​​​​Denise Kirtley is a force to be reckoned with. As the founder of Rebellion Body, she has redefined what it means to transform in midlife—proving that reinvention isn’t just possible, it’s powerful. From the moment I met Denise, I was captivated by her energy, honesty, and unwavering commitment to empowering women. Her story isn’t just about fitness or weight loss; it’s about stepping into your most authentic self at a time when the world least expects it. During our conversation, we explored a range of topics—from her personal transformation and the creation of Rebellion Body to the deeper meaning of strength, resilience, and being seen. She shared how midlife became her turning point, leading her to lose 50 pounds through weightlifting and macros, but more importantly, to embrace self-love and confidence. We discussed the challenges of visibility, the power of owning your story, and her mission to help women reject societal limits on aging. Denise’s journey is exactly why I created SEEN—a space to celebrate women who are rewriting the narrative on aging. Just like my Mini ID Medallion Collection, her story is a talisman of identity, strength, and self-celebration. I couldn’t think of a better woman to launch this series than Denise, whose journey is a testament to the courage it takes to step fully into who you’re meant to be.

Q&A with Denise Kirtley

1. What are you most proud of so far in your life and how does it make you feel?
Denise: I’m most proud of my transformation—not just the weight loss, but the strength I’ve built, both physically and mentally. It makes me feel empowered, like I can tackle anything life throws my way.

2. What has been a challenge you’ve faced in your life and what did you learn from it?
Denise: Struggling with body image and self-acceptance was one of my biggest challenges. I learned that true transformation starts in the mind, not just in the gym. Self-love is the foundation of everything.

3. What is an important and unexpected change you’ve made in your life?
Denise: Starting Rebellion Body. I never expected to turn my personal fitness journey into a business that helps other women transform their lives, too.

4. When did you first feel truly “seen” and understood for who you are, rather than how others perceived you?
Denise: Honestly, it wasn’t until I started sharing my story online. The response from women who resonated with my journey made me feel truly seen for the first time.

5. In what ways do you feel more authentically yourself now than ever before?
Denise: I no longer worry about fitting into societal expectations. I dress how I want, lift heavy weights, and speak my truth without fear.

6. Is your life what you thought it would be? Why or why not?
Denise: Not at all! I thought I’d be settling into a quieter life by now, but instead, I’m building a movement, helping women, and living bolder than ever.

7. What advice would you give to your younger self?
Denise: I would tell her not to be afraid to take more risks.  It's only through taking risks that we really get to know the fullness of our potential. That and...to give myself more grace.  I let this notion of having to do things "perfectly" really hold me back and, at time, paralyze me from moving forward towards my goals.  The beauty is in the imperfections, the messy action.  

8. What wisdom have you gained that could only come through living these years?
Denise: That change is always possible. No matter your age, you can transform your life if you’re willing to do the work.

9. What do you want your legacy to be?
Denise: I want to be remembered as someone who inspired women to step into their power and embrace midlife as their most vibrant chapter yet.

10. If you had to identify yourself as one of the following what would it be and why?
Denise: I would definitely identify as a Trailblazer. I’ve never been afraid to forge my own path and do things differently. After running a business for 22 years, I’ve taken all of that experience and channeled it into this new journey, shaping a narrative that’s truly my own. While there may be others in the same space, I create my programs from scratch, without relying on AI or following trends—I focus on helping women in a way that feels authentic and uniquely mine. That’s why Trailblazer resonates with me perfectly.

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Our "SEEN" series features remarkable women who embody the spirit of our medallion collection. Each woman chooses the medallion that best represents her journey and shares the wisdom she's gained along the way.

Shop the Trailblazer Medallion and explore the full Mini ID Medallion Collection.