Ep.8 Barista to Billion Dollar Leader: Denise Nelsen on Wellness, Mentorship & Life After Starbucks

What does it take to go from Starbucks barista to leading billion-dollar businesses?In this episode of Sweat Community Podcast, Sheena sits down with Denise Nelsen, former Senior Vice President at Starbucks, former CEO of Smashburger, yoga teacher, mentor, and leadership advisor with SGNL.Denise shares her journey from barista to executive leadership, the role wellness and movement played throughout her career, and how living in Colorado shaped her approach to health, fitness, and community. She also opens up about navigating career transitions, redefining success, and helping others find alignment in their work and lives.Plus, Denise shares her favorite Colorado wellness experiences, insights from building a life centered around movement with her husband, Rich Nelsen, former CEO of VASA Fitness, and why fitness, community, and wellness remained non-negotiables while leading billion-dollar organizations.Special offer for Sweat Community listeners: Denise is offering 10% off coaching and mentoring services through SGNL when you mention "Sweat Community."Connect with Denise: [email protected] more local fitness, wellness, and community conversations, visit sweatcommunity.com and subscribe to stay in the know on new podcast episodes, show notes, and upcoming events.What made you sweat today?