Meet Melissa LeEllen | Actress, CEO, Author, Motivational Speaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa LeEllen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melissa, putting aside the decision to work for yourself, what other decisions were critical to your success?
The most important decision that I’ve made that contributed to my success, besides starting my own business, was being on the Discovery Channel show, Naked and Afraid. Not only did I make it all the way to the end, I overcame my fears, challenges and really understood my mindset! I survived 21 days in the Panamanian Jungle with no food, no water, no clothes; and my partner tapping out, being alone, monsoon rainstorms, and jungle cats stalking me. After I survived this, I knew I could do anything and threw away my fears, doubts, and really knew how strong my mind is. Now, I am speaking on losing your fears, changing your mindset and embracing challenges for a growth mindset on stages across the nation! We are so strong, so powerful, and have to replace our fears with actions. After walking away from this journey, I implemented this practice in my business and my life everyday for continued success.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I started in acting during high school and quickly moved to the big screen. During a movie set, I was inappropriately propositioned by an executive in the crew. I knew I wanted to be taken seriously and started my creative company, Creative Global Entertainment. Over the years, I’ve completed a few re-branding phases to keep up with the ever changing landscape of our society. Some of the biggest challenges are to stay open minded and ask for help. In business, you have to remember that you can’t do it all- you need a team of support. I’m most excited that my team is growing with unbelievable talent. I’m proud to be a mentor and leave a legacy. As a creative, I’m passionate about being creative! I developed, wrote, and produced a comic book series, called Deadly Crimson, that is doing a nationwide convention tour next year, including being a professional at San Diego Comic Con. I host the Reimagine Success Podcast that is a top performing podcast in multiple countries for self- help and entrepreneurship and produce podcasts to give a voice to others. I want everyone to know that it is not always easy, but you are stronger than you will ever know. You are limitless and powerful and can overcome all of your adversities if you believe in yourself!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I live north of Atlanta, Georgia. The first spot that is a must see, would be my back yard! I live on a nature preserve with homemade hiking trails. I have a huge valley that is perfect for a future zipline adventure. Then it’s off to Lake Lanier for a boating and sunshine, stopping by Fish Tales Lakeside Grille for some delicious lunch or dinner. After fun in the sun, it’s time to recap the day, with some coffee and dessert at Cafe Intermezzo. Then the late night spot would be the roaring 20’s themed speakeasy, Roaring Social. It has live music, boutique bowling and fancy cocktails, but don’t forget to whisper the secret password at the door. To have a quick little day trip, I would then head to Amicalola Falls State Park in Dawsonville, GA. With only 425 steps to the top of the waterfall, it makes the perfect climb and view for photo ops. To make an even longer trip, we can stay at one of the cute cabins and listen to the wildlife. Then head to the Dawsonville Moonshine Distillery for a tour, free samples, and education on the Moonshine process. After all that, you must be starving, so we’ll change clothes, get dolled up and attend our reservation at Marcel’s, which is a modern take on the classy steakhouse. Get ready for fancy chandeliers, romantic lighting with exceptional food and service. Followed by the 20 story ferris wheel in Centennial Park with breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Atlanta. And speaking of views, another must would be a private helicopter tour high above the city using Prime Atlanta Helicopter Tours. The views are spectacular and from there, you can point out the next must see spot from the air!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My story could not be complete without my husband, Jesse Biondi. Not only is he my number one fan, but he is also my number one critic. Jesse inspires me to be the absolute best human I can be in every way imaginable. He allows me the freedom to grow and expand in ways that I didn’t think were possible. I love you so much Jesse!

Website: www.CreativeGlobalEntertainment.com

Instagram: @melissaleellen

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/Melissaleellen

Twitter: @melissaleellen

Facebook: @melissaleellen

Youtube: @melissaleellen

Other: www.deadlycrimson.com www.reimaginesuccesspod.com www.melissaleellen.com