“I Feel Like I’m Stepping Into a New Light”—How Sami Bernstein Learned to Live Outside Her Comfort Zone

My Roman Empire is the transitioning light in which we’ve held girl bosses over the past half-decade. Niche, I know, but I’m always keen to celebrate the release of hustle culture and a more balanced embrace of success. The leaders of today understand that advancing in our careers and realizing our dreams doesn’t have to come at the cost of our health or happiness. Instead, shifting narratives around what thriving actually looks like—on and off social media—see us leaning into slow living and prioritizing friends, family, and ourselves over completing just one… more… task. And few people know this better than Sami Bernstein Spalter, co-founder of FORM—the online fitness platform that has everyone (including Camille) obsessed.

And while plenty of exercise apps and programs have entered the limelight since the pandemic put us all at home, few have captured—and held—our attention quite like FORM. It goes beyond the beautiful design, attractive aesthetic, and even the workout itself (effective as it may be). Instead, in our increasingly isolated society, it’s refreshing and even uplifting to see the community that Sami and her business partner, also named Sami, have created. It’s a testament to the connective power of movement. And not only that but when we commit to realizing our best selves, we inevitably find those ready and willing to support us along the way.

Sami Bernstein Spalter

Sami knows this well, as her path to founding FORM ran parallel to her own wellness journey. Through it, Sami has developed not only a committed fitness practice but a reframing of what it means to live every day with intention. There’s a clear through-line of purpose woven all throughout her morning, and it’s evident that she moves and fuels her body to show up for those she loves—and for herself with the greatest energy and presence.

While I’ve learned something from all the accomplished women we’ve featured in our Wake Up Call series, it’s in interviewing Sami that I understood the true meaning of wellness. It’s not a means to an end, but rather something we invite into our lives so we can show up as a stronger and more supported version of ourselves. And in that way, just as Sami is doing through FORM, we can inspire others to experience those revelations as well.

Ahead, we dive into Sami’s wellness routine—from her morning essentials to the recipes that keep her fueled all day long. And be prepared to pull the trigger on your new favorite workout set. It’s the perfect motivation to get moving.

Tell us about your career and starting a business. What has life been like as an entrepreneur?

A crazy, rewarding journey! My career was a deep dive straight into the startup world, working alongside my brother Franky, and establishing ourselves as experts in the influencer marketing industry. In 2021, I took a pause for myself and leaned into my health and fitness. Serendipitously, I crossed paths with well-known fitness influencer (now my best friend), Sami Clarke. Together, we created FORM, a venture that encapsulates my journey. Every step of my career seems to have woven together, leading me to this point. Running FORM, a business entrenched in my passion for wellness, is truly a privilege I am grateful for every single day. 

What has been your biggest learning over the past year? 

Trusting myself and stepping out of my comfort zone. I used to be very comfortable behind the scenes, handling the day-to-day operations of our business. But now, beyond thriving behind the scenes, I feel like I’m stepping into a new light—one shaped by my life experiences that I hope can serve as an example of hope and inspiration. I’ve evolved to feel both vulnerable and safe enough to share my journey, and in turn help others live their best lives. I love embracing my personal growth and allowing it to guide my professional purpose.

How would you describe your personal style? 

My day-to-day go-to is activewear and sneaks, and I will style them up with accessories. The power of a cute workout set that allows me to move through my day while making me feel my best self is unmatched. On the flip side, I love any excuse to get all dolled up and as ultra-feminine as possible. Vibrant colors and sparkles are usually the key to my heart for any special occasion. And with jewelry, the bigger the better! 

Let’s get into your morning routine. What does a typical day look like for you?

It might sound like a bit of a cliché, but no two days are really the same for me—and honestly, that’s one of the things that keeps my job so exciting! While every day is different, one constant is a balance of movement, work, and quality time with my loved ones. Some of my favorite days involve a morning started outside with our dog Bagel, a FORM workout, crushing work and calls from my home office, and sharing lunch at home with my husband, Andrew. I love the balance of simple aspects to my days with exciting sparks of energy from all that I get to work on.

What time is your wake-up call?

My days typically start at 7 a.m. thanks to my alarm clock (my dog, Bagel) and her morning kisses. I try to get into bed by 9 p.m. every night. Sleep is an enormous cornerstone of my wellness routine!

What’s the first thing you do when you wake up? 

That’s easy. I give my husband, Andrew, and my dog a big cuddle. 

What does your morning, pre-work routine look like?

My mornings are anchored in purposeful routines that energize my day. Every morning, I savor a little “me time” with my skin routine. This is followed by opening all of my doors, feeding Bagel, and drinking plenty of water alongside my vitamins. I religiously take my ARMRA Colustrum, Seed Symbiotic, Ritual Multivitamin, Ultimata for electrolytes, and Bloom Greens.

From there, it’s straight into my morning movement. My FORM workout in my home gym is non-negotiable! Whenever I get the chance, I love going for a walk. Starting my day with nature and being in the sunlight has been so grounding for me. During my walks, I reconnect with family and friends, check in on my daily to-do list, and practice habit stacking. I always say that if it isn’t on the list, then it doesn’t exist! 

Describe your morning beauty routine from start to finish: 

All the things! I start by brushing my teeth and then move into my skincare routine. Right now, my skincare regimen consists of using the OSEA Ocean Cleanser, followed by an arsenal of skincare products. I apply the Skinceuticals Vitamin C serum all over my face, neck, and décolletage. Then, I use the Dr. Loretta Retinol Serum, OSEA Blemish Balm, and Tatcha Dewy Moisturizer—this product has been a lifesaver for deliver moisturized skin, especially in the Texas heat.

I like keeping my makeup simple. My current rotation includes the REFY Brow Sculpt, ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint, MERIT Blush, Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment, and anything from Charlotte Tilbury. I can’t get enough of their lip products, and their blushes and bronzers are simply incredible. 

What do you eat for breakfast?

I practice intermittent fasting every day, so I usually skip breakfast. However, I always break my fast with a protein shake (my current favorite protein powder is Bloom). As for lunch, the Cobb Salad and Rainbow Buddha Bowl from FORM Nutrition are on heavy rotation for me.

What will we always find in your refrigerator? 

There’s always a bunch of fresh fruits and vegetables from the farmer’s market in our refrigerator. I love having these readily available for snacking throughout the day. I also have a big sweet tooth, so I always have Hu’s Chocolate-Covered Cashews and some Simple Mills brownies or banana bread ready for my cravings! 

What are your morning rituals?

Gratitude is an integral part of my ritual—it helps set a positive tone for my day ahead, along with my morning movement. Whether it’s a FORM Pilates or Strength class, or simply a quick walk outside, movement truly sets me up for the day.

As a self-proclaimed planner, I’m not one to leave things to chance. Before each day, I craft my to-do list, ensuring that I’m prepped for every meeting and call. Having a confident grasp of the day ahead is a non-negotiable part of my routine.

What are your favorite books? 

One of the most impactful books in my life is Atomic Habits by James Clear. It laid the foundation for my recent wellness journey and allowed me to make small, but significant changes I could maintain. A few other all-time favorites include The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz, which reshaped my perspective on life and love. Signs by Laura Jackson was instrumental in helping me navigate the grieving process after losing my mom. And The Universe Has Your Back by Gabrielle Bernstein has been a true game changer in learning to work through fear and lead with love. 

What’s always on your nightstand?

My Hatch Alarm Clock, this insanely moisturizing hand and foot cream, and my trusted and very full Stanley Tumbler. (If this isn’t on my nightstand, there’s something wrong.)

What’s your favorite getting-ready soundtrack? 

I have always had an emotional relationship with music. I love how certain songs and artists remind me of special times and places in my life. I’m always a country girl at heart, but my current round-up has an eclectic mix of Fleetwood Mac, Morgan Wallen, and Noah Kahan.

Do you work out in the morning? 

I’m 1000% a morning workout girlie. As you could likely assume, my ride or die workout is FORM. My biz partner Sami Clarke has truly perfected the 30-minute at-home workout, which I find to be far more impactful than any class or gym experience. My favorite classes are the Upper Body Sweaty Series and our recent 14-Day Power Pilates program.

What’s your daily uniform?  

I wear activewear most days, and my favorite set right now is from our latest FORM Essentials release. The Supporter is the perfect sports bra—I practically live in it—and I love pairing it with the Sculpt Leggings and my TechLoom Zipline sneakers from APL.

If you had one extra hour every morning, how would you use it?

I’d probably spend it taking a few more deep breaths before the controlled chaos of my day takes over. I love waking up with no rush, allowing myself to ease into what my day has in store. Extra cuddles and more quality time with Andrew and Bagel sounds like a dream.

What are one or two things you do every day to live a more joyful life? 

If you could pin your success down to one thing, what would that be?

Deeply knowing and trusting myself. Embracing my authentic self has shown me that no matter what I do, I am who I am. And because of that, every step of the journey has a touch of magic that perfectly reflects me!

Embracing my authentic self has shown me that no matter what I do, I am who I am. And because of that, every step of the journey has a touch of magic that perfectly reflects me!

Sentence Finishers:

I never leave the house without: my Stanley full of ice water.

If there were more hours in the day, I would: take a beat to just chill out and unwind. Practice the art of doing nothing.  

Healthiest morning habit: Practice gratitude, every day is a blessing.

Worst morning habit: My email inbox obsession. I just love emailing people back QUICK, hah!

One thing I want to be known for is: my heart and intent for positivity. 

The one thing I fear the most: losing loved ones.

When I feel that fear, I: communicate my love for my people. 

The book I always recommend is: Atomic Habits. It’s a game-changer. 

One trait you need to succeed in life is: knowing that no one will compare to you. Your unique self is your greatest gift. 

Bath or shower? Both! Bath, then shower.

And what’s your favorite shower/bath product? Osea Salts of the Earth Body Scrub and the L’occitane Almond Shower Oil.