Weighless MD: Redefining Weight Loss Through Functional Wellness

Founded in 2015 by registered dietitian and functional nutritionist Cheri Stoka, Weighless MD is a weight-loss and wellness franchise headquartered in Brookfield, Wisconsin. Stoka launched the brand with the goal of addressing the root causes of weight gain, moving beyond the traditional advice of “eat less and exercise more.”

The concept emphasizes functional wellness and holistic health as the key to sustainable weight management. The company began franchising in 2022, allowing other healthcare professionals and entrepreneurs to bring its science-based approach to their communities.

Weighless MD offers a comprehensive array of services designed to support clients in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. These services include medically supervised weight loss programs featuring advanced medications like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide, hormone therapy, and non-invasive fat reduction technologies such as Sculpsure.

What distinguishes Weighless MD in a crowded marketplace is its integrative model. Rather than focusing solely on diet and exercise, the brand addresses underlying health issues such as hormonal imbalances, digestive dysfunction, and metabolic challenges.

Training

Weighless MD offers a structured training program to equip franchisees and their staff with the necessary skills and knowledge for successful operation. The training programs provided by the franchisor are as follows:

1. Initial Training Program: The franchisor offers an initial training course for up to two employees of the franchisee. This program, which must be completed before the business opens, covers operational and administrative aspects and is held at a location designated by the franchisor. While there’s no tuition fee, the franchisee must cover all associated expenses including travel, accommodation, and salaries.
2. Supplementary Training for New Managers: If a manager needs to be replaced, the substitute must also complete the initial training to the franchisor’s satisfaction. Additional training for such instances is charged at $250 per person per day, plus travel and lodging if held at the franchisee’s location.
3. Ongoing Training Programs: Throughout the franchise term, Weighless MD may require participation in ongoing training events, such as seminars or webinars. These sessions are aimed at continuous professional development and are also billed at $250 per person per day, with the franchisee responsible for all related costs.
4. Operations Manual: Franchisees receive and must adhere to an Operations Manual, which acts as a key instructional resource. This manual may be updated, and compliance with its provisions is mandatory for consistent operation across the network.

Territory Protection

Weighless MD grants its franchisees an exclusive territory, which is a geographic area defined by the franchisor, often by radius, zip codes, or natural and political boundaries. Within this territory, the franchisor agrees not to establish either company-owned or franchised outlets that offer the same or similar goods and services under the same or similar trademarks.

This territorial protection does not depend on the franchisee meeting sales quotas or other performance benchmarks. Despite this exclusivity, Weighless MD and its affiliates reserve the right to use alternative distribution channels such as internet sales, telemarketing, and catalog sales to reach customers within the franchisee's territory.

Franchisees may not solicit customers outside their designated territory but may accept unsolicited orders. Additionally, the franchisor may implement cross-territorial marketing protocols that franchisees are required to follow.