Health Coach Conversations

Cathy Sykora

Health Coach Conversations is a podcast hosted by Cathy Sykora, founder of The Health Coach Group, whose mission is to bring awareness, professionalism, and growth to the health coaching industry. That’s what this podcast will be all about. I’ll be sharing with you what I myself have to teach, and we’ll have wellness, coaching, and business experts in for short interviews to learn what’s new and better! My purpose for this podcast is to give you the clarity, confidence, knowledge, and motivation to grow, fine tune, and strengthen your business and get more customers.

  1. HACE 5 DÍAS

    EP327: Nikia Smith - Breaking Through Burnout

    In this empowering episode of Health Coach Conversations, Cathy Sykora sits down with Dr. Nikia Smith, a physician-turned-life coach who guides high-achieving women of color out of burnout and back into balance. Dr. Smith shares her personal journey from the exhaustion of a demanding medical career to reclaiming her peace and redefining success. Together, Cathy and Dr. Smith explore the deeply ingrained societal and familial expectations that push women toward overwork and away from self-care. The conversation offers practical strategies for setting boundaries, honoring personal values, and making space for rest and joy. In this episode, you'll discover: How Dr. Nikia Smith’s own experience with burnout led to her career shift Why burnout is mistakenly seen as a natural part of success The internalized expectations that keep high-achieving women from resting Simple but powerful mindset shifts to begin reclaiming your time and energy How to redefine success on your own terms without guilt or shame The importance of identifying and prioritizing your personal values Why many healthcare workers struggle to prioritize their own wellbeing Memorable Quotes: "You’ll rest when it’s done, but we all know—it’s never done." "You have to make sure that you’re prioritizing yourself and your values so you don’t get swallowed up by the system." "I realized I was unwilling to sacrifice any more of my wellbeing for something that only looked like success." Bio: Dr. Nikia Smith is a former anesthesiologist turned life coach, community curator, and advocate for high-achieving women of color. With firsthand experience navigating the pressures of hustle culture, she now helps women break free from burnout and create lives of ease, authenticity, and joy. Through coaching and community, Dr. Smith supports women in redefining success and reclaiming their time, energy, and purpose. Mentioned in This Episode: The Hustle Detox: Free 3 Day Mini Course Links to Resources: Health Coach Group Website: thehealthcoachgroup.com Special Offer: Use code HCC50 to save $50 on the Health Coach Group website Leave a Review: If you enjoyed the podcast, please consider leaving a five-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

    25 min
  2. 1 SEP

    EP326: Sabrina Osso - Home Should Be Safe—Not Scary

    In this powerful episode, Cathy Sykora speaks with Sabrina Osso, founder and CEO of OSO SAFE, about her mission to create violence-free homes, workplaces, and schools. Drawing from her own traumatic upbringing, Sabrina shares how she transformed personal pain into a business dedicated to cultivating respect and safety through the real estate industry. She introduces OSO SAFE’s certification system, which includes education, policies, technology, and therapy to ensure homes are truly safe spaces. Sabrina also discusses the importance of involving children in conversations about safety and how societal and cultural norms often perpetuate generational abuse. Her TEDx talk, book, and services all aim to make safety the standard, not the exception. In this episode, you'll discover: How Sabrina turned her experience as a survivor of violence into a mission-driven business Why the responsibility of safety should shift from victims to the real estate industry The four components of the OSO SAFE Home Sweet Home certification How children are educated and empowered in OSO SAFE certified homes Why abusers avoid OSO SAFE certified properties—and why that matters How cultural norms and generational trauma contribute to domestic violence The dangers of pornography and BDSM and their ties to abuse Memorable Quotes: "The responsibility shouldn't be on the victim. It's the abuser that needs to go, not the victim." "You get extra credit for feeding and housing your kid? I'd have traded safety for a meal any day." "When you put that key in your lock, it should feel like your sanctuary—not something to fear." Bio: Sabrina Osso is Founder and CEO of OSO SAFE…Feel safe where you live, learn, work, and play. She is a TEDx Speaker, Author, and Real Estate Agent on creating and maintaining respect in homes, workplaces, and schools. She is also a professional dancer/teacher who uses her performance abilities to educate on the subject. The Women’s Federation for World Peace awarded Sabrina the March 2024 ‘HerStory’ Award for her commitment to protecting children from home violence and encouraging positive relationships at home. She is an Honored Listee on the Marquis Who's Who. As a real estate agent, Sabrina is bridging the real estate industry with Osso Safe. Mentioned in This Episode: Home Safe Home, For You and Me by Sabrina Osso OSSO SAFE Website Links to Resources: Health Coach Group Website: thehealthcoachgroup.com Special Offer: Use code HCC50 to save $50 on the Health Coach Group website Leave a Review: If you enjoyed the podcast, please consider leaving a five-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

    35 min
  3. 25 AGO

    EP325: Neuroscience‑Backed Yoga Is Reshaping the Workplace

    Explore how neuroscience and ancient wisdom converge in corporate well‑being with Bassanti Pathak, CEO and co‑founder of NeuroVeda by Pathak Yoga. Over a decade of experience has shown her the unexpected challenges of integrating yoga into office life, from misconceptions around spirituality to real stress resilience strategies. She shares how breathwork, awareness, and tailored neurological approaches can optimize both brain and bottom line. Discover how chair yoga, meditation, and custom staff‑optimization programs deliver measurable impacts—like reduced absenteeism and boosted revenue. In this episode, you'll discover: Bassanti’s journey: rebranding Pathak Yoga to NeuroVeda by Pathak Yoga to reflect the blend of neuroscience and traditional Vedic wisdom. The misconceptions she’s had to dismantle—yoga as mysticism, inflexibility, or religion—and how to position it scientifically. How yoga and meditation reshape brain architecture: thickening the prefrontal cortex, enhancing functional connectivity with the amygdala, and promoting better decision‑making under stress. Practical workplace applications—from chair‑yoga for musculoskeletal relief to empathy training and breathwork for stress resilience. Real, quantifiable returns on corporate well‑being investments, including a 32% drop in absenteeism and 13% increase in revenue, and the caveats around capturing such data. Memorable Quotes: “There were many misconceptions… that it’s a practice for skinny white girls, that it’s not for men, that it’s not for people who are inflexible… we really had to redefine what yoga was.” “We’re changing the body’s chemistry in order to over time change the brain’s architecture… an optimized brain that is not influenced by past experiences that are unhelpful to us.” “If you do three months of yoga… that may not get rid of all your stressors… but… certain meditations can really have an effect even after ten minutes of practicing.” Bio: Bassanti is the co‑founder and CEO of NeuroVeda by Pathak Yoga, an award‑winning corporate well‑being services provider specializing in neuroscience‑informed programmes designed to optimise the workforce and bottom line. Having learned yoga from her Indian father at the age of four, and holding accolades from Delhi’s International Foundation for Natural Health & Yoga, Harvard, Clark University, and Bonn University, Bassanti brings a unique blend of tradition, science and heart to the table. She's also a former Fulbright Scholar, banker, and children’s TV series creator, and today stands as a leading voice in corporate well‑being. Mentioned in This Episode: www.pathak‑yoga.com Links to Resources: Health Coach Group Website: thehealthcoachgroup.com Special Offer: Use code HCC50 to save $50 on the Health Coach Group website Leave a Review: If you enjoyed the podcast, please consider leaving a five-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

    42 min
  4. 18 AGO

    EP324: Jessper Maquindang – No Excuses, Just Miles

    In this inspiring episode, Cathy Sykora sits down with Jessper Maquindang, a leadership trainer and marathon runner who turned a childhood diagnosis of asthma into a journey of resilience and personal triumph. Jessper shares how he defied early limitations to complete 17 marathons—including ultra and trail races—and how the lessons learned through endurance training have shaped his career in leadership development. From humble beginnings with short walks to grueling miles across Alaskan terrain, Jessper’s story is one of determination, patience, and purpose. This conversation also explores the parallels between physical training and personal growth, emphasizing the value of meeting people where they are—whether in coaching or leadership. In this episode, you'll discover: How Jessper overcame asthma to become a seasoned marathon runner The step-by-step mindset he used to build endurance over time Why trusting your training is crucial when facing big challenges How running shaped his approach to leadership and team development The importance of grace and patience during the journey toward major goals How to coach others without pushing them beyond their limits Why having a strong "why" can carry you through adversity Memorable Quotes: "Trust your training. This is your journey. Take it your way, step by step." "Don’t disqualify yourself from big goals just because they seem far away." "Have that big purpose. Search for that why and embrace that why." Bio: Jessper Maquindang's journey as a marathon runner is a testament to resilience and determination. Diagnosed with asthma as a child, he was initially kept away from physical activities, but he refused to let his condition define him. Instead of accepting limitations, he chose to rewrite his story. Inspired by the endurance and dedication of marathon runners, he set a goal to complete a marathon and gradually built up his stamina over time. He has also tackled ultra marathons, pushing his limits even further. His journey is not just about running—it’s about proving that obstacles, no matter how daunting, can be overcome with perseverance and heart. Today, Jessper continues to inspire others with his story, showing that the road to success is paved with dedication, patience, and an unwavering belief in oneself. Whether he’s training for his next race or reflecting on how far he’s come, one thing is certain—he’s not just running marathons; he’s running toward a life without limits. Mentioned in This Episode: Jessper's Linktree Familead Consulting Links to Resources: Health Coach Group Website: thehealthcoachgroup.com Special Offer: Use code HCC50 to save $50 on the Health Coach Group website Leave a Review: If you enjoyed the podcast, please consider leaving a five-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

    28 min
  5. 11 AGO

    EP323: Aimee Goodwin - Hope, Healing, and a New Path Forward

    In this inspiring episode, Cathy sits down with Aimee Goodwin, a certified Life Coach, Emotional Resilience Trainer, and founder of New Hope Wellness. Aimee shares her personal journey from battling undiagnosed Lyme disease for years to becoming a best-selling author of The Mountains We Climb. She opens up about the transformative power of emotional resilience, the science behind managing anxiety, and the critical role of hope in healing. Drawing on personal hardship and professional expertise, Aimee offers tangible strategies for breaking through limiting beliefs, calming the nervous system, and navigating life’s toughest challenges with grace. Her story is one of strength, empathy, and the unwavering belief that no matter how dark life gets, there is always light ahead. In this episode, you'll discover: How undiagnosed Lyme disease shaped Aimee’s mission to help others heal The key lessons from her Stanford University emotional resilience training Why 70% of people live in “fight or flight” mode and how to break free from it Practical tools to manage anxiety, including powerful breathing techniques The role of hope in recovery and why mindset is essential for healing How self-awareness and daily mental check-ins can improve overall health The metaphor behind The Mountains We Climb and how it applies to life’s struggles Memorable Quotes: “Hope is a powerhouse skill in emotional resilience.” “We’re not changing the stress in the world, but we are changing the person walking through the world.” “The person didn’t change—what changed was me, because I had done the healing.” Bio: Aimee Goodwin is a certified Life Coach and Emotional Resilience Trainer and founder of New Hope Wellness, based in Minnesota. With years of experience helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, Aimee empowers others to build emotional strength and find lasting happiness. Her unique approach integrates both practical tools and emotional insight, making her an ideal guide for anyone seeking transformation. Aimee's work has inspired many to embrace resilience and thrive in their personal and professional lives. Her new book, The Mountains We Climb, was published by Raven & Grace Press and distributed nationally in March 2025. Aimee was recognized as a Best Selling New Author on Amazon a few weeks ago! Mentioned in This Episode: The Mountains We Climb (Amazon): https://a.co/d/fBxAhPL Aimee Goodwin Website: https://www.coachaimeejay.com/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@aimeegoodwin_lifecoach New Hope Healing & Resource Center: https://lyme-hope.org/ Links to Resources: Health Coach Group Website: thehealthcoachgroup.com Special Offer: Use code HCC50 to save $50 on the Health Coach Group website Leave a Review: If you enjoyed the podcast, please consider leaving a five-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

    26 min
  6. 4 AGO

    EP322: The Biggest Problem in Leadership Today

    In this episode of Health Coach Conversations, Cathy Sykora talks with Kimberly Spencer, a high-performance, trauma-informed coach and founder of CrownYourself.com. Kimberly shares her journey from battling bulimia and finding healing through Pilates to becoming a successful entrepreneur and leadership coach. She dives deep into the core issues facing leaders today, especially the struggle to stay in their "zone of genius." Kimberly also reveals how podcast guesting can be a powerful, low-cost lead-generation strategy for coaches and entrepreneurs. In this episode, you'll discover: Why staying in your zone of genius directly impacts your income and fulfillment The differences between your zone of genius, excellence, and competence How podcast guesting can build brand visibility and drive lead generation Why leadership success hinges on decisiveness and courage How language rewires your subconscious beliefs and business outcomes What makes a podcast interview a powerful relationship-building tool Tips for building sustainable business models aligned with your lifestyle Memorable Quotes: "A podcast interview is like a first date with a potential referral partner." "You get to be the living, breathing embodiment of what’s possible for others." "Don’t put your past identity or your goals on a pedestal—pedestals are shaky." Bio: Kimberly Spencer is an award-winning high-performance, trauma-informed coach and trainer, Amazon best-selling author, TEDx speaker, and the founder of CrownYourself.com, helping visionary leaders transform their self-limiting stories, build their empire, stand out fearlessly, and make the income and the impact they deserve. Mentioned in This Episode: CrownYourself.com Links to Resources: Health Coach Group Website: thehealthcoachgroup.com Special Offer: Use code HCC50 to save $50 on the Health Coach Group website Leave a Review: If you enjoyed the podcast, please consider leaving a five-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

    43 min
  7. 28 JUL

    EP321: How to Keep Your Energy Clean with Colleen McMann

    In this episode, Cathy talks with Colleen McMann, the founder of Style Rituals, about the importance of energetic hygiene for health coaches and practitioners. Colleen shares how her unique journey from the fashion industry led her to discover her intuitive gifts and embrace the world of energy healing. She offers simple and powerful techniques for cleansing and protecting your energy after client sessions, helping you avoid burnout and stay grounded. Through crystals, tarot, and energetic rituals, Colleen helps others reconnect with their intuition and maintain spiritual balance. In this episode, you'll discover: What energetic hygiene is and why it's essential for wellness professionals How to energetically cleanse after client sessions using everyday practices The power of crystals in supporting energy maintenance and personal growth Ways to call your energy back at the end of the day to feel more centered How Colleen uses tarot cards and crystals to support intuitive development The story of Colleen’s awakening and how she transitioned from fashion to healing Why more healthcare professionals are exploring energy work for themselves and their clients Memorable Quotes: "We can be like lint rollers where we walk into the room and pick up everybody’s fuzz." "I release all energy that is not mine. I let it go down the drain and go where it needs to go to be mulched into the earth." "You're not crazy. You're a psychic." Bio: Colleen McCann created Style Rituals to be a fun and practical experience to get grounded, heal issues, practice self-care, build better boundaries, tap into your intuition & more. After straddling the fashion & wellness industries for the last 20 years, she developed her own brand of glamour magic by blending her experiences as a designer, stylist, brand consultant, healer, mentor, teacher, coach, author, and a serial entrepreneur. Her journey to becoming an energy stylist started in New York City. She was working in fashion and realized that statement necklaces had superpowers, colors worn influenced a person’s energy, and that her intuition could be used to heal herself and inspire others. She ended up jumping high-heels first down the mystical rabbit hole, traveling all over the world studying healing modalities and eventually connecting all her skills and passions together to found Style Rituals. Mentioned in This Episode: Crystal RX Book Cosmic Mail – Receive a Complimentary Intuitive Mini-Message Links to Resources: Health Coach Group Website: thehealthcoachgroup.com Special Offer: Use code HCC50 to save $50 on the Health Coach Group website Leave a Review: If you enjoyed the podcast, please consider leaving a five-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

    26 min
  8. 21 JUL

    EP320: Prevent Obesity & Disease

    In this episode Cathy sits down with Makheni Zonneveld, a wellness speaker, coach, and author of Healthier and Slimmer, to explore how real food, emotional awareness, and lifestyle changes can reverse chronic illness and support long-term health. After facing a major health crisis, Makheni transformed her life through a plant-based, alkaline-promoting diet and now dedicates herself to helping others reclaim their health. She shares practical strategies for making home-cooked meals convenient and fun, the dangers of fake health foods, and why partnering with medical professionals is key to preventive care. Makheni’s passion for empowering individuals shines through as she encourages everyone to take responsibility for their own well-being. In this episode, you'll discover: How Makheni healed herself from chronic pain and avoided surgery through nutrition The difference between acidic and alkaline foods and how they affect the body Why she rejects "fake" foods like plant-based meats and artificial substitutes The importance of intrinsic motivation for sustainable lifestyle change Creative ways to make healthy eating and exercise enjoyable and fun How she uses batch cooking and freezer storage to simplify healthy meals Why prevention starts in the kitchen, not the doctor’s office Memorable Quotes: "Is this worth making your child an orphan or a child who’s going to grow up with a stepfather?" "Health gain is the goal. Fat loss is a side effect." "If you eat beans, let them look like beans on your plate and not like a sausage." Bio: Makheni Zonneveld is a 71-year young super fit wellness speaker, coach, and author of Healthier and Slimmer, a guide to optimal physical and mental health. She has specialized in emotional well-being since 1999 and pivoted to nutrition after overcoming a severe health issue without surgery in 2008. Since then, she has passionately studied the effects of food on health and expanded her work to include physical wellness. In 2021, she launched the Free Health Club and in 2024, published her first wellness book, which includes expert insights and client testimonials. Makheni partners with medical and coaching professionals to help prevent unnecessary suffering through lifestyle education. Mentioned in This Episode: Healthier and Slimmer Links to Resources: Health Coach Group Website: thehealthcoachgroup.com Special Offer: Use code HCC50 to save $50 on the Health Coach Group website Leave a Review: If you enjoyed the podcast, please consider leaving a five-star rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

    43 min
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Health Coach Conversations is a podcast hosted by Cathy Sykora, founder of The Health Coach Group, whose mission is to bring awareness, professionalism, and growth to the health coaching industry. That’s what this podcast will be all about. I’ll be sharing with you what I myself have to teach, and we’ll have wellness, coaching, and business experts in for short interviews to learn what’s new and better! My purpose for this podcast is to give you the clarity, confidence, knowledge, and motivation to grow, fine tune, and strengthen your business and get more customers.

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