#171: Donna Ognibene: Growing the Guru in You

<p class="p1"><span class="s1">Donna Ognibene is a gymnast, marathon runner, middle school</span> <span class="s1">teacher, and actress. She has been professionally active in the health and</span> <span class="s1">fitness industry for over 25 years. Donna has been described as a world-class</span><span class= "s1"> master trainer, passionate teacher, trusted advisor, empowering</span> <span class="s1">coach, curious learner, creative innovator, industry leader, and community</span> <span class= "s1">advocate. While she is all that, her natural talent is in bringing out the best in</span> <span class="s1">people. Aside from her professional roles, Donna enjoys time with family,</span> <span class="s1">friends, good food, community events, the Boston arts/sports/entertainment</span> <span class="s1">scene, acting, writing, and international travel.</span></p> <p>Donna knows too well the pain of being down in every aspect, which has led her into believing in the power of rising again. She shares her story of being exposed to risks so early in life and learning to deal with fear and challenges that came with it.</p> <p>Listen in to this <strong>self-help podcast</strong> to learn how to look for the next big thing after your plans have been knocked down by unprecedented circumstances.</p> <p><strong>How has physical strength impacted her work and who she is?</strong></p> <p>She grew up in a family that encouraged both academics and athletics. Learning to use her body as well as her mind has shaped who she is and influenced her every choice. It compels her to keep at it whether its to get to a healthier place, to do something challenging, or to embrace fear.</p> <p><strong>Did she have a lot of exposure?</strong></p> <p>She was involved in gymnastics to senior year in college. She was injured when training and turned to bars even though it was something she did not like before. The lesson was no matter what sets you down, you have to look for the next best thing. She could have been a supporter of her fellow teammates