Meet Stephanie McPherson — aka “SteFunny”

Multi-Passionate Entrepreneur | Empowerment Coach | Healthy Chef | Speaker

Stephanie McPherson is a vibrant, purpose-driven entrepreneur with a passion for helping others truly thrive. With a Bachelor's in Biology and certifications in both Health Coaching and High-Performance Empowerment Coaching, she combines science, soulful living, and mindset mastery in everything she does.

From the Kitchen to the Camera

In 2016, Stephanie launched her heart-led cooking show, DeFaRekinLicious™, using just her iPhone and a hand-drawn sign that read “De Fa Rekin Licious” in black Sharpie. A few episodes in, her neighbor gifted her a custom sign—accidentally adding an extra “S” to the name. Stephanie loved it just the way it was, calling it extra “S”pecial!

The show became a creative outlet for combining her passion for cooking with her signature humor and heart. Her love for storytelling eventually led to the launch of her podcast, Empowered Conversations, where she interviewed extraordinary individuals from around the world who are living with intention and making a difference.

In 2021, she published her first cookbook:
DeFaRekinLicious: Healthy IS Delicious,
bringing her philosophy of fun, flavorful, healthy food to kitchens everywhere.

Where the Passion Began

Stephanie's love for cooking began in her grandmother’s kitchen, where she helped make biscuits, pies, and other soul-warming dishes made with love. Those early mornings sparked her creativity and inspired her to start developing her own recipes—many of which she still uses today.

Healthy Chef Steph – Food with a Purpose

Stephanie is the founder of Healthy Chef Steph, a weekly meal prep service delivering nourishing meals across Charlotte, NC. But for her, it’s never just about food.

She believes:

"Choosing to eat healthy is an act of self-love—a reflection of knowing your worth."

Every dish she prepares is rooted in this belief: that nourishment is both physical and emotional.

Before the Apron

Before entrepreneurship, Stephanie worked as a successful medical device and B2B sales executive. She spent years in operating rooms, selling surgical equipment and disposables—but always felt called to something more aligned with her purpose.

Her Wellness Journey

Stephanie's transformation began in her early 20s when she realized her sugar-filled, processed diet was impacting her health and happiness. Determined to take control of her well-being, she:

  • Immersed herself in learning about nutrition and fitness

  • Started creating delicious, nourishing meals

  • Committed deeply to self-exploration and personal growth

This journey laid the foundation for her coaching, her cooking, and her mission.

Her Big Dream

One of Stephanie’s biggest dreams is to host a nationally—or internationally—televised cooking show. Her vision?
To bring the world delicious, healthy food served with a big ol’ splash of humor.

And who better to do that than DeFaRekinLicious™?

Her Mission

Stephanie’s mission is to empower others to choose themselves—mind, body, and soul. Through coaching, meal prep, and heartfelt storytelling, she encourages people to live with worthiness, wellness, and intention.

She believes that true transformation starts from within—with mindset, heart-set, and the unwavering belief that you are worthy of a life that lights you up.

Her Motto: Live Life On Purpose
For Stephanie, "Live Life On Purpose" means showing up each day with intention, clarity, and heart. It’s about choosing yourself, aligning with your values, and taking empowered action toward a life that feels fulfilling and authentic. Whether through food, mindset, or self-love, she believes purpose is the spark that turns everyday living into a vibrant, meaningful journey.