Built By Guts, Powered By Coffee: Alli Lifts, Laughs, & Conquers

Hi, I'm Alli. I'm a mom, sister, bodybuilder, teacher, & unapologetic lover of strong coffee. I love live music, great boots, sunsets, & fresh flowers. Basically, if it lifts me up or makes life a little sweeter, I'm in.

I collect hobbies the way most people collect coffee mugs. Pastry chef? Did it. Owned a baking company? Yup. Shooting, hiking, kayaking, golf, & refinishing furniture. You name it, I've probably tried it, or I'm about to. I also live by the water because it's my refuge. I drive a '78 CJ7 & a '24 Bronco because I can't choose between classic grit & modern bad ass, but yes, I love them both equally.

I was born in Baltimore & raised in Florida, but I went back to Maryland for college, health education degree in hand, & spent 20+ years doing work that matters.. educating, mentoring, & empowering people. These days, I am in workforce development for a primary care association, helping health centers train & retain the people who keep them running.

The Grit Behind The Smile

Life hasn't just been sunshine & PRs in the gym. My sister passed away from brain cancer in '11. The loss was substantial & changed everything about the way I do life. It taught me to live big because she didn't get the chance to. It made me grittier, tougher, & unwilling to stay down.

I'm raising 2 sons who have walked through their own fire & come out strong, focused, & full of heart, just like their mom. The apple doesn't fall far, & I'm proud of that.

Bodybuilding, Baby

I've always been drawn to muscle. Honestly, who wasn't flexing in mirrors after watching Pumping Iron as a kid? After a string of fitness flings, between CrossFit, running, & even powerlifting, I came back to bodybuilding 7 years ago. This time, it stuck. I train 5-6 days a week at @exilefitness. I wake up at 4:15AM to hit cardio, core, & posing practice 3 times a week. I'm in a pre-prep phase to step on stage for Women's Physique next spring or summer.

The gym isn't optional, it's more like home to me. The hardest part isn't getting there, but leaving.

How I Found Guts & Grit

IG's algorithm actually got something right for once because Guts & Grit popped up in my feed. The message, the people, & the designs all hit home. Then, Megan reached out & we clicked. Her warmth & realness drew me in. I heavily resonated with the brands message; people that are tough, loyal & driven.

My first shirt was for my oldest son, who's Army ROTC & about to start Nursing school. All Guts, No Glory, with the skull, syringes, & nurse's cap. The second one is all mine though. Expect Nothing. Earn Everything is my life's philosophy wrapped up in 4 words.

Why I Wear Guts & Grit

The brand represents a mindset. To me, it's about waking up early, putting in the work, showing up for the people you love, & earning every damn thing you have. It's about being strong, loyal, & driven, but also doing it with style that makes people stop & ask, "Where'd you get that shirt?"

I don't do shortcuts. I do what's best, not what's easy. That's how I raise my boys, how I train, how I live, & why I wear Guts & Grit on my back.

I am proud of what I've built. But nothing makes me more proud than being a mom to 2 amazing young men. If I can look good & feel strong all while supporting a brand that believes in something close to me, I am all about it.

Where To Find Me

Follow me on IG & TikTok: @its_alli_with_an_i

But then hit up Guts & Grit for apparel that reminds you to show up & earn everything.