Since my college days, fitness has been more than just a passion—it’s been a way of life. With a degree in Exercise Science and experience as a personal trainer during my university years, I explored everything from martial arts and weight training to aerobic fitness. By my sophomore year, I was fully immersed in the bodybuilding and fitness culture, devouring information on training, nutrition, and supplements.

Even as I pursued other careers, personal training remained a constant. I balanced early morning or late-night client sessions around my workdays, driven by my commitment to helping others achieve their fitness goals.

In my late 30s, my priorities shifted. I began focusing on overall health and longevity rather than muscle mass. This change led me toward a vegetarian lifestyle—a challenging transition given my upbringing in a meat-loving family. Adopting this new way of eating felt like swimming upstream against the standard American diet.

A turning point came in 2013 when my father’s health began to decline. Watching this brilliant, self-made man—who was also a doctor—struggle was heart-wrenching. I spent many sleepless nights by his side, ensuring his oxygen mask stayed secure and reading extensively to distract myself from the helplessness I felt.

During one of those nights, I discovered The China Study, a groundbreaking book exploring the connection between a whole-food, plant-based diet and a reduced risk of chronic diseases. This revelation was life-changing. Why wasn’t this information common knowledge? My curiosity ignited a deep dive into nutrition and health research that continues to this day.

In May 2014, I lost my father. That devastating loss triggered a series of hardships, including job loss, divorce, and the passing of my beloved dog. It felt like my life had crumbled.

By 2015, I began to rebuild. Fitness became my anchor as I returned to the gym and resumed personal training. That same year, I committed to a fully vegetarian lifestyle, guided by research supporting the health and longevity benefits of plant-based eating. While I didn’t fully embrace a vegan diet, this lifestyle felt like the right balance for me.

Fast forward to 2024, another career setback led me to question my path as a software engineer. That moment of reflection inspired me to combine my passions for health, fitness, and wellness with my love of research and storytelling.

Now, through this blog, I share my journey, insights, and strategies for living a whole-food, plant-based, and fit lifestyle in your 50s. Whether you’re navigating midlife changes, exploring plant-based eating, or simply looking for inspiration to stay active and healthy, I’m here to guide and support you. Thank you for joining me on this journey!