The Thrive Forward Podcast

By Vanessa Vanderhoek & Daniel McInerneyBusiness Health & Fitness Education Self-Improvement Careers

The Thrive Forward Podcast episodes

July 22, 2025Ep 11. Goal Setting: Taking An Adaptable Approach This July
In this conversation, Daniel McInerney and Vanessa Vanderhoek explore the concept of goal setting in a more human and adaptable way. They discuss the importance of aligning goals with personal values and intentions, especially during the mid-year reset in July. The dialogue emphasises the significance of celebrating small wins, reframing failures as feedback, and understanding the seasons of life that influence goal achievement. The speakers share personal anecdotes and practical strategies for setting and achieving meaningful goals, both personally and professionally.

The key takeaways
Goal setting should align with your life, energy, and values.
July is an ideal time for a mid-year reset.
Letting go of unachieved goals can be liberating.
Goals should reflect the season of life that you are in.
Missing a goal is not failure; it's feedback.
Celebrate small wins to build self-belief.
Focus on personal intentions, not just tasks.
Micro goals can lead to significant progress.
Recognise the ebbs and flows of life in goal setting.
Visualisation and emotional connection are key in goal setting.

Chapters
00:00 - The Essence of Goal Setting
03:26 - Reflecting on the First Half of the Year
05:40 - Mindset and Goal Setting in July
08:28 - Client Goal Setting in Health
11:06 - Personal Goals and Family Intentions
13:53 - Understanding Seasons in Goal Setting
16:01 - The Importance of Presence and Intention
18:58 - Aligning Goals with Values
21:29 - Empathy in Client Relationships
23:53 - Transforming Leadership Goals
26:43 - The Shift from Output to Identity-Based Goals
30:57 - Overcoming Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome
36:36 - The Importance of Reflection and Adaptation
40:30 - Reframing Goals: Feedback vs. Failure
44:53 - The Power of Visualization and Emotional Connection
47:56 - Celebrating Achievements and Building Momentum

To connect with Vanessa Vanderhoek, follow her on Instagram @thehealthygutnutritionist, YouTube @thehealthygutnutritionist, Facebook @thehealthygutnutritionist, and through her website www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com.

To connect with Daniel McInerney, follow him on LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/daniel-mcinerney, and through his website www.leadforward.com.au.

Keywords
goal setting, personal intentions, professional goals, July reset, micro goals, feedback, celebrating wins, health goals, identity-based goals, seasons of life
54 min
June 02, 2025Ep 10. Gut Health: Why It’s the Key to Energy, Mood & Performance
In this episode, Daniel McInerney and Vanessa Vanderhoek explore the critical role of gut health in overall well-being. They discuss Vanessa's journey in integrative medicine, the importance of understanding gut health, and practical steps listeners can take to improve their gut health. The conversation highlights the connection between gut health and various health issues, emphasising the need for awareness and proactive measures.

Watch Vanessa’s free webinars on YouTube:
‘THGN Stop Struggling With Digestive Issues And Finally Work Out What’s Going on In There’ - https://youtu.be/csn3s7I2WNI?si=EoV8TL5ftlB1KF-R
‘Intro to Gut Health - Why Great Health Begins In The Gut’ - https://youtu.be/aPfTCbdNa90?si=Utg8afwBtWB6D01R
‘Is It IBS, SIBO, IMO, SIFO? All Of The Above… Or Something Else?’ - https://youtu.be/w-0DWTv7dfQ?si=JIB2qqONg_Ev4BEG
‘The Gut-Skin Axis: Unlocking the Secret to Overcoming Skin Conditions’ - https://youtu.be/CaAynUcrpgE?si=b-J8UhCCxQemqT9M

Download Vanessa’s FREE eBook: The 5 Things I Learned About My Gut Health & Energy. In this eBook she’s shared the top 5 things she’s learned, so you too can finally stop searching for answers. Click here to get immediate access - https://thehealthygutnutritionist.click/optin1653280201585

Book a free Discovery Call with Vanessa – https://www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com/

The key takeaways
Your gut is connected to your immune system, physical and mental health.
Gut health impacts energy levels, mental clarity, and overall well-being.
80% of the immune system is located in the gut.
Many people tolerate gut issues thinking they are normal, but they are not – they’re just common.
The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in health and disease prevention.
Dietary fibre is essential for gut health and comes in various forms.
Practical steps to improve gut health include increasing fibre intake and being mindful of food choices.
Understanding the connection between gut health and other health issues is vital for prevention.

Chapters
00:00 - The Importance of Gut Health
13:05 - Vanessa's Journey in Integrative Medicine
17:09 - Understanding Gut Health and Its Impact
17:37 - The Role of Gut Health in Daily Life
22:02 - The Importance of Preventative Health
26:42 - Emerging Research in Gut Health
30:37 - The Role of Nutrition in Gut Health
36:04 - Practical Steps for Improving Gut Health

Connect with Vanessa Vanderhoek - follow her on Instagram @thehealthygutnutritionist, YouTube @thehealthygutnutritionist, Facebook @thehealthygutnutritionist, and through her website www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com.

Connect with Daniel McInerney - follow him on LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/daniel-mcinerney, and through his website www.leadforward.com.au.

Keywords
gut health, gut microbiome, functional medicine, integrative medicine, nutrition, digestive health, mental health, immune system, probiotics, fibre, wellness, health tips, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, reflux, SIBO, IBS
46 min
May 26, 2025Ep 9. Fatigue: It’s Not Just Sleep - Unpacking the Many Causes
In this conversation, Vanessa Vanderhoek and Daniel McInerney explore the multifaceted nature of fatigue, discussing its root causes beyond just lack of sleep. They delve into the spectrum of fatigue, misconceptions surrounding it, and practical strategies for improvement, including the importance of nutrition, hydration, and functional testing to identify underlying issues. The discussion emphasises the need for a holistic approach to understanding and addressing fatigue, encouraging listeners to seek personalised solutions for their energy challenges.

Watch Vanessa’s webinar on YouTube ‘Unlock Your Energy: The Root Causes of Fatigue For Busy Professionals’ - https://youtu.be/zYkizuQLyrQ?si=nuj_IO9rImCLMyDq

Learn more about the 21 Day Detox Program Vanessa runs each season (winter, spring, summer and autumn) by clicking here - https://www.thehealthygutprograms.com/

To book a free Discovery Call with Vanessa – https://www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com/

The key takeaways
Fatigue is often normalized in society, but it shouldn't be.
Misconceptions about fatigue can lead to inadequate responses to it.
Over-exercising and under-exercising both contribute to fatigue.
Chronic gut issues can lead to nutrient deficiencies and fatigue.
Dietary choices significantly impact energy levels.
Hydration is a simple yet effective strategy to combat fatigue.
Caffeine should be consumed mindfully to avoid energy crashes.
Genetic factors can influence energy production and fatigue.
Functional testing can provide insights into individual health challenges.

Chapters
00:00 - Understanding Fatigue: A Common Struggle
05:40 - The Spectrum of Fatigue: Tired vs. Fatigued
11:38 - Misconceptions About Fatigue
16:33 - Practical Strategies to Combat Fatigue
20:23 - The Role of Functional Testing in Fatigue
24:32 - Conclusion: Moving Beyond Exhaustion

To connect with Vanessa Vanderhoek, follow her on Instagram @thehealthygutnutritionist, YouTube @thehealthygutnutritionist, Facebook @thehealthygutnutritionist, and through her website www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com.

To connect with Daniel McInerney, follow him on LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/daniel-mcinerney, and through his website www.leadforward.com.au.

Keywords
Fatigue, energy, health, nutrition, functional testing, chronic fatigue, wellness, vitality, gut health, lifestyle changes
26 min
May 19, 2025Ep 8. Burnout & Cortisol: Understanding Stress Before It Breaks You
In this conversation, Vanessa Vanderhoek and Daniel McInerney delve into the complexities of burnout, chronic stress, and the role of cortisol in our health. They explore the biological underpinnings of stress, the differences between burnout and chronic fatigue, and the warning signs of high cortisol levels. Vanessa shares practical strategies for managing stress, emphasising the importance of sleep, nutrition, and self-care practices. The discussion highlights the need for awareness and proactive measures to prevent burnout and maintain overall well-being.

Learn more about the 21 Day Detox Program Vanessa runs each season (winter, spring, summer and autumn) - https://www.thehealthygutprograms.com/

To book a free Discovery Call with Vanessa – https://www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com/

The key takeaways
Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, regulated by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.
Chronic stress can lead to HPA axis dysfunction impacting cortisol levels in your body.
High cortisol can lead to various health issues.
Healthy stress can motivate, while chronic stress can harm health.
Warning signs of burnout can be subtle and often ignored.
Eating breakfast helps regulate cortisol levels.
Creating restorative practices is essential for physical and mental health.
Consistency in stress management practices is key to long-term health.
Recognising the interplay between all hormones, in particular cortisol and insulin, is crucial for well-being.

Chapters
00:00 - Understanding Cortisol and Chronic Stress
04:44 - Defining Burnout and Chronic Fatigue
07:47 - Healthy Stress vs. Harmful Burnout
11:03 - Recognizing Warning Signs of High Cortisol
16:14 - The Impact of Cortisol on Decision Making
22:22 - Practical Strategies for Stress Regulation

To connect with Vanessa Vanderhoek, follow her on Instagram @thehealthygutnutritionist, YouTube @thehealthygutnutritionist, Facebook @thehealthygutnutritionist, and through her website www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com.
To connect with Daniel McInerney, follow him on LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/daniel-mcinerney, and through his website www.leadforward.com.au.

Keywords
Burnout, cortisol, chronic stress, adrenal fatigue, mental health, wellness, stress management, high performance, health tips, lifestyle changes
31 min
May 05, 2025Ep 7. Creating Space for Yourself: The Science of Rest, Breathwork & Recharging
In this episode, Vanessa Vanderhoek and Daniel McInerney discuss the transformative power of creating space for renewal in our busy lives. They explore the importance of rest, mindfulness, and emotional regulation, sharing practical strategies for leaders to recharge and avoid burnout. The conversation delves into different leadership styles and how they impact decision-making and stress management, emphasising that self-care is not selfish, and is essential for maintaining well-being and productivity.

Download The Mindful Breathing Guide and discover the power of your breath, by Vanessa Vanderhoek (The Healthy Gut Nutritionist) - https://vanessavanderhoek.clickfunnels.com/mindfulbreathing

To learn practical tips on creating space and mindfulness, check out Daniel & Vanessa’s latest articles:
Creating Space: A Mindfulness and Recovery Ritual Reflection, by Daniel McInerney (Lead Forward) - https://www.leadforward.com.au/insights/creating-space

Breathe Better, Feel Better: The Gut-Health Benefits of Mindfulness, by Vanessa Vanderhoek (The Healthy Gut Nutritionist) - https://www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com/post/mindfulness

The key takeaways
Creating space allows for better decision-making.
Great leaders don’t just go, go, go. They create space to reflect and recharge.
Emotional regulation is crucial to avoid burnout.
Slowing down is a sign of strength, not failure.
Box breathing can help manage stress effectively.
Scheduling time for reflection is essential.
Redefining productivity means focusing on the right tasks.
Recovery rituals can enhance performance and well-being.
Understanding your leadership style helps in managing stress.
Self-care is necessary for personal and professional success.

Chapters
00:00 - The Importance of Creating Space for Renewal
10:30 - Practical Strategies for Creating Space
20:37 - Understanding Leadership Styles
32:38 - The Role of Rest in High-Demanding Roles

To connect with Vanessa Vanderhoek, follow her on Instagram @thehealthygutnutritionist, YouTube @thehealthygutnutritionist, Facebook @thehealthygutnutritionist, and through her website www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com.

To connect with Daniel McInerney, follow him on LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/daniel-mcinerney, and through his website www.leadforward.com.au.

Keywords
renewal, mindfulness, leadership, emotional regulation, burnout, breathing techniques, productivity, self-care, stress management, leadership styles
41 min
April 28, 2025Ep 6. Boundaries for a Thriving Life: Why They’re Hard & How They Impact Your Health
In this episode, Vanessa Vanderhoek and Daniel McInerney discuss the importance of setting and maintaining boundaries in various aspects of life, including work and personal relationships. They explore the challenges people face in establishing boundaries, the difference between healthy and unhealthy boundaries, and the impact of boundaries on mental and physical health. The conversation also highlights practical strategies for implementing boundaries and the role of leadership in fostering a culture of respect for personal limits.

To learn how to enhance your boundaries and assertiveness skills today, check out Daniel & Vanessa’s latest articles with practical tips:
Assertiveness: The Quiet Skill That Changes Everything, by Daniel McInerney (Lead Forward) - https://www.leadforward.com.au/insights/assertiveness

Assertiveness: A Key Ingredient for Better Health and Stronger Relationships, by Vanessa Vanderhoek (The Healthy Gut Nutritionist) - https://www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com/post/assertiveness

The key takeaways
Boundaries are essential for mental, emotional, and physical health.
Healthy boundaries allow you to prioritise your wellbeing without guilt.
Understanding the difference between healthy and unhealthy boundaries is crucial.
Leaders should model boundary-setting to create a supportive environment.
Normalising the act of saying no can empower others to do the same.
Clear communication about boundaries can prevent misunderstandings.
Setting boundaries can lead to reduced stress and improved relationships.
Self-awareness is key to identifying where boundaries are needed.
Implementing boundaries can significantly enhance overall well-being.
Practicing boundary-setting is a step towards thriving in life.

Chapters
00:00 - Understanding Boundaries: The Foundation of Well-being
07:39 - Healthy vs. Unhealthy Boundaries: Recognizing the Difference
09:59 - Overcoming Challenges: Tips for Setting Boundaries
17:47 - The Impact of Boundaries on Health and Well-being
23:59 - Practical Applications: Implementing Boundaries in Daily Life

To connect with Vanessa Vanderhoek, follow her on Instagram @thehealthygutnutritionist, YouTube @thehealthygutnutritionist, Facebook @thehealthygutnutritionist, and through her website www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com.
To connect with Daniel McInerney, follow him on LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/daniel-mcinerney, and through his website www.leadforward.com.au.

Keywords
boundaries, healthy boundaries, unhealthy boundaries, let them, let them let me, mental health, emotional health, assertiveness, personal growth, leadership, work-life balance, self-care, communication, well-being
29 min
April 21, 2025Ep 5. Assertiveness: The Power of Saying Yes, No, and Not Feeling Guilty
In this episode of Thrive Forward, Daniel McInerney and Vanessa Vanderhoek explore the essential skill of assertiveness, discussing its importance for self-respect, physical and mental health, and effective communication. They differentiate between assertiveness, passivity, and aggression, and delve into how childhood and professional experiences and cultural backgrounds influence our ability to be assertive. The conversation includes practical strategies for improving assertiveness, navigating workplace dynamics, and understanding the health implications of being assertive or passive. The episode concludes with key takeaways and encouragement to practice assertiveness in daily life.

To learn how to enhance your assertiveness today, check out Daniel & Vanessa’s latest articles with practical tips:
Assertiveness: The Quiet Skill That Changes Everything, by Daniel McInerney (Lead Forward) - https://www.leadforward.com.au/insights/assertiveness

Assertiveness: A Key Ingredient for Better Health and Stronger Relationships, by Vanessa Vanderhoek (The Healthy Gut Nutritionist) - https://www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com/post/assertiveness

The key takeaways
Assertiveness is about clarity and respect.
Cultural conditioning can hinder assertiveness.
Passive communication often leads to resentment and frustration.
Assertiveness can improve mental and physical health.
Practice saying no without guilt.
Body language plays a crucial role in assertiveness.
Understanding your values is key to assertiveness.
Conflict avoidance can lead to stress and burnout.
Small daily practices can build assertiveness skills.
Helping others develop assertiveness can change lives.

Chapters
00:00 - Understanding Assertiveness
05:00 - The Spectrum of Communication Styles
08:39 - Cultural Influences on Assertiveness
11:44 - Practical Frameworks for Assertiveness
15:35 - Navigating Workplace Dynamics
20:02 - Micro Assertions in Daily Life
24:23 - Body Language and Assertiveness
28:33 - Health Implications of Assertiveness
31:30 - Key Takeaways and Closing Thoughts

To connect with Vanessa Vanderhoek, follow her on Instagram @thehealthygutnutritionist, YouTube @thehealthygutnutritionist, Facebook @thehealthygutnutritionist, and through her website www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com.

To connect with Daniel McInerney, follow him on LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/daniel-mcinerney, and through his website www.leadforward.com.au.
34 min
April 14, 2025Ep 4. Imposter Syndrome: Why You’re More Capable Than You Think
In this episode, Vanessa Vanderhoek and Daniel McInerney delve into the complexities of imposter syndrome, exploring its psychological, social, and neurological underpinnings. They share personal experiences and practical strategies to help listeners recognise and combat self-doubt, emphasising the importance of self-awareness, coaching, and community support. The conversation highlights that imposter syndrome is common among high achievers and offers actionable insights to embrace one's capabilities and overcome feelings of inadequacy.

The key takeaways
Imposter syndrome is a common experience among high achievers.
Cognitive distortions can exacerbate feelings of self-doubt.
Understanding the psychological factors behind imposter syndrome is crucial.
Social influences, including family dynamics, play a significant role in self-perception.
Neurological aspects, such as the amygdala's response to fear, can heighten imposter syndrome.
Self-worth and self-esteem are distinct yet interconnected concepts.
Practical strategies include recognizing achievements and challenging negative thoughts.
Coaching can provide valuable support in overcoming imposter syndrome.
Embracing discomfort can lead to personal growth and confidence.
Imposter syndrome can be managed through awareness and community support.

Chapters
00:00 - Understanding Imposter Syndrome
10:50 - Personal Experiences with Imposter Syndrome
19:27 - Cognitive Distortions and Psychological Factors
28:50 - Social and Neurological Influences
38:24 - Strategies for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

To book a complimentary coaching discovery call with Dan so you can uncover what’s really driving your self-doubt and create a strategy to kick imposter syndrome in the butt, click here: https://www.leadforward.com.au/appointments

To connect with Daniel McInerney, follow him on LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/daniel-mcinerney, and through his website www.leadforward.com.au.

To connect with Vanessa Vanderhoek, follow her on Instagram @thehealthygutnutritionist, YouTube @thehealthygutnutritionist, Facebook @thehealthygutnutritionist, and through her website www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com.

To order The Imposter Cure book from Amazon, click the link: https://a.co/d/8lwGk5i

Keywords
imposter syndrome, self-doubt, high achievers, cognitive distortions, psychological factors, social influences, neurological aspects, overcoming imposter syndrome, coaching, personal development
44 min
April 07, 2025Ep 3. Health Is Wealth: Why We Normalise Symptoms That Aren’t Normal
In this episode, Vanessa Vanderhoek and Daniel McInerney discuss the normalisation of symptoms that are often brushed off as common, exploring the importance of recognising these signs as potential indicators of underlying health issues. They delve into the transition from identifying symptoms to uncovering root causes through functional medicine, emphasising the role of health literacy in empowering individuals to advocate for their own health. The conversation also covers the distinctions between integrative, functional and conventional medicine, and the significance of methylation and nutrigenomics. Finally, they speculate on the future of health systems and the integration of technology in personalised medicine.

To download the free symptom assessment, click here: https://vanessavanderhoek.clickfunnels.com/symptoms

The key takeaways
Normalising symptoms can lead to overlooking serious health issues.
Recognising the difference between common and normal symptoms is crucial.
Functional medicine focuses on identifying root causes rather than just treating symptoms.
Health literacy empowers individuals to take charge of their health.
Integrative medicine combines conventional and functional approaches for better health outcomes.
Methylation plays a key role in detoxification and energy production.
Nutrigenomics helps understand how genetics affect health and nutrition.
Technology will play a significant role in future health systems, but human interaction remains essential.
Asking the right questions is vital for uncovering the true health story.

Chapters
00:00 - Normalising Symptoms: A Common Misconception
03:30 - Understanding Root Causes of Health Issues
06:05 - The Role of Functional and Integrative Medicine
09:39 - Navigating Health Literacy and Patient Advocacy
14:20 - The Importance of Methylation and Nutrigenomics
24:12 - The Future of Health Care: Integrating Technology and Personalisation

To connect with Vanessa Vanderhoek, follow her on Instagram @thehealthygutnutritionist, YouTube @thehealthygutnutritionist, Facebook @thehealthygutnutritionist, and through her website www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com.

To connect with Daniel McInerney, follow him on LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/daniel-mcinerney, and through his website www.leadforward.com.au.

Keywords
health, wellness, functional medicine, symptoms, root causes, integrative medicine, health literacy, methylation, nutrigenomics, vitality
33 min
April 07, 2025Ep 2. The Happy High Achiever: Can You Have Success Without Sacrifice?
In this episode, Vanessa Vanderhoek and Daniel McInerney explore the relationship between success, health, and happiness. They discuss the traditional high achiever mindset and challenge the notion that success must come at the cost of personal well-being. Through personal stories and insights, they emphasise the importance of flexibility, health, and nutrition in achieving a balanced and fulfilling life. The conversation also touches on the challenges of parenting while maintaining an executive career and the need to redefine success in a way that aligns with personal values and happiness.

To order the Happy High Achiever book from Amazon, click the link: https://a.co/d/d55cPIy

The key takeaways
Success doesn't have to come at the cost of health.
Perfectionism can be detrimental; strive for excellence instead.
Flexibility is crucial for balancing work and family life.
Health is a key component of performance and success.
Nutrition plays a significant role in overall physical and mental health and wellbeing.
Redefining success involves aligning it with personal values.
High achievers often struggle with self-imposed pressure.
Mindset shifts are essential for achieving balance.
Small changes can lead to significant impacts over time.

Chapters
00:00 - The Myth of Success and Wellbeing
05:46 - Navigating Parenthood and Career
10:29 - Flexibility in Work and Life
15:02- The Importance of Health in Performance
20:56 - Nutrition and Its Impact on Success
26:08 - Redefining Success and Happiness
29:32 - The Troublesome Trifecta of Perfectionism

To connect with Vanessa Vanderhoek, follow her on Instagram @thehealthygutnutritionist, YouTube @thehealthygutnutritionist, Facebook @thehealthygutnutritionist, and through her website www.thehealthygutnutritionist.com.

To connect with Daniel McInerney, follow him on LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/daniel-mcinerney, and through his website www.leadforward.com.au.

Keywords
success, health, relationships, happiness, high achiever, perfectionism, flexibility, nutrition, performance, well-being
36 min

About The Thrive Forward Podcast

From the publisher's feed

Welcome to The Thrive Forward Podcast — where leadership and wellness intersect. Hosted by Vanessa Vanderhoek (Integrative & Functional Medicine Nutritionist) and Dan McInerney (Executive Coach, Mentor & Advisor), we explore how personal vitality fuels professional success. Each episode delivers actionable strategies and insights into holistic health, leadership growth, and thriving in today’s demanding world.

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The Thrive Forward Podcast episodes

About The Thrive Forward Podcast