Episode Summary

In this episode, we dive into a client-centered approach to nutrition and behavior change. Our guest, Ian, shares his insights on how practitioners can create sustainable change by focusing on empowerment first, education second. The conversation highlights the importance of small, realistic goal setting and understanding the emotional challenges clients face when trying to make lasting health changes. Rather than pushing for perfection or drastic overnight transformations, Ian advocates for collaborative planning and supportive coaching to help clients achieve their goals and rebuild their confidence.

Episode Highlights

• Empowerment First, Education Second: Ian emphasizes that practitioners should prioritize empowering their clients rather than bombarding them with education at the outset. Empowering clients helps them feel more capable and motivated to make changes.
• The Power of Small, Achievable Goals: We discuss the importance of setting small, realistic goals that help build momentum and confidence. Rather than striving for perfection, small successes lead to long-term change and prevent discouragement.
• Breaking the All-or-Nothing Mindset: Ian addresses the common "all or nothing" thinking that many clients fall into, which often leads to feelings of failure. He highlights how to move away from this mindset and set expectations that are more forgiving and flexible.
• Collaborative Coaching Approach: Instead of dictating what clients "should" do, Ian stresses the importance of negotiation and working together to set a plan that meets clients where they are. This collaborative approach fosters trust and ensures that clients are truly committed to their goals.
• Sustainable Change Through Layered Goals: The conversation also covers how practitioners can layer small goals over time to create lasting behavioral change, as opposed to overwhelming clients with large, difficult plans.
• The Role of the Practitioner: Practitioners should view themselves as collaborators, guiding clients through manageable steps and providing support when setbacks occur. This approach fosters a sense of agency in clients and helps them stay engaged in their health journey.
• Building Confidence Through Support: Clients often enter the process with broken confidence, and this episode discusses how practitioners can rebuild that confidence by focusing on small wins, empathy, and consistent encouragement.

Resources Mentioned

• Food Story Coaching Program: Ian offers an online, self-directed training program for practitioners. The course includes seven modules designed to teach the philosophy and skills necessary to empower clients and create lasting change. It also includes live mentorship calls and peer mentorship with one of Ian's master coaches. To learn more, visit https://www.foodstorycoaching.com/fundamentals
• Contact Ian:
  • Food Story Coaching Certification: https://www.foodstorycoaching.com/contact
  • Work with Ian: https://ianrubin.com
  • Study under Ian at The National University of National Medicine: https://nunm.edu/faculty/ian-rubin-ma-cpt-chc/
  • LinkedIn: Ian Rubin

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