Why do some clients suddenly disappear—even when they’re paying for coaching? The answer lies deeper than you think. 

Michelle MacDonald sits down with Dr. Kasey Jo Orvidas, Ph.D. in Psychology and expert in behavior change, to uncover the real reasons why clients ghost their coaches. From mindset shifts and discomfort avoidance to better expectation-setting and behavior-based communication tools, this conversation dives into the psychology of coaching that actually creates long-term change. Whether you're a health coach, fitness trainer, or someone invested in Women’s Health and Fitness, this episode reveals essential strategies to foster accountability, build trust, and support sustainable personal growth. Get ready for real talk, practical tools, and inspiration to level up your coaching impact.

Favorite Moments:

• 5:27 "You're Paying Me Big Bucks—Get Your Piece of the Pie!"
• 10:39 The 10-Minute Call That Can Reignite Client Engagement
• 19:38 Why Knowledge Alone Doesn’t Change Behavior
• 46:12 You're Not Broken: Mindset Reframes for Women in Midlife

“You’re not broken—you’re just you now.”

GUEST: KASEY JO ORVIDAS 

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Full Guest Bio:
Kasey holds a Ph.D. in Psychology and is a certified health and fitness coach. She has spent a good chunk of her life developing some serious expertise in mindset and health behavior change. She has racked up numerous publications in a variety of peer-reviewed scientific journals (aka you can Google scholar her name and even cite her research in APA format for your high school paper–wow!). Although Kasey is no longer tethered to the chains of an academic career (if you know, you know), she still can’t quite break free from the lure of p-values and scientific jargon. Knowing that most (normal) people aren’t obsessed enough to get a Ph.D. in this stuff, Kasey created The Health Mindset Coaching Certification.

CONNECT WITH MICHELLE

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Full Michelle Bio:
Michelle MacDonald is the creator of the FITNESS MODEL BLUEPRINT™ and host of the Stronger By Design™ podcast. Known globally for her transformation programs, Michelle empowers women to redefine aging through evidence-based strength training, nutrition, and mindset practices. Since 2012, she has coached thousands of women online, leveraging her expertise as a Physique Champion and ISSA Strength and Conditioning Specialist. She co-founded Tulum Strength Club and established The Wonder Women (TWW), inspiring countless transformations including her mother, Joan MacDonald (Train With Joan™). Michelle continues to lead the charge in women's fitness, launching the Stronger by Design™ fitness app in fall 2024.

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