Stiletto Success Story: Jennifer Cassetta (WIN HER DVD)
by The ShoesTV Team January 25th, 2012 at 2:34 PM
In this week's Stiletto Success Story we chat with Jennifer Cassetta, founder of the Stilettos and Self Defense program and DVD series - which you could win! Just keep reading.
Jennifer Cassetta; A Stiletto Success Story
Cassetta embodies our definition of a Stiletto Success Story. She's a fearless female who embraced physical fitness to create an empire that teaches other women how to defend themselves. From her third-degree black belt in HapKiDo to her NASM certification and Master's degree in Nutrition, Cassetta's personal and professional goals challenge her body and mind.
Cassetta in action
This week she'll be on "The Today Show" teaching Kathie Lee and Hoda Kotb self defense in their stilettos. What will she be rocking on the morning show? A pair of purple snakeskin Louboutins, of course!
Ready to kick butt in stilettos
assetta took time out of her busy bi-coastal schedule to share her Stiletto Success Story:
ShoesTV: When you branded your self defense program, why did you decide to include stilettos in the title?
Cassetta: Living in NYC, I was grabbed on the street one night. I was wearing heels and a dress and was not paying attention - caught off guard you might say. I defended myself and my attacker ran away. I chased him down the block, but couldn't catch him. I realized that women most likely can't run in the heels they wear today and, therefore, need to learn at least the basics of self defense. However, many women shy away from these classes. I wanted to create a fun, approachable way to deliver some serious, life-saving skills.
ShoesTV: You are building your fitness empire through partnerships with companies like UFC and Beach Body. What goals did you have in mind when you set out to make fitness your career?
Cassetta: My goal was to challenge Jillian Michaels to a dual. Just kidding. When I began in 2000 there were no real trainers in the spotlight like there are today. My goal has always been to empower people to take charge of their health through fitness, nutrition and martial arts training. By teaming up with fitness giants, as well as putting out my own projects like my Stilettos and Self Defense DVD's, I am able to reach a larger audience with my integrated message of holistic health and fitness.
ShoesTV: What shoes can we find in your closet?
Cassetta: Sadly, more functional than fun. As a trainer, I love the Nike Free Run sneakers to cross train in and they come in fun colors. My first pair of "grown up" stilettos have recently graced my closet; purple python Christian Louboutin pumps. I just bought Michael Kors Palm Beach Espadrilles in gold because every girl needs a gold shoe that you can run in, if you had to.
ShoesTV: Do you have any advice for women who are thinking of starting up a business of their own?
Cassetta: Absolutely go for it, if it is something you believe strongly in. Stay away from negative people, places and things that may get in your way of reaching your goals. I love to read empowering books, listen to CDs and go to workshops and seminars that help me stay focused on my goals. I know this, in conjunction with my martial arts training, has helped develop my confidence, meet positive people, and make my dreams of being a successful fitness professional a reality.
ShoesTV: What are two moves every woman must know to defend herself?
1. Awareness: When out at night make sure your phone is away, no headphones, and you are paying attention to your surroundings. This can save you from a potential attack in the first place.
2. Go for the balls: A strong knee strike to the groin will give you a moment to make your next move.
TO WIN THE STILETTOS AND SELF DEFENSE DVD SERIES, simply "Like" ShoesTV and Jennifer Cassetta on Facebook and in 30 words or less tell us on the ShoesTV Facebook page why you need the Stilettos and Self Defense DVD series. On Friday, Feb 3rd at 12 pm PST Jennifer Cassetta will pick her favorite post!
You could be the winner!