Today we’d like to introduce you to Alex Shaw.
Hi Alex, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey started as an overweight teenager with very little confidence or self-esteem. Discovering the gym as a young adult ended up shaping the next two decades of my life. Building muscle, getting stronger, and changing my physique didn’t just change what I saw in the mirror, it positively impacted my career, friendships, and relationships as well.
That personal transformation inspired me to help others do the same. I interned with the University of North Texas Strength & Conditioning department before landing a role as a personal trainer at Cowboys Fit at The Star in Frisco. I spent the next three years as a top-performing trainer, fully immersed in the commercial fitness world.
Then 2020 hit. The lockdowns brought everything to a sudden halt, and all trainers were furloughed. Like many others, I spent those months reevaluating my career and seriously considering starting my own business.
During that time, I also – like many – developed an interest in whiskey. A friendship with my local liquor store manager opened my eyes to different styles, distilling methods, and the rich history behind the spirit. That curiosity eventually led me to become a Whiskey Sommelier, and I now love hosting tastings, classes, and sharing the story behind America’s favorite distilled beverage.
In late 2021, I decided to combine my lifelong passion for fitness with my newfound passion for whiskey. And Whiskey Weight Loss was born. It’s the only online weight loss coaching program designed specifically for men who want to get back in shape while still enjoying their favorite pour.
Just a few short years later, Whiskey Weight Loss has worked with over 250 clients across the United States.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. One of the biggest ongoing challenges of building an online business is navigating the constantly changing landscape of social media marketing. Strategies and types of content that once worked can suddenly lose traction as algorithms evolve, which means you’re always having to stay adaptable and keep a close eye on what’s working (and what isn’t).
On a personal level, coaching 30–40 clients at a time and managing all of the communication that comes with it can be draining. Early on, that made it harder to show up fully for friendships and relationships outside of work. Nearly five years into the process, I’ve learned how important it is to manage my energy, set boundaries, and create better balance between my professional responsibilities and my personal life.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
In addition to Whiskey Weight Loss and the occasional whiskey tasting or seminar, I also serve as President of the Plano Whiskey Society, a nonprofit organization that brings whiskey enthusiasts together while supporting charitable work in the local community.
We partner with distilleries to host exclusive events for our members while creating a space for friendships between members to form, knowledge to be shared, and a deeper appreciation for the craft of whiskey to grow.
Giving back is a core part of what we do. During our most recent winter fundraiser, we helped fund 18,000 meals for the North Texas Food Bank.
Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
I’m a big believer that the best results come from building a life you don’t feel the need to escape from. Health, fitness, and success should enhance your relationships, your experiences, and the things you enjoy…not replace them.
When you find that balance, everything else tends to fall into place.
Pricing:
- Coaching Services range from $99-600/month
Contact Info:
- Website: https://whiskeyweightloss.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyweightloss/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whiskeyweightloss
- Other: https://planowhiskeysociety.com/
Image Credits
Bryant McCain
