GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Zepbound, and Mounjaro have reshaped the weight-loss landscape almost overnight — but the way they're often prescribed leaves people under-fueled, losing muscle, and going it alone. In this episode of The Coaching Lab, host Leigh Baker sits down with National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach Erin Chain and triple-board-certified physician Dr. Sheri Poznanovic of Optin Health & Nutrition to unpack what's really happening in the GLP-1 era — and where health and wellness coaching fits into the care plan.
Together they explore why so many people on GLP-1s aren't eating or hydrating enough, how rapid weight loss can mask dangerous muscle mass loss, and why a "prescribe-and-disappear" model falls short. Dr. Poznanovic explains the multidisciplinary approach the Obesity Medicine Association recommends — combining medication, nutrition, body composition testing, VO2 max assessment, and coaching — while Erin shares real-world stories of clients navigating low energy, food noise, protein gaps, medication interactions, and the stigma of being on a GLP-1.
Whether you're a coach, a clinician, an employer weighing GLP-1 coverage, or someone considering these medications yourself, this conversation offers a grounded, human look at doing weight loss in a way that protects strength, health span, and quality of life — not just the number on the scale.
In this episode:
• Why coaching alongside a GLP-1 changes outcomes
• The under-eating and muscle-loss risks no one warns you about
• Protein targets, carbs, and why "anti-carb" advice backfires
• Body composition and VO2 max testing in weight management
• Medication interactions as you lose weight
• Navigating stigma and the joy of food
• What employers and coaches should know before adding GLP-1s
Coaches: Explore CE credits at catalystcoachinginstitute.com
Employers: Learn about Catalyst Coaching's GLP-Whole offering — results@catalystcoaching360.com
Join us this fall at the Rocky Mountain Coaching Retreat & Symposium: catalystcoachinginstitute.com/retreat
Info re earning your health & wellness coaching certification, annual Rocky Mountain Coaching Retreat & Symposium & more via https://www.catalystcoachinginstitute.com/
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If you are a current or future health & wellness coach, please check out our Health & Wellness Coaching Community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/278207545599218. This is a wonderful group if you are looking for encouragement, ideas, resources and more.
