The Health Coach Show

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Mar 2026

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About the show

The Health Coach Show by Shivaun Conn and Sharon Curtain is a podcast all about the science, tips, tools and the practicalities of changing behaviour. As dietitians and HCANZA accredited health coaches we’ve got 50 years experience between us, supporting others to create healthier lifestyle behaviours and habits. We’ll be talking about the skills of coaching, what’s helpful and surprisingly unhelpful and we will share practical strategies that you can use to help clients get motivated, get unstuck and take action towards living as the healthiest version of themselves.

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31 recent

March 30, 2026Episode 3145 min

From Invisible to Bookable: Tech & Systems Tips for Health Coaches | Ep. 31

In this episode, we dive into one of the biggest challenges new health coaches face after qualification - running a business.Joined by Carla, founder of the Health Tech Network, we explore how to move from feeling overwhelmed and stuck to becoming visible, confident, and ready to work with clients.If you’ve ever felt unsure where to start with tech, systems, or getting clients, this episode is for you.1. Why health coaches get stuck after graduating and what to do about it.2. The “productivity trap”. What is it and why is it a problem.3. What you ACTUALLY need to start your new business (and why waiting till everything is perfect is costing you in the long run)Who is this episode for:New health coaches starting a businessHealth professionals adding coaching to their workCoaches feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure where to beginMore information about 'Invisible to Bookable'- A practical, done-with-you workshop to build a calm, professional business setup . Details: https://healthtechnetwork.com.au/invisible-to-bookable Use code AHCA200 Health and Wellness New Business Guide: https://healthtechnetwork.com.au/htn-business-compliance-guide To access free resources or to book one of our upcoming courses visit our website: www.accreditedhealthcoaching.com.au If you find this podcast valuable, please share, follow, and leave a review. You can also follow us on social media If you would like to provide feedback, ask a question or suggest a topic, please contact us via our email, info@accreditedhealthcoaching.com.auThank you for listening, your support is appreciated. Proudly a HCANZA accredited course provider.

September 5, 2025Episode 3054 min

Utilising AI for better client outcomes | Ep. 30

In this episode of the Health Coach Show, we discuss the role of AI powered tools to streamline data collection to save time, reduce admin and create better outcomes for our clients.Shivaun Conn, a HCANZA accredited health and wellness coach and dietitian, is joined by Robbie Clark, dietitian, exercise scientist, and Director and Co-founder of HealthBank.io, an AI-powered digital clinic software.We discuss:How we utilise 'data' in healthcareHow AI can be utilised to streamline data collection and help us to make more better clinical decisionsHow AI powered tools can support and empower our clientsWhat health coaches should know about privacy and safety of AIThe Healthbank platform - AI powered digital clinic softwareBuilding visibility online, networking and mentoring for health coachesFollow on resources:Health Bank website: https://www.healthbank.io/Interested in learning more about health coaching?We offer short self paced courses that will give you tools and strategies to support clients, and we also offer interactive, accredited courses that teach the foundation skills of health coaching, and courses that provide gap training and skill mastery for those who are looking to expand their skill set and become nationally recognised with the Health Coaches Australia New Zealand Association (HCANZA) Our courses are fully online, with webinars delivered via zoom. To access free resources or to book one of our upcoming courses visit our website: www.accreditedhealthcoaching.com.au If you find this podcast valuable, please share, follow, and leave a review. You can also follow us on social media If you would like to provide feedback, ask a question or suggest a topic, please contact us via our email, info@accreditedhealthcoaching.com.auThank you for listening, your support is appreciated. Proudly a HCANZA accredited course provider.

August 5, 202549 min

Know Your Worth, Clarify Your Niche(s) & Grow Without Burnout | Ep. 29

In this episode of the Health Coach Show, we discuss how to know your worth as a health coach, find and clarify your niche, and grow and scale your practice online without burning out.Shivaun Conn, a HCANZA accredited health and wellness coach and dietitian, is joined by Rebekah Jones, a registered dietitian, private practice business mentor, and creator of the Scalable Practice Framework™. We discuss:How to scale our practices without burnoutService options and modes of deliveryBusiness mapping - designing a strategy that aligns with our lifestyle, supports our goals, and delivers ideal client outcomesNiches - do we need one? How do we niche in a way that suits us?Knowing our worth and overcoming imposter syndrome - using logic, data, and evidenceFollow on resources:"Niche Clarity Coach: Find Your Niche & Ideal Client (In Minutes - with AI)” : https://rebekah-jones.mykajabi.com/protocol-builder-bot-1 Rebekah Jones website: https://rebekahjones.com.au/10% discount code for programs: AHCA10Interested in learning more about health coaching?We offer short self paced courses that will give you tools and strategies to support clients, and we also offer interactive, accredited courses that teach the foundation skills of health coaching, and courses that provide gap training and skill mastery for those who are looking to expand their skill set and become nationally recognised with the Health Coaches Australia New Zealand Association (HCANZA) Our courses are fully online, with webinars delivered via zoom. To access free resources or to book one of our upcoming courses visit our website: www.accreditedhealthcoaching.com.au If you find this podcast valuable, please share, follow, and leave a review. You can also follow us on social media If you would like to provide feedback, ask a question or suggest a topic, please contact us via our email, info@accreditedhealthcoaching.com.auThank you for listening, your support is appreciated. Proudly a HCANZA accredited course provider.

May 8, 2025Episode 2832 min

Self Determination Theory in a Coaching Context with Gordon Spence | Ep. 28

In this episode of the Health Coach Show, we’re discussing Self Determination Theory (SDT), a key theory of motivation that underpins the work health coaches do. Sharon Curtain, dietitian and HCANZA accredited health coach, is joined by Gordon Spence, a coaching psychologist, exercise scientist, educator, researcher, private practitioner and an expert in SDT.We discuss:Why SDT is a robust theory of optimal functioningThe mini theories Basic Needs Theory and the guidance is gives us to create an optimal experience for coaching clientsWhat makes it different from other motivation theoriesThe Extrinsic to Intrinsic motivation continuumHow to facilitate a shift in motivation by connecting to beliefs, values and intrinsic motivatorsAllowing space for clients can be Gordon has just had a new paper published - The Health Activation Process: Anautonomy-supportive coaching model for facilitating sustainable active living. He is now building on this, using guided autobiography to get people to reflect on memories of physical activity which can result in leaning in to positivity, changing perspectives towards being active.Gordon is a Senior Lecturer in the Master of Science in Coaching Psychology program, University of Sydney, he’s published many scholarly articles and book chapters, two books on healthy ageing, provides evidence-based coaching & consulting services and sits on the board of Health Coaches Australia New Zealand Association (HCANZA). You can contact Gordon at info@drgordonspence.comYou can read more about coaching and self determination here: Spence, Gordon & Oades, Lindsay. (2011). Coaching with self-determination in mind: Using theory to advance evidence-based coaching practice. International Journal of Evidence Based Coaching and Mentoring. 9. 37-55. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/313707730_Coaching_with_self-determination_in_mind_Using_theory_to_advance_evidence-based_coaching_practiceTo learn more about health coaching, access free resources or to book one of our upcoming courses visit our website: www.accreditedhealthcoaching.com.auProudly a HCANZA accredited course provider.

March 24, 2025Episode 2750 min

Positive Psychology Coaching with Dr Suzy Green | Ep. 27

In this episode of The Health Coach Show, Shivaun Conn, dietitian and accredited health coach, is joined by Dr Suzy Green — a clinical and coaching psychologist, and Founder & CEO of The Positivity Institute.A leader in the complementary fields of Coaching Psychology and Positive Psychology, Suzy has published over twenty academic chapters and peer-reviewed journal articles. She is also the co-editor of Positive Psychology Coaching in Practice, Positive Psychology Coaching in the Workplace, and The Positivity Prescription.Suzy was a lecturer in the Master of Coaching Psychology program at the University of Sydney for ten years and is an Honorary Vice President of the International Society for Coaching Psychology.In this episode, we discuss:What is Positive Psychology Coaching?Positive psychology tools and approachesWeaving expertise into coachingResearch on coaching effectiveness for health outcomes and sustainable health behavioursHow coaches can benefit from expanding their learning in coaching psychologyCPD courses and events for coaches in coaching psychology and positive psychology coachingLinks Suzy’s new course the Professional Certificate in Positive Psychology Coaching. Earlybird ends March 31stOur latest events including the Psych Health & Safety Conference in JuneThe new series of COACH+ The Art & Science of Positive Psychology Coaching

March 12, 202528 min

What is the role of Health Coaches In GP Clinics in New Zealand? | Ep. 26

In this episode of The Health Coach Show, we explore the forward-thinking role of health coaches and Health Improvement Practitioners (HIPs). This initiative, led by the Ministry of Health, introduces a new model of integrated primary mental health and addiction services (IPMHA) within Primary Health Organisations (PHOs) and general practice teams.Leana Clark shares her journey from nursing to becoming a health coach in New Zealand GP clinics, offering insights into her experience and the impact of her work.We discuss:The distinct roles of health coaches and Health Improvement Practitioners in New Zealand and how they support clients.The training required to become a health coach in New Zealand.The benefits she has observed for both clients and healthcare teams.Lessons Australia can take from New Zealand’s approach.Tune in to gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of integrated health care.Links: Free Webinar - Health Coaching https://www.accreditedhealthcoaching.com.au/free-health-coaching-webinarsOnline Courseshttps://www.accreditedhealthcoaching.com.au/shop-coursesMentoringhttps://www.accreditedhealthcoaching.com.au/mentoring

January 28, 2025Episode 2518 min

Rewards - Are they useful in behaviour change | Ep. 25

In this episode of The Health Coach Show, we discuss how rewards can be useful to help clients change their behaviours. The big question is 'Are rewards helpful and do they help with long-term behaviour change?' How rewards can support behaviour and habit change: Rewards provide positive reinforcement Rewards can give us that little motivation boost on days when we don’t feel like it - especially useful during the early stages of change when motivation is low. Rewards bring benefits into the present: providing immediate feedback that the behaviour is worth doing - particularly useful when changes may not be noticed for a few weeks. Examples of effective rewards in health coaching: Celebrating small milestones /consistency - reward yourself with a new book, water bottle or workout mat Replacing alcohol with zero alcohol drinks Buy the expensive chocolate (and therefore eat less) Non-food rewards - bath, listening to a podcast, going to a movie, reading a book/magazine for pleasure, permission to do nothing When rewards can be unhelpful: Extrinsic vs. intrinsic motivation: when we rely on the external rewards - ie the only reason we engage in a behaviour is to get the reward, we’re extrinsically motivated - once the reward is removed, the motivation to do the behaviour stops. Risks of relying on rewards: Short-term compliance without long-term behaviour change. Creating dependency on rewards rather than fostering internal motivation. Reward chasing: Constantly using rewards can reduce their effectiveness. We can lose interest in routine rewards and look for additional rewards to stay motivated. Using unhealthy rewards: e.g. going out for a big breakfast after a gym session, or rewarding a long day with a glass of wine - can un-do the good work of the behaviour itself. In coaching, we can use both intrinsic and extrinsic rewards - the extrinsic can be really valuable in the early stages of change- while connecting to intrinsic ones over time. This might look like: Encouraging self-chosen rewards aligned with values. Social recognition (sharing progress with friends/family). Celebrating achievement with meaningful experiences (e.g., self care/connecting - a client rewarding themselves with a massage after sticking to a new routine for a week) Self-reward through positive self-talk and reflection on progress Connecting to how it makes you feel immediately or later that day - eg more energy, better sleep. Mini rewards to help stick to a behaviour Alternative treats Tracking progress can serve as a motivating reward: Visual progress (habit trackers, fitness apps) provides immediate feedback. Self-monitoring increases self-awareness and accountability. To learn more about health coaching, access free resources or to book one of our upcoming courses, visit our website: www.accreditedhealthcoaching.com.au

January 17, 2025Episode 120 min

How Health Coaching Keeps Resolutions on Track | Ep 24

In this episode of The Health Coach Show, we discuss how health coaching can help our clients stick to their New Year Resolutions: Why our best of intentions fade away How to co-create plans for lasting change How mindset plays a key role in success Key questions to help clients develop systems that result in habit change To learn more about health coaching or to book one of our upcoming courses: www.accreditedhealthcoaching.com.au To experience health coaching with Shivaun: www.shivaunconn.com.au

July 24, 2024Episode 2337 min

Getting found as a health coach - with Health Hunter | Ep 23

In this episode of The Health Coach Show, Sharon Curtain talks to Brianna Vidal and Sarah Mullens about the creation of a preventive health ecosystem for health coaches, health professionals and those who are looking to manage their health. Health Hunter is a digital platform that connects people with preventative health practitioners, providers and services. Sarah and Brianna, the co-founders, believe that a healthier, happier life starts with prevention. The reason for Health Hunter was quite simple, 1 out of 2 Australians are living with a chronic health conditions and it is estimated that 33% of these chronic conditions could be prevented if they were addressed earlier. The problem is, people don't always know about the services and health professionals that may be able to help them with prevention and early intervention. Health Hunter provides access to practitioners that are hard to find. Search by your particular health concern for specialists in your location, all with a focus on preventative, women’s and chronic health issues. These are doctors or allied health practitioners have particular health interests and specialist areas of practice (i.e Gut issues or Women’s Health). Here is an example of the women's health ‘condition’ page https://www.healthhunter.au/conditions/womens-health Health Hunter recognises the essential role health coaches play in helping individuals implement lifestyle changes and are currently onboarding health coaches in the practitioners section, searchable by their speciality or expertise. This is the perfect place to register your health coach business, promote your expertise, network with other health professionals and stay up to date with the latest tech. Please check it out…. https://www.healthhunter.au You can also read our post about the value of health coaches! https://www.healthhunter.au/post/unveiling-the-role-of-a-health-coach-your-personal-wellness-guide

April 29, 2024Episode 2230 min

Health Coaching in Practice with Dietitian Ellie Thompson | Ep 22

In this episode, Shivaun Conn talks to Ellie Thompson, an accredited practising dietitian and an accredited health and wellness coach, about health coaching and how it has changed her practice. Ellie works in the corporate space as a health coach, as well as in private practice for Verde Nutrition Co. where she utilises both her dietetics and health coaching skills to empower clients to create long-lasting change to improve their health and nutrition. Ellie's practice changed completely after becoming a health coach. At university, she was taught to follow the steps, educate clients, and follow her own agenda. Often she felt like she was trying to force people to change, not meeting people where they were at, and often wasting her own time as well as her clients. After adopting a coaching approach, she felt like she was walking alongside her clients, they felt heard and were able to achieve a successful end point faster. Studying health coaching has been life-changing for Ellie and has transformed all her consults. Although Ellie wishes she learnt health coaching within her university degree, she is so grateful she completed her health coaching training so early in her career. Integrating coaching into her practice has been rewarding for both her clients and herself. Health coaching has made her practice easier, more relaxing, and has made work so much more enjoyable. In this podcast, she discusses how she utilises health coaching, how its shaped her career and her life, changed the way she communicates, and in Ellie's words 'I don't think there is anyone that wouldn't benefit from health coaching. I couldn't recommend this training any more highly.' When searching for a nutrition expert look for an Accredited Practicing Dietitian. To find out more or book with Ellie visit https://verdenutrition.co/