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Exploring Life & Business with Kelly Jansens Mensch of Black Dog Productions LLC // KJ-FITT Fitness & Nutrition

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Jansens Mensch.

Hi Kelly, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My story really starts with a deep desire to make a difference. I’ve always had that entrepreneurial fire in me — the drive to create, build, and inspire. But over the years, I’ve realized that my journey is about so much more than business. It’s about purpose.

My faith has been the foundation of everything I do. There have been seasons when things didn’t go as planned, times when I had to really lean on God for strength and direction. Those moments shaped me — they taught me resilience, patience, and trust.

Through my fitness and events businesses, I’ve been able to combine my passions in a way that uplifts others. Fitness, to me, is about more than the physical — it’s about confidence, healing, and self-discovery. And with my events, I love creating spaces where people feel seen, celebrated, and inspired to grow.

Writing my book was another huge part of this journey. It gave me a chance to share my story honestly — the highs, the lows, and the lessons in between. My hope is that it encourages others to keep going, to hold onto their faith, and to believe that their story matters too.

At the heart of it all, I just want to use what I’ve been given — my voice, my businesses, my experiences — to help others become the best version of themselves.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Definitely not a smooth road — and honestly, I’m grateful it hasn’t been. The challenges have taught me some of the most valuable lessons. One of the biggest struggles for me has been trying to do everything on my own. I’m a very independent person, and for a long time, I thought I had to handle every detail myself to make things work. But that mindset led to burnout more than once. I was spinning my wheels, working hard but not always smart.

Over time, I’ve learned that strength doesn’t mean doing it all alone — it means knowing when to ask for help and when to trust others with your vision. Building a team, leaning on community, and allowing others to contribute has been such a powerful shift for me.

Another challenge has been people-pleasing. I’ve always had a heart to serve and make others happy, but I had to learn the balance between giving and overextending myself. It took some real self-reflection — and prayer — to understand that saying ‘no’ doesn’t make me selfish. It actually gives me space to say ‘yes’ to the right things and show up fully.

The road hasn’t been easy, but every struggle has helped me grow into a stronger, wiser, and more grounded version of myself. And I think that’s what makes the journey so meaningful.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
My businesses are all about creating spaces where people can grow — physically, mentally, and spiritually. Through my fitness brand and my events company, I focus on helping people feel empowered, confident, and connected to their purpose.

In fitness, I specialize in helping clients transform not just their bodies, but their mindset. I truly believe movement is medicine — it’s a way to build confidence, release stress, and tap into strength you didn’t know you had. My approach combines fitness, faith, and mindset work, because I’ve seen firsthand how powerful that combination can be in helping someone step into their best self.

On the events side, I love curating experiences that bring people together — whether it’s wellness events, empowerment gatherings, or community-focused celebrations. My goal is always the same: to create moments that inspire and uplift.

What sets my brands apart is heart. Everything I do comes from a place of purpose and service. I don’t just want people to attend an event or finish a workout — I want them to leave feeling changed, encouraged, and seen.

I’m most proud of the impact — the messages I get from people who say something I created helped them believe in themselves again, or reconnect with their faith, or find a new sense of direction. That’s what fuels me.

If there’s one thing I’d want readers to know about my brands, it’s that they’re built on faith, authenticity, and love for people. Whether you come to an event, train with me, or read my book, my hope is that you walk away reminded of your own power and purpose.

Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
I’m a big believer in constantly learning and feeding your mind with things that inspire and challenge you. The Bible is definitely my number one go-to — it’s my foundation and where I draw strength, wisdom, and direction from every single day.

I also love reading business books and biographies. I’m fascinated by people’s stories — how they overcame challenges, built something meaningful, and stayed true to their purpose along the way. A good success story always fires me up and reminds me what’s possible with faith and perseverance.

I was inspired to write my own book, which tells a part of my story, called “Outside God’s Umbrella – A Journey from darkness to divine light.” I wrote this to help others and to provide hope in a somewhat dark world.

When it comes to podcasts, I really enjoy The Ed Mylett Show — his conversations about mindset, leadership, and personal growth always leave me motivated. I’m also a fan of Mind Pump, because I love learning more about health, fitness, and how to truly take care of your body. And honestly, I spend a lot of time listening to faith-based podcasts and sermons. They keep me grounded, focused, and connected to God’s word — especially on busy days when I need a little extra encouragement or perspective.

For me, it’s all about surrounding myself with voices that inspire growth — spiritually, mentally, and physically.

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