After years of struggling with self-doubt, cystic acne, and an eating disorder, Melissa Wood-Tepperberg started taking steps to drastically change her life. She enrolled at the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, earned her health coaching certification, and eventually launched her wildly popular eponymous platform Melissa Wood Health.

Fast-forward to 2020, and the health and wellness coach has amassed something of a cult following, thanks in part to her trademark MWH Method, which can be done at the office, at home, at the park, and pretty much anywhere. With over 210k Instagram followers and 16.4k YouTube subscribers, it’s safe to say she’s struck a chord with the wellness community.

Ahead, we ask Wood-Tepperberg how she turned her passion for health and wellness into a successful business, how she finds work/life balance, and how she switches gears when she hits a bump or hurdle in the road.

CREATE & CULTIVATE: How did you decide to get into the health and wellness/fitness industry?

MELISSA WOOD-TEPPERBERG: Honestly, it was less of a decision and more of something I was completely guided towards after having a horrible relationship with myself for many years. I woke up one day and knew something needed to change. So, I made a decision that changed my life forever. To actually change something!

Melissa Wood Health is more than just a workout—how do you define your brand? What do you think makes you or your business stand out?

Melissa Wood Health is a wellness platform created in hopes to not only guide you to feeling your absolute best but moving into a place of complete alignment with yourself. I believe people join my community because of the shorter workouts I share that you can do anytime and anywhere using your own body weight. Most importantly, I think it’s my unfiltered way of sharing what people connect to most.

You were able to find your way out of a dark time, discover your passion, and turn it into a successful business—how did you become the confident entrepreneur you are today?  

First of all, thank you. I tried my hand at many things I “thought” I wanted to do. But once I found what truly made me happy, I decided to give it 100% of my attention. That discipline coupled with my genuine love for what I now do every day is what led me down a path to success. Staying the course and staying true to myself are what continue to carry me today.

When you hit a bump or hurdle in your career, how do you find new roads and switch gears to find success?

I’m really learning that bumps in the road are par for the course. It’s not how many you hit but how you recover from them that matters most. I’m grateful for the lessons I’m able to take away from these experiences. Instead of looking at them as “bumps,” I suggest looking at them as a way that redirects you towards your purpose. 

What is the biggest work challenge you have faced? What did you learn from it?

By far the biggest work challenge I’ve faced is not following my gut intuition on something that was speaking so loudly to me. Always listen to what that little voice is saying to you.

You have two children and run your business at the same time—what is your life hack for getting it all done? What is your go-to mantra for staying motivated?

Omg, my life hack is constantly reminding myself every day that I’m doing the very best I can in all roles. Learning to manage my time and stick to a schedule (sorry Dylan) helps keep me in check. And building a team that has strengths that I don’t have. My go-to mantra for staying motivated is: It’s not just about me anymore—I have to show up for so many people in my life. And I love it, I jump out of bed and can’t wait to start my day. As long as it’s not before 6 A.M.

What do you wish more people knew about your job?

I’m not just sitting around working out all day and filming myself. Hahaha. I know I share a lot on Instagram Stories, but remember, Instagram doesn’t show everything! I’m in the office with my team Monday through Friday and all hands are still on deck during off hours because running a digital business means it never sleeps. 

You built your brand primarily online—why did you choose to do this? What would you suggest to other entrepreneurs looking to build a digital brand?

I was guided to teach digitally. As soon as I started, I knew it was where I was supposed to be. Being able to connect with people all over the world and hearing any ounce of impact I’ve had in their lives completely shifted something in me. For others looking to do the same, I would tell them to get specific on what message they want to share and, most importantly, do it in your own voice. And practice, practice, practice. Do your research, follow like-minded people in the space and read the book Subscribed!

What is the best advice you have been given? Or a favorite piece of #realtalk?

The best piece of advice I’ve been told is that time is money. You have to think about the things you’re spending your time doing and if it’s worth taking time from something you actually love. This is something my husband taught me—and it’s not about the money, it’s about putting your time into things that matter most.

What changes do you hope to see in the health and wellness/fitness industry? What's next for you and the brand?

My team and I are constantly working on creating the best user experience and more live experiences where I can better connect with people face to face.

What do you wish you could go back and tell yourself when you were first launching your business? Why?

If I could go back, I would tell myself to do less opinion shopping. To fully follow your heart, your gut, and your vision. And no matter where you are, just start because nothing will ever be “perfect,” you adjust as you grow.

What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs who have an idea but don’t know where to start to execute it?

For people just starting out, I think the most important thing is to take the focus off your following, likes, and views and hone in on your gift. That one thing that sets you apart and that you want to share with the world. I truly believe that when you come from this place and your intention is to share from your heart, things start to align. Consistency is also key.

Anything else you would like to add?

Keep an open mind with whatever it is you’re doing. I would have never imagined years ago that I’d have this burning desire to share my workouts online.

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