Carol Ann Parlato to Canada: Turn over a new leaf!

We distributed a press release today announcing the selection of Carol Ann Parlato as L A Weight Loss' Canadian spokesperson for the new Holiday Makeover Campaign.

A lot of work goes into the development of a press a release like this one. A big part is the interview with the key players. With the help of blogging, we can take the people from behind the scenes of a press release, and share the actual, unrehearsed interview that we used for our announcement today.

So as promised, we've turned our interview with Carol Ann into an unedited Podcast!

This is the complete interview that I conducted with my colleague Janelle. It has a lot more information than we could ever fit into a two-page news release. And once you hear her interview, I think you'll agree when I say that Carol Ann is *perfect* for the job of spokeswoman -- she's one peppy L A gal!



Before you listen to the interview, here's some background on Carol Ann. She went through a very tough divorce nine years ago. For a long time afterwards, she just stayed in her shell and ate lots of high-fat and high-calorie foods as a way to fill her emotional void.

As a representative for Lancome, Carol Ann coached and motivated other beauty consultants. But at the end of day, it was Carol Ann who needed a coach to help pull her out of her shell and stop her from binge eating.

Carol Ann became so disgusted with her appearance and unhappy with her life, she finally did something about it. She joined L A Weight Loss, and found the coaching she needed!

With the help of her counselors, Carol Ann lost 54 pounds in just five months, reaching her goal weight just before the start of 2006. Carol Ann celebrated the new year with a smokin' new body!

If you are with the media and would like to interview Carol Ann, drop me a line at Jackie@GregoryFCA.com, or call me at 610-642-8253, ext. 138.

If you're a visitor to the blog, post a comment if you would like to get in touch with Carol Ann, or share your thoughts and feelings about her story.

Here's a shot of Carol Ann before she started her diet, at 182 pounds:



Here she is today, looking smart at 128 pounds. Congrats, Carol Ann!



FAST FACTS

Name: Carol Ann Parlato
Hometown: Ottawa, Canada
Age: 53
Height: 5'4"

Starting weight: 182 pounds
Goal weight: 128 pounds
Current weight: 128 pounds
Program start date: August 2005

Biggest motivator: Each day discovering a little extra bounce in her step.

Biggest obstacle: Getting over the emotional void.

Old eating philosophy: Extra-large portions and extra snacking after supper.

New eating philosophy: Eating foods from each food group, and balancing proteins with carbs.

Best thing about of losing weight: Being able to inspire others to lose weight and find happiness.

Best weight loss secret learned: Be patient!