Spotlight COlorado  

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Fitness is a way of life for Eileen Flanigan. From Grammar School to College, she was recognized for being the “Most Valuable Player” in every sport she ever played. You can tell by looking at her that she’s a natural athlete; and becoming the owner of a women’s fitness center is right up Eileen’s alley.

Eileen takes pride in the fact that people leave the Ms. GoodBody Fitness Center after working out for just 30 minutes in a much better mood. The circuit training done at Ms. GoodBody’s relieves stress, allows for better sleep, and helps prevent heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Eileen loves to see her clients develop positive energy through their workouts, which then gives them a better vision of themselves and a higher sense of self-esteem. Eileen believes that making a commitment to changing your life is a big responsibility for all of us and is not always an easy thing to do. When you do succeed, it sets you apart from others.

Another commitment Eileen has made is to do what she can to support the nonprofit organization, Colorado Uplift whose mission is to build long-term, life-changing relationships with urban youth. Eileen invites the kids in the program to visit and work with her at the Ms.GoodBody facility so they have another outlet for stress in their lives. Eileen has also arranged for the kids to take cooking classes with the Executive Chef at the Brown Palace Hotel, and she has set up a program for them to take golf lessons at the Denver Country Club.

Eileen loves the Colorado lifestyle and also participates in many outdoor fitness activities. She is passionate about living life to its fullest and is happy to provide a lively and supportive setting for the women in our great city who want to enjoy themselves as they reap the benefits of better health.

What type of personality does it take to be in the fitness business? Someone really outgoing who enjoys people and knows the value of fitness.

We all have days when nothing seems to come together; how do you stay motivated and positive? Being a firm believer in the results of what exercise can provide, I see the good energy people leave my fitness center with. Watching them reach their fitness goals keeps me motivated.

What was the best part about being the Concierge at the Brown Palace Hotel? Working with the most fabulous staff ever. Everyone there was wonderful.

Who were some of the celebrities that stayed at the Brown while you were the Concierge? Mick Jagger, Kathleen Turner, James Earl Jones, and Mariah Carey - to name a few.

What do you think is the greatest problem our country is facing today? Violence.

If you were about to spend the next year on the space shuttle, what one thing would you bring with and why? My iPod for some music.

If you write your autobiography, what will you call it? “Still Standing, Still Smiling…”

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give yourself for the future? Trust your instincts more.

Describe your dream romantic get-a-way? A cozy place by the ocean with a butler that knows how to pour a good cocktail.

Who would you like to trade places with for one day and why? I would have liked to trade places with the late Katharine Hepburn because she was such a self-styled woman.

What social or charitable event is your favorite? Anything that Colorado Uplift does, especially with the Women’s Guild.

What fundraising activities are you involved in at this time? Colorado Uplift and the Cancer Prevention Fund.

Who is your hero, and why? My Dad for his loyalty. When he passed away in Connecticut, in the middle of a cold November, there was a line of people going around the block waiting to get in at his funeral. He had so many wonderful friends.

When you were a little girl, what did you say you wanted to be when you grew up? I said I wanted to be an Olympic Athlete and own a Corvette Stingray.

Can you tell us about an “aha”experience in your life that helped make you the kind of person you are today? I’ve been involved in sports and fitness all my life. When I decided to build my fitness center, I realized “what a perfect fit.”

What do you consider your proudest achievement? Being a loyal friend.

Which one word describes you best? Loyal – We have a theme going here!

Who is the real Eileen Flanigan? Outgoing, athletic, - always looking for fun.

If there were one thing you could change about yourself, what would it be? Be a better golfer.

What do you consider the lowest depth of human misery? Losing a child.

Who is the most interesting celebrity you’ve ever met and gotten to know? There are several: Singer, James Taylor; he’s just a regular guy and very humble about his accomplishments. The late James Colburn who was very funny. Bob Neuhart who is very true to form – and Hal Holbrook; he is just as cute as could be.

What is your personal motto - or favorite quote? I have two: “Delight in the details, and everyday will be a pleasure.” And the quote from Mark Twain: “Throw off the bow lines; sail away from the safe harbor; catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”

What is the best advice your Mom/Dad ever gave you? Don’t take advice from anyone.

What is your current state of mind? Hopeful.

What do you love most about living in Colorado? I love the landscape! I see the entire front-range and the city lights from my downtown apartment.

What’s coming up in the future for Ms. Flanigan? More Golf. Opening up more Ms. GoodBody Fitness Centers.

What is something you would still like to learn to do – like play an instrument, learn a certain language – skydive? Learn to be a scratch golfer.

What might your epitaph read, or what would you like to be remembered for? Being a caring, loving friend.