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9X IPL Pro Champion La’net Spence

Images captured during September 2024 IPL Golden Heart Classic Weekend in Fairbanks, Alaska. 

 

At Home In Alaska

PHOTOS BY BEN YOSEF

In the heart of Alaska, where the rugged wilderness meets a rich cultural tapestry, La’net Spence stands out as a beacon of resilience and adventure. A nine-time IPL Pro Champion, she embodies the spirit of her upbringing in Fairbanks, a place that has shaped her identity both personally and professionally. In this exclusive interview La’net shares insights into how her Alaska heritage and family traditions have influenced her grit and determination. With a passion for mentoring the next generation of athletes and a commitment to living off the land, she reflects on the powerful connections forged within her community and the vibrant outdoor lifestyle that continues to inspire her.

"I also know what frozen nose hairs feel like. I think it’s made me adventurous. I like to always be learning and experiencing new things."

SEAM MAGAZINE: How has growing up in Alaska shaped your identity, both personally and professionally?
LA’NET SPENCE: Alaska is different from any other place. I thought it was totally normal to sleep in full daylight until I was a teenager. [laughs] I also know what frozen nose hairs feel like. I think it’s made me adventurous. I like to always be learning and experiencing new things.
SEAM: Can you share some traditions or practices from your Alaska Native heritage that continue to inspire you today?
LA’NET: I’m home grown Alaska, born in Fairbanks. There is not much Alaska native in me. My Indian heritage is Choctaw (Louisiana). My paternal grampa pioneered a little town named Anderson in Alaska. I think my grit came from watching him and my dad. They would just build what ever they needed. Boats, trailers, houses, shops, cabins. They are Masters of their adventures.
     Travel for us was ONLY inside Alaska when we were kids. We spent summers up river and winters on snow machines or flying out to hunting/trap line cabins, no matter what the temperature was. Those are good time memories for me.

"I have a firm belief that it is important to ALWAYS remember where you came from. My local community brought me here, to this amazing lifestyle and career."

SEAM: In your previous SEAM Magazine Cover Story interview you talked about “living off the land.” How do outdoor activities like fishing and hunting influence your fitness regimen?
LA’NET: Well, I happen to be blessed with a family that grows a big garden in the summer for sure. We also have a handful of apple trees and lots of berries, so we make jam, jelly, and apple butter. Most of the guys go fish, then hunt in the fall. We have had years where we have harvested moose, caribou, sheep, bear and goat. Delish!
SEAM: What role does your local community play in your life and career?
LA’NET: I have a firm belief that it is important to ALWAYS remember where you came from. My local community brought me here, to this amazing lifestyle and career. We are one introduction away from the life of our dreams. I have learned to say YES, rather than no…especially to challenging opportunities.

"Having them in Fairbanks with me is priceless! There is NOTHING more amazing than the team time we spend together with our families as we travel. True lifelong connections are happening."

SEAM: The recent photoshoot took place at your family’s property in Fairbanks. What does that location represent for you personally?
LA’NET: I’ll forever be grateful for this. My family welcomed us with open arms. [smiles] I feel so well rested at home. My team…Having them in Fairbanks with me is priceless! There is NOTHING more amazing than the team time we spend together with our families as we travel. True lifelong connections are happening.
SEAM: Competing in the IPL Golden Heart Classic must have been special. What does this event mean to you as an Alaska athlete?
LA’NET: When I think back to my childhood in Fairbanks, I remember feeling small. I didn’t stand out. I didn’t find my purpose until I experienced some corporate road rash in my mid 40’s. That taught me to be brave. I leaped in faith, prayed that God would show me favor, clinging to my gritty work ethic and started my own coaching business. Now it feels great to be home. I feel proud to bring home healthy, sustainable success. It means the world to me.

"Alaska is peaceful, yet rugged. Long summer days, midnight sun...what a playground!"

SEAM: How do you approach mentoring others in your community, especially young athletes looking to follow in your footsteps?
LA’NET: Oh gosh, there may be no quick answer to this. We have spent many years stubbing our toes on roadblocks to a healthy, professional, athletic lifestyle. It was a connection along the way that led us to the IPL and Arbonne. It’s simple really. The plan must be sustainable. First we walk the walk, then we teach others to do the same. Every athlete on our team plays the role of mentor eventually. That’s one way we continue to evolve and grow. The IPL gives us a healthy place for those who wish to be on stage. We LOVE it. There is no other place I’d rather be. Arbonne programs and products set the foundation of our plan for nutrition and overall wellness.
SEAM: How do you balance your busy entrepreneurial life with the peacefulness of Alaskan nature?
LA’NET: Alaska is peaceful, yet rugged. Long summer days, midnight sun…what a playground! Short winter days…snow to our hips…an amazing play field too. We weave work into our every day lives so that we can have time and financial flexibility. We also love to travel, so taking others out of state or bringing people to Alaska keeps it fun. We work from anywhere. Thank you Arbonne. [smiles]

"It is my intention to have team members in every State in the US, competing, coaching, promoting, supporting, changing lives."

SEAM: Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about that focus on promoting fitness or wellness in Alaska and beyond?
LA’NET: Our team starts planning the next adventure as we set plans for the next show. We have a handful of athletes coming to the IPL APEX event November in Arizona. The holidays take us to wellness events around the state where we promote our team, lifestyle and wellness. We always have our eyes on new destinations to experience IPL events as well. 
SEAM: Looking ahead, what legacy do you hope to leave for future generations of athletes and entrepreneurs from Alaska?
LA’NET: It is my intention to have team members in every State in the US, competing, coaching, promoting, supporting, changing lives. Leaving a legacy of game changers requires first a discipline to walk the walk. Then people can follow our lead. I hope this inspires people to be brave, say yes, then SLAY every day! SEAM

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