of the program, touching on how it builds better energy, sleep, and mindful eating habits, but without demanding perfection. As the episode progresses, Amy reveals her journey of personal struggle and transformation, which inspired her Menopause Makeover program. She opens up about hormone therapy, changing nutrition needs, and practical ways women in midlife can value themselves, embrace change, and maintain wellness.
Listeners get practical tips for building healthy routines—make space to get hungry, cut down evening snacking, prioritize non-exercise movement, and adapt wellness strategies to individual needs. Amy and Kelly emphasize that health is never one-size-fits-all. Their candid exchange provides a blend of inspiration, humor, and actionable advice for anyone wanting to feel better through the holidays and major life transitions. They close with thoughts on how finding support, trying new approaches, and signing up for community programs like Amy’s can spark a fresh start and lasting results.
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Let’s connect!
IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
Looking for a jolt of motivation, laughter, and authentic connection? In this uplifting episode of "Star Before You're Ready," Kelly brings together two of the most iconic members of the KBC community, Jen V. and Heather M., for an unscripted conversation about friendship, overcoming medical challenges, and what keeps them coming back to bootcamp year after year. These two powerhouse women share how fitness turned acquaintances into best friends and created a network of support both inside and outside the studio.
Listeners will hear heartwarming and hilarious stories—like getting “dragged” to early morning workouts, overcoming serious heart conditions, and returning from major setbacks stronger than ever. They open up about using data and consistency to track real transformation, grant themselves grace, and how community makes every rep, recovery, and celebration more meaningful.
Whether you’re new to group fitness or just trying to start a fitness routine, you’ll find actionable tips on building healthy habits, the importance of showing up, and why you should never compare your beginning to someone else’s journey.
This episode will have you reflecting on your own friendships, laughing out loud, and ready to say “yes” to your next challenge.
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Let’s connect!
IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
Kelly kicks off this episode of "Start Before You’re Ready" with an honest behind-the-scenes confession: it’s her third attempt at recording this week, but this time she gets real about connection, community, and why meaningful conversations matter. From Friday treats to the challenges her clients face—motivation, nutrition, sleep, stress, and pain—Kelly shares practical advice and stories from her community.
She highlights the power of checking in with others, progress over perfection, and the importance of small wins. The episode closes with a reminder to be present, ask better questions, and always start before you’re ready.
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Let’s connect!
IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
In this inspiring episode, Kelly Young interviews Heather Whisenant a vibrant new member whose energy, gratitude, and goal-mindedness have quickly made her a standout. Heather shares her evolution—from overcoming back injuries and learning to celebrate small wins, to developing real strength and learning to love her arms.
Listeners follow Heather’s path as she adapts to new routines, pushes past physical and emotional challenges, and emphasizes the value of trying new things. The episode highlights practical nutrition hacks, sustainable fitness habits, and the mental shift that makes all the difference: showing up, staying curious, and never letting critic voices win.
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Let’s connect!
IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
In this deeply moving episode, Kelly sits down with her friend, Barbara Gladieux, to share a conversation about love, loss, and the language of healing. After losing her husband, Ken, to suicide, Barbara turned her grief into advocacy—helping others navigate their own journeys through loss and raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention.
Together, Kelly and Barbara discuss the power of words like “died by suicide,” the importance of community support, and the value of open, honest conversations about mental illness. Barbara also shares her experience founding a support group in Lynchburg, her children’s continued advocacy work, and how hope and connection can help carry us through unimaginable pain.
This episode reminds listeners that mental illness is an illness—not a choice—and that healing begins when we start talking.
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IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
In this heartfelt episode, Kelly Young interviews her dear friend Kristen Kime, affectionately known as KK, who shares her inspiring journey through breast cancer. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, the role of fitness and nutrition in recovery, and the significance of early detection through self-exams. KK's positive attitude and determination to maintain normalcy during her treatment serve as a powerful reminder of resilience and hope. The episode also emphasizes the need for awareness and support for breast cancer initiatives, encouraging listeners to engage with their communities and support one another.
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Let’s connect!
IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
In this episode, Kelly Young sits down with Kathy Curtin — a mother of seven, one of the original boot campers, and the creative force behind What Kathy Creates. Kathy shares how fitness has shaped her approach to both motherhood and entrepreneurship, explaining how the strength, discipline, and confidence she’s built at bootcamp have fueled her creativity and growth in business.
Listeners will hear how Kathy developed her craft, mastered power tools, and continues to inspire others to embrace new challenges. The episode also explores the importance of community, the value of self-care for moms, and the joy of giving new life and purpose to forgotten furniture.
Follow Kathy on Instagram at @whatkccreates for a behind-the-scenes look at her projects and daily inspiration.
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Let’s connect!
IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
Frank Pucher, a decades-long leader in fitness coaching and author of "Smart Money Moves," joins Kelly for an inspiring and down-to-earth conversation. Frank shares lessons from his journey as an athlete, personal trainer, studio owner, and mentor, including what it takes to maintain longevity, balance, and joy in life. He introduces his "Core Four" philosophy, showing how small, intentional actions across relationships, health, career, and happiness can transform your year. The episode dives into the importance of accountability, why simple routines (not the latest fitness trends) really work, and debunks common myths about fitness, business, and aging. Frank closes with his signature advice: "Fear the change and do it anyway"—a motivating reminder to start before you feel ready and keep learning as you go.
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Let’s connect!
IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
On this heartfelt episode of "Start Before You're Ready," Kelly sits down with Margery Pratt, a true pillar of the KBC community and a living example of aging beautifully and strong. Known for her consistent fitness journey since 2009, Margery shares her philosophies on family, work, community, and resilience.
Listeners will hear about her 29-year career as a much-loved high school teacher, her deep commitment to showing up for others, and how the KBC community helped her through profound loss. Margery discusses the importance of modeling physical activity for the next generation, maintaining a healthy approach to food, and what it means to find light even in life’s darkest moments. The conversation covers everything from fitness routines and nutrition habits to fashion, family, and the healing power of connection.
Don’t miss Margery’s wisdom on staying consistent, how her family values shaped her, and why showing up—even when it’s hard—is the secret to building strength, inside and out.
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Let’s connect!
IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
Kelly Young marks the 50th episode by swapping roles with KBC team member Erica Collins—an instructor, long-time friend, and dedicated mom—who hosts this milestone conversation. Rather than a typical interview, Kelly answers candid questions sourced directly from her own team, they asked the best questions!
Topics Discussed
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IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
Host Kelly Young sits down with her son, Dalton Young, as he prepares for the Professional Lacrosse League (PLL) championship game. Dalton, a University of Richmond grad and pro lacrosse player, shares his journey from tagging along in bootcamp parking lots to competing at the highest level in PLL. The episode dives into family influence, athlete recruiting, NCAA challenges, discipline from top coaches, the impact of dedicated teammates, and Dalton’s entrepreneurial pursuits. Discover how formative coaches and the unwavering support of teammates shaped Dalton’s approach to loyalty, leadership, and starting before you’re ready—through the eyes of this inspiring PLL athlete and his mom.
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Let’s connect!
IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
Kelly Young welcomes special guest Bob Kehoe for an inspiring, authentic conversation marking Bob’s remarkable three-year anniversary with KBC. Throughout the episode, listeners hear Kelly recount Bob’s confident and consistent approach to fitness, his knack for energizing others, and why instructors prize him in their classes. Bob shares the journey from his roots in Chicago to building a life and successful businesses in Northern Virginia.
Bob reflects on overcoming busy seasons, quitting exercise for nearly a decade, and the wake-up call from his doctor. He dives into lessons learned: prioritizing health, building routines that fit real life, and the powerful impact of community. The discussion covers workout variety, nutrition discoveries like the effects of sugar on inflammation, and practical successes and setbacks—including holiday weight gain and sustainable change as he ages.
Listeners also gain insight into Bob’s entrepreneurial side, strategies for creating meaningful business relationships, and advice he’s given to younger entrepreneurs about growing a company and leveraging connections. The episode wraps with tips for keeping gym culture strong, growing a fitness business without losing its welcoming, team-oriented vibe, and the importance of community, swag, and word-of-mouth to lasting success.
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Let’s connect!
IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
Kelly Young hosts Jenny Greenfield—the first ever KBC bootcamp participant and now a pivotal team member, celebrating community, consistency, and resilience in fitness through life’s evolving stages.
Key Discussion Points:
-Both Kelly and Jenny’s beginnings in group fitness, with a shared origin at Gold’s Gym and as moms of baby girls. The value of friendship and routine in sustaining fitness commitments.
-Jenny’s candid reflections on aging, turning 50, and feeling more confident and energetic than she did at 40. Overcoming health challenges and balancing family, career, and teaching fitness.
-The importance of consistency over perfection, especially for non-“fitness freaks,” with Jenny crediting her instructor role for creating accountability and routine.
-Insights into working full-time and teaching fitness—how group classes provide motivation amid tiredness, and how community sustains engagement.
-Jenny’s approach to planning classes, infusing creative tweaks into core movements, drawing on an athletic/dance background, and personalizing workouts based on regulars’ preferences.
/The power of small groups and fitness challenges (like Camp U and “Level Up”) for accountability and forming deeper friend connections—emphasizing community support through adversity, celebrations, and everyday struggles.
Jenny’s advice - Just show up, find what works, and let community carry you through hard and good times.
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Let’s connect!
IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
In this solo episode, I pull back the curtain on the daily habits and routines that help me feel my best. This is not a prescription or advice—just an honest look at what works for me after a lot of trial and error.
What’s Inside:
• Eating Routine: Why timing my meals and sticking to a regular eating schedule makes a big difference for my energy and mood.
• Go-To Foods: Some of the staple foods I rely on, and how they support my overall well-being.
• Supplement Strategy: How I’ve refined my supplement routine, and what I’ve learned about finding the right balance.
• Recovery Practices: The crucial role that recovery plays in health, with a focus on my favorite methods: yin yoga and sauna time.
A Note:
These are simply my personal practices. I’m sharing what helps me thrive—everyone is different!
Tune in to hear how these choices evolved over time, why they matter to me, and candid reflections on staying consistent through busy days.
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Let’s connect!
IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/
In this episode, Kelly Young interviews Ken Hostetter, who shares his inspiring journey of personal transformation through fitness and wellness. Ken discusses his long-term commitment to health, the lessons learned from KBC, and the importance of nutrition and meal prep. He emphasizes the role of accountability in achieving fitness goals and the connection between health and wealth. Ken also reflects on the confidence gained through his fitness journey and offers practical advice for listeners looking to improve their health.
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Let’s connect!
IG: @kellys_bootcamp
My website: https://kellysbootcamp.net/