A Wake‑Up Call, a Career Shift, and a New Health Mission w/ Jenny Pena

What happens when a high-achieving finance executive hears the words “pre-diabetic” before turning 30? In this powerful episode, Lauren sits down with Jenny Pena—now known as the Blood Sugar Bestie—to unpack the wake-up call that changed everything.Jenny shares her deeply personal journey from Wall Street stress to wellness coaching, how losing her grandmother to diabetes pushed her toward change, and why so many professionals miss the early signs. Together, they explore the emotional weight of health diagnoses, what it really takes to make lasting lifestyle changes, and why behavior change is more about mindset than rules.Whether you’re navigating your own health journey or supporting someone who is, this conversation will leave you inspired, informed, and grounded in what’s truly possible.Episode Highlights:Jenny’s unexpected diagnosis and how it led to a career pivotThe emotional impact of losing her grandmother to diabetesThe shift from dismissing symptoms to taking full ownership of her healthWhy sustainable lifestyle changes matter more than quick fixesClient transformation stories that go beyond weight lossChapters:00:00 – Welcome & Guest Introduction01:00 – Jenny’s Health Wake-Up Call10:55 – From Finance to Health Coaching19:30 – Coaching Style & Client Success31:48 – Reflections & Personal GrowthConnect with Jenny Pena: Website - https://www.jennypena.com  Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/coachjenp/  LinkedIn   https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachjenp   YouTube -  https://youtube.com/@coachjenp?si=NkGZP17FXbUdBHr9This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Liz Chapman & COUpcoming Events:Napa Retreat - October 5-8, 2026 - https://laurennajar.myflodesk.com/cetj223rsrGrowth & Connect Events - https://laurennajar.myflodesk.com/hb2a0mwbqwSave 25% with Flodesk - https://flodesk.com/c/OR8VKLLet’s Stay Connected: → Follow Lauren on Instagram: www.instagram.com/laurennajar → Learn more or work with me: www.laurennajar.com → Follow Business Over Cocktails on IG: www.instagram.com/businessovercocktails → Attend Growth & Connect retreats & events: www.instagram.com/growthandconnect🎧 Subscribe & Review: Love the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend who needs a business boost and a good chat over a cocktail.