Influential Woman · Health, Wellness & Social Connection / Dating & Recreation Technology
Jyl Steinback
Founder, Pickleball Dating and Shape Up Us
Scottsdale, AZ
Her Story
About Jyl
Jyl Steinback is an entrepreneur, author, health and wellness advocate, and community builder whose career has focused on helping individuals and families lead healthier, more connected lives. Her professional journey began in fitness, where she developed exercise programs and later created nationally distributed fitness products and programs. She went on to write more than 15 cookbooks, selling over two million copies, and became known as “America’s Healthiest Mom.” Her work has earned national media attention, including appearances on CNN, CBS This Morning, and QVC, as well as the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition Community Leadership Award.
Jyl is the founder of Shape Up US, a nonprofit dedicated to making health and wellness education engaging and accessible for children, families, and communities. She has expanded this mission through programs, community events, and initiatives such as the Hip Hop Healthy Heart Program for Children™ and the World’s Largest Pickleball Lesson™. She is also a homeopathic practitioner and co-founder of Homeopathic Helper, combining her interests in wellness, education, and whole-person health.
Today, Jyl is focused on growing Pickleball Dating™, a social connection and dating platform inspired by the strong community she witnessed on the pickleball court. After building a Facebook community of more than 16,000 members and generating more than 5,000 registrations ahead of the app’s July 2026 launch, she is creating opportunities for singles to connect through a shared love of the sport. Across her ventures, Jyl is guided by a passion for bringing people together, encouraging healthy lifestyles, supporting communities, and turning ideas into meaningful action.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jyl
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to persistence, preparation, and a willingness to take action on ideas I believe in. I have learned to listen carefully, trust my instincts, stay open to new possibilities, and keep moving forward when I hear “no.” I also believe strongly in surrounding myself with supportive people who bring different strengths and perspectives. Most importantly, I stay passionate about serving others, bringing people together, and creating something meaningful that makes a positive difference.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to take action and not wait for everything to be perfect. I’ve learned that you have to be willing to hear “no,” learn from it, and keep moving forward. When one door closes, look for the next opportunity rather than giving up. Believe in your ideas, surround yourself with people who support and challenge you, and be willing to listen and adapt along the way.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women to believe in themselves, trust their instincts, and not wait for permission to pursue their ideas. Be willing to take risks, learn from setbacks, and keep moving forward when you hear “no.” Surround yourself with positive people who believe in you, while also staying open to honest feedback and new perspectives. Most importantly, build something you genuinely care about, work hard, support others, and remember to enjoy the journey.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest opportunity right now is the growing role of pickleball as a community, not just a sport. More people are looking for meaningful, real-life connections, and Pickleball Dating™ brings together shared interests, social activities, and opportunities to build friendships or relationships.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are family, health, purpose, integrity, connection, and giving back. I believe in listening deeply, keeping my word, treating people with kindness, and creating opportunities that positively impact others. I also value teamwork and making sure people feel seen, supported, and appreciated.
In both my personal and professional life, I strive to lead with an open mind, trust the people around me, and stay true to my purpose. For me, success means living with love, meaningful work, health, prosperity, and something valuable to give back to others.
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