Rising Stars: Meet Tessa Lewis of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Tessa Lewis.

Hi Tessa, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I began lifting weights in middle school and fell in love with fitness. During high school, I discovered CrossFit, which changed how I viewed exercises. This experience inspired me to become a certified fitness trainer in 2020.

Starting with a fitness page to share my workouts, I soon discovered my love for helping people create workout plans that work for them. I realized my passion is to help each person become stronger and healthier in their own way. The ultimate goal is to help people enjoy their experience with working out and the gym if applicable.

Every person is different and I believe I can help find what works for them. Some people want to build muscle, some want to lose weight, and some just want better habits. I create workout plans that are tailored to what the individual wants to achieve and what will actually work with their lifestyle!

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t been a completely smooth road, but I wouldn’t trade the journey for anything. When I first started, I only offered in-person training, which proved challenging in Los Angeles—especially since the Deaf community is so spread out across the city. I quickly realized that if I wanted to reach more people, I needed to change something. That’s when I created a PDF-based training program and began offering online coaching. It was a big shift, but it allowed me to connect with clients in a much more flexible and accessible way.

In the beginning, I also struggled with undervaluing myself. I didn’t feel comfortable charging what my work was truly worth, and that came from a place of self-doubt and imposter syndrome. But over time, with experience and encouragement, I learned to own my value and confidently stand behind my services.

For a while, I did everything on my own—from creating customized PDF programs to filming each workout demo. It was rewarding but exhausting. Thankfully, I eventually partnered with a company that helped me launch a website and app, making my services much more convenient and accessible to the Deaf community and beyond.

The road has had its bumps, but it’s also been full of growth, resilience, and connection. I’m incredibly grateful for every challenge because each one helped me become a stronger trainer and a more grounded entrepreneur. I’ve learned so much and had the honor of meeting so many amazing people along the way.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a content creator and an online personal trainer, and I’m proud to be recognized as one of the few Deaf fitness influencers in the community. My work is rooted in accessibility, empowerment, and authenticity. On social media, I share everything from fitness tips to lifestyle content, recipe ideas, and moments from my personal journey. I’m especially passionate about female empowerment—I want women to come to my page and feel inspired to become the strongest, most confident version of themselves.

One of the milestones I’m incredibly proud of is becoming an affiliate with YoungLA and YoungLA For Her, where I had the honor of being their very first Deaf team member. That moment meant so much to me—not just personally, but also for the visibility it gave to the Deaf community within the fitness industry.

Social media hasn’t always been easy. It takes a lot of vulnerability to show up consistently, and in the beginning, I second-guessed everything I posted. But with time, practice, and the support of an amazing community, I’ve found my voice and confidence. I’m truly grateful for the people who follow me, support me, and believe in what I do.

What sets me apart is my authenticity. I keep it real—whether I’m having a great day or struggling to find motivation, I share it. I talk openly about balance, showing that you can enjoy life, go out with friends, and still stay committed to your fitness goals. I believe wellness is about more than workouts—it’s about living a full, joyful, and healthy life.

I am proud to be a Deaf female personal trainer providing this type of service and content, and that’s something I hold close to my heart. Representation matters, and I hope my work shows others that anything is possible.

So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Staying true to myself in this crazy world we live in. If there’s anything I can do, I hope it’s to make this world a better place by inspiring people to be the best version of themselves.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.tzlfitness.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tzlfitness