For much of my career, I’ve been known as a health and wellness expert – trained as a dietitian and exercise physiologist, with a PhD specialising in exercise for metabolic diseases like diabetes and obesity. I’ve consulted to major health organisations, published my research in science journals, spoken at conferences around the world, and have been interviewed on TV and radio by the media. I’ve done my best to stay fit by hitting the gym, surfing, rock climbing, hiking, cycling, dancing, and much more. Over the years, it seemed like I had it all together, but life has a way of catching us off guard when we least expect it – in my case, it was a serious health issue.

For over 12 years, I had progressively worsening symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and unexplained weight loss. Doctors repeatedly misdiagnosed and dismissed these symptoms and attributed them to countless conditions, but nothing improved.

Finally, in August of 2022, a more progressive doctor ordered a blood test that suggested I might have a pituitary tumour (a prolactinoma). A referral to an endocrinologist and an MRI later confirmed the tumour’s presence. All of a sudden, everything made sense. My disrupted hormones caused symptoms consistent with depression and anxiety despite having no obvious reason to feel that way. The personal and professional toll was massive on many fronts. It affected my personal relationships, strained my career, and made even the smallest of daily tasks feel insurmountable.

With medication, I was able to shrink the tumour and restore my hormone balance. Physically, I regained around 9 kg (~20 lbs) of lean muscle I had lost. However, much of the unhealthy thinking patterns that had plagued me before the diagnosis were still deeply embedded in my brain’s wiring.

At my lowest — what I call my “wilderness years” — I found myself applying the very principles I had taught for decades, but this time from the perspective of someone struggling to stay afloat. I dove deeper into the neuroscience of mental health, exploring how habits, mindset, and behaviour changes could support my recovery. I experimented, failed, learned, and slowly built new patterns that helped me reclaim my life. I still have my difficult days, but I can see that my trajectory is now moving in the right direction.

This personal journey reshaped my understanding of health. True wellness isn’t just about nutrition and exercise — it’s about cultivating a resilient mind, forming sustainable habits, and finding meaning through adversity.

Today, I’m passionate about sharing this deeper, more comprehensive perspective on health. Through science-backed insights and lived experience, I aim to provide evidence-based information to help others master their minds, build better habits, and unlock their full potential. If I’ve learned one thing, it’s this: Transformation is possible — even when life throws its hardest challenges your way.

I’ve been providing clear, concise, high-impact quotes and interviews on health, exercise, and nutrition to global media outlets since the 1990s. I bring a relaxed, comfortable demeanor to interviews, along with my professional qualifications and experience, to deliver credible and impactful health messaging to your audience. If you’re an editor, writer, TV/radio producer, or public relations firm looking for a media health spokesperson or expert commentary on healthy lifestyle topics, please contact me to discuss your needs.