What if your family’s health history could become your greatest source of strength?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Tess Cheng, a certified health and wellness coach with over 13 years of experience and a master’s in clinical nutrition from NYU.
Tess’s journey from navigating hypoglycemia and a family legacy of diabetes to empowering others with practical, science-backed wellness strategies is as inspiring as it is actionable.
Discover how Tess transformed personal adversity into a mission to help others reclaim control over their health. She shares the mindset shifts, daily habits, and science-driven insights that make wellness achievable—even for the busiest lives. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of change, Tess’s story will show you that small, consistent steps can lead to lifelong transformation.
What You’ll Learn:
- Your genes are not your destiny—prevention and mindful choices can rewrite your health story.
- Sustainable wellness starts with one small habit at a time, not an all-or-nothing overhaul.
- Sleep is the secret weapon for better health, weight management, and decision-making.
- Mindset matters: treat your health like a long-term investment, not a quick fix.
- Support, education, and self-compassion are the keys to lasting change.
Timestamps:
- 00:00 Meet Tess Cheng: From family health struggles to wellness authority
- 01:11 The wake-up call: Discovering hypoglycemia and taking control
- 04:06 How clinical nutrition shaped Tess’s coaching philosophy
- 06:35 The real reason we sabotage our sleep—and how to fix it
- 09:48 Overcoming overwhelm: Tess’s step-by-step approach to building habits
- 11:26 The mindset shift that changes everything: Health as a long game
- 13:50 Where to find Tess and start your own wellness journey
Guest Links:
- Website: GlowWithTess.com
- (No LinkedIn, Instagram, or book links provided in this episode. For more, visit Tess’s website.)
If you’re ready to take the first step toward a healthier, more empowered life, this episode is your blueprint.

Junaid Ahmed is a multi-passionate creator, storyteller, and home studio architect who believes your voice can change your world. As the host of Hacks and Hobbies, he dives deep into the journeys of people turning passion into purpose — from garage inventors to global entrepreneurs.
The podcast began as a simple idea: record honest conversations about side projects, creativity, and the hustle behind the scenes. Years later, it’s become a movement — showcasing the real, raw, and inspiring stories of everyday innovators.
Whether he’s building pro-level studios or geeking out over podcast gear, Junaid’s mission is clear: help people show up with confidence, clarity, and character.
🎧 New episodes weekdays. New perspectives in every story.
