Tell us about yourself.
I’m Dr. Phyllis Pobee, a triple-board-certified physician and an author passionate about sharing the science of sustainable weight loss and the power of transformation. My upcoming book, Lean Genes: A Physician’s Guide to Genetic Weight Loss — Eat What You Love, Lose Weight for Good, and Break Free from Diets and Medications, chronicles my personal journey of losing 100 pounds and the breakthrough science behind genetic weight loss.
As a writer, I blend my medical expertise with my own experiences to create relatable, empowering, and educational content. My goal is to inspire readers to take control of their health, rewrite their own stories, and embrace a life of confidence and vitality. Through storytelling, practical tips, and actionable insights, I strive to connect with readers and help them feel seen, heard, and supported.
Where did you grow up, and how did this influence your writing?
I grew up in Canada as the daughter of Ghanaian immigrants, in a home that valued hard work, persistence, and self-sacrifice. Growing up in a multicultural environment shaped my perspective and my writing, allowing me to blend cultural diversity with universal themes of resilience, transformation, and empowerment.
Living in Canada, I was exposed to a mix of traditions and values that influenced my approach to health and wellness, especially as I navigated my own struggles with weight. These experiences helped me understand how culture, food, and lifestyle intersect, which is a central theme in my writing. Whether I’m sharing stories of my own 100-pound weight loss journey or offering actionable advice, my goal is to create content that resonates on both a personal and universal level.
What was your journey to getting published like?
My journey to getting published was deeply intertwined with my personal transformation. After losing 100 pounds through genetic weight loss, I felt compelled to share my story and the science behind my success. I realized there was a gap in the conversation around weight loss—most advice focused on one-size-fits-all solutions, while the real key to sustainable change lay in personalization.
Writing Lean Genes was both a personal and professional endeavor. I wanted to empower women like me—busy, overwhelmed, and feeling stuck—with the tools and knowledge to reclaim their health. The process of translating my experiences and expertise into a book was both challenging and rewarding. It required vulnerability, discipline, and a commitment to ensuring my voice and message resonated authentically.
Getting published felt like the culmination of my mission to change how women approach weight loss. It was a reminder that sharing your story can spark transformation not only in yourself but also in others.
What’s the best piece of feedback you’ve ever received?
The best piece of feedback I’ve ever received came from a reader who told me, “You made me feel seen.” She shared that my vulnerability in recounting my own weight loss struggles and the science behind my approach gave her hope for the first time in years.
That feedback reaffirmed my belief that writing isn’t just about sharing knowledge—it’s about connection. Knowing that my story could resonate so deeply and inspire someone to take the first step on their own journey reminds me why I write. It’s not just about delivering solutions; it’s about creating a sense of belonging and empowerment.
What advice would you give to aspiring writers?
My advice to aspiring writers is simple: own your story and your voice. Whether you’re writing fiction or nonfiction, no one else can tell your story the way you can. Authenticity resonates, and your unique perspective has the power to inspire and connect with others.
Don’t wait for perfection to start writing or to share your work. The process of writing is as much about discovery as it is about discipline. Take it one word, one sentence, one chapter at a time, and remember that progress is better than perfection.
Finally, if you’re considering self-publishing, embrace it as an opportunity to take full control of your creative vision. It’s a challenging path, but one that offers incredible rewards when you stay true to your message and commit to reaching the audience that needs to hear it.
What’s a fun fact about you that your readers might not know?
A fun fact about me is that my weight loss journey started with home workouts at the age of 13. I’d follow along with my mom as she did Kathy Smith step workouts, then graduated to Billy Blanks’ kickboxing and eventually completed all the P90X DVDs. Over the years, I became a bit of a fitness DVD collector—if it was popular, I’ve probably tried it! Those early experiences taught me the value of persistence and creativity when it comes to staying active, lessons I carry with me to this day.
What’s your guilty pleasure book or genre?
My guilty pleasure is self-help books, especially those with a motivational and mindset-focused angle. I can’t resist titles like You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero or Psycho-Cybernetics by Maxwell Maltz. They remind me of the incredible power of mindset and how small shifts in perspective can lead to life-changing results. While they’re technically part of my professional growth, diving into them feels like a personal recharge. Plus, I’m always on the lookout for new ways to inspire my clients!
What’s your favorite quote about writing?
My favorite quote about writing is by Maya Angelou: “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” This resonates deeply with me because my book, Lean Genes, came from a place of wanting to share my story and help others find their own breakthroughs. Writing gave me a way to release that untold story, and now, it’s helping others transform their lives. That’s the magic of writing—it turns personal experiences into something universal and impactful.
When you’re not writing, how do you like to spend your time?
When I’m not writing, I love spending quality time with my family. As a mom, I’m often chasing after my 5-year-old son and 3-year-old daughter, who keep me on my toes and fill my days with laughter. I also enjoy experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, exploring different flavors and ingredients that align with my wellness philosophy.
In my quieter moments, you’ll find me reading personal development books, planning my next big project, or reflecting on my journey. And when I need a reset, I love indulging in a luxurious self-care ritual, whether it’s a spa day or simply enjoying a cup of tea with some quiet time to recharge.
Do you remember the first story you ever read, and the impact it had on you?
The first story I remember reading was The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. Its simplicity and profound message about selflessness and love left a lasting impression on me as a child. I didn’t fully grasp its depth at the time, but as I grew older, I began to appreciate how it teaches the value of giving, balance, and gratitude.
That story sparked my love for books that make you think and feel long after you’ve read the last page. It also shaped my desire to write in a way that resonates deeply with readers, inspiring them to reflect, grow, and take action in their own lives.
What has inspired you and your writing style?
My writing style is inspired by my personal journey and the desire to connect deeply with my readers. Losing 100 pounds and discovering the power of genetic weight loss taught me the importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and actionable guidance. I aim to write in a way that feels like a conversation with a trusted friend—motivational, clear, and approachable.
I’m also inspired by authors like James Clear (Atomic Habits) and Jen Sincero (You Are a Badass), who blend practical advice with an empowering tone. They’ve shown me how to break down complex topics into digestible, relatable insights, which is central to my mission of helping women reclaim their health and confidence.
At the core of my style is the belief that every word I write should inspire action, create hope, and make readers feel truly seen.
How do you deal with negative reviews?
Negative reviews can be tough, but I view them as opportunities for growth. I remind myself that not every message will resonate with every person, and that’s okay. Instead of taking criticism personally, I focus on constructive feedback that can help me improve my writing or better connect with my audience.
I also remember the countless lives my work has positively impacted. For every critique, there are readers who have found hope, clarity, or transformation through my story and insights. I let that balance keep me grounded and motivated to keep writing and sharing my message.
Ultimately, I see negative reviews as part of the journey—they’re reminders to stay open, keep learning, and stay true to my mission.
How do you connect with your readers?
Here’s a response that reflects your personal approach to building relationships with your audience:
I connect with my readers by sharing my story authentically and meeting them where they are in their journeys. I write with the intention of making my readers feel seen, understood, and empowered. Through my book, Lean Genes, and my programs like GeneLean360°, I offer relatable insights, practical strategies, and actionable steps that address their real-life struggles.
Social media is another powerful way I connect with my audience. I share behind-the-scenes glimpses of my life, reflections from my 100-pound weight loss journey, and motivational messages that resonate with the busy women I serve. I also make it a priority to engage with my readers through comments, messages, and live events, where I can answer questions and hear their stories directly.
Ultimately, I strive to build trust and community by being me – approachable, transparent, and genuinely invested in their success.
What’s next for you as a writer?
As a writer, I’m focused on expanding the impact of my message. My upcoming book, Lean Genes: A Physician’s Guide to Genetic Weight Loss — Eat What You Love, Lose Weight for Good, and Break Free from Diets and Medications, is just the beginning. I’m excited to use the book as a platform to spark more conversations around personalized, science-backed weight loss and to challenge the status quo of diet culture.
Next, I plan to create companion resources, including workbooks, planners, and online courses, to help readers implement the strategies from my book in their daily lives. I’m also looking forward to hosting retreats and speaking engagements to connect with my audience in person and inspire even more transformation.
In the long term, I envision writing more books that explore the intersection of genetics, mindset, and health—continuing to empower women to take control of their health and live vibrant, fulfilling lives.
Are there any Easter eggs or hidden messages in your work?
Yes, there are subtle Easter eggs and recurring themes woven throughout my work, especially in Lean Genes. One of them is the idea of “awakening.” It’s a nod to the moment I realized that my struggles with weight weren’t due to a lack of effort but a lack of understanding about my genetic blueprint. I encourage readers to look for moments where I challenge them to awaken to their own potential and embrace their unique path to health.
Another hidden message is my emphasis on gratitude and resilience. You’ll find quotes, personal stories, and reflections that subtly reinforce the importance of mindset in achieving long-term success—not just in weight loss, but in life.
These Easter eggs are my way of connecting with readers on a deeper level, reminding them that transformation is not just about science or strategy—it’s about rediscovering the best version of themselves.
How do you approach writing dialogue for your characters?
While my writing doesn’t typically involve fictional dialogue, I approach storytelling with a conversational tone that feels authentic and relatable—almost like I’m sitting across from the reader, having a heartfelt chat. I draw inspiration from real conversations with clients, friends, and even moments of self-reflection during my own 100-pound weight loss journey.
When recounting stories or client experiences in my writing, I strive to capture the emotions, struggles, and breakthroughs as they happened. This means using language that feels true to the person’s voice while emphasizing the transformational lessons that readers can apply to their own lives.
For me, writing is about creating connection. Whether it’s through anecdotes, reflections, or client success stories, I want readers to feel like they’re part of the conversation, empowered to take the next step toward their goals.
If you could share one thing with your fans, what would that be?
If I could share one thing with my fans, it would be this: transformation is possible for you, no matter how impossible it feels right now. I know what it’s like to feel stuck, defeated, and overwhelmed by the weight—both literal and emotional—of trying to change your life. But I also know the joy and freedom that comes from finding a path that works for you.
I want my fans to know that they’re not alone. Whether you’re reading my book, following my journey, or participating in one of my programs, my goal is to remind you that you have the power to rewrite your story. With the right tools, mindset, and support, the breakthrough you’ve been searching for is within reach.
And most importantly, thank you. Your trust and belief in my work fuel my passion to keep creating and empowering others. Together, we’re building a movement that goes far beyond weight loss—it’s about reclaiming health, confidence, and joy.
Phyllis Pobee’s Author Websites and Profiles
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Amazon Profile
Phyllis Pobee’s Social Media Links
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All information in this post is presented “as is” supplied by the author. We don’t edit to allow you the reader to hear the author in their own voice.
