We were lucky to catch up with Kerri Pagliarini recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Kerri , thanks for joining us today. What was your school or training experience like? Share an anecdote or two that you feel illustrate important aspects or the overall nature of your schooling/training experience.

I’ve always been a lifelong learner—so much so that my love for school never fades. In fact, I’m heading back for my board certification and will be sitting for the boards this year! My journey started in college when I was completely fascinated by the body and its functions. I imagined a future deeply rooted in the medical field, full of discovery and innovation.

During an internship in radiology, however, I had a moment of truth. I realized that while I adored the intricacies of the human body, the fast-paced, image-centric world of radiology just wasn’t my calling. That experience (and some health issues) nudged me onto a new path—one that led me back to school, but this time to become a health coach. I embraced this new direction with the same passion I had for medicine.

One of the most memorable experiences during my health coaching program was the deep dive into dietary theories. We explored everything from ancient nutritional wisdom to modern science, learning that at the end of the day, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. It was a revelation: true health and wellness come from understanding that what works for one person might not work for another. This lesson in individualized care truly resonated with me and solidified my commitment to continuous learning.

Each chapter of my educational journey has enriched me in unexpected ways. From the high-energy hospital corridors to intimate classroom discussions over a cup of coffee, I’ve learned that the best education is not just about accumulating facts, but about understanding people and their unique needs. And that’s why, whether in a hospital or a health coaching session, I remain passionate, curious, and forever a student of life.

Kerri , 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 a health coach whose journey began in the most unexpected way—through a personal struggle with sugar addiction that led to a hospital stay. After years of battling uncontrollable cravings and feeling stuck, I finally connected the dots: my high sugar intake was undermining my health in profound ways. That wake-up call, combined with my lifelong passion for the medical field, inspired me to transform my pain into purpose.

Today, I empower women to take control over their cravings and discover sustainable strategies that work with their unique bodies and lifestyles. I offer personalized one-to-one coaching, as well as a comprehensive 90-day weight loss program designed to build healthy habits from the ground up. To further support my clients’ journeys, I also wrote a cookbook that makes clean eating feel approachable and downright delicious—proving that nutritious food can be both satisfying and enjoyable.

What truly sets me apart is that I understand the struggle firsthand. I’ve been where my clients are, and I know what it takes to break free from unhealthy cycles. I’m most proud of the real, lasting change I help create in people’s lives. For anyone curious about my work, know that when you connect with me, you’re partnering with someone who’s walked the path and is genuinely committed to guiding you toward a healthier, happier future.

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

Beyond formal training or technical knowledge, I believe the most essential element for succeeding in this field is cultivating the right mindset. Often, the challenges we face—whether in our own lives or in the lives of our clients—stem not from a lack of information, but from deep-rooted habits and limiting beliefs. For example, much of what people “eat” isn’t just about food; it’s a reflection of ingrained behaviors and thought patterns that dictate their choices and ultimately, their overall wellbeing.

By focusing on mindset, we begin to unravel the “why” behind these behaviors. Understanding the underlying factors that drive choices—be it emotional responses, societal pressures, or self-imposed limitations—opens the door to meaningful growth. In coaching, this means shifting the conversation from simply prescribing actions to exploring and reshaping the mental narratives that often hold people back.

In essence, a growth-oriented mindset serves as the foundation upon which all other skills and strategies are built. It’s the catalyst that transforms training and knowledge into real, actionable change—both for ourselves and those we coach.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

Word of mouth has been huge for me. I’ve found that when clients share their positive experiences, it naturally builds trust and brings in new business, making it one of the most authentic and effective strategies for growing my clientele.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://empower-wellnesscoaching.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sugar_ko_coach/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerri-pagliarini-b2199b349/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@kerripagliarini5322
• Other: https://www.skool.com/mind-and-body-reset-hub/about