Entrepreneur, author, and speaker Kelly Jansens Mensch embodies the power of perseverance and reinvention. As the founder of Black Dog Productions LLC and KJ-Fitt Training and Nutrition, Kelly’s journey to success has been one of overcoming adversity and finding new purpose—an experience she shares through her businesses and her book, Outside God’s Umbrella.
Kelly’s entrepreneurial path began with the creation of Black Dog Productions, a company dedicated to producing dynamic, purpose-driven events, and KJ-Fitt, a platform focused on fitness, nutrition, and mindset. While her career was already on an impactful trajectory, a personal setback would force Kelly to reevaluate her life and business.
“I faced a life-altering challenge that I never saw coming,” Kelly shares. “It was an event that deeply affected me and changed everything I thought I knew about my path forward. But it also marked the beginning of a profound transformation.”
This personal hardship became a turning point for Kelly, leading her to rebuild both her businesses and her sense of self. Through this difficult process, she found strength in unexpected places and discovered a deeper calling.
“I had to start over, from scratch,” Kelly reflects. “Losing everything forced me to rebuild my life from the ground up. And in that process, I realized I needed more than hustle—I needed grace. That’s when I stopped relying solely on myself and started leaning into the One who gives true strength. That’s when everything began to change.”
This transformation led Kelly to write her book, Outside God’s Umbrella. In it, she chronicles her journey, sharing the lessons she learned from hardship and recovery. Her hope is that others who may feel defeated by their own struggles will find encouragement and strength in her story.
Today, Kelly leads Black Dog Productions and KJ-Fitt with a renewed sense of purpose, helping others tap into their own resilience. Her businesses focus on more than just services—they are about creating spaces where people feel empowered and inspired to become the best version of themselves. Whether through impactful events or personal training focused on physical, mental, and emotional wellness, Kelly’s work is built on authenticity, strength, and optimism.
“Entrepreneurship is full of highs and lows—some days you’re in flow, and other days it’s about staying afloat,” Kelly says. Despite the challenges, she remains driven by her passion for helping others and her commitment to living out her personal values.
Kelly’s story continues to inspire, reminding others that success isn’t defined by smooth sailing, but by how you rise after setbacks. Through both of her businesses and her book, Kelly has built a community focused on second chances, strength, and personal growth.
Her message is clear: Even in the most difficult times, there is hope, strength, and the opportunity to start anew. Kelly’s journey serves as a reminder that, no matter the challenges we face, we have the power to overcome and thrive.
For more information on Kelly’s businesses, visit Black Dog Productions and KJ-Fitt. For updates and to connect with Kelly, follow her on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook.
Outside God’s Umbrella is now available for purchase online, sharing Kelly’s redemptive story with those in need of hope and encouragement. Through her personal journey, Kelly reminds readers that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope and a path forward. Kelly is also available for podcast interviews and speaking engagements, where she offers a powerful message of faith, resilience, and the importance of starting over with intention and hope, inspiring others to embrace their own journey toward renewal.