ABOUT KELLY LESSEM

In 2008, my life took an unexpected turn when I began experiencing slurred speech, double vision, facial paralysis, and difficulty swallowing. After countless visits to doctors, I was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis (MG), a rare neurological autoimmune condition that disrupts the body’s ability to activate and engage its muscles. On any given day, I faced challenges like facial paralysis, slurred speech, double vision, and the inability to chew, swallow, or even breathe. Thankfully, I have been in remission since 2019.

My quest for natural solutions to support my health led me to cold-pressed juicing, and in 2012, I founded Squeeze Juice Works in St. Petersburg. Our shop focuses on plant-based creations, including juices, shots, cleanses, and nourishing foods. Before Squeeze, I was a global bodyworker specializing in trauma release and a yoga instructor—roles that deepened my understanding of the mind-body connection.

Now, I am reopening my practice to reach those navigating chronic illness or simply seeking to uncover more about themselves. The human journey is fundamentally about discovering who we are, embracing our unique gifts, and learning how to access them, particularly during times of healing. Chronic illness can be an isolating experience; even the most well-intentioned friends, caretakers, and doctors can become overwhelmed. Yet, the greatest healer in your life is you. I aim to be your guide and advocate on this path.

Healing is never one-dimensional—it’s more than just nutrition. During my decade-long battle with illness, I explored over 114 different types of practitioners and therapies, both alternative and conventional. This journey taught me that healing often requires delving into the psychological and spiritual roots of imbalance. It involves uncovering our shadows, tapping into our creativity, and reigniting our curiosity.

This exploration inspired me to create Virgin Territory, a podcast that became part experiment, part storytelling. It gave me a platform to reclaim my voice—one I once feared was lost forever—and to share the stories of the remarkable characters shaping St. Petersburg. Virgin Territory also became a way to embrace the imperfections of my speech and, in doing so, encourage others to find their own voices and the hidden gifts they might be holding back.

Today, you can often find me chatting with visitors at Squeeze, spending time with my daughter Magnolia, meditating (and occasionally napping during it), and avoiding my writing assignments. Through it all, I continue to marvel at the power of connection, resilience, and self-discovery.