We were lucky to catch up with Miriam Kaseff recently and have shared our conversation below.

Miriam, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Was there a moment in your career that meaningfully altered your trajectory? If so, we’d love to hear the backstory.

My defining moment occurred on August 23, 2013, when I received the devastating diagnosis of Ductal Carcinoma In-Situ, breast cancer. I was very fortunate my cancer was found very early, so I didn’t need chemotherapy or radiation, but because the cancer was pepper throughout my breasts, I had to have a double mastectomy. At that time, I started working with a health coach and realized I needed to make lifestyle changes to reduce my risk of reoccurrence and contracting another disease. I learned to reduce my stress, sleep better, make exercise a regular part of my weekly routine, and eat whole, real foods. I also decided to leave a job that wasn’t fulfilling to become an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

As a former special educator, I worked for 14 years with children who were Deaf or Hard of Hearing and their families. I loved seeing the lightbulb turn on for kids that struggled to understand language, which impacted their learning. Breaking down goals into small manageable steps was how these students became successful.

Now, I coach women like me who struggle to maintain a healthy balance in their lives. I help overwhelmed women manage doctor-prescribed diets by teaching them to adopt a healthier lifestyle without feeling deprived. Often, doctors will hand their patients a sheet of paper with all the foods they need to eliminate without much explanation or assistance in implementation. I often hear, “This is a list of everything I eat!! What can I eat now?” I feel so great when my clients’ symptoms are reduced, and they know they can still go out for dinner and enjoy the food they eat while maintaining their health.

I’m known for providing compassionate accountability. One client, Robyn, said, “For several years, I’ve had several doctors recommend that I make significant changes in my diet (gluten-free, grain-free, etc.) for various health reasons. I’m all for it; however, I have had a tough time executing so that the changes stick. Miriam is the secret sauce! She has helped me find food substitutions that work, new recipes, accountability, and so much more! For the first time, I think I can make the necessary food adjustments (and there are a lot!) I need to make to improve my health, clear up my skin and feel better. Miriam was the missing link. She’s been my food Sherpa. So grateful I found her!!”

My teaching experience and making my own lifestyle changes help me relate well to my clients. I am fortunate to have married my two passions of teaching and health/wellness.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Bad times have a scientific value. These are opportunities a good learner will not miss”.

I think most people have challenges on the path to success. Reframing obstacles to become learning experiences can be an essential part of growing as a person and entrepreneur.

I have had some physical and mental setbacks since my reconstructive surgery in 2013. I was hospitalized for five days with IV antibiotics for an infection in my remaining breast tissue. While in the hospital, a resident told me that one of the implants might need to be removed if the infection didn’t clear. This was devastating news to think I may be “lopsided.” I had to work through this mental challenge by looking at the big picture. I am alive! I can do everything I want to do in life, travel, spend time with my family and friends, exercise, and work. I was very fortunate that the medication worked and that I could keep my implant, but it was a mental and physical rollercoaster ride.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

Clients must know they have a trusted accountability partner when we work together. So, meeting clients where they are, utilizing their strengths, and helping them take small steps that don’t feel frustrating and overwhelming will help them achieve their goals. My programs are not one-size-fits-all. I listen carefully and ask my clients what’s important to them. We get down to the real reason for wanting change. We attack wellness goals at the root, meaning we work on making new habits that last a lifetime. I feel so much joy and success when clients see and feel success!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://welllifewithmiriam.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/welllifewithmiriam/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/welllifewithmiriam
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miriam-kaseff-welllifewithmiriam/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeZSwMNINZ9hX4toNsvUc2g

Image Credits
Professional headshot: The Rye Studio Other Photos: Cassie McKenzie Taylor