roleModel of the week: Jesse Golden
Interview
Jesse Golden: Mom, Model, Holistic Health Practitioner, Yoga Teacher, Creator and so much more...
Obviously, you are more than a model. If asked your job title, what would you say and how would you describe yourself?
I have been making a living as a model since I was 18 but during that time I have also become a yoga teacher and a holistic health practitioner. Height: 5.9 Hometown: Chi-town
Instagram:@jessegolden and @thegoldensecrets
You are such a beautiful woman; tell us about your journey to becoming a health practitioner and yogi?
Thank you! I grew up as a ballerina in my Mothers Dance studio so transitioning into yoga was somewhat of a natural progression. A way to stay in movement but in a kinder more conscious way.
During my certification to become a yoga teacher, I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. The journey I went through to heal myself led me to want to become holistic health practitioner. Although I truly believe my own personal experience with health issues far exceeds anything I have ever learned in a text book. I love learning as much as I can about natural holistic ways.
Have you always led a healthy and active lifestyle? If not, what made you change. Was there a defining moment?
Yes, for the most part I have. Growing up in Chicago, I didn't eat the best foods growing up but at the age of 11 I became a vegetarian on my own. This was very abnormal behavior for a child in the 80’s growing up in Chicago. My Mother honored my decision and did her best to educate me and help me supplement proteins. Although I remained what I considered to be a healthy person most of my life.
After I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis I definitely had a wake up call... realizing that what may be considered healthy for someone else may not be good for me.
Tell us about The Golden Secrets?
The golden Secrets started as a blog and a way for me to help and communicate with all the people wanting to know how I healed myself and other health and beauty secrets. Now The Golden Secrets has expanded into me sharing all my holistic health and beauty products. These are products that I have formulated and worn for years that I believe in. I am so excited to be able to share the thing I love with everyone.
Your images on social media are stunning, how did you get into the modeling world?
Thank you. I did child modeling but honestly hated it. My schedule was already so full with my dance schedule. When I turned 18 my aunt dragged me tooth and nail to a modeling contest and I won. When I realized the financial potential and freedom it would give me, I embraced it.
Is it true you practice yoga naked?
Well kind of. Im not one to practice in public naked but I have done many fine art projects where I did naked yoga. I actually just shot my own yoga book with the owner of Treats Magazine that will be coming out soon.
What is your work out routine, do you go to the gym?
No, you will never find me at the gym. Although I do have some light hand weights at home. I love home circuit training, hiking, pilates, yoga of course and ballet.
What motivates you?
My son motivates me to do everything in my life. I have raised him entirely on my own and whenever I need motivation I just think of him and how I want to give him the life he deserves and to be strong and healthy to do so.
Do you use spray tan or self-tanner and if so, what brand?
No, I believe in the sun and The Golden Secrets natural body oils.
Who are your role models/ name some women who inspire you?
Oprah has probably been my biggest inspiration my entire life. I also love Louise Hay and of course Beyonce.
Outside of famous people, I look up to people that have been through many struggles and continue to thrive and bless others. I am truly inspired by people every day.
Do you have any upcoming projects you are working on that you would like to tell us about?
Yes, I have my first book coming out called the Golden Secrets to Optimal Health. It has literally been a labor of love and it is an extension of my original blog but I really reveal everything that has worked for me. Holistic ways to optimal health not only for yourself but for your family and the environment. What are your favorite foods to eat?
Pho and ramen:) As a Model, Mom, and businesswoman we know every day is different, describe your favorite day…?
My favorite days are always with my son and in nature. We try to find a new hiking spot once a week and explore. Both my son and I thrive in nature and we just love getting lost and exploring together. Nothing better!
As a Model, Mom, and a Mentor, what advice do you have for new models starting in their career or for young women just starting out on a new endeavor?
Stay true on your own path. In my modeling career, many people tried to turn me into something I wasn't and when they did that, I always failed. When I stayed true to myself and the way I looked, I thrived. I realize the same with starting my own business, it seems everyone has an opinion but you need to stay true to your vision and if you put your time in you will succeed.
www.thegoldensecrets.com
Photo Creds @lkbphotography & @sarahorbanicphotos
