Today we’d like to introduce you to Melyssa Allen
Hi Melyssa, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
For years, I thought I had to fight against my body to feel good enough…I chased quick fixes and strict plans, hoping the “after” photo would finally make me happy. But everything changed when I found a cardio kickboxing-inspired group fitness class that lit me up inside! For the first time, exercise felt fun—something I wanted to do, not had to do. That joy inspired me to become an instructor, even though I didn’t feel like I “looked the part.” Luckily, thanks to some amazing mentors, I realized that my energy, empathy, and positivity mattered way more than my appearance ever could!
At the same time, my graduate studies in clinical psychology led me to discover lifestyle medicine – a subspecialty of medicine that focuses on addressing the root cause of noncommunicable chronic diseases through therapeutic and intensive lifestyle changes. I learned how to practice self-compassion, ditch the extremes, and figuring out how to work WITH my mind and body instead of trying to fight against them.
Now, as a double board-certified lifestyle medicine professional and author of Healthy Living Doesn’t Have to SUCK, I help people build sustainable habits and create a healthy lifestyle they can love through my company, Melyssa with a WHY | Lifestyle Medicine Coaching.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I’ll be honest—body image is something I’ve struggled with my whole life, and while I’ve come SUCH a long way, that inner “mean girl” voice still likes to pop up now and then. The difference? These days, I don’t let her call the shots! I’ve built a new relationship with those unhelpful thoughts, and they no longer have the power to hold me back from living my purpose.
Starting my business was another leap of faith! With degrees in Biology, Psychology, and a master’s in Clinical Psychology, stepping into entrepreneurship felt intimidating—especially without an IT department, marketing manager, or a business background. I leaned on incredible mentors and learned to quiet my self-doubt so I could keep growing. When COVID threw us all for a loop, I pivoted and launched my virtual fitness studio, Move with Melyssa. Now I offer livestream classes, on-demand workouts, and a group coaching membership, all from the comfort of my home!
Writing Healthy Living Doesn’t Have to SUCK was another challenge where self-doubt tried to get the best of me. I often questioned if I was “worthy” of teaching others about healthy living, especially when old habits resurfaced during the pandemic. But here’s what I know: there are people out there who need this message, and I wasn’t about to let fear or insecurity stop me! Every day, I choose to move forward with purpose, self-compassion, and a whole lot of belief that what I’m doing can make a difference for someone!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m the founder of Melyssa with a WHY and a double board-certified Lifestyle Medicine Coach who helps people create healthy lifestyles they truly love! I am proud to be a certified Size Inclusive Fitness Specialist, which means I specialize in a size-inclusive, weight-neutral approach to fitness and health behavior change. Through my work, I empower people to embrace body acceptance, focus on what they can do, and build healthier habits that are sustainable, realistic, and enjoyable.
As a lifestyle medicine coach, I work with clients to co-create goals that focus on the pillars of health, like nutrition, physical activity, stress management, and sleep, to reduce their risk of chronic disease and improve overall well-being. My evidence-based coaching combines my science background (I’m a total research geek!) with a supportive, relatable, and often humorous approach that makes the process fun and accessible!
I’m incredibly proud to have written my book, Healthy Living Doesn’t Have to SUCK—and taken it a step further by recording the audiobook to bring my message to life! Sharing this work, along with hosting the companion podcast, has allowed me to reach and inspire so many people who are fed up with fad diets and ready for a fresh approach. I also created the Change Maker Collective, a group coaching membership that provides monthly goal-setting support and accountability for those ready to make meaningful lifestyle changes.
What sets me apart is my inclusive, compassionate approach that meets clients where they are—offering them the tools and support they need to feel their best. At the end of the day, I’m here to show you that healthy living doesn’t have to suck—it can actually be fun, rewarding, and completely life-changing!
What are your plans for the future?
I’m so excited about expanding Melyssa with a WHY offers to include my signature program: The Lifestyle Medicine Makeover! I am initially launching this service on an individual level, but will be tailoring it to serve as a comprehensive workplace wellness program. The Lifestyle Medicine Makeover is all about blending education, entertainment, and action steps using the framework from my book, Healthy Living Doesn’t Have to SUCK.
I’m also excited to build more partnerships with companies who value their employees’ well-being and are ready to invest in sustainable health initiatives. My previous partners include the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts, BDO Orlando/Tampa/Jacksonville, and National Retail Properties.
My focus is on building a robust health and wellness portfolio for workplaces, helping organizations boost employee well-being, engagement, and productivity through lifestyle medicine. Whether it’s leading workshops, creating wellness programs, or consulting with leadership teams, I’m all about bringing evidence-based solutions to the table in a way that feels accessible, empowering, and fun!
What’s most exciting for me is helping shift the workplace culture to one that prioritizes total well-being—not just for the sake of the bottom line, but because healthier, happier teams create a ripple effect of positivity everywhere they go. It’s a big change for my business, and I can’t wait to see the impact we’ll make together!
Pricing:
- Paperback Book: $18.99
- Audiobook: $18.99
- Ebook: $8.99
- Virtual Fitness Studio: $19.99/month
- Coaching Membership: $47.99/month
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.healthylivingdoesnthavetosuck.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melyssa_with_a_why/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MelyssaWithAWHY/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@melyssawithawhy
- Other: https://www.healthylivingdoesnthavetosuck.com/podcast
Image Credits
Branding by Jo
