Today we’d like to introduce you to Isabella Anderson.
Hi Isabella, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Twelve years of competitive soccer and eight concussions later, my soccer career ended abruptly under my neurologist’s orders. I was diagnosed with post-concussion syndrome, and the medications I was given only made things worse. So, I took matters into my own hands. I started studying the brain and eventually healed my chronic migraines naturally.
Since then, I’ve studied neuroscience and psychology at the University of Colorado Boulder and San Diego State University, become a certified Brain Health Coach through Amen Clinics, and earned my Mat Pilates certification. I’ve now been teaching at SALTVAULT Hot Pilates for four years. I recently finished the coursework for my Master’s in Sport and Performance Psychology. I’m now interning in mental performance coaching as I work toward becoming a Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC).
Through Be With Bella (@bewithbella), my wellness brand rooted in mental performance, movement, and mindset, I’m creating a space where women train their minds like athletes, take care of their bodies like pros, and show up for life with purpose, strength, and confidence.
My mission is simple: to help others feel their best — mentally, physically, and spiritually — by connecting the brain, body, and being.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. One of the biggest turning points in my life was losing one of my childhood best friends, Jake, in 2018. I was away at college and struggling deeply with my mental health. I felt completely disconnected — from others, from myself, from any sense of purpose. Panic attacks became a part of my daily life, and existing felt heavy.
Eventually, I moved home to San Diego and began healing — slowly, through faith, holistic care, and the support of my family. Jesus, therapy, and a naturopath saved my life.
Since then, life has had its ups and downs, but everything about me — my mindset, my energy, my perspective, and my purpose — has shifted. With Jesus in my life, I’ve experienced a kind of peace and clarity I didn’t know was possible. And now, I get to help others feel their best, too — mentally, physically, and spiritually.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At Be With Bella (@bewithbella), I empower women to cultivate mental toughness, nurture their physical health, and live with intention and confidence. My approach blends mindset training, movement, and holistic wellness to help clients perform at their best in all areas of life.
I teach mat Pilates at SALTVAULT Hot Pilates, offer private sessions, intern as a mental performance coach, and am a certified brain health coach.
What sets me apart is that I’ve done the inner work. I’ve walked the walk. The skills I offer aren’t just tools I’ve learned — they’re practices I live by. I show up with integrity and intention, always aiming to lead by example. I know I’m here for a reason. God designed me with a unique purpose, and everything I’ve been through has led me to this exact moment. I show up authentically and unapologetically every day, committed to becoming the best version of myself and helping others do the same.
At the heart of it all, I’m most proud of the way I hold space. Whether I’m working with a client, leading a class, or simply connecting with someone one-on-one, my intention is always to help people feel seen, safe, and supported as they come back home to themselves.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
Absolutely! I wouldn’t be where I am without the women who believed in me, taught me, and poured into me.
Betsy Blumenfeld, the CEO and founder of SALTVAULT, and Autumn Schlosser, the founder of CENTRE PILATES, have taught me everything I know about Pilates. They’ve shaped me into the instructor I am today — not just in terms of technique, but in the way I hold space, lead with presence, and connect with people through movement.
Dr. Vicki Tomlinson, my professor in grad school, has also been one of my biggest supporters. Her encouragement, wisdom, and belief in me as a future mental performance consultant has meant more than she probably knows.
I’m incredibly grateful for these women — they’ve not only contributed to my growth, but have also modeled the kind of mentor I hope to be for others.
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