Going from over 300 pounds to under 200 in the best way for her, Stephanie Laska, author of The Dirty Lazy, Keto cookbook tells her story!
The New Year is around the corner and the first resolution I have is to get back in shape.
When I am at my optimal weight I feel the best, and I know this because right now I am at my heaviest and I feel like CRAP. Losing weight is not an easy task – it’s more than just a change in your daily eating habits. It’s a lifestyle change.
There is no “one-size-fits-all” diet, so it’s important to do your research and find the one that best fits your needs and lifestyle!
That is exactly what Stephanie Laska did. Shortly after being told she reached Morbidly Obese Stage III on the BMI scale, Stephanie knew she had to do something – but something that was within her realm of dieting and wouldn’t break the bank. Hence, her journey and authoring The Dirty, Lazy, Keto cookbook!
Meet this week’s Womanpreneur, Stephanie Laska!
When you were little what did you want to be when you grew up?
As the loudest kid on the playground, I always knew I’d pick a career in adulthood where my voice would be heard. Becoming a writer helped me find that platform.
How did you come up with the idea for your business?
I never thought of the DIRTY, LAZY, KETO Cookbook as a business. I just wanted to tell my story and help others to fight obesity. Losing weight shouldn’t be so complicated! There had to be another way to eat healthy, but without so many strict rules. The “all or nothing” attitude espoused from “so-called” experts didn’t work for me. I needed a more flexible approach.
What is the biggest struggle you’ve encountered as an entrepreneur and how did you solve it?
When I was in college, there was one computer in the lobby of our dorm that everyone shared. Can you imagine? I remember sending my first email… my first text even! Technology has come a long way since then, and I’ve had to fight through how to learn every new skill on my own. Google and YouTube have been my patient teachers. They aren’t afraid to tell me over and over again how to build a website, start a podcast, and understand how to use social media.
What do you think are the pros and cons of being a womanpreneur?
For me, the most challenging aspect of developing my brand has been learning to juggle work and family. I’ve learned it’s impossible to do everything well. Unfortunately, something always has to give.
Do you have any mentors or coaches that you work with?
I enjoy listening to podcasts of successful influencers for inspiration and practical tips. Gretchen Rubin, Elizabeth Craft, Chris Guillebeau, and of course, Oprah Winfrey, have guided me every step of my uncertain path.
What advice would you give to someone reading this that has the entrepreneurial “itch”?
Start before you’re ready! If I had waited for my “big break,” DIRTY, LAZY, KETO would never of become published, let alone become a #1 bestseller. You have to make your own opportunities. I’ve never worked so hard at anything in my life! When you believe in what you’re doing, the work is a pleasure. When my alarm goes off at 4 am to start writing, I’m EXCITED. Isn’t that ridiculous?
What is the secret to achieving work-life balance for you?
I have yet to discover the perfect work-life balance! When someone figures that out, please text me immediately.
How do you find inspiration?
Every problem can be solved with a run. Fresh air and exercise put everything into perspective. I’ve solved the biggest stumbling blocks of my career by taking a break and going outside. Since losing 140 pounds, I’ve run 12 marathons. Either I had a lot of problems to solve, or I needed a heck a lot of inspiration! Either way, running has been my savior.
What is your favorite book?
She’s Come Undone by Wally Lamb. I never knew other people had my same thoughts about being overweight! Even though the characters were fictionalized, I still identified with their thoughts. For the first time, when I read this book, I didn’t feel so alone with my weight problems.
What is your favorite quote?
“What would I do if I weren’t afraid of making a mistake, feeling rejected, looking foolish, or being alone.” (What I Know For Sure by Oprah Winfrey, FlatIron Books, 2014)
What do you do to decompress?
Yoga keeps me centered and strong. Who knew?
Tea or coffee?
Vodka!
Favorite flower?
Hibiscus – My heart belongs in Kauai.
The Funniest Keto Cookbook Author
Tell me you don’t already adore Stephanie? Her humor and realistic take on losing weight and becoming her “best self” really hit home for me. Please follow Stephanie and The Dirty, Lazy, Keto Cookbook via Instagram, Facebook, the Dirty, Lazy, Keto Cookbook website, and of course her DIRTY, LAZY, Girl Podcast via Apple Podcasts, Spotify or via her website.
Be sure to check out some of the past womanpreneurs, such as Natalie Hatjes, Dr. Katy Harrison, and more!
Monica says
One of my resolutions is to get back into shape too! I’ll have to check out Stephanie’s cookbook.
Dana says
Monica, I read the cookbook cover to cover and have dog-earred a whole lot of pages!!
Brandy Ellen Writes says
So awesome to learn more about Stephanie Laska! I’m always glad to know more about the author of various books, cookbooks included. So many are loving keto, this is a great way to inspire others who may want an easier approach to keto.
Marie Phillips says
That is so inspiring! If she can do that, surely I could lose the 30 pounds that I need to lose. I have been looking into keto as well as a program that works on my metabolism and the issues of hormones and getting older. If I can get control of all of that, the rest should come pretty naturally. Thank you for sharing this inspirational interview!
Fran Jorgensen says
what an incredible journey! I am trying to get all of my energy together to get this year started on a good foot and get a healthy routine going! Thanks for sharing your journey!
jk bloom says
This is inspiring! I’ve been on keto since August and seeing big changes in my weight and lifestyle.
Dana says
Congratulations on the weight loss! What’s your favorite keto-inspired dish?
Shilpa Bindlish says
Quite inspiring story. Reading about Women entrepreneurs is always motivational.
Nyxie says
This is inspirational. I’m all about people being happy and healthy at any size, but what you choose to do with your body is your own. If she’s happier and healthier being a smaller size, then good for her getting there! That’s determination and some serious hard work!
Thanks for sharing!
DESIREE says
Great interview and intro to Dirty Lazy Keto. Thanks for sharing!
Yonca says
That is very inspiring! Can’t wait to check out Stephanie’s book. Thanks for sharing this interview. Hope the new year will bring everyone everything that they’re wishing for. Happy 2020!
Rosey says
I think it’s awesome that you wake up early excited to write/work. I’d love to find that kind of success in my life (where you are thrilled to do what you do, and it pays the bills).
Kuntala Bhattacharya says
Very inspiring lady. I am health conscious and would love to read her books for a fit life. In fact, I think everyone needs to follow healthy routines for a better life.
Ronnie says
Wow, what a change of not only physical looks, but her entire lifestyle! My sister has been doing keto for the past 2 weeks and the physical changes are unreal. I’m feeling super inspired to follow it too.
Kristy Bullard says
This sounds like the perfect book for me – the author sounds hilarious! I have to cut out all gluten from my diet for my allergies – AND I’m also lazy : )
Susan1375 says
Her weight loss is great and it’s interesting how she has turned into a business
Lily says
Definitely learning more about keto. Great cookbook for those on that journey.
Michael says
Nice to meet her! She seems to bring a great energy based from the photos! Looking forward on her inspiring more people with her book!
Rose Ann Sales says
I’m not in a keto diet, but a close friend of mine was. And she loses so much weight. I will mention her that book.
Ewuzie Kingsley says
Its Nice to learn about Stephinie, She is really an inspiration and a lot of people should know about her. And to that your quote, i really love it, its not my favorite though but i love.. Keep it up, i will also love to read your book.
Emman Damian says
Great interview! I really love her honest answers and I look forward with her journey. It sounds like a good one.
Renata Feyen says
wow she looks so great – hard to believe that it is the same women – respect that she found a style of her own 🙂
Clarice says
Happy to learn more about Stephanie and I would love to read her book. I am planning to try the Keto diet but I am not so sure if I can fully commit to it. So, a dirty keto diet would be an option.
Dana says
I’m like you in that I don’t know if I could fully commit to the keto diet!
Jocelyn @ Hip Mama's Place says
What an inspiring story! She did phenomenal on her weight loss journey! Thanks for sharing her story with us.
Dana says
My pleasure, Jocelyn!
rachel says
What an amazing accomplishment! I need to check out her cookbook.
Jackline A says
Such an inspirational interview. She has done a great job!
Miljana says
WOW, what a transformation, so inspiring!