Robin Barrett is a woman of many talents and titles. CEO of the athleisure brand REPHUEL, licensed pharmacist, fitness coach, and host of the Daily Dose Podcast, Barrett has made a name for herself as a dynamic voice in the wellness industry. With a passion for skincare, self-care, and mental well-being, she draws from her own experiences and expertise to inspire audiences to prioritize their health—physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Photo Credits Texx Henry
Words by Angel Neal @angel_stylistbehavior
Through her collaborations with industry giants like Pepsi and Fabletics, as well as her through her leadership at panels like META x Threads and the ESSENCE Festival, Barrett is helping to reshape how we view health, wellness, and self-care in today’s world. Barrett’s career took a pivotal turn when she transitioned from pharmacy to fitness. Looking back, she reflects on a key moment that shaped her approach to wellness.
“I realized that as my following grew and brands started taking notice, I had to step up and become a real influencer—not just promoting things, but actually offering value,” Barrett says. “I went from being a pharmacist to a fitness coach during the pandemic, but working with brands really made me understand the responsibility I had to show up as a science-based coach who could educate and inspire.”
This turning point set Barrett on a mission to redefine the relationship between wellness and work, reminding us that health isn't just about looking a certain way—it's about nourishing both the body and mind.
On her social media platforms and through her brand, Barrett champions a philosophy that underscores the importance of balance in daily life. She integrates self-care and mental well-being into everything she does, demonstrating transparency and vulnerability in a way that encourages others to take time for themselves. “I’m all about balance,” Barrett says. “You can juggle multiple roles—business, personal life, social life—but you have to prioritize your health. Whether I’m sharing my trips, therapy sessions, or recovery routines, I show my followers that health is a process, not just about the end result.” This approach inspired her to launch REPHUEL, her athleisure brand, which emphasizes the power of recovery in any fitness journey.
“REPHUEL is about embracing the process of self-care,” Barrett explains. “It’s not just about being fit, but about how you recover and refuel your body so you can keep going. It’s about finding balance between hard work and rest.”
As someone who has worked with a variety of brands, Barrett is passionate about breaking down the myths surrounding wellness, especially for women of color. She emphasizes that health and fitness aren’t one-size-fits-all, and it’s crucial to find a routine that works for your unique needs. “Fitness shouldn’t be marketed as a one-size-fits-all approach, especially when it comes to women of color,” Barrett notes. “Programs should focus on sustainable, long-term results, not quick fixes. It’s also about taking a holistic view—looking at diet, lifestyle, and addressing barriers like access to gyms or fitness equipment.”
Barrett’s journey into launching REPHUEL wasn’t just about creating a stylish activewear line. It was about fostering a mentality of balance, individuality, and health. The name itself has deep meaning, representing both recovery and her pharmaceutical background. The ‘pH’ in REPHUEL is a nod to her career as a pharmacist, tying the brand back to science and health. “The name is about recovery, resetting, and refueling,” Barrett explains. “But it also represents a rockstar mentality—non-conformity. It’s about wearing something that speaks to your individuality, whether you're in the gym or running errands. It’s not just about fitness—it’s about having a life outside of the gym and being able to balance all your passions.”
Looking ahead, Barrett is focused on using her platform to help others find their balance—especially young women in STEM and athletes. She hopes to give back through scholarships and initiatives that help others build their own brands and succeed in their personal wellness journeys. “Women in STEM or young athletes need to hear that consistency and discipline are key—not just in their workouts, but in their careers and personal growth,” she says. “I want to help them find that balance and show them how important it is to prioritize their health, too.”
When she's not inspiring the world through health and fitness she uses her voice for change.
Barrett’s Daily Dose Podcast has also taken a unique approach to wellness, offering listeners an interactive experience that blends fitness with learning. “I’ve been doing the podcast since 2021, and now it's evolved into something different,” Barrett explains. “We work out while recording, so guests are learning fitness techniques, tips, and workouts in real-time. But they’re also sharing their personal wellness routines and health practices, giving listeners an inside look at how creators and celebrities take care of themselves.” The podcast also features Barrett’s Ladies at the Table dinner series—a culinary networking event designed to empower women creators. “I believe in the power of community, both online and offline,” she says. “We all need spaces where we can support each other and celebrate our achievements.”
When asked to define health, Barrett pushes back against the conventional standards that often equate health with being thin or “in shape.” For Barrett, health is about balance, consistency, and nurturing both your body and mind. “Health can look different for everyone,” she says. “We could eat the same things, work out the same way, and still look different because of genetics or environmental factors. But health is more about what you put into your mind and body—and how you take care of yourself holistically. It’s not just about what you see in the mirror, but how you feel on the inside.” For those looking to improve their overall well-being but unsure where to start, Barrett offers some simple advice: start where you are. “Walking is actually one of the best exercises for weight loss and overall health. From there, focus on your diet—getting in your protein, tracking your macros, and making small, consistent changes. Then, add in cardio and some strength training with dumbbells. You don’t need a fancy gym or equipment to start. Just 30 minutes a day is a great way to get moving and build a routine.” She also emphasizes the importance of setting goals and tracking progress. “Start with full-body workouts, focus on your form, and master your post-workout routine. Be patient and consistent. Just make today ‘day one,’ not ‘one day.’” As a role model in the wellness space, Barrett’s legacy is grounded in the idea that health isn’t about fitting into a box—it’s about embracing individuality, showing up for yourself, and helping others along the way. “No matter what industry you’re in, it’s about educating people and helping them transform their lives,” she says. “It’s about creating change—whether it’s in fitness, pharmacy, or beyond.” Her influence extends far beyond just fitness; she’s on a mission to educate, empower, and inspire individuals to take charge of their health and well-being, both inside and out.
Thoughts On...
Thoughts on using my influence:“I want to use my influence to educate, entertain, and build a community where people support each other. I want to create real change, not just post pretty pictures. It’s about having content that’s credible and meaningful.”
Thoughts on prayer:“Prayer is essential. It’s my source of strength. Faith gets me through the tough times, and I believe that when you pray, you open the door to blessings.”
Thoughts on success:“Success isn’t just about what you achieve; it’s about who you help along the way. I measure success by the lives I’ve impacted and how I’ve been able to serve others.”
Common misconceptions in health:“Fitness isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, especially for women of color. The key is finding a trainer who focuses on long-term results, not quick fixes, and understands your unique needs.”
Something we all know but bears repeating:“You can’t pour from an empty cup! To take care of others, you must first prioritize your own well-being.”
Through her diverse career, passionate advocacy for wellness, and commitment to helping others, Robin Barrett is changing the conversation around health and fitness—one balanced step at a time. Whether on stage, through her brand, or on her podcast, she’s not just sharing knowledge; she’s empowering others to live their healthiest, most authentic lives.
To stay up to dat with all things Robin follow here here:
Robin's podcast: The Dose Show,
Website : REPHUEL.COM
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