The secret is cutting down on intake, eating less unhealthy foods.
Exercise helps but it is a long term assist, it helps the body up the metabolism rate and build muscle but is not the secret to losing the weight.

I wouldn’t mind chatting with anyone about this and maybe trading pics as we lose weight together.

Anyone can give pointers on cutting back bad stuff for you and provide some insight on full body workouts?

Try to avoid soda and drink water instead, minimize the amount of sugar you add to food and beverages and also eat less greasy foods and try to use more healthy cooking methods to prepare your food like grilling or sauteeing.

About full body workouts…my trainers have always suggested to break my routines to different muscle groups, in order for them to rest.  You can for example, if you hit the gym thrice a week exercise legs and abs one day, chest and back the second day and arms the third day.  But that I think is best to consult with a certified trainer.

what's the best way to be lean? I don't want to be muscular..

Run run run… those who did marathon are usually skinny, not muscular, because it's all about resistance not strenght, but as they always run they don't get fatty...
Swimming is also a good choice... you can get lean AND a bit muscular, not too big and not too skinny...