Dr. Robin Williams
Dr. Williams is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Hematology/Oncology at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Williams cares for children, adolescents, and young adults with leukemia, lymphoma, and other more rare hematologic malignancies. Within this patient population and alongside Dr. Shane McAllister in Pediatric Infectious Disease, she co-founded a comprehensive clinic in 2020 for solid organ transplant (SOT) patients at risk for EBV related complications including the development of post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD). The goal of the clinic is to give uniform and data driven evaluation for EBV DNAemia and monitoring guidelines for diagnosing PTLD. The clinic regularly follows EBV positive SOT patients within the first two years of their transplant and any SOT patient with symptoms or imaging concerning for PTLD. Dr. Williams also heads a research laboratory focused on improving T cell immunotherapy against hematologic malignancies with an emphasis on refining T cell function in the central nervous system and developing new targets for chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cell therapy.
I had the pleasure of speaking to Robin about her various accomplishments, as well as her experiences treating a patient with Idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease (IMCD). Truly moving and memorable interview.
To watch, go to: Interview with Dr. Robin Williams
Tony Jacobsen: A Man Defined by Determination, Not Disabilities
Tony Jacobsen was born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (O.I.), also known as brittle bone disease. He has fractured numerous bones throughout his life, but they did not stop him - the fear, the doubt, and the stillness that followed almost did. Everything changed when Tony discovered how to move the right way for his body. His mindset shifted and bone density increased by 70%. He found strength he didn’t know he had — and that is when The #UNBREAKABLE Way™ was born. See below to learn more about his path and plethora of achievements.
1. You have many titles that you hold Tony. Author, personal trainer, motivational speaker, and DJ. Turning to the writer's side for a moment, you authored Disable Your Disability: Live the Healthy Life You Deserve! and Advice to Be #UNBREAKABLE. Through this endeavor, were you finding that you gained as much healing as your readers or even more so through these words?
Writing has always been healing for me. Ever since a young age, I was writing short stories, plays, lyrics, and screenplays. It has always been an outlet for me, and through that, healing came. When it came time to write Disable Your Disability, which would be my first full-length book, I was trying to package and convey everything I had figured out for myself during the years prior as it pertained to the physical aspects of my disability.
After my physical transformation, I learned so much of what to do and what not to do; I wanted to share it with others. Through the writing process, since I did go back to the beginning and covered my upbringing, I did end up uncovering some things I didn't expect; feelings I dealt with and experiences that changed me. So, once I was done writing the book, I realized I had healed more parts of me that I didn't realize needed healing. Then, with Advice to Be #UNBREAKABLE, I went a little deeper. The book came after so much healing in my life, so it is filled with lessons I learned through my challenges. Yet even so, through the writing process, I gained more insight into who I am and my mission here on earth. Every time I write, I heal a little more. I am writing to my past self and future readers all at once. Presently, I am working on my third book, so I know there will be healing along the way.
2. You have been diagnosed with one of the nineteen different types of osteogenesis imperfecta. This is a genetic disorder characterized by bones that break easily, often from little or no apparent cause. These personal stats of yours are shocking - over 70 bone fractures, 12 surgeries and 4 steel rods. Of all of the potential dangers that this condition could bring you, which ones were the hardest for you to handle? Secondly, I realize that stimulation of collagen production could help with your condition. Have you been gradually using those techniques over time?
Having O.I. can cause a lot of pain, but that was not the hardest part. For me, it was fear. Living with O.I. means being constantly aware that one wrong move could change everything. I used to let that fear control me. I avoided movement because I always thought it would do more harm than good. This kept me from living life to the fullest. Once I learned how to move properly and safely for my body, the fear started to fade. Of course, I am always going to be on the lookout, but now it is more intentional and with a positive purpose. Going through the process of learning how movement can squash fear, especially for someone like me who has brittle bones, is the number one reason I pursued fitness as a profession. That mindset shift is a major part of what I teach in my coaching programs.
As far as collagen production goes, it is still up in the air as far as how helpful it is for someone with O.I. to produce more collagen, simply because the collagen we are producing isn't good. Think of it this way: when you are building a house, if the foundation is weak or the framework is not built correctly, the overall structure is still fragile. With O.I., the DNA (genetic code framework) that tells the body how to build the collagen is 'imperfect.' So, no matter how much is built, it is not going to be as strong as it should be. Now, it doesn't mean that the building can't stand; it just means we have to care for it differently. That is where I have learned how nutrition, supplements, and consistent movement all support collagen and bone health. It is something I take very seriously. My entire routine is built around supporting my body and removing things that might cause damage.
3. At this point, you are free from needing crutches and wheelchairs. This is amazing to hear. For those who have yet to accomplish this, what would you say to them so as to keep them from losing hope?
The first thing I always say to someone who might feel hopeless is do not compare your journey to mine or others. We are all moving forward at different speeds in different ways. The main point to remember is to get and keep moving - both physically and mentally. It is a process, and it is progress. Nothing happens overnight and if you stay consistent, you will see results. Progress is going to look different for everyone. Maybe you are standing longer today than you did yesterday. Maybe you can transfer into your wheelchair easier now than you could a month ago. Maybe you have more energy and can last longer during a playdate with your grandchildren. Maybe your progress is seeing that you now believe that your body is capable of more than you give it credit for right now. It took me a long time to get to this point. Years of work. Years of challenges and setbacks. However, I have always focused on one thing - and that is making sure I do more of the things I can do instead of sulking about the things I can not do. That's what I want others to remember. Don't lose hope. You're not broken. You are #UNBREAKABLE.
4. I know firsthand what it was like to watch my loved one suffer and struggle from his own sickness. May I ask the ways in which your wife has learned to cope with the various ups and downs that accompany this disorder?
My wife, Teemaree, is incredible. She has been with me through some really tough times, and she handled it with patience and love. One of the biggest things she's learned is balance; when to help, when to step back, and when to just be there. She is really good at it! We talk a lot, we laugh a lot, and we both stay focused on gratitude. She's also always seen me for what I am capable of doing, even before I could see it myself. Throughout our twenty-five years together, she has always encouraged me to move more and push past barriers. Now that I have gotten to where I am physically and mentally, I believe it has brought her more peace too. We both live by the idea that life is as easy as how much we are willing to step out of our comfort zone to get it, and we keep showing up together - no matter what.
5. You were the host of the podcast, Unbreakable with Tony, and I note that you may have taken a hiatus from recording for a while. In what ways did you find podcasting to be a healthy and helpful outlet for both you and your listeners?
I love being on the mic! As a rapper/emcee, giving motivational talks, or speaking in YouTube videos. Whenever I get the mic, I just love it. So, creating a podcast was a no-brainer! That podcast in particular was definitely like therapy for me in the best way. Doing a podcast gave me space to share deeper thoughts, share stories, and talk through lessons out loud. I know that is why listeners connected with it too. The podcast format allowed it to be less scripted or polished. I could just be me. I took a break from it because I wanted to focus time on building new things, but I will always love podcasting, and I will be bringing it back in a new way soon. It is part of my bigger mission, which is to continue creating spaces where people can feel seen, heard, and motivated to be #UNBREAKABLE in their own lives.
6. It is astounding to me that with all you have happening, you find time to volunteer. You are a Board Member of the Osteogenesis Imperfecta Foundation and acted as President of the Toastmaster International for about a year. Have these experiences been enriching, and how does the Foundation hope to help patients in a bigger way?
I have always been one to help where and when I can, and volunteering is something that grounds me and brings me so much joy. I love seeing other people's missions become reality. Being on the board of directors of the O.I.F. gives me a chance to use my voice for the community I care about deeply. I've spent so many years connecting with my fellow O.I.er’s, and now I have a chance to connect their voice with one of the largest organizations in the world that are dedicated to supporting the O.I. community. I could not ask to be in a better position. For me, it is not just about raising money (which is always a good thing), but also raising awareness and helping people feel less alone. Toastmasters was huge for me, too. It helped me grow as a communicator and a leader. Being President of my club helped me learn about working with a community and seeing how everyone's needs can be met in different ways. Both experiences taught me that giving back is not just about helping others; it's about continuing your own growth.
7. Alongside Mike Mitchell, you wrote a feature length documentary entitled "The Road to Eternity". Please offer the readers a synopsis and also, are we able to view this anywhere online?
The Road to Eternity was an amazing project that I was honored to produce with my good friend, Mike Mitchell, for a video game company that was creating a new game called "Pillars of Eternity." It was a behind-the-scenes look at how they were able to crowd-source the funding for their game after they had fallen into bad financial times. In fact, they were the first major game company to do it! Both Mike and I had worked in production for many years, but this was a major step for us because it was our first feature-length project; and there were only the two of us working on it! We did all of the filming, story production, editing, and sound on the film. It was a big learning experience, and we both loved the end product. I am not sure if it can be found online, but you can visit my IMDB listing to find out more: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1396384/
8. I cannot forget to ask about the Unbreakable Mix Show. It is a proven fact that music does a great deal for one's mental and emotional wellbeing. How do you feel your show stands out from others and what can listeners expect upon your return?
Straight up... music is medicine. It has always been a big part of my life from a very early age to help me stay positive, and I have been a professional DJ since the mid-1990s. At the time I created the #UNBREAKABLE MIXSHOW, which was during the pandemic in 2020, I knew I wanted to do something different because there were so many DJs just spinning music online. So, I took everything I knew and combined it into one show: music, movement, and motivation! It's not just a DJ set, it's an experience. Every show is filled with upbeat music from every genre and decade to keep you moving. I then get on the mic and do a short motivational talk to uplift the listener/viewer. I talk about having confidence, staying positive, how to build awesome relationships, and so much more. Every show is about having fun! What makes it stand out is not just the fact that you have a motivational DJ as the host, but I also believe in not being perfect. No perfection, just connection. You will dance, laugh, heck, you might even cry. Right now, you can listen to replays of all the shows 24-7 on #UNBREAKABLE RADIO (http://www.unbreakableradio.com - some are NSFW). When I return with the live show, I am bringing more of the same energy! More awesome music, more encouraging messages, and more movement to make you feel #UNBREAKABLE.
To learn more about Tony, visit: Tony Jacobsen | Adaptive Fitness & The #UNBREAKABLE Way
PARTNERS WHO PUSH PAST PARKINSON’S DISEASE
Filmmaker, Writer, Director, Artist. Robert Monegan is a filmmaker, writer, director and an illustration artist. Thaddeus Williams is a web/graphics designer, pianist, and former choir director. They are also a NYC based married couple who live daily with the effects of Parkinson’s disease. In this two-part interview, you will learn about their lives before and after diagnosis, effects of long-term illness on life, and see how love is the best band aid for ailments.
* Photograph courtesy of Dan Lane Williams: dlwphotographynyc.com
Interview with Robert Monegan and Thaddeus Williams - Part 1
Interview with Robert Monegan and Thaddeus Williams - Part 2
DR. RACHEL MILLNER
Rachel works with adolescents and adults seeking therapy for eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, orthorexia, disordered eating, and chronic dieting for over ten years. Much of her work is rooted in Health at Every Size®, Body Trust®, Intuitive Eating, social justice, trauma-informed care, and fat positivity. However, she also deals with clients suffering from trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, LGBTQIA+ Concerns, and other dissociative disorders.
Listen to our interview here: Interview with Dr. Rachel Millner
Dr. Jawad Mustafa Is On A Mission To Help Females Stay Healthy
Authored By: Cindy Mich
Dr Jawad Mustafa is an OB-GYN Ultrasound Consultant and Breast Health Coach. He is also the Founder of Bebreastaware, which is a non-government, non-funded organization for breast health and cancer awareness. He has a strong desire to educate and motivate women to be proactive and learn methods, ways and tips to reduce the avoidable risk factors for breast cancer development. I feel fortunate to be given time to speak with him.
1. I am aware that you work both in the area of obstetrics/gynecology and are a family physician. Talk to me a bit about the plus points, as well as a bit of the hardship, involved within each specialty. Moreover, at what point in your life did you decide that medicine was going to be your future?
Merging obstetrics/gynecology with family medicine has enriched my practice with the ability to offer comprehensive care. In OB/GYN, the joy and complexity of guiding women through significant life stages is unparalleled, requiring a blend of technical skill and empathy. Family medicine, on the other hand, allows me to care for patients across all life stages, building lasting relationships and addressing a wide spectrum of health issues. Each specialty comes with its unique challenges. OB/GYN demands precision and emotional resilience, especially in high-stakes situations like childbirth and surgery. Family medicine requires a broad knowledge base to manage the diverse health needs of families over time.
My journey towards medicine was inspired by a deep-rooted desire to make a positive impact on people’s lives, a decision solidified early on through my academic pursuits and personal experiences. Witnessing the profound difference healthcare can make reinforced my commitment to this path.
2. While conducting some research, I saw that Pakistan females have had non-resolved reproductive and mental health issues for a number of years. In fact, the country has the highest incident rate of breast cancer in Asia. In order to properly accommodate the aforementioned needs of this population, what do you feel needs to happen?
Addressing the reproductive and mental health issues, along with the high incidence of breast cancer among Pakistani women, requires a multifaceted approach. First and foremost, there needs to be an increase in public health awareness. Education plays a critical role in this regard, not just in disseminating information about these health concerns but also in breaking down the stigma associated with them. By educating women on the importance of regular health screenings, including mammograms, and providing information on reproductive health and mental well-being, we can empower them to take charge of their health. Secondly, access to affordable healthcare is paramount. This includes not just the availability of medical facilities but also ensuring that women have the means to reach these facilities and can afford the care they receive. Implementing community-based programs that offer free or low-cost screening and treatment options could significantly impact this issue. Furthermore, training healthcare professionals to specialize in women's health issues, especially in rural and underserved areas, is essential. This could be achieved through government initiatives and partnerships with private and non-profit organizations. Lastly, there needs to be a concerted effort to involve men and community leaders in these conversations. Gender norms and cultural practices often hinder women's access to healthcare; thus, engaging the whole community in dialogue and education efforts is crucial for change.
3. I understand that the term breast cancer is relative to sexuality, which then can then make the subject taboo in this culture. Do you think that this has any impact on women's choices when treating this type of cancer? I also read another story where a cancer patient stated that members of her community actually said she was to blame for getting this disease. How would you address these critics?
Certainly, cultural perceptions and taboos surrounding breast cancer can significantly impact women's decisions regarding its treatment. In societies where sexuality is a sensitive topic, diseases affecting sexual organs, like breast cancer, often become shrouded in stigma. This, unfortunately, can lead to delays in seeking treatment, reluctance to discuss symptoms openly, and even refusal of life-saving interventions due to fear of social ostracization or misunderstanding about the nature of the disease.
The misconception that the patient is to blame for their illness is another profound barrier to effective care. This blame can stem from a lack of awareness about the causes of cancer, attributing the disease to moral or personal failings rather than biological and environmental factors.
To address these challenges and critics, a multi-pronged approach is necessary:
1. **Education and Awareness**: It's crucial to increase awareness about breast cancer's nature, emphasizing that it is a medical condition requiring professional treatment. Education campaigns should also debunk myths regarding the causes of breast cancer, highlighting that the disease can affect anyone, regardless of their moral standing or behavior.
2. **Community Engagement**: Engaging community leaders and influencers in the conversation about breast cancer can help change perceptions at a grassroots level. When respected figures in the community speak openly about the importance of breast health and cancer screening, it can normalize the conversation and reduce stigma.
3. **Support Networks**: Creating support networks for women affected by breast cancer can provide a safe space for them to share their experiences and receive emotional and practical support. Knowing they are not alone can be incredibly empowering for patients navigating their treatment journey.
4. **Advocacy**: Advocating for policy changes that protect and support cancer patients is vital. This includes ensuring access to healthcare, protecting patients' rights, and implementing educational programs in schools and communities to foster a more compassionate and informed society.
By addressing the cultural taboos and misconceptions head-on through education, community engagement, and advocacy, we can create an environment where women feel supported and empowered to seek treatment for breast cancer without fear of stigma or blame.
4. Can you tell us some of the best ways that a woman can possibly prevent getting a fatal diagnosis, or even just live a healthier life? Have you heard of any substantial new advances in the area of breast cancer cures?
Preventing a fatal diagnosis of breast cancer, or living a healthier life in general, involves a combination of lifestyle choices, regular screenings, and being informed about one's health. Here are some key strategies for women:
1. **Regular Screenings**: Early detection of breast cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes. Women should follow recommended guidelines for mammograms and clinical breast exams. Those with a family history of breast cancer may need to start screenings earlier or have them more frequently.
2. **Healthy Lifestyle**: Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding smoking can reduce the risk of breast cancer and numerous other health conditions.
3. **Breast Awareness**: Women should become familiar with the normal appearance and feel of their breasts and report any changes (such as lumps, pain, or changes in size or shape) to a healthcare professional immediately.
4. **Genetic Screening and Counseling**: For those with a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer, genetic screening for mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2 can provide valuable information for decision-making about preventive measures.
Regarding advances in breast cancer treatment, there have been several promising developments:
- **Targeted Therapy**: This form of treatment targets specific genetic changes in cancer cells. Drugs like trastuzumab (Herceptin) target the HER2 protein, which is overexpressed in some breast cancer cells, offering a more effective and less toxic treatment option.
- **Immunotherapy**: Treatments that harness the body’s immune system to fight cancer have shown promise in treating certain types of breast cancer. For example, pembrolizumab (Keytruda) has been approved for use in combination with chemotherapy for certain advanced breast cancers.
- **Personalized Medicine**: Advances in genetic and molecular profiling of breast tumors are allowing for more personalized treatment plans. By understanding the specific characteristics of a patient's tumor, doctors can select treatments that are most likely to be effective, reducing the need for trial and error.
- **Liquid Biopsies**: This emerging technology involves detecting cancer cells or DNA in the blood, offering a non-invasive way to monitor breast cancer progression or response to treatment.
These strategies and advances represent ongoing progress in the fight against breast cancer. Staying informed about the latest research and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers are key components of preventive health and effective treatment.
5. You are the creator of BeBreast Aware, which is a non-profit designed to increase awareness and potential early detection of breast cancer. I would love for you to share more information about the charity, along with the primary goals and objectives for the business.
BeBreast Aware is a non-profit organization dedicated to transforming the landscape of breast health awareness and early detection of breast cancer. Recognizing the significant barriers to breast cancer education and screening, particularly in underserved communities, BeBreast Aware seeks to bridge these gaps through a comprehensive approach that encompasses education, accessibility, and support.
My primary goals and objectives are to increase awareness, improve accessibility to screenings, as well as empowerment through education. Additionally, I offer support and counseling, advocacy and research support. By focusing on these objectives, BeBreast Aware aims to not only reduce the incidence of late-stage breast cancer diagnoses but also to support women throughout their journey, fostering a community of awareness, empowerment, and hope. Our vision is a world where every woman has the knowledge, resources, and support to take proactive steps towards maintaining breast health.
6. One of your various job titles is OB/GYN Ultrasound Consultant. As many may be unaware of this occupation, what are your primary duties?
As an OB/GYN Ultrasound Consultant, I operate within a dual capacity: I manage my own physical clinical setup in Pakistan while also serving as an Online OB/GYN Ultrasound Consultant for Global Care Consult USA, a platform focused on women’s health coaching. This unique position allows me to extend my expertise in ultrasound diagnostics across both traditional and digital realms, catering to a diverse patient base. Here’s a concise overview of my roles in these different settings:
Within the physical clinical setup in Pakistan, I provide direct patient care, diagnosis/consultation, patient education and local healthcare collaboration. Now, as to my role as an Online OB/GYN Ultrasound Consultant for Global Care Consult USA, what I offer is somewhat different. Duties include remote ultrasound analysis, digital communication, global patient support and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Balancing these roles allows me to harness the power of technology to transcend geographical barriers while maintaining a grounded presence in my local community through my clinical practice in Pakistan. This dual approach enriches my professional experience and amplifies my impact on women’s health care.
7. Medscope is the medical blog you started two or so years ago. What types of topics are covered here? Do you also allow guest bloggers?
Medscope, the medical blog I initiated around two years ago, serves as a comprehensive resource for both healthcare professionals and the general public, offering in-depth insights into a wide range of medical and health-related topics. The blog is designed to bridge the gap between complex medical information and everyday understanding, making health knowledge accessible to all.
Regarding contributions, Medscope warmly welcomes guest bloggers who wish to share their expertise or experiences related to health and medicine. We believe that diverse perspectives enrich our content and provide our readers with a broader understanding of health-related issues. Guest bloggers may include healthcare professionals, researchers, patients with compelling health journeys, and writers specializing in health and wellness topics. All submissions by guest bloggers undergo a review process to ensure that the content aligns with our standards for accuracy, relevance, and integrity. By incorporating contributions from guest bloggers, Medscope aims to foster a collaborative and informative platform that encourages dialogue and learning among its readership.
8. Finally, looking to the future, might you practice here in the United States - or are you more comfortable in your own country?
In my evolving professional journey, I've recently taken on a new role as a Breast Health Coach with Global Care Consult USA. This role has expanded my capacity to make a difference in women’s health on a global scale, especially focusing on breast health awareness and cancer prevention. Through online one-on-one coaching sessions, I've been providing personalized guidance and support to women worldwide, with a particular emphasis on those in the USA. My services encompass educating women about breast health, the importance of regular screenings, and understanding the avoidable risk factors associated with breast cancer development.
My aim is to empower women with knowledge and practical strategies to reduce their risk of developing breast cancer and to promote overall breast health. This involves an integrated approach that combines medical advice with holistic wellness practices, ensuring that women have access to comprehensive care and information.
As I look to the future, I am hopeful about the opportunity to travel to the USA and other destinations as part of coaching programs focused on breast health awareness. These programs will enable me to extend the reach of my coaching, offering in-person workshops, seminars, and consultations. The goal is not only to educate women about the steps they can take to minimize their breast cancer risk but also to foster a supportive community that encourages proactive health management.
While I am deeply committed to my work in my home country, the prospect of practicing and offering my services in the United States and beyond is an exciting possibility. It represents a chance to engage with diverse communities, share knowledge across cultural boundaries, and contribute to a global movement towards better breast health. Whether through continuing my online coaching or by participating in international health initiatives, I am dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the field of women’s health, leveraging both my medical background and holistic health principles to support women in their journey towards wellness.
More details on Dr. Mustafa can be found at Self Breast awareness and Early detection can save lives (bebreastaware.org) or Global Care Consult – Global Care Consult.
Sydney was an unforgettable experience, made even more amazing by the fact that I came from a place where opportunities like this are rare. Every achievement felt monumental, every step taken towards those iconic rings felt like a victory in itself. I celebrated my twenty first birthday at the Games, which I will never forget.
When it’s time to compete, it is all about staying focused and getting down to business. In the UK, becoming an Olympian is a serious challenge; requiring hitting tough qualification times, getting a Top 2 spot at the trials, and earning selection from a committee. My daily routine leading up to the games consisted of eat, sleep, train, and repeat. You have no life outside of training, but I loved it. There were two sessions a day and just one day off per week, and so you have to be dedicated. While running was the main focus of my training program, I made sure to hit the weights each day to get strong and powerful. I prioritized recovery through stretching, proper nutrition, and ice baths. Olympians are unsung heroes – we train hard and most of us do not make money; relying on part time jobs to support ourselves. For me, I worked a job and managed university on my journey to the Games - so the Games felt like a wonderful vacation of a lifetime. This has been an incredible journey. It shaped me not only as an athlete, but as a person, ready to take on any challenge life throws my way.
You earned a BS in Public Health, which would mean you would work in any area that helps to prevent worldwide illness. So, how did this educational background help you to flourish as a fitness trainer? Have you ever considered an occupation closer to your field of study, such as community health worker or health education specialist?
Starting my education journey a bit later in life allowed me to truly hone in on my life's purpose: improving lives through research in public health. I chose public health because it encompasses a vast array of studies aimed at enhancing well-being, which aligns perfectly with my passion. Opting for a wellness track provided me with invaluable insights into exercise as a preventive measure, enhancing my training skills and understanding of its role in overall health. Pursuing a Master's in Nutrition was a joy, as it built upon the foundation of public health knowledge, emphasizing the healing and fueling properties of nutrition. Now, on the brink of completing my doctorate in behavioral health, I see it as the final piece of the puzzle, allowing me to comprehend the intricate connections between mind, body, and management. In my current role, I love the opportunity to serve as a community advocate and educate others on holistic health. Each step of my educational journey has prepared me to continue making a difference in people's lives. Looking ahead, I see myself continuing to contribute to the nutrition industry in my current tole and becoming Professor Clayton or a government advisor for preventative health and wellness. Each part of my life has made me a better trainer. Pregnancy and recovery was truly the greatest one- and being almost 45 is another… each phase gives you empathy and understanding.
In preparation for this interview, I had read that your family was one of the unfortunate victims of the California wildfires, in that you ultimately lost your home. I am told that the risk for wildfires is high in many areas of your state. Tell me, unless it is too taxing for you, about the experience of living through such a loss. Moreover, is this enough for you to say, I am moving out of state and starting over?
The Malibu fires hit our community hard, leaving us grappling with the aftermath of lost homes, possessions, and cherished memories. Among the most devastating losses were the irreplaceable photos and mementos that held sentimental value beyond measure. Yet, amidst the ashes, we realized that possessions, no matter how dear, pale in comparison to the gift of life itself. The experience served as a reminder to prioritize what truly matters – family first! Another big challenge was witnessing the toll it took on the children. Their stress and anxiety far outweighed any material concern. There was also the daunting task of rebuilding within the confines of the Homeowner’s Association (HOA); navigating bureaucratic hurdles that are pretty much insurmountable. However, in the midst of adversity, we discovered a resilience and strength we never knew we had. It was a lesson to enjoy each day. As we move forward, we hold onto the understanding that while possessions may come and go, the bonds we share and the love that sustains us remains strong.
It is clear to see that your mother is one of your biggest inspirations. Please explain what your mother means to you, and also, are you having this same impact on your own children? Secondly, how are you instilling healthy lifestyles within your family?
Growing up with my mom as a single parent was an experience that shaped who I am today. Despite facing the challenges of raising four girls on her own, she instilled in us values of hard work, determination, and the belief that we could achieve anything. Her love and unwavering support were the bedrock of our upbringing, providing a sense of confidence and resilience within us all. Now, as a parent myself, I strive to be like her and have strength and devotion to my own children. I want to show them that as a woman, you can work and have purpose and still be a good family caretake and full of love. I have learned from her example to not put too much pressure on my kids to be perfect, but rather to empower them to take ownership of their choices and attitudes. With two boys and two girls of my own now, I am experiencing a different dynamic, because we have a man in the house. He is a dedicated dad and shares the load with me. Being a sports family, wellness is ingrained in our daily lives. It is not just something we focus on, but a true part of who we are. While I do have some rules, like no soda in the house except for special occasions, laughter and love are the true mantras of our family. The kids all know how to choose healthy foods, stay hydrated, and take their vitamins, It’s a well-oiled machine now.
You are the former VP of Worldwide Sports Performance and Fitness for Herbalife Nutrition; a title you held for 13 years. Do elaborate more on your duties at this organization. In your opinion, how does Herbalife set themselves apart from other dietary supplement suppliers?
This is a role that allowed me to blend my passion for fitness with my expertise as a former Olympic athlete and certified personal trainer. I led efforts to optimize sports performance and promote overall wellness among our consumers. I was responsible for employee fitness, fitness content support, and did a lot of external engagement with our partners, athletes and distributors. It was truly fine and dynamic role that suited my personality.
What makes Herbalife truly exceptional is its unwavering commitment to quality, integrity, and social responsibility. Their science-backed nutrition products not only transform lives, but also make a meaningful impact on communities worldwide. This is a company that empowers individuals to lead healthier, more active lifestyles through innovative products and personalized coaching programs. Through Herbalife, I fulfilled my mission of inspiring and empowering people to live their best lives, both physically and emotionally.
Another facet to your professional life is public speaking. Have you found that you prove more impactful when in front of an audience, or more as a physical coach? When can the public expect to hear you speak again?
Public speaking ignites a fire within me, especially when I am discussing topics close to my heart, such as nutrition, fitness, and health. There is something amazing about standing in front of a large crowd, knowing that my words have the power to impact and change lives. This is regardless of whether it is a room full of people, or engaging in one-on-one coaching sessions. In a 1;1 setting, you can make more of a difference due to personalized messaging. That is why I thrive with the company "train the trainers style,". I get to train those who will then deliver the message to the customers and the community. In essence, I am just the messenger, but with a lot of passion driving me.
What else can we expect from you this year as far as career goals?
Walking the sage at my doctoral graduation and seeing my triplets off to their colleges is my biggest honor of the year. I would like to start writing a book on raising healthy kids and continue to share my message of healthy active lifestyle around the world. To learn more about Samantha, go to: Samantha Clayton (@samanthaclaytonfitness) • Instagram photos and videos
Samantha Clayton: Champion Athlete and Fitness Advocate
Created By: Cindy Mich
Samantha Clayton is a high-level athlete who is fully involved in the fitness world. She uses her athletic mindset within her own daily routine, while helping others to enrich their lives in doing the same. Here is a bit more of her life story.
I would love to start off talking about your time in the Olympics. Might you tell us novices the typical training program to prepare for such an event? Also, how does one qualify to get into the Olympiad? Was there anything you learned from your fellow runners?
Being an Olympian is an extraordinary honor, especially coming from the inner city with limited means. It is the culmination of years of relentless dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment. The journey to the Games is where the real magic happens. It is filled with late nights, early mornings, and the unwavering support of my team, family, and community.