When a Staff Sergeant's Wisdom Changed Everything
Picture this: You're a young British Army lieutenant in the Iraqi desert during Gulf War II. You're exhausted, running on fumes, convinced you need to be the perfect officer—super fit, awake longer than everyone else, with all the answers at your fingertips. Then your staff sergeant, a veteran with 15 years of experience, pulls you aside.
"Sir, with all due respect," he says, "your job is to make the decisions. Our job is to give you the information."
For Jimmy Burroughes, that moment was a revelation that would shape not just his military career, but his entire approach to leadership—and ultimately, his mission to help thousands of leaders worldwide reclaim their time, energy, and strategic focus.
The Accidental Warrior
Jimmy didn't set out to become a military officer. With a degree in tropical medicine, he was still figuring out his professional direction when the military called. Having enjoyed his time in the Officer Training Corps at university, he thought it would be "a great way to see the world, do lots of adventure training, have lots of dinner nights, make lots of friends."
"There was nothing really going on in the world when I joined up," Jimmy recalls with a wry smile. "And by the end of my training, we were in the midst of the Second Gulf War."
His first assignment? Leading soldiers in what he describes as "essentially a supermarket on demand in the middle of the desert"—coordinating military logistics in Kuwait and Iraq. Those six years would prove transformative, teaching him lessons about leadership, resilience, and what it truly means to operate under pressure.
The Expert Trap: Why Great Individual Contributors Struggle as Leaders
The lesson from Staff Sergeant Dobbs cut through Jimmy's beliefs about leadership like a knife. He was holding onto a dangerous misconception that many high-performers carry with them as they advance: the belief that you need to be the expert in everything.
"It works when you're an individual contributor, and it kind of works when you're a manager," Jimmy explains, "but when you move into managing managers and leadership roles, it doesn't work anymore. Actually, it's one of the quickest routes to burnout—you being at the center of everything."
This realization became the foundation of Jimmy's work today. Now, as a Fortune 500 leadership expert and developer of the "Simplify to Amplify" methodology, he's transformed over 3,000 leaders across 20+ countries. His clients include some of the world's largest enterprises—Bank of America, Bank of New Zealand, and many others.
But at its core, his message is beautifully simple: Your job as a leader is to make decisions, not to have all the answers.
What Resilience Really Means: It's Not About Bending—It's About Removing the Weight
When we think of resilience, we often imagine bending under pressure, bouncing back, or toughing it out. But Jimmy's approach is fundamentally different. True resilience, he argues, isn't about becoming stronger to carry more weight—it's about removing the unnecessary weight entirely.
"Leaders don't need more resilience training to carry more load," Jimmy says. "They need operational friction removal to reduce the load in the first place."
This philosophy is captured in what he calls "operational friction"—all the unnecessary complexity, unclear expectations, duplicate work, and inefficient processes that drain leaders of time and energy. By systematically identifying and eliminating these friction points, leaders don't just survive; they amplify their performance by an average of 47% in just 90 days.
It's resilience through intelligent simplification, not through gritting your teeth harder.
The Five Operational Frictions That Drain 6+ Hours Weekly
Through his work with thousands of leaders, Jimmy has identified five core operational frictions that consistently rob managers of managers of valuable time:
By systematically addressing these five areas, Jimmy helps senior leaders reclaim 6+ hours per week—time that can be redirected toward strategic thinking, team development, and the high-value work that actually moves the needle.
The Calendar is Your Life: Designing Days Around Energy, Not Time
One of the most practical pieces of wisdom Jimmy shares is how to structure your day for maximum effectiveness. The key? Plan your day around your energy, not your time.
"Tackle the hard tasks when you're clear and agile," Jimmy advises. "Leave the administrative tasks or the basic tasks till you've got a little bit less energy."
He recommends allocating two 90-minute or three 60-minute deep work windows—and here's the critical part—before you even turn your emails on. Get that important strategic work done first, when your mind is fresh and focused.
"When you're feeling really overloaded, everything feels out of control," Jimmy acknowledges. But by taking control of your calendar and protecting time for deep work, you create islands of clarity in the chaos.
The HEART Principle: Help as an Antidote to Overwhelm
When I asked Jimmy what advice he'd give to someone feeling overwhelmed right now—whether by work, health challenges, or just life—his answer was both surprising and profound.
"The first piece of friction that you can control is asking for or giving help," he says.
He teaches a mnemonic called HEART, where the H stands for Help. But here's where it gets interesting: help works in both directions.
Asking for Help
"A problem shared is a problem halved. You get a second perspective, you get a sounding board. And often, when you're in the middle of it, you can't see it."
There's wisdom in recognizing that we all have blind spots, especially when we're overwhelmed. It's easy to coach someone else on their problems, but incredibly difficult to see our own clearly. Asking for help isn't weakness—it's strategic clarity.
Giving Help
But perhaps even more powerful is the act of giving help when you're struggling yourself.
"There's this beautiful neurochemical pattern that happens when you're giving help to people," Jimmy explains. "When you're volunteering, when you're being charitable, when you're helping somebody else walk the dog, when you're helping a child learn—it creates this incredible oxytocin response, which is the connecting and loving chemical. It also creates a beautiful dopamine and serotonin response...
When someone who calls themselves 'The Energy Coach' admits to burning out, it carries weight. Rich Ellis doesn't just teach energy management from theory—he speaks from the hard-earned wisdom of someone who normalised working long days, over-relying on coffee, and burning the candle at both ends until a cortisol test showed his daily levels at just 10% of where they should be.
In our recent podcast conversation, Rich shared insights that perfectly align with the principles of our philosophy at Bend Like Bamboo, revealing why true leadership strength comes not from pushing through, but from learning to bend without breaking.
The Wake-Up Call: When Data Meets Reality
"I was burning the candle at both ends, in a good way, but a naive way," Rich reflected. The wake-up call came through numbers—something this self-described "data kind of guy" couldn't ignore. His cortisol test results were a reality check that forced him to reverse-engineer how he'd gotten to that point.
One of his earliest signs was an over-reliance on coffee. When someone asked him what his natural energy levels were like, he realised he didn't know—he couldn't remember the last time he'd operated without caffeine support. That moment of recognition led him to experiment with weaning himself off coffee through decaf, eventually discovering herbal teas and understanding just how depleted his natural energy reserves had become.
The irritability followed—becoming snappy, having a short fuse, and frankly, not being very nice to be around. These weren't just personality quirks; they were symptoms of a system running on empty.
The Intersection of Energy and Resilience
During our conversation, we explored how energy management and resilience building work together. As Rich explained, when you're already stressed and throwing multiple cups of coffee into your system daily, you're firing up adrenaline and cortisol—your stress response systems. For someone already operating in a high-stress state, this can push you over the edge.
Rich's approach aligns beautifully with the Bend Like Bamboo philosophy: instead of forcing our way through with sheer willpower, there's a different kind of strength available. A strength that comes from understanding what our bodies and minds need to perform sustainably.
Small Changes, Massive Impact: The Blood Pressure Story
One of Rich's most compelling success stories involved working with a dairy company startup where he helped an employee drop their blood pressure from 140/90 to 110/70. The transformation didn't come from dramatic lifestyle overhauls—it came from identifying and addressing specific lifestyle factors.
Through careful questioning and building trust, Rich discovered this person was consuming high amounts of sugar, under sleeping, hitting the gym twice a day (thinking more was better, when overdoing it can push someone further into a stress response), and had an unaddressed dairy sensitivity. The solution wasn't to do more—it was to do less, but more strategically.
They addressed the dairy sensitivity, reduced the excessive gym sessions (recognising that too much exercise when already stressed drives cortisol higher), and focused on better sleep quality. As these small changes compounded, the need for extra coffee decreased naturally, and the blood pressure dropped significantly.
"The doctor had said, 'I've never seen it this low before,'" Rich shared. The client was thrilled, and importantly, they volunteered the testimonial—Rich didn't need to ask for it.
From FOMO to JOMO: A Leadership Mindset Revolution
One of the most powerful concepts Rich shared was transforming FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) into JOMO (Joy of Missing Out). For driven leaders constantly worried about missing opportunities, this mindset shift is revolutionary.
JOMO isn't about becoming complacent—it's about becoming strategic. It's the ability to say "No, I can't come to that party because I'm doing something else" and being genuinely comfortable with that choice. You're buying yourself time, calm, and the recognition that you don't have to do all the things.
This concept perfectly embodies what we teach in Bend Like Bamboo: true strength comes from knowing when to bend and when to stand firm. Leaders who embrace JOMO aren't missing out—they're conserving their energy for what truly matters.
The Values Conflict: Understanding Internal Tension
Rich recently qualified as a personal values coach, adding another layer to his toolkit. Through this work, he discovered something profound about his own internal landscape: he has two values that directly oppose each other, creating natural internal conflict.
"Sometimes I'm driven by this, and sometimes I'm driven by that, but they're quite opposite to each other," he explained. This internal conflict isn't just personal—it happens in teams and organisations too, and when you're constantly butting up against values you can't align with, it can be a direct path to burnout.
This insight connects directly to our work in resilience coaching. Often, the stress we experience isn't just from external pressures—it's from internal conflicts between what we think we should do and what we value or need.
Building High-Energy Cultures
Rich's work extends beyond individual transformation to organisational culture. Using tools like the Maori health model Te Whare Tapa Whā, which has four pillars—spiritual health, physical health, mental health, and family/community—he helps teams understand that if one pillar isn't strong, the whole structure suffers.
His approach is beautifully client driven. "I don't know their life, they know their life. They are the expert of their life," he explains. His role as a coach is asking the right questions to help people identify what they're prepared to do to make meaningful changes.
The Power of Slowing Down
One of Rich's most personal revelations was discovering that yoga became his friend—ironic, considering his mother was a yoga teacher. But like many high achievers, he'd initially dismissed anything that looked like slowing down.
"As to what you just referred to, Amanda, in terms of slowing down can be the most useful thing. That was one of the key components to my recovery, was to do two yoga sessions a week for a considerable amount of time," he shared.
The Transformation Story: Trish's Journey
Rich shared a detailed case study of his first official coaching client, Trish—a bookkeeper/accountant who was managing her own business while going through a divorce and raising two kids. She was caught in the classic entrepreneurial trap: always on the treadmill, trying to catch up with clients, never feeling in control.
Rich helped Trish move from burnout to balance. The solution involved a shift in mindset that led to her bringing in more contractors so she could delegate work, addressing the background stress of always feeling behind, and finding a sustainable work-life integration.
"We got to the place where she felt on top of things," Rich recalled. Trish found her energy again, entered a new relationship, and created a profitable business that didn't consume her life. "It was really rewarding for me, because it was like, yes, pat on the back, you've done all the right things, Rich."
The One Thing Philosophy
When I asked Rich for...
In a world where traditional personality tests tell you which box you fit into, what if there was a tool that helped you discover your unique creative identity—one so individual that the chance of anyone else sharing your exact profile is virtually zero?
I recently had the privilege of hosting Lisa Johnson, founder of The Elements Kit, on the Bend Like Bamboo Resilience Podcast. Lisa's journey perfectly embodies what it means to bend like bamboo—transforming her own periods of uncertainty and feeling stuck into a revolutionary self-discovery system that's changing how people understand their authentic selves and unlock their hidden potential.
Beyond Traditional Personality Tests
Having worked as a design consultant for years, Lisa experienced firsthand the limitations of traditional psychometric tests like Myers-Briggs and StrengthsFinder. Whilst these tools categorise people into fixed types, Lisa observed something concerning. People struggled to remember their results, often received different outcomes each time, and felt constrained by rigid categorisation.
"What I was learning is that in that idea of really typecasting into those 16 types, people found it very challenging to remember the actual coding for themselves," Lisa explains. "Many people were experiencing getting a different result each time, which is not supposed to happen."
This realisation sparked Lisa's mission to create something fundamentally different—a tool that guides individuals to discover their own one-of-a-kind creative identity rather than fitting them into predetermined boxes.
The Power of Archetypes in Leadership
The Elements Kit combines the ancient wisdom of archetypes with modern self-discovery methodology. Archetypes—recurring patterns of characters found in stories across cultures and time periods—serve as powerful metaphors for human behaviour. We use archetypal language daily: calling someone "an angel" to describe benevolent behaviour or recognising the "warrior" energy in a determined colleague.
What makes Lisa's approach revolutionary is how it maps these archetypes across six distinct life elements:
My Personal Elements Kit Journey
As someone who has personally experienced The Elements Kit, I can attest to its transformative power. My discovery chart revealed fascinating insights about my creative DNA:
What struck me most was how the chart revealed both my Yang energy—the driving, entrepreneurial, challenge-the-status-quo aspects—alongside my Yin energy—the gentle, intuitive, healing qualities. Understanding this dynamic has been invaluable in recognising when to lean into different aspects of myself depending on the situation.
For instance, in a strategic business meeting, I might consciously access my Strategist and Challenger archetypes whilst allowing my Mystic to take a backseat. Conversely, when working with clients in my healing practice, I might lead with my Intuitive and Healer whilst my Entrepreneur supports from behind the scenes.
Transforming Teams and Organisations
Beyond individual discovery, The Elements Kit is revolutionising how teams work together. Lisa works with organisations through one-day workshops where team members complete their discovery charts together, sharing their authentic selves in a safe, guided environment.
"By the time you get to the end of a workshop, not only do people know each other fully and wholly, but they also have worked out how to use other tools in the elements kit to assemble each individual around whatever the team goals are," Lisa shares.
This approach is particularly powerful for teams with members spread across Australia, often meeting face-to-face for the first time. The process creates deep connection and understanding whilst aligning everyone around concrete business objectives and KPIs.
Uncovering Hidden Potential
One of the most profound aspects of The Elements Kit is its ability to reveal dormant potential—talents and qualities that may have been repressed through trauma, limiting beliefs, or societal conditioning.
Lisa shared a powerful transformation story of working with a 21-year-old autistic man who had lost confidence in himself whilst working in an unsuitable role. Through his Elements Kit discovery, he was able to understand and embrace his unique talents and archetypes, leading to a new role that brought him major fulfilment.
"This is very much about who are you in your own eyes, on your own terms, and what are the things that are not yet expressed within you that you want to bring to the fore," Lisa explains.
The Shadow and the Light
Like bamboo that needs both deep roots and flexible branches, The Elements Kit acknowledges that we all have shadow aspects alongside our strengths. Each archetype has a light side and a shadow side. For example, the Challenger archetype that helped me overcome my MS diagnosis and refuse to accept limitations can become problematic when it shows up as being overly argumentative or disruptive.
The key is developing awareness of when our archetypes are serving us versus when they're creating conflict—with ourselves, our teams, or our goals.
A Return to Self
As Lisa beautifully puts it, "The Elements Kit is a return to self—it's knowing what to let go of and knowing a way forward. It's understanding dormant potential that is often repressed from trauma or difficult times. It's discovering unseen treasure."
This philosophy aligns perfectly with the Bend Like Bamboo approach to resilience. When we understand our authentic creative DNA, we can navigate life's challenges with greater flexibility whilst remaining anchored in our core strengths and values.
Resilience Through Self-Knowledge
True resilience—the ability to bend like bamboo—comes from deep self-knowledge. When you understand your unique combination of archetypes, you can:
As Lisa wisely notes, "To know yourself is the key to designing a life that you love."
Moving Forward
Whether you're a leader seeking to optimise team dynamics, an individual navigating a life transition, or someone simply curious about your creative potential, The Elements Kit offers a pathway to profound self-discovery and authentic expression.
In our conversation, Lisa and I ...
What if your mindset could change your biology?
This isn't just a philosophical question—it's the foundation of everything I've discovered about healing, resilience, and sustainable success. My journey from MS diagnosis at 24 to paralysis at 29, and ultimately to becoming a thriving CEO with 16 years in remission, has taught me that our greatest challenges often become our most powerful strengths.
The Breaking Point
As a driven leader, I thought I had it all figured out. I was ambitious, hardworking, and determined to succeed. But beneath the surface, I was completely disconnected from my centre, pushing through chronic stress, chasing success but never truly achieving my goals.
Sound familiar?
I desperately wanted to feel better physically and emotionally, to thrive at work and in life. But my reality kept mirroring the struggle. Despite having all the right intentions and trying so hard, I wasn't attracting what I desired. My nervous system simply couldn't hold centre, leaving me feeling powerless and trapped in cycles of overwhelm.
Then life forced me to completely stop.
The Moment Everything Changed
Paralysed in rehabilitation, unable to walk, wash, or feed myself, I was told I'd probably never walk again. In that moment of complete helplessness, I had no choice but to return to myself and anchor deep within my heart.
It was here, in my darkest hour, that I discovered what would become the Bend Like Bamboo Method.
Learning to Bend, Not Break
I had to learn to bend like bamboo—grounding deeper mentally, emotionally, and energetically. This wasn't about positive thinking or pushing through pain. It was about discovering a different kind of strength entirely: the power of flexibility.
Bamboo survives the fiercest storms not because it's rigid, but because it bends. When the winds of life threaten to break us, we have a choice: resist and snap, or bend and bounce back stronger.
The Birth of a Method
Through my recovery journey, I discovered that transformation happens when we:
Transform limiting beliefs that sabotage success The stories we tell ourselves about what's possible directly impact our biology. When we shift from rigid thinking to flexible possibility, our entire system begins to change.
Reset our nervous system to break through overwhelm Chronic stress keeps us trapped in survival mode. Learning to regulate our nervous system allows us to access the calm, centred state where healing and success naturally occur.
Find courage to navigate impossible challenges True courage isn't the absence of fear—it's learning to dance with uncertainty while staying grounded in our core strength.
Access the inner power to reimagine our leadership and life When we stop trying to control everything and start flowing with life's natural rhythms, we discover a power within us that's been there all along.
From Patient to Practitioner
My journey from disconnection and burnout to discovering the resilience that drives sustainable success didn't end with my personal healing. It became my life's work.
Today, as both practitioner and patient, I help thousands of clients globally—stressed executives, burnt-out founders, and individuals navigating autoimmune conditions—discover their own capacity to bend without breaking.
The Ripple Effect
What started as a personal survival strategy has become a method that's transforming lives worldwide. The Bend Like Bamboo Method isn't just about healing from illness—it's about fundamentally changing how we approach stress, challenge, and change in every area of our lives.
Whether you're facing health challenges, leadership pressures, or simply feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, the principle remains the same: we're designed to bend, not break.
Connect with Matt Rowe
Website: www.mattrowecoaching.com
Instagram: @identityofhealth
Facebook: www.facebook.com/identityofhealth
Work with Amanda
If interstate or international :
Call us on 1300 188 882 or email hello@amandacampbell.com.au to find out how to book in for online coaching if you are outside of Melbourne / International.
Speaking:
Amanda presents her wellness workshops and keynotes virtually, live on zoom.
To book Amanda to speak at your event or workplace please contact:
www.amandacampbell.com.au
hello@amandacampbell.com.au
1300 188 882
Facebook: www.facebook.com/amandacampbellspeaker
Instagram : www.instagram.com/amandacampbell_speaker
Twitter: twitter.com/AmandaC_health
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/amandacampbellau
Blog: www.amandacampbell.com.au/blog
Podcast: Bend Like Bamboo on Itunes
Online course: https://bendlikebamboo.teachable.com/courses/
Bend Like Bamboo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BendLikeBamboo
Instagram : www.instagram.com/bendlikebamboo
Building Teams That Thrive: Carmen Williams on Scaling with Heart
What struck me immediately was Carmen's genuine spirit and her commitment to always finding new strategies – which, as you'll hear, has been essential to her incredible journey.
Resilience is a lived experience, and few embody it as authentically as Carmen Williams.
At just 30, Carmen's life was turned upside down when her mother was diagnosed with a terminal illness. Carmen then made the audacious decision to quit her secure job and launch a new business all whilst caring for her sick mother, raising two young children, and managing a mortgage.
As a scientist by background, for years Carmen relied solely on logic and analysis. But as she navigated uncharted territory, she discovered the power of intuition.
Carmen's approach to resilience is refreshingly honest. In the podcast, she shares how she learnt to trust her gut and how that newfound intuition became her compass through uncertainties and decisions when logic alone couldn't provide the answers. She discovered the need to take space and be gentle with herself before reaching that point of paralysis, blending rest and recovery into her strategy for moving forward, not just pushing through relentlessly.
Movement and breathwork, she found, has been her anchor—a way to process stress and regain clarity.
Carmen's Resilience Tools: Her practical approach centres on reserving your energy for what matters in your day. When in doubt, she suggests asking yourself: "What's the worst-case scenario here? Can I deal with it?" Whether it's a "no" or a rejection, don't make it personal—it's not about you. Her philosophy combines being kind to yourself whilst taking action.
Carmen, in her early days of cold-calling CEOs, learnt that a "no" is just a "no." It doesn't define your worth or your potential. By reframing potential rejections as simple outcomes, rather than personal failures, she detached her identity from the results. This enabled her to continue, to knock on more doors, and ultimately, to build a thriving enterprise.
Carmen's LinkedIn Marketing Strategy: Her approach to LinkedIn is refreshingly authentic: connect to the right people, don't sell, offer content that's valuable and genuinely real. Like any platform, your goal is to get people off the app and onto your email list. It's about building relationships, not pushing services.
Global Teams is a revolutionary virtual assistant company that's changing how entrepreneurs scale their businesses.
Perhaps the most inspiring aspect of Global Teams is the philosophy of care and connection extending deeply into the business. This is manifested through her partnership with Maureen, together they have created what they call "Love Teams"—a unique support system that Global Teams offers to both clients and VAs, helping them to optimise communication and performance as they support each other to growing together. They believe that happy people achieve good results, which has transformed how businesses approach virtual support.
Carmen shared a truly moving story about a virtual assistant whose work with Global Teams provided her with the financial independence and confidence to leave a difficult situation and build a new, empowered life for herself and her children. This highlights the powerful ripple effect of building businesses rooted in empathy and care—it's not just about transactions; it's about transformation and collective healing.
Global Teams stands as a testament to Carmen's belief in value-driven connection.
The business thrives on real relationships, not hard sells. Her journey is proof that when you lead with care and authenticity, you create a ripple effect of resilience and healing—not just for yourself, but for everyone around you.
Connect with Carmen
Visit: globalteams.com.au
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmenwilliamsau
Work with Amanda
If interstate or international :
Call us on 1300 188 882 or email hello@amandacampbell.com.au to find out how to book in for online coaching if you are outside of Melbourne / International.
Speaking:
Amanda presents her wellness workshops and keynotes virtually, live on zoom.
To book Amanda to speak at your event or workplace please contact:
www.amandacampbell.com.au
hello@amandacampbell.com.au
1300 188 882
Facebook: www.facebook.com/amandacampbellspeaker
Instagram : www.instagram.com/amandacampbell_speaker
Twitter: twitter.com/AmandaC_health
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/amandacampbellau
Blog: www.amandacampbell.com.au/blog
Podcast: Bend Like Bamboo on Itunes
Online course: https://bendlikebamboo.teachable.com/courses/
Bend Like Bamboo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BendLikeBamboo
Instagram : www.instagram.com/bendlikebamboo
The Journey of a Warrior
Kijuan's story begins in Durham, NC, where his path to resilience was forged early. After graduating from Southern High School, he dedicated a decade to serving in the US Air Force, rising to the rank of Staff Sergeant as an In-flight Refueling Specialist. His military career taught him discipline and mental toughness—skills that would later become crucial in his most challenging battle.
"In the military I learned to suck it up buttercup," Kijuan reflected during our conversation. "It showed me what I was made of and how far I could push myself."
When Life Changes in an Instant
On May 5th, 2017, everything changed. A devastating motorcycle accident left Kijuan fighting for his life. He spent 1-2 months in a coma, underwent multiple surgeries from head to toe, and experienced internal bleeding. When he finally regained consciousness, he discovered he had lost his eyesight. His face was crushed, his jaw broken and wired shut—leaving him unable to speak or see.
"I panicked due to the lack of my ability to communicate," Kijuan shared. "This was my rock bottom."
The once-independent military professional could not bathe or feed himself. "When I could not bathe or feed myself, I was humbled," he admits. It was a profound lesson in vulnerability that would reshape his entire perspective.
Finding Light in Darkness
What makes Kijuan's story so powerful isn't just what happened to him—it's what he did next.
"My turning point was getting out of my head," he explained. "I had many thoughts constantly going in my head."
The road to recovery wasn't travelled alone. Kijuan emphasised the incredible support system that rallied around him. His family stood by him, and his military colleagues demonstrated extraordinary solidarity. In one touching example, when Kijuan needed to vacate his rental home, 15 soldiers arrived and moved his entire household in just 30 minutes.
"Incredible how they pulled together to help me," Kijuan remarked, the gratitude evident in his voice.
Real Talk About Resilience
During our conversation, Kijuan provided a refreshingly honest definition of resilience: "Resilience is how we bounce back literally, emotionally, and physically. The harder part can be the mental component."
His advice comes from lived experience and cuts through the usual platitudes:
Kijuan addressed head-on the barriers that often prevent people, especially veterans, from seeking mental health support: "What stops us? Pride, shame, and the stigma that mental health is weakness, and we can be looked at differently when we have challenges here."
The gravity of this reluctance to seek help is underscored by a sobering statistic he shared: "There are 22+ active and veteran soldiers committing suicide a day."
Transformation Through Authenticity
Through his darkest moments, Kijuan discovered unexpected gifts. While he lost a relationship during his recovery, he has since found "a much better, authentic relationship" with his new partner. He speaks highly of his "amazing therapist", who helps him develop strategies to move forward.
As Kijuan powerfully states: "I may have lost my sight, but I did not lose my vision."
The Catalyst for Change
Today, Kijuan serves as the former vice president for the Carolina regional group of the Blinded Veterans Association and as a mentor and ambassador for the Air Force Wounded Warriors program. He's founded Amey Motivation LLC and is preparing to release his book, "Don't Focus on Why Me."
With 25 years of drumming expertise and experience in on-stage acting, Kijuan brings creativity and dynamism to his role as a motivational speaker. Whether he's addressing crowds of 1,500 or working one-on-one, his message resonates deeply because it comes from authentic experience.
Kijuan Amey isn't just telling others how to overcome adversity—he's living proof that it's possible to bend without breaking, to find new purpose amid devastating loss, and to transform personal pain into a mission that serves others.
Connect with Kijuan
Visit: www.ameymotivation.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/kijuanamey
Instagram: www.instagram.com/kijuanamey
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kijuan-amey-783889121
Work with Amanda
If interstate or international :
Call us on 1300 188 882 or email hello@amandacampbell.com.au to find out how to book in for online coaching if you are outside of Melbourne / International.
Speaking:
Amanda presents her wellness workshops and keynotes virtually, live on zoom.
To book Amanda to speak at your event or workplace please contact:
www.amandacampbell.com.au
hello@amandacampbell.com.au
1300 188 882
Facebook: www.facebook.com/amandacampbellspeaker
Instagram : www.instagram.com/amandacampbell_speaker
Twitter: twitter.com/AmandaC_health
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/amandacampbellau
Blog: www.amandacampbell.com.au/blog
Podcast: Bend Like Bamboo on Itunes
Online course: https://bendlikebamboo.teachable.com/courses/
Bend Like Bamboo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BendLikeBamboo
Instagram : www.instagram.com/bendlikebamboo
Discovering the Connection Between Style and Inner Strength.
In this month’s episode, I enjoyed speaking with Jane Vandermeer, a Luxury Style and image Strategist with over 30 years of experience in the fashion and styling industry. As the founder of Finesse Your Style, Jane brings a unique perspective that blends her design background with aristocratic elegance to help women stand out confidently in any setting.
What makes Jane's approach special is her belief that styling is "an immediate way to implement meaningful change in one's life, fostering self-worth and embodying confidence on your path forward." Throughout our conversation, she shared how her journey through fashion capitals like New York, Paris, and Milan has shaped this innovative approach to styling.
Style as a Tool for Resilience
When we discussed resilience, Jane offered a fresh perspective that challenges the common "bounce back" mentality. She views resilience as something we can cultivate proactively through intentional choices, including how we present ourselves.
"Your external presentation isn't separate from your internal state—they're in constant conversation with each other," Jane explained. "When you dress in alignment with your authentic self, you reinforce your inner strength and create a positive feedback loop."
This resonated deeply with me, as I've seen in my work how physical changes can catalyse emotional transformation. Jane shared several practical approaches she uses with clients to build resilience through style:
The Mind-Body-Style Connection
Jane has observed firsthand how women's self-talk about their bodies impacts their confidence. "The first thing that came out of their mouths was apologising for their bodies," she noted about many of her clients. "How they see themselves and how I see them is often very different."
Her approach goes beyond traditional styling: "Traditional styling is about the external... but I knew part of my superpower was bringing the two together for women." Through her work, Jane helps women "unwind that self-talk" and negative beliefs that may have started decades ago.
"It's more than just the external. It's marrying the internal and the external," she explained. The results extend far beyond appearance: "When we see women feel better about themselves, we walk differently, we own space differently... there's this lovely ripple effect where it affects our relationships with our special people, our family, our friends, our partners, our communities."
Embracing Authenticity in Professional Settings
For entrepreneurs and professionals, Jane emphasises that "you are a walking advertisement of yourself and your brand." Through her Style for Impact service, she helps clients create a wardrobe that communicates their values while maintaining authenticity.
"Your style should amplify your message, not distract from it," Jane explained. She helps clients find "that beautiful balance between professionalism and approachability" that makes a lasting impression during speaking engagements and media appearances.
One fascinating approach Jane uses with her clients is to "tip it on its head" after teaching foundational concepts: "Often women are in quite serious jobs, roles... and that's challenge that and inject fun and personality and quirk." She encourages bringing elements of your weekend self—whether that's "a bit of a rock chick" or another aspect of your personality—into your work style in appropriate ways.
The Spiritual Component of Style
What makes Jane's approach truly unique is her integration of intuition and higher guidance with practical styling expertise. When I asked about connecting to higher guidance in her work, she shared how this connection "drives everything... it's an embodied state of being" that influences all her decisions.
"I used to rely solely on intellectual thinking," Jane shared about her business approach. "But I've come to understand that we need both analytical and intuitive decision-making—a true balance of yin and yang. Business isn't just about spreadsheets and strategies; it requires that deeper connection to our intuition."
To maintain this balance, Jane practices daily rituals that ground her, with walking in nature being her favorite: "I make myself do it every day, even when I don't feel like it. With our busy minds and constant demands, we need these practices to reconnect with ourselves. It's about getting out of our heads, back into our bodies, and operating from the heart.
Among the practical advice Jane offered, these key takeaways stood out:
Manifesting through visualisation
One of the most powerful moments in our conversation came when Jane shared how visualisation became reality in her career:
"My sister said to me, 'Imagine if you are awarded the best stylist in the world', and I laughed at her. I said, 'That is a very egotistical and ridiculous statement.' Well, the next year, I got awarded International Best Stylist of the Year."
This remarkable story illustrates Jane's advice to "trust the whispers" of intuition and to believe wholeheartedly in your vision without worrying about how it will happen.
Practical Wisdom for Your Style Journey
For those feeling disconnected from their authentic style or struggling with confidence, Jane offered these practical tips:
Get in touch with Jane
Website: finesseyourstyle.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/janevandermeer/
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@finesseyourstyle
Work with Amanda
When success on paper doesn't translate to inner peace, sometimes the universe guides us toward unexpected paths of healing. This was certainly true for Asha Robinson, whose personal wellness journey began in 2014 amidst a paradox of external success and internal turmoil.
The Awakening
Despite having what many would consider a perfect life, Asha found herself grappling with an inexplicable emptiness. As an empath, she experienced the weight of surrounding energies intensely, leading to debilitating sleep paralysis, insomnia, and declining mental health. Yet, this dark period became the catalyst for profound transformation.
Through discovering Reiki, Magnified Healing, and various energy-healing modalities, Asha not only found her way back to balance but discovered her true calling. Her journey led her to master numerous healing practices, working with crystals and frequencies to help others achieve energetic harmony.
Redefining Resilience
For Asha, resilience isn't just about bouncing back—it's about rising above with consciousness and awareness. She views life's challenges as co-creative opportunities, understanding that everything happens "for us and with us." This perspective has allowed her to move beyond reactive patterns into a space of deep understanding and personal growth.
The Birth of State of Grace
During the 2020 pandemic, when many businesses struggled, Asha's vision manifested into State of Grace Collective, now three thriving retail stores across Melbourne. But her journey of bringing healing to others didn't stop there.
The Harmonic Egg Revolution
In 2024, a Gaia podcast introduced Asha to the Harmonic Egg, a revolutionary healing technology that would become her next chapter. After experiencing its profound effects in New Zealand, she became Australia's first Harmonic Egg Guardian, launching Harmonic Egg Wellness in Melbourne.
A Personal Experience
As someone who recently experienced the Harmonic Egg firsthand, I can attest to its transformative power. During my session, I felt deep releases in areas holding ancestral and childhood trauma—particularly in my reproductive system and nervous system. The experience was profound:
The immediate effects were intense yet healing—a deep headache and fatigue that transformed into what felt like "a month's holiday" of relaxation. The sense of peace was unlike anything I'd experienced in years, as if every cell had released its stored stress and tension.
In the weeks following, I noticed:
The Ripple Effect
"I feel incredibly blessed to work with this amazing wellness technology," Asha shares. "The Harmonic Egg has dramatically transformed my life and the lives of my family. It's a joy to witness my clients expand their consciousness, move into a state of wellness from within, and allow their bodies to heal naturally."
This sentiment echoes through her client community, with many reporting profound shifts in their wellbeing after sessions. The combination of Asha's empathic abilities and this revolutionary technology creates a unique healing experience that addresses both energetic and physical aspects of wellness.
Looking Forward
As more people discover this path to wellness, Asha continues to expand her vision of healing and transformation. Through State of Grace Collective and Harmonic Egg Wellness, she's creating spaces where others can discover their own journey to balance, harmony, and authentic living.
For those feeling called to experience this transformative technology, Harmonic Egg Wellness offers both in-person and remote sessions, making this revolutionary healing accessible to all who seek it.
Get in touch with Asha Robinson
Instagram: www.instagram.com/stateofgracecollective
Facebook: www.facebook.com/stateofgracecollective
Website: www.stateofgracecollective.com.au
Work with Amanda
If interstate or international :
Call us on 1300 188 882 or email hello@amandacampbell.com.au to find out how to book in for online coaching if you are outside of Melbourne / International.
Speaking:
Amanda presents her wellness workshops and keynotes virtually, live on zoom.
To book Amanda to speak at your event or workplace please contact:
www.amandacampbell.com.au
hello@amandacampbell.com.au
1300 188 882
Facebook: www.facebook.com/amandacampbellspeaker
Instagram : www.instagram.com/amandacampbell_speaker
Twitter: twitter.com/AmandaC_health
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/amandacampbellau
Blog: www.amandacampbell.com.au/blog
Podcast: Bend Like Bamboo on Itunes
Online course: https://bendlikebamboo.teachable.com/courses/
Bend Like Bamboo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BendLikeBamboo
Instagram : www.instagram.com/bendlikebamboo
When relationships end, the legal process can feel cold and clinical, often overlooking the deep emotional journey that accompanies separation. Jane, a uniquely qualified family lawyer with dual expertise in law and counselling, is transforming this experience for her clients.
Legal proceedings are just one piece of the separation puzzle.
Jane often reminds her clients. Her practice stands apart by weaving together expert legal guidance with emotional support, creating a haven where clients can address both the practical and personal aspects of their transition.
What sets Jane’s approach apart is her deep understanding that every separation story is unique. Whether Jane and her team are helping clients navigate property settlements or sensitive children's matters, they bring both their legal expertise and counselling background to each interaction. This dual perspective allows Jane to spot when clients might need additional emotional support, seamlessly connecting them with trusted wellness professionals who can provide specialised care.
For those embarking on new relationships, Jane's conscious approach proves equally valuable. She helps couples create thoughtful legal agreements that protect both parties while nurturing their emotional connection. "Building a strong foundation isn't just about legal documents," she explains. "It's about creating understanding and trust between partners."
Through her unique blend of legal prowess and emotional intelligence, Jane isn't just helping clients navigate legal transitions – she's guiding them toward healing and new beginnings. In her capable hands, the end of one chapter can truly become the conscious, empowered start of another.
Get in touch with Jane Libbis
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/janelibbis?originalSubdomain=au
Website: umbrellafamilylaw.com.au
Work with Amanda
If interstate or international :
Call us on 1300 188 882 or email hello@amandacampbell.com.au to find out how to book in for online coaching if you are outside of Melbourne / International.
Speaking:
Amanda presents her wellness workshops and keynotes virtually, live on zoom.
To book Amanda to speak at your event or workplace please contact:
www.amandacampbell.com.au
hello@amandacampbell.com.au
1300 188 882
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandacampbellspeaker
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/amandacampbell_speaker/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmandaC_health
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandacampbellau
Blog: https://www.amandacampbell.com.au/blog
Podcast: Bend Like Bamboo on Itunes
Online course: https://bendlikebamboo.teachable.com/courses/
Bend Like Bamboo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BendLikeBamboo
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/bendlikebamboo/
David's approach to coaching is uniquely powerful, blending his vast experience as a global business leader with his remarkable intuitive gifts. He shared how this combination allows him to quickly identify core issues and opportunities that his executive clients might be overlooking.
"Intuition in business is about tapping into a deeper understanding of patterns and possibilities that aren't immediately obvious on the surface." David explained.
This intuitive approach enables David to guide his clients through setbacks with extraordinary speed and efficacy, whether they're facing challenges in their personal lives or in the boardroom. We talked about my experience working with David and how we identified a block that was out of my awareness after he saw me speaking at an event. Working with David helped me to release this which led to a big shift in my coaching practice at work.
The Importance of Coaching When We're Thriving
One of the most insightful parts of our discussion was David's emphasis on the importance of coaching, not just during tough times, but especially when we're thriving.
"Many people only think of seeking a coach when they're struggling," David pointed out. "But the truth is, having a coach when you're at the top of your game can be the key to staying there and reaching even greater heights."
He likened it to elite athletes who rely on coaches to fine-tune their performance and push beyond their perceived limits. In the same way, executives and entrepreneurs can benefit enormously from coaching that challenges them to expand their vision and capabilities.
Navigating Life's Difficult Chapters
For individuals going through challenging periods, David stressed the invaluable role a coach can play in reducing stress and improving overall wellness and success.
"A good coach provides more than just strategies," he said. "They offer perspective, emotional support, and a safe space to explore solutions without judgment."
David shared stories of clients who, with the right coaching, transformed periods of crisis into opportunities for growth and innovation. His approach helps clients not just to weather storms, but to harness them for positive change.
The Goldsmith Impact
As a pioneer in the executive coaching profession, David's impact has been felt across diverse industries worldwide. His ability to rapidly identify opportunities and catalyse progress has made him a sought-after coach for founders and C-suite leaders globally.
Our conversation reinforced my belief in the power of resilience and adaptability. David's insights remind us that with the right guidance and mindset, we can not only overcome setbacks but use them as stepping stones to greater success.
Whether you're at the helm of a startup, leading a multinational corporation, or navigating personal challenges, the wisdom shared in this episode offers valuable lessons on harnessing your intuition and embracing the transformative power of coaching.
Tune in to the full episode to hear more of David's inspiring insights and practical advice for bending like bamboo in the face of life's challenges.
Get in touch with David
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/david-goldsmith-14856/
Website: www.7pathsforward.com
Work with Amanda
If interstate or international :
Call us on 1300 188 882 or email hello@amandacampbell.com.au to find out how to book in for online coaching if you are outside of Melbourne / International.
Speaking:
Amanda presents her wellness workshops and keynotes virtually, live on zoom.
To book Amanda to speak at your event or workplace please contact:
www.amandacampbell.com.au
hello@amandacampbell.com.au
1300 188 882
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandacampbellspeaker
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/amandacampbell_speaker/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmandaC_health
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandacampbellau
Blog: https://www.amandacampbell.com.au/blog
Podcast: Bend Like Bamboo on Itunes
Online course: https://bendlikebamboo.teachable.com/courses/
Bend Like Bamboo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BendLikeBamboo
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/bendlikebamboo/
David James faced a life-altering moment when a heart attack struck. At the time, he was overweight, highly stressed, sleep-deprived, sedentary, and a smoker. While the event shocked him and his partner, Jan, they weren’t entirely surprised. It was clear: things had to change.
The Turning Point
After being discharged from the hospital with a stent in place, David reflected on his and Jan’s lifestyle. They had once been fit, but life’s stresses, poor eating habits, and lack of exercise had taken their toll. With menopause and work stress compounding the issue, it became evident that they needed to prioritize their health.
Discovering the Solution
David and Jan dove into research, discovering that aging well isn’t an inevitability but a choice. The key? Leveraging lifestyle as medicine. They began to reshape their daily routines, incorporating yoga, Pilates, gym workouts, saunas, Tai Chi, and meditation into their lives. However, the time, effort, and cost of maintaining these activities became overwhelming.
The Birth of Be Well
Inspired by their experiences, they envisioned a single destination where they could sustain their health journey without the hassle. They found several residential lifestyle health retreats but soon realized they needed something more accessible—an urban health retreat that offered a community and comprehensive self-care options.
This vision led to the creation of Be Well Hawthorn, a place for those seeking to extend their healthspan and lifespan. With expert guidance and a supportive environment, Be Well aims to empower others to live younger, longer, and better.
Join the Movement
David warmly invites you to join the Be Well community. Together, let’s embrace a healthier lifestyle and transform our lives for the better. Your journey to wellness starts here!
A Trailblazer in Health and Well-Being.
Jan Owen is not just a speaker and entrepreneur; she’s a thought leader who has dedicated her life to shaping the future of health and education. As the founder of Be Well, Jan’s mission is clear: to help individuals achieve lifelong health and transform how we age.
A Vision for Wellness
At Be Well, the vision is simple yet profound. Imagine waking up each morning feeling rested, limber, and energized—your mind calm and ready to embrace the day. Jan envisions a world where individuals tackle challenges with grace, nurture meaningful relationships, and practice self-care in supportive environments. This is the reality Be Well aims to create for its members, ensuring they live fulfilling lives well into their 90s.
A Mission to Change Aging
Jan is serious about changing the narrative around aging. The science shows that we can slow, halt, and even reverse our biological clocks. Whether you’re 30 or 90, it’s never too early or too late to start prioritising your health. At Be Well, the focus is on extending health-span, lifespan, and quality of life. By following the Be Well Method, members can take control of their health and well-being, defying the odds of chronic illness and dependency.
A Journey of Recognition
Jan's impressive credentials speak volumes. Named one of Australia’s True Leaders in 2018 and the Inaugural Australian Financial Review and Westpac Woman of Influence in 2012, her accolades highlight her commitment to leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship. A high school dropout, she has risen to prominence as a committed mother, wife, and foster parent, proving that determination can lead to extraordinary outcomes. With honorary doctorates from the University of Sydney and Murdoch University, Jan embodies the spirit of lifelong learning.
A Promise to You
At Be Well, Jan and her team promise to deliver premium services that combine the latest technology with ancient wisdom. Their goal is to empower you to transform your lifestyle and embrace a healthier, more vibrant future.
Embrace Your Journey to Wellness
David and Jan’s inspiring journey and collaboration exemplify the power of resilience, passion, and innovation. Through Be Well, they invite you to join a community dedicated to redefining health and aging. By prioritising your well-being today, you can unlock a future filled with vitality, connection, and purpose.
Whether you’re just beginning your health journey or looking to enhance your current routine, Be Well offers the tools and support you need to thrive. Together, let’s embrace a lifestyle that celebrates health, happiness, and lifelong fulfillment. Your journey to a better tomorrow starts here—are you ready to take the first step?
Get in touch with Be Well
Work with Amanda
Consultations with Amanda
If interstate or international:
Call us on 1300 188 882 or email hello@amandacampbell.com.au to find out how to book in for online coaching if you are outside of Melbourne / International.
Speaking:
Amanda presents her wellness workshops and keynotes virtually, live on zoom.
To book Amanda to speak at your event or workplace please contact:
www.amandacampbell.com.au
hello@amandacampbell.com.au
1300 188 882
Facebook: www.facebook.com/amandacampbellspeaker
Instagram: www.instagram.com/amandacampbell_speaker
Twitter: twitter.com/AmandaC_health
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/amandacampbellau
Blog: www.amandacampbell.com.au/blog
Podcast: Bend Like Bamboo on Itunes
Online course: bendlikebamboo.teachable.com/courses/
Bend Like Bamboo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BendLikeBamboo
Instagram: www.instagram.com/bendlikebamboo/
Jan Owen interviews Amanda live at Be Well HQ.
Jan Owen, co-founder of Be Well and I had a live chat at their HQ. Together we dove into the power of Kinesiology, its ability to get to the cause of stress that is unique to us all. On my own journey as a patient diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at age 24, had to rebuild my mind, body and life after an attack paralysed me at age 29. On this journey, I learned about the power of our minds and how a shift in perception can also alter our biochemistry. With a more flexible mindset, we can re-imagine possibility. Managing our stress levels can adapt, and we can reframe the old stories we can become addicted to that impact our health and how we show up in the world.
Be Well urban lifestyle retreat.
“Live younger longer - Be well is your partner for achieving health that lasts a lifetime. We realised that we needed an urban health retreat. An everyday place, nearby, that provided the suite of self-care options we had come to value. With a community of like-minded people who also wanted to live younger, longer, better lives. So we created Be Well Hawthorn” David and Jan - co-founders of Be Well.
Our Vision
Waking up each morning, your body rested, limber and energised. Your mind clear, calm, even serene. Feeling grateful and eager for the day ahead.
Enjoying the day’s pleasures, tackling challenges with ease, getting things done, and achieving goals.
Relating to loved ones, colleagues, and everyone you meet, with grace and laughter.
Taking time for self-care, in spaces and with people that nurture and support you.
Falling asleep each night, mind and body ready for a well deserved rest, feeling deeply satisfied by a day well lived.
That is the vision we have for the Members of Be Well, today, and well into their 90s.
Our Mission
Change the way we age.
At Be Well, we are serious about changing the way we age.
The science is in: we can slow, halt and even reverse our biological clock. We can 5, 10, 15 years younger than our birthdays tell us.
A 30 year-old is able to slow the ageing process, and so is a 90-year-old. It’s never too early or too late to start. The best time to start is: now.
When we don’t look after ourselves properly, we end up chronically ill, frail, prone to sickness, dependant, and usually miserable for 10-20 years, and die before our time.
By following the Be Well Method, Members change the way they age and may achieve lifelong health and wellbeing by: extending their health-span (years of healthy living; life-span (years of life); and, quality of life (years of high functioning).
There are no guarantees against accidents, genetic constraints or bad luck, but what is guaranteed is that failing to look after ourselves properly always results in poor health and wellbeing.
Our promise
We promise to do our best to provide you a premium service, using the latest technology and drawing on ancient wisdom, that enables you to transform your lifestyle.
Get in touch with Be Well
Work with Amanda
Consultations with Amanda
If interstate or international:
Call us on 1300 188 882 or email hello@amandacampbell.com.au to find out how to book in for online coaching if you are outside of Melbourne / International.
Speaking:
Amanda presents her wellness workshops and keynotes virtually, live on zoom.
To book Amanda to speak at your event or workplace please contact:
www.amandacampbell.com.au
hello@amandacampbell.com.au
1300 188 882
Facebook: www.facebook.com/amandacampbellspeaker
Instagram: www.instagram.com/amandacampbell_speaker
Twitter: twitter.com/AmandaC_health
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/amandacampbellau
Blog: www.amandacampbell.com.au/blog
Podcast: Bend Like Bamboo on Itunes
Online course: bendlikebamboo.teachable.com/courses/
Bend Like Bamboo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BendLikeBamboo
Instagram: www.instagram.com/bendlikebamboo/
After a Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis at 25 years old, Kerri embarked on a mission to heal herself.
Through 7 years of health research exploring how inflammation affects our body’s systems, Kerri has transformed her life and the lives of others from illness into wellness.
Kerri teaches the science and techniques for proactive health. Through the integration of a nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet, detoxification protocols, and self-care practices, Kerri’s passion is to activate our body’s innate ability to heal and thrive. Kerri incorporates her love of herbalism, the potency of plant medicine, and regenerative farming practices into her curriculum.
In her early 20s, Kerri was living the good life and enjoying herself without a care in the world. A dream trip to Mexico backpacking for 1.5 months led to 5 days in hospital with a Typhoid fever and ICU for 5 days. Kerri was grateful to survive, however over the next few years she saw many doctors in an attempt to get to the bottom of her unexplainable symptoms which was a very difficult time for her.
Finally, with the help of a Functional Medical Doctor, she was able to put the pieces together and this led to an MS diagnosis at age 25.
I asked Kerri what resilience means to her, and she said it meant not giving up, persevering and using our challenges as a vehicle to transform our lives.
Mindset
We can get stuck in fear and a negative loop. Kerri avoids this replacing it with walks in nature, cooking, meditation and mindfulness, connection and rituals that help her to relax and destress. Kerri also enjoys crafts, art and making things with her hands.
Feeling safe
How do we feel safe after past stress and trauma? The answer is, how do we open our hearts again after it has shut down from stress? How we talk to ourselves is key and it is important to reflect daily on how kind we are to ourselves via our inner dialogue.
Mind - Body - Food - Energetic
Mindset, nutrition and exercise are imperative to promote healing and repair in our minds and bodies. Our energy is also important and it is why I loved this conversation as it is often missed. Energy is everything and having a good flow in our energy systems, meridians and chakras matters. Our energy is connected to our bodies physically, our posture, our muscles, bones, facia and skeletal system. Our energy is also connected to our hormones, digestion, and emotions.
When we eat better, we feel better and Kerri says that eating nutrient-dense food inspired by Dr Terry Wahl’s protocol made an enormous difference in her recovery. Kerri also loves the power of herbalism. Herbal medicine, also called botanical medicine or phytomedicine, refers to using a plant's seeds, berries, roots, leaves, bark, or flowers for medicinal purposes. Herbalism has a long tradition of use outside conventional medicine.
Kerri’s tips:
Get in touch with Kerri
Instagram: @kerrrica
Work with Amanda
If interstate or international :
Call us on 1300 188 882 or email hello@amandacampbell.com.au to find out how to book in for online coaching if you are outside of Melbourne / International.
Speaking:
Amanda presents her wellness workshops and keynotes virtually, live on zoom.
To book Amanda to speak at your event or workplace please contact:
www.amandacampbell.com.au
hello@amandacampbell.com.au
1300 188 882
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandacampbellspeaker
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/amandacampbell_speaker/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmandaC_health
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandacampbellau
Blog: https://www.amandacampbell.com.au/blog
Podcast: Bend Like Bamboo on Itunes
Online course: https://bendlikebamboo.teachable.com/courses/
Bend Like Bamboo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BendLikeBamboo
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/bendlikebamboo/
TopLeads is a B2B lead generation company with a proven track record of delivering quality leads through innovative and customised marketing campaigns.
They are a team of diverse and talented individuals spread across the world who work tirelessly to achieve your business goals in all aspects of marketing.
The company was founded by CEO, Charles Cormier, after he searched endlessly for a quality way to obtain leads and book meetings with clients to bring business into his advertising agency.
When Charles reached out to me to feature on his podcast, I admired his passion and entrepreneur spirit. Naturally, I invited Charles to join me on the Bend Like Bamboo podcast to share his story.
Charles started a nootropic company that got featured on Dragon's Den (the Quebec/Canada Shark Tank), he has travelled the world with my wife and dogs, managed and fired 1k+ employees, he has completed, ironmans and has started over 60 startups and has personally interviewed 10,000 CEO’s.
I wanted to interview Charles about what he has learned on his journey, and what resilience means to him. In a market where business owners we are looking at new ways to reinvest ourselves and how to scale their companies, Charles has much t share. He has started and failed multiple times. But this is what led him to create a system that helped him to maximise product market fit, testing his ideas at scale.
Charles believes in quantity aim to have minimum 10,000 contacts, sending out 50,000 emails per month which can give you an idea of what works, and what does not work from the open rates and statistic analysis.
Charles' Tips:
Get in touch with Charles Cormier
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sdr-as-a-service/
Website: www.topleads.agency
Work with Amanda
If interstate or international :
Call us on 1300 188 882 or email hello@amandacampbell.com.au to find out how to book in for online coaching if you are outside of Melbourne / International.
Speaking:
Amanda presents her wellness workshops and keynotes virtually, live on zoom.
To book Amanda to speak at your event or workplace please contact:
www.amandacampbell.com.au
hello@amandacampbell.com.au
1300 188 882
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandacampbellspeaker
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/amandacampbell_speaker/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmandaC_health
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandacampbellau
Blog: https://www.amandacampbell.com.au/blog
Podcast: Bend Like Bamboo on Itunes
Online course: https://bendlikebamboo.teachable.com/courses/
Bend Like Bamboo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BendLikeBamboo
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/bendlikebamboo/
Matt Rowe is the Author of Belief to Heal, a Certified Health Coach, meditation and Reiki practitioner, TEDx speaker, and father of two.
After earning the designation of an All-American Triathlete in 2007 he paralyzed his right leg and then in 2010, healed himself from the paralyzed leg to finish the infamous Ironman triathlon.
Matt has also reversed the daily affliction of 25-30 TIAs (also known as “mini-strokes”) and recovered from debilitating symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) to live his best life.
He is the founder of Identity of Health wellness coaching, founder of the Symptom Free MS Summit and Symposium and hosts the Identity of Health podcast. A lover of Self and life, Matt lives in Colorado and travels internationally to speak on Belief, healing, and possibility.
A few years ago I had the pleasure of interviewing Matt Rowe, we took a deep dive into his take on resilience, the power of flexibility and how he has overcome MS, daily strokes and a back injury that paralysed his leg.
Check out this podcast all about Matt’s story and recovery here:
Matt and I both believe that the best way to optimise healing in the body is to take an integrated approach that addresses the multiple layers of our mind, body and energy.
In this podcast Matt and I explore the pillars of health of the mind, body, food and connection. Our ability to open our hearts is integral in allowing the nervous system to let go of stress and our addiction to the fight/flight/freeze response.
When we can choose love and joy despite the adversities we will inevitably face, not only are we able to be more solution-focused, but we can also optimise growth and repair pathways that allow us to heal.
Addressing our energy and stress levels really does matter, I loved this conversation with Matt on this month’s podcast.
In my new book Bend Like Bamboo I explore these pillars, my journey from an MS diagnosis that led to my paralysis and how I had to learn to change my mind about what could be possible with the power of flexibility.
“Amanda shares her story of resilience and possibility, inspiring those diagnosed with MS to rise using their own power of mindset and belief to be the person they have always desired. If you want something more in your life, this book is a must-read giving you the power and tools to remain flexible on your journey of recovery!”
- Matt Rowe - Author, MS Coach, Symptom-Free MS Summit Founder and Host, Reiki and Meditation practitioner and Ironman
Check out Matt’s Autoimmune Challenge ….
Matt's Tips:
Get in touch with Matt Rowe
Facebook: www.facebook.com/identityofhealth
Instagram: @identityofhealth
Website: www.mattrowecoaching.com
Work with Amanda
If interstate or international :
Call us on 1300 188 882 or email hello@amandacampbell.com.au to find out how to book in for online coaching if you are outside of Melbourne / International.
Speaking:
Amanda presents her wellness workshops and keynotes virtually, live on zoom.
To book Amanda to speak at your event or workplace please contact:
www.amandacampbell.com.au
hello@amandacampbell.com.au
1300 188 882
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandacampbellspeaker
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/amandacampbell_speaker/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmandaC_health
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandacampbellau
Blog: https://www.amandacampbell.com.au/blog
Podcast: Bend Like Bamboo on Itunes
Online course: https://bendlikebamboo.teachable.com/courses/
Bend Like Bamboo
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Dr. Terry Wahls practices internal medicine and treats psychiatric patients at the VA in Iowa City Iowa. In the year 2000, she was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis.
MS is an autoimmune inflammatory disease that damages the myelin of neurons (imagine the white plastic that covers your phone charger cable), causing breaks in communication between the brain cells, neurotransmitter imbalances and cell death, with resulting physical and cognitive disabilities, including blindness, dizziness and pain. In its earlier relapsing-remitting stage, MS is treated with chemo and immune system suppressants. Dr. Wahls pursued the best and most aggressive treatment available.
Nevertheless, in 2003 her MS had developed into the secondary progressive variety. At that stage, the treatment strategy was to slow the inexorable loss of function. Dr Wahls was using canes to walk, soon she was in a wheelchair almost all the time. Wahls is a doctor and she researched her condition, but there were no treatments to reverse the loss of function, not even any clinical trials available for her to join.
So she went back to school, staying up at night after the rest of the family was in bed. She studied the basic science of her condition and similar ones, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's Huntington's. Then she designed her own treatment based on the basic science about why brain cells die. She experimented on herself, developed a diet regime, tested potential food sensitivities. She started working with a physical therapist to use neuro-muscular electrical stimulation, continued the diet modifications. And then she got out of her wheelchair.
Over the course of that year, Wahls went from moving around on a scooter to walking with canes to riding a bicycle eighteen miles without assistance. Today, Dr. Wahls has recovered, she walks, bike rides often with her family, and actively shares with the world how she is doing what people with secondary progressive MS don't do - and that is recovering.
In her first book “Minding your Mitochondria” she explains how those little maintenance workers don't have all the proper nutrients, like amino acids, the correct minerals, and fatty acids, then they can't build according to the DNA blueprints. Those nutrients are the building blocks that mitochondria in our cells need to keep our bodies healthy. If those replacement molecules and structures get made incorrectly or not at all, our bodies begin to deteriorate.
That led to her creating “The Wahls Protocol” a nutrition program that I followed with great success when I was also in a wheelchair and paralysed. When I began to learn how to flood my brain and gut with the right nutrients, the game literally changed for my recovery. My symptoms began to subside, alone life changing. I began to feel better mentally and emotionally, physically I walked faster, and I began to jog. In 2010 did my first MS Fun Run with MS Limited Australia and it has been a yearly tradition since.
Naturally, I had to meet this amazing woman.
How Dr Wahls and I met
I met Dr Terry Wahls in 2013 in Iowa, I was travelling n the USA and reached out to her. She agreed to met with me after I shared with her how much of an impact her protocol made in my recovery from a paralysis from MS.
I was so excited, and nervous. She was so lovely, she sat with me in her office, talked with me and listened to my story and the impact she had made in my life. She showed me the research she was doing, and we remained in contact. I am so excited to share this heart-felt podcast with you, where together Dr Wahls and I re-unite and chat about the further progress she has made helping people with autoimmune disease.
The impact stress and nutrition have on autoimmune disease
When I was 24 I was diagnosed with MS, and 5 years later I was paralysed at age 29. Thankfully after months in hospital, and taking a balanced approach of Kinesiology and Neuro-physiotherapy I was mobile again. I was so grateful to be home after 2 months living in rehabilitation. But I still had symptoms and I knew more work had to be done.
I began to research other stories of recoveries and discovered Dr Wahl’s story. I learned that over 90% of kids and adults are not getting enough recommended daily intake (RDI) of 2 serves of fruits and 5 serves of vegetables a day. Dr Wahls’ protocol increases our RDI to 9 cups of vegetables a day, eliminating grains and dairy. I began to prepare all of my meals, continued to exercise and reduced my stress levels as best I could. I noticed I could walk further, symptoms subsided and began to build strength in mind and body.
In this podcast Dr Terry Wahls and I talk about the impact stress, mindset and nutrition have on repairing autoimmune disease, get your tissues as we go deep and we get emotional. Her story is incredible and she will inspire you with hope that it is possible to make a recovery happen against all odds.
We all have a story, and we will have events that happen in our lives that will shake us, turn our words upside down and completely transform who we are. We have all experience stress and change. Our ability to be flexible is the key to managing our stress levels because who we are in those moments is connected to the choices we will make, our ability to reach our fullest potential and intimately our wellbeing.
If we can practise flexibility in our minds, bodies and lives, we can be more adaptable and open to change when we are stressed, when we want to give up, or when we want to give in. Who we are in those moments is connected to the choices we will make, our ability to reach our fullest potential and intimately our wellbeing.
My journey led to me discovering an inner anchor within me that allowed me to adapt. Helping others I discovered that a flexible mindset impacts everything that matters: our body’s ability to repair, how happy and resilient we are and how connected we feel. Since then I have made a 14 year recovery still in remission.
Now as a practitioner and the patient, I wrote a book to share my story, evidence based techniques that helped me that I also use with my clients, and all the lessons I leaned along the way. When Dr Wahls agreed to give my book a testimonial I was thrilled.
Terry’s tips:
Get in touch with Dr Terry Wahls
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Dr.Terry.Wahls
Instagram: @drterrywahls
Website: https://terrywahls.com/
Work with Amanda
If interstate or international :
Call us on 1300 188 882 or email hello@amandacampbell.com.au to find out how to book in for online coaching if you are outside of Melbourne / International.
Speaking:
Amanda presents her wellness workshops and keynotes virtually, live on zoom.
To book Amanda to speak at your event or workplace please contact:
Paula Day is a highly-skilled business expert and trusted advisor with a wealth of experience.
With 20 years in the field, 18 spent working on large scale infrastructure projects in business advisory roles for senior leaders, CEOs, and Government Officials, she has a wealth of knowledge to draw from.
Holding a bachelor’s degree in Business Accounting and a CPA certification, she quickly rose to the top of the corporate ladder and mastered the skills needed for successful large scale operations.
Additionally, she is a Master NLP Practitioner, Hypnotherapist, Social Media Expert, and Personal Stylist, bringing a unique and holistic approach to her coaching and consulting business.
Paula's passion lies in supporting driven beauty business owners to master their businesses and grow in a way that aligns with their values. With her experience and expertise, she offers the kind of advice and support usually only available to larger organizations.
Paula’s definition of resilience is our ability to control our emotions, when we become triggered or stressed when the bigger events come in life that can take our life on a turn.
It is our ability to take one step forward every day, to believe n ourselves and to manage our stress levels.
Paula started her career as an accountant, in her career she was exposed to amazing leadership programs and coaches.
Then Paula had a baby boy who had become disabled, and was preparing to be wheel chair bound. Paula had to make a choice, was she going to focus on earning more money to support the care and services that her son required? Or was she going to stay at home to look after her son? Luckily her dad stepped in and retired at age 53 to help out. This allowed Paula to climb the corporate ladder. He vision began to come true, she had an amazing office, view and team. But she was missing her kids and wasn’t seeing them as much as she wanted.
Paula decided she had to make a change, she began to listen to podcasts and was inspired to start a t-shirt business. It took off on Amazon and she began to make more money doing less, amazing! She began to hire a team and she grew the business.
But Paula’s relationship broke down and overnight, all her accounts had changed and she had put the t-shirt business in her husband’s name and she lost everything. She moved back in with her parents, and went through the painful process of separating her life from her now ex-husband. After 7 months of legal battle, she decided to stop the fight, and she chose to move forward with love instead. Paula realised she had leadership and coaching skills, and she decided to train as a NLP practitioner which really helped her in her healing.
Paula learned that when we have a goal, we need to believe in ourselves to make it happen. We attract what we think about, and we need to take responsibility for our part in that. Paula’s lowest point was when she was surrounded by boxes in her parents house, adjusting to seeing her kids only 50% of the time. Going through this is what birthed her coaching program, it just poured out of her. Could it be possible that the adversities that we go through, are teaching us who we need to be, to have what we really want in our lives?
But if we caught up with stress and rigidity, we can lose these moments and gifts and the lessons then are there to teach us. When we can overcome this with a flexible mindset, we can elevate ourselves to be greater than our obstacles, our negativity and our fears.
Paula learned that you can take everything away, and we are still here and we are still ok. We can rebuild from loss and that realisation is what took the fear away for Paula.
Paula’s tips:
Get in touch with Paula Day
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paula.day.coach
Instagram: @iampauladay
Website: https://pauladay.com.au/
Work with Amanda
If interstate or international :
Call us on 1300 188 882 or email hello@amandacampbell.com.au to find out how to book in for online coaching if you are outside of Melbourne / International.
Speaking:
Amanda presents her wellness workshops and keynotes virtually, live on zoom.
To book Amanda to speak at your event or workplace please contact:
www.amandacampbell.com.au
hello@amandacampbell.com.au
1300 188 882
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandacampbellspeaker
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/amandacampbell_speaker/
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Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandacampbellau
Blog: https://www.amandacampbell.com.au/blog
Podcast: Bend Like Bamboo on Itunes
Online course: https://bendlikebamboo.teachable.com/courses/
Bend Like Bamboo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BendLikeBamboo
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/bendlikebamboo/
Niti Nadarajah is a coach, freelance general counsel and DEI consultant and keynote speaker based in Melbourne with a passion for authentic and inclusive leadership.
She advocates for a range of issues including gender and racial equity, and through her business, Coaching by Niti, helps to empower women who are feeling stuck in their careers to get unstuck by connecting them to their inner compass.
She was recognised as a LinkedIn Top Voice (Gender Equity) in 2022 and advises various companies and charities as an expert & Mentor.
Niti is also a certified Master NLP practitioner, Coach and Gender Equality Expert with Grace Papers, DEI practitioner on the NASA Astrophysics IDEA practitioner database, legal adviser to, and consultant with, The Creative Co-operative, an angel investor at Nobody Studios, a founding member and DEI Ambassador at Human Leaders, a Mentor at Future Women (recently awarded Mentor of the Year), a Peer Support Companion at The Pink Elephants Support Network and Community Partner for White Ribbon (Australia) and mum to two.
Niti’s definition of resilience when she was young was all about persisting, making it through everything, and not letting things affect her. Niti developed an ‘allergy’ to vulnerability. She believed that it was a weakness to show how she was feeling, and her emotional side.
Growing up with an Indian background and community, talking about mental health was not a thing, like it is in Australia. Niti has feared judgement, and has held back expressing herself as a result.
When Niti was 2w1 years old, her grandfather who lived with her and the family, passed away. I was told that I had to be strong for my dad and family, so I cried when no was was watching, and held it together externally. I armoured myself externally, and suppressed the inner turmoil in the inside and an inner conflict brewed within me.
I experienced two pregnancy losses, and I became more aware of how this was affecting my stress levels and my health. Now I try to face the things I have to overcome in my life, but I also make ‘truce’ with them to create more harmony in my mind and my body. One day, a colleague of mine asked if I was ok, mentioning that I did not appear to be myself. I know in that moment, I could choose to suppress how I really felt, or I could open and be honest. Choosing to be honest and expressing what I was going through, was so powerful for me, it helped me to release the inner pressure and I became more open and vulnerable within myself, and with others.
Now I see vulnerability as a strength, and it allows me to heal helping other women to express themselves in my volunteer role with Pink elephant Foundation, and various other roles I have in the community. This gives my work more meaning and purpose.
Discovering your inner compass, is the way to vulnerability, and it is a journey of self discovery that has opened up my inner world, how I show up in my life and the experiences I attract.
These are important questions that I ask myself:
What am I running from? My attempt to be able to feel like I belong, especially as an Indian woman living in Australia.
What guides me? To feel loved, connection and purpose.
What do I am for? To discover who I am and expressing that.
What do I value? Giving back.
When you find yourself looking for the answers you seek externally, look within.
Niti’s tips:
Get in touch with Niti Nadarajah
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/niti-nadarajah/
Instagram: @Storiesbyniti
Work with Amanda
If interstate or international :
Call us on 1300 188 882 or email hello@amandacampbell.com.au to find out how to book in for online coaching if you are outside of Melbourne / International.
Speaking:
Amanda presents her wellness workshops and keynotes virtually, live on zoom.
To book Amanda to speak at your event or workplace please contact:
www.amandacampbell.com.au
hello@amandacampbell.com.au
1300 188 882
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandacampbellspeaker
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/amandacampbell_speaker/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmandaC_health
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandacampbellau
Blog: https://www.amandacampbell.com.au/blog
Podcast: Bend Like Bamboo on Itunes
Online course: https://bendlikebamboo.teachable.com/courses/
Bend Like Bamboo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BendLikeBamboo
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/bendlikebamboo/
Matt Rowe is the Author of Belief to Heal, a Certified Health Coach, meditation and Reiki practitioner, TEDx speaker, and father of two.
After earning the designation of an All-American Triathlete in 2007 he paralyzed his right leg and then in 2010, healed himself from the paralyzed leg to finish the infamous Ironman triathlon.
Matt has also reversed the daily affliction of 25-30 TIAs (also known as “mini-strokes”) and recovered from debilitating symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) to live his best life.
He is the founder of Identity of Health wellness coaching, founder of the Symptom Free MS Summit and Symposium and hosts the Identity of Health podcast. A lover of Self and life, Matt lives in Colorado and travels internationally to speak on Belief, healing, and possibility.
I love meeting fellow colleagues who have overcome their disease and symptoms, Matt Rowe was such a pleasure to interview as we took a deep dive into his take on resilience, the power of flexibility and how he has overcome MS, daily strokes and a back injury that paralysed his leg.
It is now Matt’s passion to share other people’s stories at a free Summit he is hosting on the 19th June 2023. He has signed dup 26 speakers that will share their stories, knowledge and tips over 2 weeks. When you sign up you get to learn form two speakers as day to gain from their wisdom and inspiration - amazing!
Matt believes that resilience is about finding out own way & purpose. Knowing how to to listen to our own truth vs. other voices of authority that may not be open to what can be possible for your recovery. To be resilient is to be flexible, to bounce back. Just like a tree builds its resilience from being pushed in the wind, we also build our resilience from the adversities that life throws at us. Matt believes that our strength comes through times of adversity, not from things being handed to us or ease.
When Matt was young he was overweight at puberty stage of life, and he was bullied. He decided to do something about it and began to train his body. This led him to become a triathlete, he was in his early 20’s, he was fit with a big ego an he believed he was indestructible. After shovelling snow, out of the blue he injured his back and this paralysed his leg. They gave him a 50/50 chance of recovery from the surgery, he lost life as he knew it and the life he had built around him.
Matt learned how to be more compassionate with himself, as he dealt with losing everything he thought he was, within seconds. He was faced with a potential amputation, and it was in this moment, he knew he had a choice. He had to figure out how to turn this terrifying situation into a positive somehow. Matt had his second child, and he didn’t want to give up. He went into the operation believing that no matter what the outcome, that he was going to be ok. Matt woke up from the surgery and he could move his leg and he managed to walk again, however he was faced with a long road to full recovery. It was two and a half years of rehabilitation, as he waited for new nerves to grow at the speed of 1 mm a day. Again, he had to be kind to himself, as he learned to be disciplined and patient on. his road to recovery.
Matt needed a goal to work towards, and he signed up for Ironman which was 1 year away. He trained himself to rebuild his body, and found he would swing between the rigidity of ego and expectation, to one of compassion, self care connecting more to his higher self. When he was stuck in ego, he was wanting everything to be like it used to be before, and he was not willing to let go of the past and his old identity. He was more concerned with what people though of him, his own expectations, and the external. As opposed to loving himself being softer, more patient, and more flexible in his approach as he began to change his mind about this story. It was a constant push pull as he put a plan together to achieve his goal.
Matt began to experience 20-30 strokes a day, and this went on for three months. He knew he had to stop and look deeper within, at what this was trying to teach him. Overcoming his paralysis taught Matt that he could be resilient, having the strokes forced Matt to appreciate his body more, to let go of his harsh approach to such vigorous exercise. He was recovering from poor gut health from all the antibiotics he had taken in hospital, and discovered the power of food as medicine and Dr David Perlmutter who wrote The Grain Brain.
He has now made a full recovery and is also free of MS symptoms.
Matt’s tips:
Get in touch with Matt Rowe
Website: www.mattrowecoaching.com
Instagram: @identityofhealth
Facebook: www.facebook.com/identityofhealth
Work with Amanda
If interstate or international :
Call us on 1300 188 882 or email hello@amandacampbell.com.au to find out how to book in for online coaching if you are outside of Melbourne / International.
Speaking:
Amanda presents her wellness workshops and keynotes virtually, live on zoom.
To book Amanda to speak at your event or workplace please contact:
www.amandacampbell.com.au
hello@amandacampbell.com.au
1300 188 882
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandacampbellspeaker
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/amandacampbell_speaker/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmandaC_health
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandacampbellau
Blog: https://www.amandacampbell.com.au/blog
Podcast: Bend Like Bamboo on Itunes
Online course: https://bendlikebamboo.teachable.com/courses/
Bend Like Bamboo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BendLikeBamboo
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/bendlikebamboo/
Allyson Brown is the Director of Everheal and creator of the 4-Step LIFE Formula Program. She completed her PhD in Analytical Research in 2010, has presented Nationally at the 2020 Virtual Disability Expo and has been featured in TickerNews, TickerInsights, MS InTouch Magazine, and was an acclaimed speaker at the 2022 Symptom Free MS Summit.
After suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS) since 2005, Allyson was forced to resign from her corporate job due to debilitating fatigue and brain fog. However, Allyson’s life changed forever when she discovered the healing properties of food, which helped her overcome these symptoms and restore her quality of life.
Allyson then researched recommendations from experts and functional medicine practitioners from across the globe, to discover the critical links between gut health and autoimmunity, and ultimately how to use food as medicine!
Allyson is now dedicated to sharing her research and LIFE Formula Program to help educate, encourage, and empower fellow autoimmune sufferers about how to improve their health naturally, so they can get the most out of life too.
Allyson and I have so much in common, two girls living with MS who have done a lot of research on the mind and body to relieve our own symptoms of brain fog, fatigue, numbness, and in Allyson's case optic neuritis, and paralysis for me. I love what she is doing in her business Everheal, she has created a program that helps people to navigate the transitional changes with the power of healthy eating. From meal plans to chopping lists to cleaning out the pantry with real wholefoods, she has you covered.
When Allyson was diagnosed, it was after she was experiencing a pinched nerve sensation in her upper back, the right-hand side of her body became numb, and her legs just weren’t feeling right. Her doctors ran some tests, and an MRI showed lesions on her brain and spine, Allyson was diagnosed with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis. Relapsing-remitting MS is a type of MS where you have relapses (symptoms getting worse) followed by recovery (that's when it's “remitting”). Your disability doesn't get worse between relapses but after each relapse, it can end up worse than before.
Allyson has experienced twenty relapses over the last 15 years that led to symptoms of brain fog, fatigue, and optic neuritis. The optic nerve carries images of what the eye sees to the brain. When this nerve becomes swollen or inflamed, it is called optic neuritis. It may cause sudden, reduced vision in the affected eye. Allyson at times also found it difficult to walk.
In 2020 Allyson had to stop working in her corporate job as an analyst. She experienced anxiety and depression, wondering what had happened to her life. Feeling miserable, she thought - is this it? So she had to find a new way to get motivated to try something new. Allyson discovered that there were diets out there that could help promote repair in the body, she followed Dr. Terry Wahl’s Paleo diet, a neurologist who also has Multiple Sclerosis. Dr. Wahls is a IFM-trained physician, educator, researcher, and patient.
Within 3 months, her energy returned, she got her brain back and the anxiety and depression began to subside - life-changing. It involved eliminating inflammatory foods such as sugar, dairy, gluten, processed foods, and alcohol, and replacing them with nutrient-dense fruits, vegetables, fiber, good fat, and protein. There are many diets out there, so Allyson put her analyst skills to good use and discovered that 70-80% of healthy diets overlap the same foods.
Allyson believes that resilience is our ability to never up on ourselves, and it is our ability to keep learning so that we can persist to get results.
It is now Allyson’s passion to help others on their journey to eat better and feel better.
Allyson’s tips:
Work with Amanda
If interstate or international :
Call us on 1300 188 882 or email hello@amandacampbell.com.au to find out how to book in for online coaching if you are outside of Melbourne / International.
Speaking:
Amanda presents her wellness workshops and keynotes virtually, live on zoom.
To book Amanda to speak at your event or workplace please contact:
www.amandacampbell.com.au
hello@amandacampbell.com.au
1300 188 882
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amandacampbellspeaker
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/amandacampbell_speaker/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmandaC_health
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandacampbellau
Blog: https://www.amandacampbell.com.au/blog
Podcast: Bend Like Bamboo on Itunes
Online course: https://bendlikebamboo.teachable.com/courses/
Bend Like Bamboo
Facebook: www.facebook.com/BendLikeBamboo
Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/bendlikebamboo/