We recently had the chance to connect with Linda Lopez and have shared our conversation below.
Linda , really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
On most days my alarm goes off at 5am and I make myself a hot herbal tea then I get back in bed to do my daily devotional followed by breath work and a short meditation, after I read a chapter or at least 10 pages of a personal development book. This morning routine sets the tone for my whole day. It’s important to pour into myself first so I can give the best energy to my clients and others.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Linda Lopez, and I’m a Certified Personal Trainer and Wellness Coach with nearly a decade of experience helping women transform their lives from the inside out. I’m the founder of Woman in Progress, a health and wellness brand dedicated to inspiring and empowering women to become their best selves — mentally, physically, and emotionally.
Woman in Progress was born from my belief that wellness is not about perfection, but progress. Through personalized coaching, fitness programs, and motivational content, I guide women to build strength, confidence, and balance in every area of their lives. What makes my approach unique is that I focus on the whole person — not just workouts or nutrition — but mindset, self-care, and sustainable lifestyle changes that create long-term transformation.
Right now, I’m expanding Woman in Progress to reach even more women through online programs, community challenges, and social media content that focuses on empowerment, education, and everyday wellness. My mission is to help women understand that they don’t have to do it all to have it all — they just need to start, one step at a time, as women in progress.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My biggest influence when it comes to work has always been my mom. She raised three kids, mostly on her own, and I watched her work tirelessly every single day without ever complaining. She approached everything with strength, grace, and perseverance — qualities that shaped my mindset and work ethic from a young age.
Seeing her resilience taught me that hard work isn’t just about effort; it’s about commitment and purpose. That lesson has stayed with me throughout my journey as a trainer and wellness coach — reminding me that progress, whether in fitness or in life, comes from showing up consistently, even when it’s hard. My mom’s example is the reason I believe so deeply in empowering other women to find that same strength within themselves.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering has taught me something that success never could — that everything in life passes. The pain, the challenges, the uncertain moments … none of it lasts. Those moments have shown me how strong I really am, and that even in the hardest times, there’s always growth happening beneath the surface.
Success feels amazing, but it can’t teach you to be resilient the way struggle does. Suffering reminds you to be present, to have faith, and to keep moving forward — because every chapter, no matter how hard, is shaping you into who you’re meant to become. Every setback is part of the progress.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief you used to hold tightly but now think was naive or wrong?
A belief I used to hold tightly was that certain things about me couldn’t change, that some habits or traits were just “who I was.” I used to say things like, “I’m not a morning person,” or “I’m bad at saving money,” or “I can’t stick to a diet.” I truly believed those limitations were part of my character.
Over time, I realized that those were just self-limiting beliefs, not truths. We always have the power to change the things that hold us back; whether it’s our mindset, our habits, or our routines. The moment I understood that, everything shifted. Now, instead of labeling myself, I focus on progress and choice. At any moment, we can decide to become the version of ourselves that aligns with where we want to go — and that’s the message I share every day through Woman in Progress
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Have you ever gotten what you wanted, and found it did not satisfy you?
Yes, absolutely. There have been times when I worked so hard for something — whether it was a certain body goal, career milestone, or even a material thing — and when I finally got it, it didn’t bring the fulfillment I expected. I realized that what I was really searching for wasn’t the achievement itself, but the feeling I thought it would give me; confidence, peace, or happiness.
That experience taught me that true satisfaction comes from within. It’s not about reaching a destination; it’s about who you become along the way. Now I focus more on growth, purpose, and alignment rather than chasing external results. That shift is what Woman in Progress is all about — learning that the real reward is becoming the best version of yourself, not just checking boxes.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @womaninprogress_
