Today we’d like to introduce you to Leandra Sanchez.
Hi Leandra, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Hello, my name is Leandra. I’m a mother of 3, wife to a law enforcement officer, a motherbaby nurse, and self-care advocate.
I originally moved to the Santa Clarita Valley in 97’ and over the years, I’ve met so many amazing people that I wish I had gone to school here. It’s funny because SCV was such a small community when I first moved here and now, it’s grown a ton—which I love because I truly enjoy meeting new people.
Like most, I didn’t know what to pursue as a career and after a first bachelor’s degree, I decided to return to school to pursue a bachelor’s in nursing. For as long as I can remember, becoming a nurse has been a dream of mine. Combine that with a strong passion for serving others and well, it just made sense! Going into this field, I knew I wanted to work with women and childcare but it wasn’t until I became pregnant that I truly knew it’s where my heart was. Getting pregnant and having a baby during the most difficult term in nursing school is what truly motivated me to work in this specialty. I myself went through personal issues; emotionally, mentally and physically. And it’s during this time that I realized there were very few and free resources for new mothers to connect and meet other mothers within my community.
My position as a motherbaby RN is what motivated me to get involved beyond my nursing position and get active within my community. To be honest, I had no idea I would be an Ambassador for The Mom Walk Collective. It kind of just crossed my path and after applying, I found myself partnering up with another local mom and we hit the ground running! I truly fell in love with the mission of this collective because it aligned so beautifully with what I do every shift; along with educating parents on how to safely care for their newborn, I also educate moms on how to care for themselves. Most importantly, I encourage mamas to take time for themselves during this new transition into life and I stress the importance of getting out into the sun, going for a walk, and being proactive in caring for themselves mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. The Mom Walk Co. took my education to another level, it allowed me to actively help other women, including new mothers, with a more accessible option. One that’s supportive of both mother and baby while also providing a safe space to connect with other women going through similar experiences.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No way. My path hasn’t been easy at all but it was all meant to happen. I know giving birth during nursing school was not ideal. It put me behind a term (3-4 months) and it really messed with my confidence and mental state. It broke relationships and caused a lot of strain with extended family. So much that I’ve completely severed ties with people I never imagined I would. But I am a firm believer that there is beauty in the struggle. Without my struggles, I wouldn’t be the woman I am today. I wouldn’t be able to serve the community the way I do and I wouldn’t have realized the strength of my voice.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I work as a motherbaby BSN, RN. I educate new parents on how to safely care for their infant and I educate new mothers on how to properly care for themselves. Textbook education is only so helpful so I do a lot of education beyond what I’ve read and do my best to provide options that are more accessible and equally as effective. Aside from my chosen career, I do content creation/ affiliate marketing, and I cohost The Mom Walk Collective SCV. I am most proud of my boys and how amazing they are. I believe they are my greatest creation and the most meaningful impact I could ever leave on this planet. And as far as what sets me apart from others, well, I’m typically the girl who will use her voice even when it shakes. I’m the woman who will stand up for what’s right, even if it’s not the popular choice.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
My husband. He’s supported me through all of my crazy ideas. Through all of the ups and downs. And has never once given up on me. He’s a hard worker and isn’t given enough credit. He’s a law enforcement officer and an amazing father to our three boys. He helps our community with giving extra time to his jujitsu gym and still manages to work the crazy long hours he does with little to no sleep. My husband and I haven been together for over 19 years and without him, I wouldn’t be the woman I am today. I wouldn’t be able to serve my community the way I do. He encourages me to do all of the things my heart desires and always supports me by allowing me to give my time to others.
My parents are also extremely vital to my success and the values they instilled in me growing up. I wouldn’t be able to do everything I do without their love and support. Additionally, they’re amazing grandparents and my children thrive because they’re lucky enough to have such amazing grandparents who shower them with love and presence.
My friends in this community and some complete strangers, one’s I’ve met on social media and formed a bond with. Sometimes I struggle with feeling alone or with imposter syndrome and my friends always uplift me and remind me who I am. It’s honestly such a gift to have people see you, support you, and mention your name in a room full of opportunity.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: instagram.com/leandrarochelle
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/leandrarochelles
Image Credits
Taylor Kinzie (headshot with husband). Other photos taken at Mom Walk Co. SCV event by social media manager and friend, Jessica Boykin Sreden.
