From Idea to Ignition: How The Wellness Way (and My Van) Came to Be

Yesterday, I picked up the keys to something I’ve been dreaming about for years — my van.

It’s still a slight empty shell right now, but to me, it represents freedom, creativity, and the next chapter of everything I’ve been working toward with The Wellness Way.

From as young as I can remember, I’ve always wanted to travel, create, and inspire others. I used to imagine myself as one of those YouTube vloggers who made a living by documenting their adventures and connecting with people through their stories. I loved watching people who sought out exploration, new cultures, and a sense of freedom in how they lived.

And I was especially drawn to the women doing it — the ones building simple, intentional lives in vans as they explored the country and beyond. I even thought about becoming a videographer or photojournalist at one point, but I didn’t take that path because it didn’t feel “safe.” I was encouraged to go to college, get a stable degree, and build a secure career — and I did. And I’m grateful for that.

In high school, like a lot of girls, I struggled with my relationship with food and my body. I became hyperfocused on nutrition and exercise, and while it wasn’t healthy at the time, it led me down a path of learning. I stumbled upon a dietitian online who completely shifted how I saw things, and that’s what inspired me to become one myself.

I’ve always been fascinated by whole-person wellness, so pursuing a degree in nutrition felt right. It allowed me to help others while also giving me the job stability I knew I needed at that stage of my life. Along the way, I fell in love with movement and became a personal trainer too. I wanted to bridge the gap between nutrition and fitness because, honestly, those two worlds don’t always communicate well with each other.

Over time, I started to notice another gap — one that specifically impacts women. A lot of fitness programs are designed with men in mind. Even gym equipment often fits a man’s body better than a woman’s. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve tried to use a machine where the range of motion doesn’t quite fit my frame. And beyond the physical part, many gyms just don’t feel like safe or comfortable spaces for women.

When I started doing in-home training, I saw how much my clients appreciated the comfort and accessibility of it. They felt more confident in their own space, and it made me realize how powerful that kind of environment can be. That’s when I started to think bigger. What if I could make wellness mobile? What if I could bring strength and nutrition to people wherever they are — homes, workplaces, and communities?

For a while, I was juggling it all — working full-time as a corporate dietitian and part-time as a personal trainer. I loved what I was doing, but the more I tried to quiet the unconventional part of me, the more lost I felt. I’ve always known I wanted freedom, creativity, and adventure in my life. I’ve never wanted to be stuck in a traditional 9–5. I craved something that felt more alive. 

That’s how the idea for The Wellness Way came to life.

It started with a question: how can I help people build strength and confidence, while also giving myself the space to live the kind of life I’ve always wanted? The answer — for me — is this van. A mobile wellness space. A home on wheels. A way to merge my love for travel, movement, and community.

The Wellness Way isn’t just about workouts or meal plans. It’s about creating spaces where people feel empowered, supported, and inspired to take care of themselves — no matter where they are. It’s about rewriting what wellness looks like and making it accessible, flexible, and real.

This van represents that freedom. It’s my way of bringing The Wellness Way wherever it’s needed — on the road, in new cities, in communities that value connection and growth.

This is the beginning of something I’ve been dreaming about for years, and I can’t wait to share it all — the build, the travels, and the stories along the way.

Here’s to new beginnings, bold dreams, and building strength — one mile at a time.

- Tay