The Health Coach Impact

Episode Description: In this episode, Sharon Curtain, Dietitian, health coach, Director of Accredited Health Coaching Australia, and Board Member of HCANZA, is joined by Ben Harris, Director of Policy and Research at Private Healthcare Australia, the peak body representing Australia's private health insurers. Ben shares his perspective on where health coaching fits within Australia's healthcare system and why prevention, chronic disease management, and person-centred care will play an increasingly important role in the future of healthcare. Drawing on his experience in health policy, economics, government, and the private health sector, Ben explains why Australia's healthcare system continues to focus heavily on acute care, despite growing evidence that prevention and early intervention can improve health outcomes and reduce long-term costs. We explore the challenges of funding preventative health initiatives, the limitations of a fee-for-service healthcare model, and the opportunities for health coaches to support people living with chronic conditions. Ben highlights the unique role health coaches play in helping individuals navigate barriers to change, build sustainable healthy habits, and connect health goals with what matters most in their lives. The conversation also examines the growing recognition of health coaching within private health programs, the importance of professional standards and accreditation, and the challenges of integrating health coaching into established healthcare funding models. Finally, we discuss what is needed for health coaching to become more widely recognised across Australia and New Zealand, including stronger evidence, greater public awareness, continued advocacy, and a growing workforce of professionally trained and accredited health coaches. Health Coaches Australia and New Zealand Association (HCANZA) has established the professional competencies, standards, and scope of practice for accredited health coaches across Australia and New Zealand, supporting the delivery of safe, ethical, and evidence-informed coaching that helps individuals achieve meaningful and lasting health outcomes. Guest Bio: Ben Harris Director Policy and Research at Private Healthcare Australia Greater Melbourne Area Private Healthcare Australia Ben Harris is Director of Policy and Research at Private Healthcare Australia, the peak body representing the country's private health insurance industry. An economist by training, Ben has built his career across government and the not-for-profit sector, specialising in health and social policy. In his current role, he works at the intersection of industry, government, and regulation—leveraging data, research, and academic insights to inform policy and advocate for better outcomes for both consumers and the healthcare system. He collaborates closely with government and key stakeholders to shape evidence-based solutions that strengthen the sector. Ben is also the author of several policy papers, including Is Medicare Fair? and Australia's Mental and Physical Health Tracker, reflecting his ongoing contribution to national conversations around healthcare policy and reform. How to get in touch with HCANZA Facebook HCANZA Exclusive Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hcanzaexclusiveaccess Facebook HCANZA Page: https://www.facebook.com/HCANZA/ Linkedin HCANZA PAge: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hcanza Youtube HCANZA Page: https://www.youtube.com/@HCANZA Instagram HCANZA Page: https://www.instagram.com/hcanza.healthcoaches Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hcanza How to get in touch with the guest: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ben-harris-pha

Episode Description: How visible are you as a health coach — and more importantly, how easily can you be found? In this episode of The Health Coach Impact, we're joined by Sue Ellson, LinkedIn specialist, author, educator, and early adopter of the platform since 2003. Sue shares practical, strategic insights into how health coaches can use LinkedIn to strengthen professional credibility, improve searchability, and build long-term visibility in a deliberate and sustainable way. We explore what makes LinkedIn different from other social media platforms, why optimising your profile is essential, and how newsletters, articles, events, and thoughtful engagement can help you grow influence without becoming "salesy." Sue also breaks down the difference between personal profiles and company pages, how to systemise your presence (without automating), and why professional visibility is about relationships, not quick pitches. Whether you're newly accredited, building your private practice, or refining your professional footprint, this episode offers practical guidance to help you be seen, trusted, and found — with clarity and confidence. Guest Bio: Sue Ellson is an Independent LinkedIn Specialist, author, educator, practitioner and consultant. She is also a gigster, a person who uses technology to attract aligned gigs and a former banker. Sue provides teaching, training, speaking and consulting services to individuals, small, medium and large businesses, corporates, schools, universities, associations and government in Australia and overseas. She is the author of five non-fiction books on the topics of LinkedIn, Careers, Business, Hyper Local Marketing and Gigsters. Sue is also the Founder of Newcomers Network and has been featured in over 1,000 publications and 135+ appearances on television, radio, podcasts and audio shows. Resources: How to get in touch with Sue: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sueellson Website: https://sueellson.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/sueellson2 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sueellson Substack: https://substack.com/@sueellson TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sueellson YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sueellson X / Twitter: https://x.com/sueellson Sign up to her free monthly newsletter at https://sueellson.com/newsletters View free webinar slides and recordings at https://sueellson.com/webinars-and-recordings Learn more about her services and pricing at https://sueellson.com/services-and-pricing Contact her via https://sueellson.com/contact How to get in touch with HCANZA: Facebook HCANZA Exclusive Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hcanzaexclusiveaccess Facebook HCANZA Page: https://www.facebook.com/HCANZA/ LinkedIn HCANZA Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hcanza Youtube HCANZA Page: https://www.youtube.com/@HCANZA Instagram HCANZA Page: https://www.instagram.com/hcanza.healthcoaches Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hcanza

Supervision and mentoring aren't about checking up—they're about tuning in. In this episode, we're joined by Sharon Tomkins, NZ-based health coach, supervisor, and HCANZA board director, to explore how reflective practice helps coaches think better, act better, and feel more resourced. We break down the difference between mentoring and supervision, what's required to become a mentor or supervisor, and why HCANZA is aligning with global standards (ICF, EMCC, UKIHCA) to embed reflective support into our professional development model. Whether you're a seasoned coach or just starting out, this episode offers insight into how supervision strengthens ethics, protects your well-being, and supports client safety. Guest Bio: Sharon Tomkins is a New Zealand-based Health & Executive Wellness Coach, Supervisor, and HCANZA Board Director (NZ Coach Representative). She advocates for reflective practice, ethical maturity, and professional care across the coaching sector. Sharon has contributed to the development of HCANZA's Supervision and Mentoring Guidelines (2024–25), helping shape standards that balance professionalism with heart. Through her practice, ZEAL Coaching & Supervision, she supports coaches and health professionals to flourish personally and professionally — embracing growth, integrity, and wellbeing. She is committed to helping more coaches train as supervisors and mentors, aligning HCANZA with international best practice from ICF, EMCC Global, and UKIHCA. Resources How to get in touch with HCANZA Facebook HCANZA Exclusive Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hcanzaexclusiveaccess Facebook HCANZA Page: https://www.facebook.com/HCANZA/ LinkedIn HCANZA Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hcanza Youtube HCANZA Page: https://www.youtube.com/@HCANZA Instagram HCANZA Page: https://www.instagram.com/hcanza.healthcoaches Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hcanza How to get in touch with the guest: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharontomkinscoaching/ Website: https://www.zealcoaching.co.nz/supervision/ Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharontomkinscoaching/ How to get in touch with the guest Get in touch with Sharon via email sharon@zealcoaching.co.nz

In this episode of The Health Coach Impact, we go straight to the source with two incredible leaders who have helped shape the future of health coaching in our region. Linda Funnell-Milner, Chair and Co-Founder of HCANZA, shares her journey from corporate executive and political lobbyist to health practitioner and visionary leader. With degrees in Law and Education, an Advanced Diploma in Nutritional Medicine, a Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy, and health coaching certification from the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy, Linda brings a powerful combination of skills and experience to HCANZA's mission. She has held governance and leadership roles with nonprofit boards, including the UN-sponsored GRI Stakeholder Council and the Australasian Integrative Medicine Association, making her a strong voice for professional standards and advocacy. Joining Linda is Samantha McBride, Men's Performance, Wellbeing and Mental Fitness Coach, Human Physiologist, rural advocate, and founder of the Men's Muster Fiordland and liveMEwell. With an Honours Degree in Human Physiology and a passion for serving remote and underserved communities, Samantha is dedicated to helping men access the tools, knowledge, and confidence they need to improve their health and wellbeing. Her unique focus on male-oriented wellness programs and rural community engagement brings fresh insight into how health coaching can make a real difference. Together, they share: The founding story of HCANZA and the vision behind it Why accreditation standards are critical for professional credibility and public trust How advocacy ensures health coaches have a strong voice in healthcare Ways members can get involved and shape the future of the profession If you're a health coach looking to elevate your practice, connect with peers, and be part of something bigger, this episode is your perfect starting point. Connect with us on social media for more insights, updates, and to be part of our vibrant community: Facebook HCANZA Exclusive Group: www.facebook.com/groups/hcanzaexclusiveaccess Facebook HCANZA Open Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hcanza Facebook HCANZA Page: https://www.facebook.com/HCANZA/ LinkedIn HCANZA Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hcanza YouTube HCANZA Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@healthcoachesaustralianewz9122 Follow us, join the conversation, and stay connected with the health coaching community making an impact!