How Fitness Helped Michael Lin Rebuild His Life—And Why It Can Help You Too

March 27, 2024

Welcome back to Nacho Fitness Coach—where expert meets beginner and fitness gets real! In today’s episode, we’re joined by the incredible Michael Lin, a software developer, podcaster, and someone with a deeply personal story of transformation through fitness.

We first met Michael on the Built by FitBod podcast, where he helped spotlight Kaylee’s early steps into the fitness world. Now, we’ve turned the tables to hear his story—a journey through addiction, recovery, and ultimately, building a new life through health and movement.

Michael’s Story: From Rock Bottom to Rebuilding

Michael’s story reminds us that fitness is about so much more than how you look—it can be a lifeline:

Fitness as a Lifeline: Michael began running in his 30s to try and curb his alcohol and drug use. He thought setting big goals—like a four-hour marathon—would help him stop drinking. Spoiler: it didn’t.
The Struggle Was Real: He’d run 13 miles, land in a nearby town just as the bars opened, and “reward” himself with a few beers before calling his wife for a ride home.
Sobriety Journey: Eventually, he realized fitness alone wouldn’t fix the addiction. With help from a recovery program, he got sober—and then started to truly rebuild.

From Sobriety to Strength

Michael replaced alcohol with sugar—cheesecake, to be exact—and quickly gained weight. But with FitBod and a commitment to daily movement, he:

Lost the weight (dropping from 215 lbs down to a fit and muscular frame).
Rebuilt a sustainable routine by going to the gym every single day.
Proved that yes—fitness can become a healthy addiction.

Fitness as a Mental Anchor

Michael isn’t just physically strong—his mental health is now directly tied to his fitness habits.

When he skips a workout, his mindset slips.
His productivity, especially as a developer and podcaster, is rooted in how good he feels physically.
He follows a growth mindset, reminding us: you don’t have to be who you were yesterday.

Why His Story Matters

Fitness journeys are never linear, and they rarely start with aesthetics. Often, they begin in struggle:

You’re Not Alone: Michael’s story highlights the hidden realities behind the most “put-together” people.
It’s Never Too Late: He didn’t start until his 30s. You can start right now.
Recovery is Personal: Whether you’re “sober curious” or already in recovery, replacing destructive habits with empowering ones is life-changing.

Michael’s Work Today

When he’s not lifting weights or running, Michael is:

Podcasting for FitBod and MongoDB.
Consulting startups on tech platforms.
Living proof that fitness can power every other part of your life.

Key Takeaways

You can’t out-run addiction—but fitness can be part of the solution.
Structure and goal-setting are crucial for mental and physical health.
You can transform your life at any stage—and you’re not alone.

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