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Inspiring Conversations with Lindsay Zahner of Sailor Health Coaching

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lindsay Zahner

Hi Lindsay, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I’m Lindsay, a certified health and wellness coach and 100 Ton Master ship captain. Interesting combination, I know.

I was born and raised in St. Louis, but moved to Maui at age 23 to seek adventure at sea. A Midwesterner with no prior oceangoing experience, I miraculously landed a job on a whale watching charter in Lahaina Harbor. This opportunity changed the course of my life. I spent the next 12 years following the migration of the North Pacific Humpback Whale between Alaska and Hawaii, feeling both empowered that I created this life for myself and eternally grateful, cherishing every breathtaking moment on the water.

When the pandemic hit and tourism stalled, I found myself jobless in Hawaii and 0ver 4,000 miles from home. My mental health declined rapidly. To keep my body and mind busy, I turned to daily running, weightlifting, and meditation and focused on nourishing my body with real, whole foods. This lifestyle shift made me realize the toll my boat work had taken on my health. Repetitive motion injuries, an unhealthy diet, and hearing loss were becoming real concerns. It was time to pivot, but I had no idea what I wanted to do. Captain Lindsay was my whole identity.

As I continued to eat well and exercise, I began to see positive changes, both physically and mentally. I started sharing insights on social media, aiming to support others facing these same challenges. The positive feedback gave me a real “helper’s high”, that feeling of elation knowing you made a tiny difference in someone’s life.

The epiphany happened months later while working on a boat near Prudhoe Bay, Alaska: I’d become a health coach and help people become their best selves. The idea ignited a passion in me and aligned with my values. I started class immediately, right there in the middle of the Arctic.

Today, I’m still Captain Lindsay, but also Coach Lindsay, specializing in guiding families and adults ages 30+ toward healthier lifestyles through nutrition education, stress management, and movement. When you’re ready, I’m here to help you chart your course to optimal health and wellness!

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I’ve faced a few hurdles, but overall, it has been the perfect blend of enlightening and challenging. Embarking on a new career path at age 37 felt daunting and almost silly at times. Juggling school, work, and prioritizing my own health and well-being was no small feat, but throughout this journey I’ve gained profound insights into my values and passions, and that knowledge is invaluable.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Sailor Health Coaching?
I specialize in guiding families and adults aged 30+ toward healthier lifestyles through nutrition education, stress management, and enjoyable exercise.

I provide science-backed, research-based content that cuts through the overwhelming sea of internet misinformation. I offer two different programs: Keel Essentials, a “Nutrition 101” course to introduce you to basic concepts regarding diet and movement, and Voyage to Vitality, a program for adults ages 30+ who are looking for support with stress/chronic disease management and increasing their “health span”.

Your subscription includes unlimited messaging with me, and the option of a monthly or weekly video coaching session. Message me via the contact form on my website, www.sailorhealthcoaching.com, for a free consultation. I’m currently developing the Sailor Health Coaching App, so be on the lookout later this year!

I don’t want this to be just another online course that you purchase and don’t use because you didn’t have support. I’m dedicated to navigating you towards a healthier, happier, more energetic lifestyle through a focus on nutrition and movement. You already have what it takes to reach your potential; I’m here to help inspire, motivate, and empower you!

Recognizing the demands of our busy lives, my realistic approach ensures lasting changes without overwhelming schedules—we’ll go at your pace. Remember, it’s never too late to start. When you’re ready, let’s Chart Your Course to Optimal Health and Wellness!

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
I’ve had so much support and encouragement from some wonderful people! My partner, Andrew, who always reminds me of how hard I’ve worked when I don’t recognize it in myself, my mother for raising me to be too stubborn to quit, and Coach Rachel, who, from the day I met her, was my biggest cheerleader and instilled so much confidence in me.

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