Meet Teaira Leslie
Teaira, also known as Coach T, owns Buffalo's only women's fitness studio, Waist Talk Fitness at 1586 Eggert Road. For over six years, she has profoundly impacted the lives of over a hundred women locally and through online coaching, guiding them on transformative fitness journeys. Her studio is more than just a place for workouts; it's a sanctuary where women experience empowerment and find comfort in their skin, undeterred by societal pressures. Her dedication to her six-month-old son, RJ, fuels her every endeavor as she strives to leave a meaningful legacy for him. Teaira is the visionary behind the Waist Talk Bosses Brunch, an annual networking event for professionals and entrepreneurs to gain insights from industry experts and connect with like-minded people in the community.
Additionally, as the co-founder of the Annual Black Market Ceremony, she passionately celebrates the outstanding achievements of small black-owned businesses in Western New York. Her commitment to fitness is matched only by her fervent support for local businesses and unwavering dedication to organizing events that positively impact the community.
Personal Milestones
Where are you from?
Buffalo, NY
What was your first job?
McDonald’s on Delavan & Grider
One thing most people don't know about you:
I don’t eat fruit 😕😂
What is your favorite book or podcast?
I listen to Eric Thomas ALOT.
What motivates you to pursue current and new passions?
Right now my new motivation is my son, I want to provide a life for him that I never experienced myself.
What is your biggest accomplishment at this point in your life?
Opening up my own fitness studio.
What is one thing you know now that you wish you knew at 18 years old?
SAVE YOUR MONEY!! 😂
Professional Milestones
Is what you do now what you always wanted to do as a child?
Absolutely not, I wanted to be a nurse. That was short lived.
What inspired you to go into your industry?
Working out became a getaway for me once I lost my dad. It became a passion for me once I started realizing that it really helps with your mental state and I kind of wanted to be that escape for other women too.
Describe in one word what it's like to be a woman of color in your industry.
BLESSED
Was there ever a time you faced challenges in your professional life? How did you overcome them?
All the time, I just remembered my purpose & why I decided to do this in the first place.
What's next for you in your career?
I want to open up a second location. I want it to be a larger space, and open 24-hours for women. I also want to expand my team, increase my clientele and grow a national reach.
What advice would you give a young woman of color trying to enter or advance in your industry?
Don’t let anyone tell you what you CAN’T do.
Who/what do you attribute your success to?
Mental health
Are you involved in any organizations, associations, clubs, or groups?
Founder: Waist Talk Bosses Brunch
Co-Founder: Black Market Ceremony
Connect with Teaira
Instagram: waist_talk_fitness
Phone: 716-479-0713
Website: waisttalkfitness.as.me
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