Free Speech vs. Licensing Boards: The “Crappy Childhood Fairy” Coaching Case with Pacific Legal Foundation Attorney Christopher Barnewolt

Attorney Christopher Barnewolt of the Pacific Legal Foundation joins the Wellness Law Podcast to discuss PLF’s lawsuit challenging the California Board of Psychology’s discipline of life coach Anna Runkle (the “Crappy Childhood Fairy”). Barnewolt explains that Runkle, who has openly stated she is not a psychologist or therapist, built a coaching business based on personal experience and techniques that helped her after a difficult childhood, including YouTube content, books, webinars, and paid coaching since 2016. After a 2023 complaint from an attendee in Maine alleging unlicensed practice, the Board issued a final order requiring a $2,500 fine and cessation of activity it deems licensed psychology. The conversation focuses on First Amendment protections, chilling effects on coaches, and the alleged overbroad, vague California definition of “practice of psychology,” while noting PLF’s nationwide pro bono work and related nursing-board overreach in Kansas.00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro01:21 Why This Lawsuit Matters02:13 Anna Runkle Story and Business03:35 Complaint and Board Discipline06:19 Broader Pattern of Overreach09:04 Pacific Legal Foundation Mission10:14 Overbroad Psychology Definition14:34 Chilling Effect on Coaches15:39 Wellness Speech and Access to Care19:26 Prior Restraint and Fraud Laws21:13 Closing and Where to Learn MoreLearn more about Wellness Law at www.wellnesslaw.com.