The Health Coach Impact

In this episode, Sharon Curtain is joined by John Stevens, Associate Professor of Lifestyle Medicine at Southern Cross University, who talks about the power of shared medical appointments (SMAs) and his experience using SMAs as a culturally competent and appropriate way of improving access to, and the quality of, primary healthcare services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. John's journey took him from a first hand experience of chronic disease in nursing to academia and his discovery of lifestyle medicine, which led him to advocate for shared medical appointments (SMAs) over the past 15 years. Many clinicians would like to provide lifestyle guidance but lack time in standard 10-15 minute consultations. SMAs address this challenge of care, providing a model where individual consultations are conducted sequentially in a group setting, typically with 8-15 patients, led by a provider and facilitator. This approach improves the patient experience and enhances health outcomes, helping patients feel heard, reducing information overload, and allowing them to ask questions they might not think to ask in one-on-one consultations. It reduces repetition of education for clinicians, and can be cost-effective for practices. There are many benefits of shared medical appointments, and can be incredibly effective for marginalised communities and chronic disease management. John has many success stories of using SMAs in Aboriginal health services. Traditional one-on-one consultations had high no-show rates but shared medical appointments improved engagement and trust. Health Coaches are ideal facilitators as they draw wisdom from the group and evoke discussion to identify barriers and promote implementation. While the concept is simple, the setup and preparation are crucial for success.Successful implementation requires proper training, design, and integration across the entire practice team. Over 2,000 clinicians have been trained in SMAs, and the momentum is shifting as healthcare providers recognize the benefits of this approach. There are a number of options for training in SMAs, as well as useful resources. Adopting this evidence-based method more widely in healthcare settings offers a different model to 1:1 or group education, and Read more about SMAs here https://www.racgp.org.au/afp/2014/march/shared-medical-appointments https://www1.racgp.org.au/ajgp/2018/january-february/programmed-shared-medical-appointments-1 Innovative models of care case study https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-09/case-study-snowy-valleys-shared-medical-appointment-model.pdf Shared Medical Appointment Toolkit for General Practice https://bsphn.org.au/documents/2024_01_25_sharedmedicalappointmentstoolkit_03-pdf.pdf Shared Medical appointment training: https://lifestylemedicine.org.au/shared-medical-appointments/ About John Stevens: Associate Professor of Lifestyle Medicine at Southern Cross University, registered nurse, medical sociologist, and a co-founder of the Australasian Society of Lifestyle Medicine (ASLM). He has decades of health and academic experience, driving the Lifestyle Medicine movement forward in Australia. How to contact John: linkedin.com/in/john-stevens-26635a84 How to connect with HCANZA Facebook HCANZA Exclusive Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hcanzaexclusiveaccess Facebook HCANZA Page: https://www.facebook.com/HCANZA/ Linkedin HCANZA PAge: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hcanza Youtube HCANZA Page: https://www.youtube.com/@HCANZA Instagram HCANZA: https://www.instagram.com/hcanza.healthcoaches/

Episode Description: In this episode, Sharon Curtain, Dietitian, health coach, Director of Accredited Health Coaching Australia, and Board Member of HCANZA, is joined by Ben Harris, Director of Policy and Research at Private Healthcare Australia, the peak body representing Australia's private health insurers. Ben shares his perspective on where health coaching fits within Australia's healthcare system and why prevention, chronic disease management, and person-centred care will play an increasingly important role in the future of healthcare. Drawing on his experience in health policy, economics, government, and the private health sector, Ben explains why Australia's healthcare system continues to focus heavily on acute care, despite growing evidence that prevention and early intervention can improve health outcomes and reduce long-term costs. We explore the challenges of funding preventative health initiatives, the limitations of a fee-for-service healthcare model, and the opportunities for health coaches to support people living with chronic conditions. Ben highlights the unique role health coaches play in helping individuals navigate barriers to change, build sustainable healthy habits, and connect health goals with what matters most in their lives. The conversation also examines the growing recognition of health coaching within private health programs, the importance of professional standards and accreditation, and the challenges of integrating health coaching into established healthcare funding models. Finally, we discuss what is needed for health coaching to become more widely recognised across Australia and New Zealand, including stronger evidence, greater public awareness, continued advocacy, and a growing workforce of professionally trained and accredited health coaches. Health Coaches Australia and New Zealand Association (HCANZA) has established the professional competencies, standards, and scope of practice for accredited health coaches across Australia and New Zealand, supporting the delivery of safe, ethical, and evidence-informed coaching that helps individuals achieve meaningful and lasting health outcomes. Guest Bio: Ben Harris Director Policy and Research at Private Healthcare Australia Greater Melbourne Area Private Healthcare Australia Ben Harris is Director of Policy and Research at Private Healthcare Australia, the peak body representing the country's private health insurance industry. An economist by training, Ben has built his career across government and the not-for-profit sector, specialising in health and social policy. In his current role, he works at the intersection of industry, government, and regulation—leveraging data, research, and academic insights to inform policy and advocate for better outcomes for both consumers and the healthcare system. He collaborates closely with government and key stakeholders to shape evidence-based solutions that strengthen the sector. Ben is also the author of several policy papers, including Is Medicare Fair? and Australia's Mental and Physical Health Tracker, reflecting his ongoing contribution to national conversations around healthcare policy and reform. How to get in touch with HCANZA Facebook HCANZA Exclusive Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hcanzaexclusiveaccess Facebook HCANZA Page: https://www.facebook.com/HCANZA/ Linkedin HCANZA PAge: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hcanza Youtube HCANZA Page: https://www.youtube.com/@HCANZA Instagram HCANZA Page: https://www.instagram.com/hcanza.healthcoaches Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hcanza How to get in touch with the guest: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ben-harris-pha

In this episode, Sharon Curtain, Dietitian, health coach,director of Accredited Health Coaching Australia, and Board member of HCANZA is joined by David Codyre, a psychiatrist who works with Tamaki Health, a network of clinics providing team-based primary care services to populations in high-needs areas of Auckland, NZ Dr David Codyre shares how health coaching is transforming primary care in New Zealand. Drawing on over 20 years of experience in mental health and system design, David explains how traditional models—short GP consultations and referral-based services—have struggled to meet the needs of patients, particularly those with complex or chronic conditions. We explore the shift to an integrated, team-based approach, where health coaches, mental health practitioners, and community support workers are embedded directly within general practice. This model allows patients to receive support in the moment—when they are most ready—leading to significantly higher engagement and better health outcomes. David highlights the unique role of health coaches in bridging the gap between knowing and doing. By focusing on what matters to the patient, addressing barriers, and supporting small, achievable behaviour changes, health coaches are helping people better manage long-term conditions and improve their overall wellbeing. The conversation also explores the impact on clinicians. With health coaches as part of the team, GPs and nurses report reduced pressure, increased job satisfaction, and a renewed sense of effectiveness in their work. Finally, we discuss what Australia can learn from New Zealand's experience—including the importance of integration, ongoing support, and rethinking how primary care teams work together. Health Coaches Australia New Zealand Association has developed the competencies and scope of practice for health coaches in Australia and New Zealand. Tāmaki Health has been reappointed as a national provider of Health Coach training for the Integrated Primary Mental Health and Addiction (IPMHA) programme, recognising five years of successful delivery across Aotearoa New Zealand. Their program has met the high standards of the HCANZA accreditation program, meaning their coaches are eligible for professional membership with HCANZA. Guest Bio: David is a psychiatrist with 35 years experience working in the community and primary mental health sector in New Zealand, in a range of clinical and leadership roles. Since 2012 David has been Clinical Director, Wellness Support, with Tamaki Health, a network of clinics providing team-based primary care services to populations in high-needs areas of Auckland, NZ. He is currently seconded half time as Clinical Director of Tū Whakaruruhau (the Auckland Wellbeing Collaborative), supporting implementation of the "Access and Choice" IPMHA programme, integrating HIPs, Health Coaches, and NGO support, into all GP clinics in Auckland. David is also Lead Psychiatrist to Whakarongorau, the National Telehealth Service – the home of 1737 "Need to Talk", the Depression Helpline, Drug/Alcohol Helpline, and Gambling Helpline. How to Contact David: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/david-codyre-4679b320 Website: whakarongorau.nz tamakihealth.co.nz aklwellbeingcollab.co.nz Email: [email protected] How to get in touch with HCANZA: Facebook HCANZA Exclusive Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hcanzaexclusiveaccess Facebook HCANZA Page: https://www.facebook.com/HCANZA/ LinkedIn HCANZA Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hcanza Youtube HCANZA Page: https://www.youtube.com/@HCANZA Instagram HCANZA Page: https://www.instagram.com/hcanza.healthcoaches Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hcanza

Episode Description: How visible are you as a health coach — and more importantly, how easily can you be found? In this episode of The Health Coach Impact, we're joined by Sue Ellson, LinkedIn specialist, author, educator, and early adopter of the platform since 2003. Sue shares practical, strategic insights into how health coaches can use LinkedIn to strengthen professional credibility, improve searchability, and build long-term visibility in a deliberate and sustainable way. We explore what makes LinkedIn different from other social media platforms, why optimising your profile is essential, and how newsletters, articles, events, and thoughtful engagement can help you grow influence without becoming "salesy." Sue also breaks down the difference between personal profiles and company pages, how to systemise your presence (without automating), and why professional visibility is about relationships, not quick pitches. Whether you're newly accredited, building your private practice, or refining your professional footprint, this episode offers practical guidance to help you be seen, trusted, and found — with clarity and confidence. Guest Bio: Sue Ellson is an Independent LinkedIn Specialist, author, educator, practitioner and consultant. She is also a gigster, a person who uses technology to attract aligned gigs and a former banker. Sue provides teaching, training, speaking and consulting services to individuals, small, medium and large businesses, corporates, schools, universities, associations and government in Australia and overseas. She is the author of five non-fiction books on the topics of LinkedIn, Careers, Business, Hyper Local Marketing and Gigsters. Sue is also the Founder of Newcomers Network and has been featured in over 1,000 publications and 135+ appearances on television, radio, podcasts and audio shows. Resources: How to get in touch with Sue: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sueellson Website: https://sueellson.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sueellson2 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sueellson Substack: https://substack.com/@sueellson TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sueellson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sueellson X / Twitter: https://x.com/sueellson Sign up to her free monthly newsletter at https://sueellson.com/newsletters View free webinar slides and recordings at https://sueellson.com/webinars-and-recordings Learn more about her services and pricing at https://sueellson.com/services-and-pricing Contact her via https://sueellson.com/contact How to get in touch with HCANZA: Facebook HCANZA Exclusive Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hcanzaexclusiveaccess Facebook HCANZA Page: https://www.facebook.com/HCANZA/ LinkedIn HCANZA Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hcanza Youtube HCANZA Page: https://www.youtube.com/@HCANZA Instagram HCANZA Page: https://www.instagram.com/hcanza.healthcoaches Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hcanza

What makes health coaching more than just a conversation? Evidence-based frameworks, proven models, and a structured skillset grounded in science. In this episode of The Health Coach Impact, we're joined by Sharon Curtain—dietitian, certified health coach, educator, and Director of Accredited Health Coaching Australia. Sharon developed Australia's first nationally accredited Diploma of Health Coaching, and she's here to break down the core competencies, behavior change science, and coaching models that set accredited health coaches apart. We explore the use of Motivational Interviewing, the Transtheoretical Model, and Self-Determination Theory, and why honoring scope of practice, client autonomy, and readiness to change creates better outcomes—not just for clients, but for health professionals too. Whether you're a HCANZA-accredited coach, a clinician integrating coaching into your work, or a health professional exploring this path—this episode is packed with practical insights and a powerful reminder: coaching works because it's grounded in evidence. Guest Bio: BSc. Melbourne University, MNutrDiet Deakin University, Plenty Training – TAE40110 Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, Groupwork Centre – Facilitation training, PreKure – Certified Health Coach American Council on Exercise – Health Coaching and Behaviour Change Specialist Training. Sharon is a Dietitian, Certified Health Coach, Certified Trainer and Assessor, Trained Facilitator, Entrepreneur, and Director of Accredited Health Coaching Australia, and has authored and delivered the Diploma of Health Coaching, a nationally accredited qualification. Sharon has worked for 23 years as a dietitian, health coach, trainer, and presenter. She worked for five years as a clinical dietitian and another five years in corporate nutrition, in roles that included food regulations, marketing, and delivering nutrition training programs. Sharon currently trains students, practitioners and coaches individuals in health behaviour change. Sharon developed and delivered the first Australian Diploma of Health Coaching, run in collaboration with Victoria University Polytechnic and now delivers online health coaching training courses to health professionals via Accredited Health Coaching Australia. She regularly presents webinars and workshops about Health Coaching and is an educator in Health Coaching for the James Cook University Lifestyle Medicine Qualification. How to get in touch with HCANZA Facebook HCANZA Exclusive Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hcanzaexclusiveaccess Facebook HCANZA Page: https://www.facebook.com/HCANZA/ Linkedin HCANZA Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hcanza Youtube HCANZA Page: https://www.youtube.com/@HCANZA Instagram HCANZA Page: https://www.instagram.com/hcanza.healthcoaches Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hcanza How to get in touch with the guest: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-curtain-6b827866/ Website: https://www.accreditedhealthcoaching.com.au/

Supervision and mentoring aren't about checking up—they're about tuning in. In this episode, we're joined by Sharon Tomkins, NZ-based health coach, supervisor, and HCANZA board director, to explore how reflective practice helps coaches think better, act better, and feel more resourced. We break down the difference between mentoring and supervision, what's required to become a mentor or supervisor, and why HCANZA is aligning with global standards (ICF, EMCC, UKIHCA) to embed reflective support into our professional development model. Whether you're a seasoned coach or just starting out, this episode offers insight into how supervision strengthens ethics, protects your well-being, and supports client safety. Guest Bio: Sharon Tomkins is a New Zealand-based Health & Executive Wellness Coach, Supervisor, and HCANZA Board Director (NZ Coach Representative). She advocates for reflective practice, ethical maturity, and professional care across the coaching sector. Sharon has contributed to the development of HCANZA's Supervision and Mentoring Guidelines (2024–25), helping shape standards that balance professionalism with heart. Through her practice, ZEAL Coaching & Supervision, she supports coaches and health professionals to flourish personally and professionally — embracing growth, integrity, and wellbeing. She is committed to helping more coaches train as supervisors and mentors, aligning HCANZA with international best practice from ICF, EMCC Global, and UKIHCA. Resources How to get in touch with HCANZA Facebook HCANZA Exclusive Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hcanzaexclusiveaccess Facebook HCANZA Page: https://www.facebook.com/HCANZA/ LinkedIn HCANZA Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hcanza Youtube HCANZA Page: https://www.youtube.com/@HCANZA Instagram HCANZA Page: https://www.instagram.com/hcanza.healthcoaches Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hcanza How to get in touch with the guest: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharontomkinscoaching/ Website: https://www.zealcoaching.co.nz/supervision/ Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharontomkinscoaching/ How to get in touch with the guest Get in touch with Sharon via email [email protected]

Episode Description: What does it really mean to wear more than one professional hat—and do it well? In this episode of The Health Coach Impact, we sit down with Julie Schutz, a physiotherapist with over 30 years of clinical experience who has added health coaching, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine to her professional toolkit. Julie shares how co-qualification has expanded her ability to support clients holistically—while staying aligned with ethical and professional scope of practice. From navigating conversations with clients to collaborating with doctors and allied health teams, Julie offers real-world examples of what it means to bring coaching into clinical care settings with integrity. Whether you're already a health professional—or considering adding a coaching or clinical qualification—this conversation will give you the clarity, inspiration, and practical insight to deepen your impact without crossing professional boundaries. Guest Bio: Julie Schutz is a practicing Physiotherapist with over 26 years of experience in public, private, and community health. She holds postgraduate qualifications in pelvic floor rehabilitation and is a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach, Certified Fitgenes Practitioner, Clinical Pilates Specialist, and Board-Certified Lifestyle Medicine Practitioner. Julie is passionate about preventive health and believes co-qualification gives health professionals a powerful opportunity to expand their impact—while staying aligned with their scope of practice. How to get in touch with HCANZA Facebook HCANZA Exclusive Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hcanzaexclusiveaccess Facebook HCANZA Open Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hcanza Facebook HCANZA Page: https://www.facebook.com/HCANZA/ Linkedin HCANZA PAge: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hcanza Youtube HCANZA Page: https://www.youtube.com/@HCANZA Instagram HCANZA: https://www.instagram.com/hcanza.healthcoaches/

In this episode of The Health Coach Impact, we go straight to the source with two incredible leaders who have helped shape the future of health coaching in our region. Linda Funnell-Milner, Chair and Co-Founder of HCANZA, shares her journey from corporate executive and political lobbyist to health practitioner and visionary leader. With degrees in Law and Education, an Advanced Diploma in Nutritional Medicine, a Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy, and health coaching certification from the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy, Linda brings a powerful combination of skills and experience to HCANZA's mission. She has held governance and leadership roles with nonprofit boards, including the UN-sponsored GRI Stakeholder Council and the Australasian Integrative Medicine Association, making her a strong voice for professional standards and advocacy. Joining Linda is Samantha McBride, Men's Performance, Wellbeing and Mental Fitness Coach, Human Physiologist, rural advocate, and founder of the Men's Muster Fiordland and liveMEwell. With an Honours Degree in Human Physiology and a passion for serving remote and underserved communities, Samantha is dedicated to helping men access the tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to improve their health and wellbeing. Her unique focus on male-oriented wellness programs and rural community engagement brings fresh insight into how health coaching can make a real difference. Together, they share: The founding story of HCANZA and the vision behind it Why accreditation standards are critical for professional credibility and public trust How advocacy ensures health coaches have a strong voice in healthcare Ways members can get involved and shape the future of the profession If you're a health coach looking to elevate your practice, connect with peers, and be part of something bigger, this episode is your perfect starting point. Connect with us on social media for more insights, updates, and to be part of our vibrant community: Facebook HCANZA Exclusive Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hcanzaexclusiveaccess Facebook HCANZA Open Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hcanza Facebook HCANZA Page: https://www.facebook.com/HCANZA/ LinkedIn HCANZA Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hcanza YouTube HCANZA Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@healthcoachesaustralianewz9122 Follow us, join the conversation, and stay connected with the health coaching community making an impact!

In this episode of The Health Coach Impact, Dr. Tabitha Healey shares her journey from Medical Oncologist to wellbeing coach and HCANZA Board Director. She explains why burnout among health professionals is a critical issue—and how health coaching can help them reclaim their wellbeing, build resilience, and continue delivering high-quality care.