Hi! I'm Elle.

Let me tell you about my path to becoming a renowned subject expert, master coach, and a #1 bestselling author. For over a decade, I've been a leading figure in the paleo-ancestral health and mindset space, helping thousands worldwide through my books and online courses. My mentor, Mark Sisson, the NYT bestselling author and founder of Primal Kitchen Foods and Peluva, has significantly influenced my journey.

My career as a writer is both extensive and varied, including a decade of writing and performing sketch comedy in esteemed comedy theaters in Chicago and Los Angeles, and screenwriting an award-winning documentary film. As a bestselling author, I've been able to reach and inspire a vast audience.

My career as a coach is also extensive and varied, including over a decade of life coaching, writing coaching, success and confidence coaching, and thyroid health coaching.

With 20 years of experience in public speaking, performance, and podcasting - I know my way around and audience and always aim to leave every listener inspired.

Through my online courses and masterclasses, I empower individuals to become the best of whatever they are

THE JOURNEY BEGINS

I was born and raised in downtown Chicago, living there until I moved to California for college. After graduating with a degree in Philosophy from The University of California, Santa Cruz, in 1995, I had ambitious plans to retire young and live comfortably. By 22, I was well on my way, working as a top recruiter in Silicon Valley. I generated over $2 million in revenue and managed over 100 consultants across California for major clients like Charles Schwab, Wells Fargo Bank, and AT&T.

However, my brand new career took an unexpected turn when I developed a repetitive strain injury in my hands and arms, leaving me 40% disabled and unable to continue my high-earning job. This injury, coupled with the shame of having a physical disability and fears about supporting myself financially, hit my confidence and self-esteem hard.

Faced with this challenge, I knew I had to find a new way to support myself without relying on my hands. This led me to explore acting and voice-over work, pursuing what once seemed like unrealistic childhood dreams. Despite my disability making me instantly unemployable in 99.9% of professions, I followed my passions, which turned into paid professions, embodying the saying, "Do what you love and the money will follow."

My journey wasn't without obstacles, including battling severe hypothyroidism, but I persevered, achieving goals and experiences many thought impossible. I now coach and empower others to pursue their dreams and goals with intention, authenticity, confidence, and perseverance.

For a more detailed account of my journey overcoming disability, you can explore Part 4 of my book, Confident As Fu*k. I also created The Ultimate Confidence Course for those looking to boost their self-esteem and confidence for success and happiness.

TV & FILM

My focused intention and perseverance have been key to overcoming challenges. In 1997, when my hands and arms were disabled, I didn't let that setback end my dreams. With no social media to lean on for support, I pursued a career in voice-over and acting, which I saw as the most viable option at the time, given my disability.

I made a bold move to get classically trained, enrolling at the prestigious American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco. After honing my skills, I returned to my hometown of Chicago, where I began writing and performing sketch comedy at The Second City, one of the most renowned comedy theaters in the world.

My journey didn't stop there. I moved to Los Angeles to further my TV-Film career while attending The Second City Los Angeles. I eventually found my comedy home at ACME Comedy Theater in Hollywood, where I performed in over 100 sketch comedy and improv shows, winning several awards for my work.

My hard work and dedication have not only allowed me to grace both the big and small screens but also to become a bestselling author. Pursuing my passion of writing led me to pen the screenplay for the award-winning documentary HeadHunt Revisited.

ENTER HYPOTHYROIDISM

While I was pursuing my TV-Film career, I became severely hypothyroid, a story of suffering all too common among millions. Even living in a major city like Los Angeles, California, I faced the challenge of finding a doctor or endocrinologist who could effectively address my condition. As my health worsened, I decided to take matters into my own hands, rejecting the ineffective mainstream medical approach. My body was in rapid decline, afflicted with over 30 debilitating symptoms related to hypothyroidism.

I became my own doctor and advocate, ordering lab work and tackling the task of fixing my condition on my own. My efforts were successful. Not only did I manage to heal myself, but I also went on to write the #1 bestselling book, The Paleo Thyroid Solution, aiming to prevent others from enduring a similar ordeal.

Furthermore, I created The Ultimate Thyroid Course, the most comprehensive thyroid resource available, to help others understand and effectively fix their thyroid issue and ensuring they have the knowledge and tools to advocate for their wellbeing.

Mark Sisson

New York Times Bestselling Author & Founder of Primal Kitchen Foods & Peluva Footwear

"Elle has framed her professional life into one dedicated to helping others—both healing and nourishing the physical body and also nurturing the spirit. She will help you help yourself, but you are going to have to do the hard work and the deep reflection. Elle is not about subtlety, soft touches, or nuance. She is dedicated to excellence, transformation, and never looking back, feeling sorry for herself, or turning away from a challenge!"

PUBLIC SPEAKING & PODCASTING

I am a seasoned podcaster, interviewer, and public speaker. For seven years, I hosted the popular but now discontinued Primal Blueprint Podcast on behalf of my mentor Mark Sisson, producing over 500 episodes and garnering 20 million downloads. In 2021, I launched The Elle Russ Show, a weekly podcast that aims to inspire, educate, and motivate listeners through guest interviews and solo episodes.

I love leaving attendees and listeners feeling motivated, moved, and inspired. My journey, fueled by intention, grit, and determination, proves that with focus and perseverance, it's possible to overcome even the most significant obstacles. This experience serves as a reminder that our dreams are within reach if we possess the courage and confidence to pursue them.

Dr. Ken Berry MD

Author of Lies My Doctor Told Me

"Elle Russ, although not a medical doctor, can school just about any doctor on thyroid issues. You would think endocrinologists would have the best understanding of thyroid conditions and medications, but quite often they seem to be the least informed. If you suffer from low thyroid symptoms, or suspect you do, even though your lab results are 'normal' – you need Elle's help."

LIFE IN CALIFORNIA

I love working at home and living in the mountains of Southern California. In my free time, you'll find me hiking, reading, swimming, cooking, snuggling with my dog, staring at nature, or competing in family ping-pong tournaments. 

Learn About My Courses!