As part of the Morning Lazziness series about empowering women who encourage and do incredible things with their ideas in society, I had the pleasure of interviewing Leanne DiSanto.
Leanne DiSanto’s story is one of resilience, determination, and a relentless drive to help others become their best selves. At LearningRx Irvine, she and her team are transforming lives through customized brain training programs, helping clients overcome learning struggles and reach their full potential.
Can you share the story behind your journey as an entrepreneur and what inspired you to start your own business?
I’ve always had a passion for understanding the mind/body connection and helping others reach their full potential. My journey as an entrepreneur started in the fitness industry when I owned a personal training studio, Fitness Patrol, in Corona Del Mar. Coaching clients through physical transformations was incredibly rewarding, but I wanted to dive deeper into how the brain plays a role in personal success. That’s what led me to LearningRx. At LearningRx Irvine, we uncover the root causes of learning struggles and create customized brain training programs that help people of all ages learn faster, easier, and perform better in life. It’s incredible to see how improving cognitive skills transforms not only academic performance but overall quality of life.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in the business world, and how have you overcome them?
As a woman-owned business, I suppose that puts me in the minority, but I’ve always viewed challenges as opportunities to learn. Throughout my career, I’ve faced hurdles – from being widowed at 36 to running my own business now – but these experiences only strengthened my resilience. It’s all about mindset, this quote “So what? NOW what?” has helped me overcome obstacles without being deterred by setbacks. It reminds me that the past is in the past and I need to live in the present. Every challenge I’ve faced has contributed to my growth, both as an entrepreneur and a leader.
How do you balance your professional and personal life as an entrepreneur?
Balance is key, but it’s also a constant work in progress. I prioritize my time carefully, making sure I’m present for my clients, my team, and my personal life. I’ve found that maintaining this balance isn’t just about scheduling—it’s about intention. I focus on staying grounded and using my energy wisely, ensuring that I can give my best in both areas. At LearningRx Irvine, we emphasize life lessons like embracing failure, because without it, we don’t grow. That lesson applies to balancing life too. You have to be willing to make mistakes, learn, and keep improving.
What strategies have you found most effective for networking and building connections in your industry?
Networking has always been about building genuine relationships for me. Whether it’s attending industry events, volunteering for nonprofits, or engaging with other female entrepreneurs, I focus on finding common ground and offering value. It has to be a win, win… you need to give to receive, so it’s important to connect and really try to help the other person. I’ve also been fortunate to have lived in six different states and even overseas, which has given me a broad perspective and a diverse network. My experience as a speaker, podcast host, and my involvement in organizations like the Women’s Journey Foundation have all contributed to building meaningful connections in various industries.
How do you approach mentorship and seek guidance in your entrepreneurial journey?
I believe mentorship is a two-way street. I’ve learned from incredible mentors throughout my career, and I strive to pay that forward by mentoring others. Mentorship, for me, is about listening, understanding someone’s unique challenges, and helping them find their path. At LearningRx Irvine, we encourage clients to embrace mistakes as learning opportunities, which is something I instill in those I mentor. There are no failures—just lessons to guide us forward.
Can you talk about a specific setback or failure you’ve experienced in your business and how you bounced back from it?
One of the biggest lessons we teach at LearningRx is that it’s okay to fail. In fact, it’s a necessary part of growth. Early in my career, I faced financial struggles and the pressures of running a business. I made mistakes, but I didn’t let those mistakes define me. Instead, I learned from them and adapted. In business, I always remind myself and my team that we either win or we learn—there’s no losing, just opportunities to improve and get stronger.
In what ways do you prioritize diversity and inclusion within your company or startup?
Diversity and inclusion are part of our DNA at LearningRx. We work with clients from all walks of life, and each person brings their unique strengths and challenges to the table. Our job is to meet them where they are and help them improve. Whether someone has ADHD, dyslexia, autism, or simply struggles in certain areas, our message is clear: “So what? Now what?” We don’t dwell on what’s behind us; we focus on where we can go from here. It’s that inclusive, forward-thinking mindset that drives our approach to brain training.
How do you stay motivated and resilient during tough times in your business?
Staying motivated during tough times comes down to remembering why I started. I’m passionate about helping people unlock their potential and watching their lives transform. There are days when it’s difficult, but I focus on the progress we’re making and the lives we’re changing. Resilience is something I’ve developed through personal challenges, like overcoming a collapsed lung at 16 and navigating life after losing my husband. Those experiences have taught me that even in the toughest times, you keep moving forward.
What advice would you give to other aspiring women entrepreneurs who are just starting out?
My advice is simple: Don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is part of the process. You’re going to make mistakes—expect it, and embrace it. What matters is how you bounce back and what you learn from those experiences. Also, stay true to yourself and your vision. Surround yourself with people who believe in you and who challenge you to grow.
What is one quote you live by that has guided you in your entrepreneurial journey?
I have already said it a few times, so you see how I embrace “So what? Now what?” It’s a powerful reminder not to get caught up in setbacks or limitations. Whether it’s a challenge in business or life, I always ask, “How can we learn from this and move forward?” It’s about keeping your eyes on the future and constantly striving to improve.
Can you share a memorable success or milestone that you’ve achieved in your entrepreneurial career?
One of the most memorable milestones in my career has been the life-changing results we see at LearningRx Irvine. Watching clients both young and old (we serve all ages from 6-96) unlock their potential and achieve things they never thought possible – is incredible. From a business standpoint, becoming the owner of the LearningRx center in Irvine, the only brain training office of theirs in all of California, is an achievement! It is truly rewarding to help others be the best version of themselves.
