In this episode of Beefin' with the Boys, Jeremy Kane and Nick O'Sullivan sit down with Tess, a dynamic and inspiring fitness coach with a unique journey. From a small town in Pennsylvania to the vibrant fitness scene in Texas, Tess shares her story of transformation, resilience, and passion for health and wellness.
Tess's fitness journey began later in life compared to many athletes. Growing up with three brothers in a rural town, she spent her childhood outdoors, climbing trees and staying active, but it wasn’t until college that she discovered her love for fitness. After moving to Texas and completing a degree in exercise physiology and kinesiology at Baylor University, Tess dove headfirst into the fitness industry. Her journey took her from corporate wellness roles to becoming a coach at the Collective, one of Austin's most popular fitness communities.
Throughout the episode, Tess reflects on her evolution from “chubby Tess” to a runner with extremely low body fat, and finally to the strong, muscular athlete she is today. She candidly discusses the challenges she faced during her early fitness journey, including unhealthy eating habits and a lack of muscle mass, and how she learned to embrace weightlifting and a balanced diet to achieve her current level of health and strength.
The conversation takes an inspiring turn as Tess shares her thoughts on the pressures women face in the fitness industry, especially the misconception that lifting weights will make them “too bulky.” Tess emphasizes the importance of eating enough food, especially protein, to support an active lifestyle and build muscle. She discusses her experience with intuitive eating, finding balance, and enjoying foods like Ben & Jerry's while still meeting her fitness goals.
Tess also opens up about her motivations and what keeps her driven in such a demanding industry. She credits her competitive nature and a deep passion for helping others as key factors in her success. Despite her busy schedule, which often starts with 4 a.m. workouts, she finds fulfillment in teaching and inspiring others to lead healthier, more active lives.
The episode isn’t all about fitness, though. Tess’s humor and down-to-earth personality shine as she shares personal anecdotes, including a hilarious story about her teenage years in a small town and even a run-in with the law. The conversation covers a wide range of topics, from the impact of social media on self-perception to the importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself.
Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, someone looking for motivation to start your own health journey, or simply a fan of authentic, uplifting stories, this episode has something for everyone. Tess’s energy, positivity, and commitment to growth make this an inspiring and engaging conversation that you won’t want to miss.
Tune in to hear more about Tess’s unique path, her thoughts on fitness and nutrition, and how she’s making an impact in the lives of those around her.