Boris Tonkikh shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Boris, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of my day are intentional and productive. I start by making a cup of black coffee with organic raw honey — a simple ritual to ease into the day. As a businessman managing multiple ventures, I immediately check my emails, respond to DMs, and connect with my fitness clients and social media followers. I’ll usually film a couple of videos for my platforms, followed by a bit of light reading to keep my mind sharp. Personal fitness is a major priority for me, so I make sure to get in a solid workout to stay on track with my own goals. My mornings are jam-packed, but structured in a way that sets the tone for a successful day.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Boris — I’m a certified fitness trainer, licensed nutritionist, and the creator of the Coach Boris App, a fully online platform designed to help people transform their health and lifestyle no matter where they are. I’m also the founder of Aromatic Essence, a line of organic candles created to bring calm and balance into people’s spaces — because wellness isn’t just about the body, it’s also about the mind and environment.
Outside of fitness and wellness, I host a podcast called Boris Unfiltered, where I speak openly and boldly about real-life topics. I also connect with my community daily through TikTok live streams, behind-the-scenes content, and videos I post across TikTok and Instagram. I’ve also done some modeling work — so I’m no stranger to the camera, whether it’s for fitness, fashion, or just sharing real moments with my audience.
Everything I do is rooted in authenticity and impact. Whether it’s helping someone achieve their fitness goals, creating a peaceful moment with a candle, or having an honest conversation on the podcast, it all ties back to helping people feel stronger, more centered, and more confident in themselves.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
The person who taught me the most about work is without a doubt my mother. She was a single mom raising three kids in a new country, with no safety net — just determination and love. I watched her wake up every day, push through exhaustion, and do whatever it took to give us a better life. There were times when things were really hard, but she never let us feel the weight of it. Her strength, sacrifice, and unshakable work ethic didn’t just teach me about hard work — they became the foundation of who I am. Everything I’ve built, everything I strive for, is rooted in the example she set.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering taught me things that success never could — like humility, patience, and empathy. When you go through real struggle, you learn how to sit with pain, how to keep moving when no one’s clapping for you, and how to appreciate even the smallest wins. It teaches you to value people, not just results. It builds character in silence — in moments when no one sees the fight but you. Success can feel great, but it doesn’t always build depth. Suffering gives you that depth. It grounds you. And for me, it gave my success meaning — because I know what it took to get there.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
The one belief I’m committed to — no matter how long it takes — is that real transformation is possible. Whether it’s physical, mental, or emotional, I truly believe people can change their lives if they’re willing to show up consistently. That’s the heart of everything I do, from fitness coaching to my podcast to my candle line. I’m building a brand and a movement rooted in that belief — that with the right mindset, guidance, and discipline, anyone can become the strongest version of themselves. I’m in this for the long game. This isn’t just about content or trends — it’s about impact, and that takes time.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What will you regret not doing?
What I would regret most is not fully stepping into who I am meant to be — not pushing past fear, doubt, or the comfort of staying safe. There have been moments when the easier choice was to hold back, but I know deep down that if I do not give everything I have, I will carry that regret with me for the rest of my life. It is not just about success or achievement — it is about honoring the potential and purpose I have been given. I want to live with no “what ifs,” no looking back wishing I had been braver, worked harder, or believed in myself more. That is the kind of regret I refuse to accept.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/borisfit
- Instagram: boris___fit
Image Credits
Ihor Zarahytsyi
