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

Hi Cristina, we’d love to hear about a book that’s had an impact on you.
My number one book – I read it annually to this day – “Into the Magic Shop,” by James R. Doty.
This book transformed my way of thinking and approaching my goals by using visualization, leading with my heart and believing in myself. It is one of many books which have contributed to shape who I am as a person and how I value others/mindset. I am always on a lifespan quest to become wiser, fulfilled and more passionate and this book is all that and more.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I believe that I am a “hustling unicorn.” Since I can remember, I’ve had a relentless fire inside me, pushing me toward my goals, no matter how daunting they may be.

I started from humble beginnings, working at a front desk for Bally Total Fitness & LA Fitness, and learning to sell on a simple Etsy site. Through sheer determination, I created a successful Amazon brand and platform. During this time, I was also a full-time college student, a newly single mom, and juggled three jobs just to make ends meet. I did all this so I could invest in my business, survive, and pour my heart into competing as a bodybuilder and being a mother.

The path to independence in my fitness career, businesses, and personal journey has been anything but easy. When times were tough, I fell back on my knowledge of psychology, leveraging an understanding of the mind to build resilience and a powerful mindset.

I began transforming my habits, meticulously listing my desires for my life, and crafting a plan to achieve them. Despite numerous setbacks and countless challenges, my life slowly began to change.

My name and who I am is my personal brand. I am much more than a coach, bodybuilder, barber, business owner, and mentor. Cristina Moreno is a person who wants to help others unlock their full potential through the passions that drive me—fitness and mindset transformation. My journey is a testament to perseverance, and I am dedicated to inspiring others to reach for their dreams, no matter how impossible they may seem.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I am from Los Angeles, and we have it all. Hanging out with me is a unique trip. I find fun and excitement in the simple things in life—coffee shops, beautiful walks, gorgeous sunsets, good vibes, and of course, workouts.

Our first stop each day will be the Mecca of Atwater Village, LM Fitness Center. It’s a true gem of a facility to get the day started on the right foot with a great workout.

Food-wise, and surprisingly to many, I am a HUGE foodie. We’ll visit In-N-Out, For the Win burgers, and various mom-and-pop shops around town for carbs, desserts, and good cocktails. The sky is the limit.

Coffee runs and beautiful sights will fill the rest of our trip. There’s nothing like a good coffee run, perfect Cali weather for a walk, and a good chat to end or begin the day.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Along my journey, a few special individuals have come into my life as mentors. Each has been part of a phase that I needed to learn from, and I am forever thankful for their contributions. These individuals have sparked a drive and passion for what I love to do. They’ve taught me so much about success and the endless journey of learning and growing.

Above all, my son Levi is my driving force in life. He is my biggest WHY. Levi, my son, is the love of my life, who has motivated me, kept me grounded, and guided my decisions. Without him, I would be a different person; he was the best thing that ever happened to me.

Additionally, Byron Paredes, an amazing human inside and out, and the successful owner of LM Fitness Center where I am Head Coach and trainer, has been highly influential in all I do with my fitness business. The example of wholesomeness and ethics, Byron is the man everyone hopes to find as a mentor.

One of the many hats I wear in life is that of a barber. I have had the pleasure of working under another incredible human, Cecilia Neuman. If not for a mentor like Ceci in the world of barbering, hair styling, and business owning, I’d be lost. She has taught me many lessons about life, being a mother, and being a business owner, and continues to guide me in both my barbering journey and life choices.

Lastly, I had a mentor by the name of Amy Sweetman. She met me before my transformation into who I am today. Amy was the spark that ignited my passionate journey in business, fitness, and following my goals while remaining a good, genuine person. She always reminded me to do what is right and follow my heart. Amy was there during my struggling years when I needed the most help to become the person I am today. She supported me as I learned about business, navigated my new journey into motherhood, and began to find myself. She’d be proud of the progress I’ve made, and I think of her often, always wishing her life well.

There are many people who have crossed my path and contributed to my story. I am grateful for them all.

Instagram: https://instagram.com/cristinamorenofit

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5O2Cbv3IQr1H2Ix-j0oMoQ

Image Credits
Brett Seeley & Andrew Aldana

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSoCal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.