We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Holly Peyer a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Holly, appreciate you joining us today. Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?

Yes. It was May 2019 and my previously healthy, 9-year-old daughter became so ill that she ended up in the ICU at the local children’s hospital. It was the most terrifying time of my life.

Leading up to this, Charleigh was a healthy, happy child. She’d had a UTI the month prior and treated with antibiotics. Yet, something was still off. She was sleeping more than usual, cold all the time and extremely lethargic. As we were preparing for a blood test, Charleigh broke out in full body hives and lost consciousness. She was admitted to the hospital for sepsis – which meant she had a bacterial infection running rampant throughout her body, causing her organs to begin to shut down.

Thankfully, an amazing team of doctors saved her life using a combination of antibiotics, steroids and expert care to resolve the infection. To say we were grateful would be an understatement. However, six months later, unexplainable symptoms reappeared, her health started to decline again, and no one could figure out why. After many visits to specialists, Charleigh was diagnosed with an “unknown autoimmune disorder” and prescribed medication.

I struggled to accept the ambiguous diagnosis and was frustrated that she was taking medication that didn’t resolve her symptoms. So I dove deep into researching how to help Charleigh when most of the doctors and specialists gave up. As the world was shutting down due to the pandemic, I was ramping up to find answers.

Working in partnership with a functional medicine doctor, we pinpointed the root cause of Charleigh’s issues: an unhealthy gut (very common after taking antibiotics and steroids). Over a 6-month period, with diet modifications and a protocol of supplements, I helped my girl get back on track and off all prescription medication. Today, she is thriving. And I am passionate about helping others do the same.

In 2020, I left behind 20 years of experience in the marketing industry and went back to school. Today I’m an Emory University trained Health & Wellness Coach + Certified Functional Nutrition Counselor. I help people discover the lifestyle and nutrition fundamentals that work for their body so they can enjoy life to its fullest.

Holly, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m often asked what I do and the simplest answer is this: I help clients close the gap between where they are and where they want to
be in their personal health and wellness journey. And, that journey is unique to each individual.

Whether someone is struggling with low energy, stubborn weight gain, digestive issues, needs help managing a health condition, wants to kick an old habit, or just create some healthy, new ones … I help them build a plan to achieve their specific goals. I provide the tools, resources, and accountability along the way to help keep them motivated and on track.

Being a Certified Functional Nutrition Counselor puts me in the unique position of being able to layer in the power of nutrition. I take a holistic approach to food, considering all of the lifestyle factors that affect how someone’s body processes it – such as activity levels, environment, their health history and current conditions. I educate my clients along the way, and together we figure out what’s right for them.

I offer a free, 15-minute Discovery Call with prospective clients in which we discuss goals and roadblocks, what they may have tried in the past and what success would look like. If we’re a good fit, together we tailor a package that best suits their needs. But a sample starter package looks like this:

Personal Wellness & Character Strength Assessment
– Short assessments that uncover your unique strengths and areas of opportunity, to help empower you to achieve your health goals.

Health & Wellness Visioning Session
– One 60-minute session that includes an assessment of your health and medical history along with your current lifestyle, eating habits and preferences. In this session we’ll discuss your overall wellness vision; plus, set and prioritize your goals.

Bi-Weekly Personal Coaching Sessions
– Conducted in-person or via zoom, we discuss wins and challenges; assess what’s working vs. what may need to be refined; discuss relevant nutrition/fitness/lifestyle components; make action plan for upcoming week. After each session, you’ll receive a recap including action steps, evidence-backed handouts and articles.

Sample Meal Plan with Recipes
– A collection of fresh, unprocessed recipes – in support of your goals and tailored to your preferences.

Accountability Check-Ins
– In between sessions, I will text, email or call for added support; you’ll have unlimited access to reach out to me as well.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

Being fueled by an authentic WHY, or purpose behind your work. For me, it was Charleigh. Helping my daughter heal was my greatest motivator and also my greatest success story. Having the right education, training and credentials will only get you so far. Genuine passion, purpose and determination are the real keys to success.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

I am so passionate about this work that I sometimes wish I’d chosen this path first, instead of marketing – so that I could have more time to help more people. But, I truly believe everything happens for a reason, in its season. And the truth is, I couldn’t have done this work in my 20’s or even 30’s as I didn’t have the perspective, mindset or experience that I do now. I’m proof that it’s never too late to pivot careers or start anew. Listen to your heart, follow your passion and the rest will fall into place.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.herestohealthyco.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heres_to_healthy_co
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/herestohealthyco