SHE’S SO BOSTON: Meet Jillian Rothenberg

Once a month, we want to highlight really cool women who are doing really cool things around Boston in this cute little segment we like to call “She's So Boston”. This month, we are featuring Jillian Rothenberg! 

Can you share a bit about your background and what led you to where you are today?

My background in fitness actually came after my anxiety and depression diagnosis. I had crippling anxiety, to the point where I couldn't walk into my college classroom if I was not early for class. I finally started trying Pilates privately with my Mom and immediately became addicted to how it made me feel mentally. Now I make it my mission to help others feel better through my mindful and positive classes. 

What inspires you to do the work you do or to pursue your current activities?

My main inspirations are helping people feel better and conquering my struggle with anxiety and depression. I want to change the fitness game, for people to feel welcome and encouraged to try new classes and forms of movement. The hardest part is showing up, but remembering that we all feel that way and everyone is a little nervous makes it easier. I will always be the first person in the room to say “Hey I'm feeling anxious, anyone else?” We are all here for the same purpose, to feel better both physically and mentally. 

Can you share a challenge you've overcome in your journey, and what you learned from it?

This is a good one, I could name 100. My insane fear of public speaking. I know it is very strange to be someone who stands in front of hundreds of people to teach, but it is also my biggest fear. Pilates and my love of what I do makes it all easier, knowing that everyone out there feels the same way and are looking for someone to relate to. I will always be honest with my clients, I am a human too and people want to relate to you. Anyone can teach a hard workout class, but can you also have empathy and be there for your students. 

What achievements are you most proud of, and why?

Starting my own business, and for a lot of reasons. I was terrified and honestly I did not think this was the path I would take. I am so glad that I branched off on my own and made mental health a part of what I do.  I would say my biggest achievement over the last few years is teaching at the Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk. I am going into my third year of leading a warm up on the Hatch Shell on the Esplanade. 10 years ago, I would have never agreed to stand in front of thousands of people with a microphone. Today, I go up shaking and know that I have a purpose–what I do helps others and it also helps me. Being able to walk off the stage after doing something I was afraid of is so rewarding, especially knowing that it may have helped someone else. I mean what more could you ask for?! 

Can you highlight a collaboration or partnership you've had with other local women or organizations that was particularly meaningful? 

You know it's Girlfriends, they have a special place in my heart. The first ever class I did as “Movement with Jill” was actually with Girlfriends, and Ana is a special person to me. Working with and being a member of  Girlfriends has allowed me to surround myself with other women who are also nervous about branching out, and it’s such a relatable group.  In addition to working together, I am also a member of Girlfriends. As someone who has terrible social anxiety, it is so comforting to know everyone else is coming for the exact same reason. I have been able to make great friends from this community. 

How has the community of Boston influenced or supported your endeavors?

Boston, I love you, you always show up for yourselves and for me. I have hosted countless events over the last few years and I am always surprised and humbled by how many of you are coming to do something to better yourselves. It is truly an honor to lead events like these. I will keep showing up for you, and I hope you do too :) 

Aside from your work or the activities you're known for, what are you passionate about?

I love spending time with my family, my dog, and my friends. I also love to cook, travel, and try new wellness trends. My favorite thing to do on the weekend is wake up early (my husband and I are early risers) and take our dog out for a hike. I recently got into sound healing and it has been so fun to share that with my community. I am always looking for other ways to inspire my community and bring new and fun wellness activities to our city. 

How do you find balance between your professional, personal, and community engagements? 

I am working on my work/life balance. Because I love what I do so much it is all a little intertwined. I teach Pilates because I love doing Pilates. I teach events because I love being surrounded by like minded people. As weird as it seems, I am also a huge introvert. So after a big event or a retreat I will be on my couch for a day catching up on shows and snuggling with my dog–she helps remind me when I need to take a break :) 

What's something not many people know about you that you'd like to share?

I feel like I am a pretty open book. The message I want to share and get across is that my door is always open. If you need someone to talk to, if you are having a bad day, know that you are not alone. I have been there, we all have been there. I share so much about my mental health because I want others to know it's ok to not feel ok all the time. We are human, and I am always here if someone needs a friend.