Lesley shares her inspiring journey from a career in IT to owning a women-only gym, emphasising the importance of living boldly, embracing challenges, and prioritising self-care. Discover her insights on body positivity, overcoming fears, and the power of saying yes to life’s adventures.
CONTENT WARNING
This episode contains conversation around difficult topics that some viewers/listeners may find distressing. Please read below for more detailed chapter descriptions and to make an informed decision on whether this episode is for you. If not, please take gentle care of yourself and I look forward to re-connecting with you next week.Specific subjects discussed include: Mentions of Weight Gain & Weight Loss. If you're affected by any of the topics discussed in this episode, you can find support via the following links...
UK: https://www.helplines.org/helplines/
Worldwide: https://www.helpguide.org/find-help
ABOUT LESLEY WARDEN
Lesley is the owner of AbFab Fit Club's Gunpowder Park location in Waltham Abbey, a women-only gym built on one powerful belief: strong, confident women change the world. After 25 years working in IT, Lesley made a bold career change at 50, qualifying as a Personal Trainer and stepping fully into her passion - helping women feel strong, capable, and happy in their own skin. Her work centres on celebrating what our bodies can do, not just how they look, creating a supportive space where strength, resilience, and confidence can grow at any age.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction to Lesley's Journey
02:45 What Would Your User Manual Say?
03:45 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Life
04:59 Lesley's Career in IT and Transition to Fitness
09:45 Starting a Business During a Pandemic
12:07 The Power of Saying Yes and Taking Risks
16:27 Deciding to Leave an Unhappy Marriage
19:00 Rediscovering Yourself Post-Divorce
20:12 Saying Yes To New Adventures
22:26 The Experience of a Boudoir Photoshoot
24:24 The Impact of Photography and Self-Confidence
27:23 Creating a Safe Space for Women in Fitness
31:40 Lesley's Own Fitness Journey
36:31 Overcoming Physical and Mental Barriers
44:35 Adventures and Challenges
50:53 Facing Fears in Caving and Diving
52:19 Future Qualifications and Personal Growth
54:40 Early Mornings and Living Fully55:35 The Importance of Sunlight and Nature
56:07 Advice for Those on the Cusp of Change
57:24 Living Life Fully and Authentically
WHERE TO FIND LESLEY
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lesleywardenstevens
Website: https://www.abfabfitclub.co.uk
ABOUT TIGZ RICE
Hello gorgeous! I’m an empowerment photographer and videographer based in London, UK. I’m also the host of the podcast Finding My User Manual, a podcast about learning how to be human, when no one gave you the user manual.
Website: https://www.tigzrice.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigzrice
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tigzrice
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TigzRice
Tigz Rice • London Empowerment Photographer • Legacy Building Luxury Boudoir, Personal Branding & Editorial Portraits • Available Worldwide
PODCAST DISCLAIMER
Finding My User Manual is a podcast exploring lived experience and personal reflection. All content is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, legal, financial, or other professional advice. Listening does not create any professional or therapeutic relationship with the host or guests. While shared in good faith, no guarantees are made regarding accuracy or applicability. You are responsible for how you interpret and use this content. If needed, please seek guidance from a qualified professional. Some episodes may include sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. Any sponsored content will be clearly disclosed. All opinions remain independent. By listening, you agree that the host and guests are not liable for any actions taken based on this content. Take what resonates. Leave what doesn’t.
