Elyse Wagner is a dynamic leader in the health and wellness space, with a rich background that blends holistic nutrition, clinical health psychology, health coaching, root cause medicine and entrepreneurial success.  Join me in learning more about her journey.

Tell us about yourself and your family.  How long you have been in the area, and where you are originally from?

I grew up in Lake Zurich, IL, and now live in North Barrington with my family. Being rooted in this area for much of my life, I’ve always had a strong connection to the community. After my time away for graduate school in Seattle, I came back to the Midwest, where we’ve settled and made North Barrington home. I’m a mom, a foodie, and a lover of all things wellness and horses. My passion for health and well-being has been shaped by my own journey, and now, I get to bring that passion to both my work and my family life here.

Please tell us about your background, and your current work/business.

After earning my undergraduate degree in Nutritional Sciences from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, I went on to complete dual master’s degrees from Bastyr University in Nutrition and Clinical Health Psychology. As a Certified Nutritionist and Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I transformed my personal health challenges overcoming childhood obesity and emotional eating, as well as managing celiac disease into a mission to empower others. I co-founded the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy, one of the world’s renowned health coach training programs, blending functional and root-cause medicine with positive psychology. After successfully growing and exiting the company, I now focus on helping certified health coaches build sustainable well-being and thriving businesses through my latest venture, A Nourished Life and A Nourished Business Academy

What made you decide to start your own business?

What drove me into business was deeply personal. Growing up, I faced my own set of health struggles—emotionally, mentally, and physically. I battled childhood obesity and emotional eating, and later discovered I had celiac disease. Navigating these challenges showed me firsthand how disconnected traditional healthcare can be from addressing the root causes of well-being. I realized there were significant gaps in the system—people weren’t getting the support they needed to truly heal and take ownership of their health.

This realization inspired me to dive deeper into holistic nutrition and mental health. After years of working as a practitioner, I noticed another gap: the disconnect between health coaches and their clients, as well as between health coaches and healthcare providers. There’s so much potential for health coaches to bridge that gap, but they often lack the tools, systems, and confidence to run sustainable businesses. That’s what led me to create programs that not only empower health coaches with business skills but also help them transform the way they support their own health and serve their clients, ultimately contributing to a healthcare system that’s more collaborative, preventative, and empowering.

Who is your typical client?

My typical client is a passionate, health-minded woman, aged 40-70, who is a certified health coach. She’s driven by her desire to help others and is curious about how to turn that passion into a thriving business. She’s eager to start or grow her own coaching practice because she values flexibility and freedom in her life. She loves to learn, welcomes guidance from coaches, and is always seeking new ways to improve. Most importantly, she’s determined to build a sustainable business that nourishes her without leading to burnout.

Are you working in the profession that you had in mind when you were 18?  If not, what was your original plan?

Yes and no – ever since I was a little girl, I’ve always wanted to help people with their health and well-being. My dream is to live in a world where everyone has the opportunity to fully own their well-being. That vision has driven my entire career—from running my own private practice, to partnering in another, to co-founding and scaling a global health coaching academy and movement. After selling and exiting that company, I’m now building another one, focused on teaching certified health coaches how to create thriving, sustainable, and nourished businesses. In doing so, I’m continuing my mission of bringing more well-being into the world.

What do you like best about being an entrepreneur, and what is the most challenging aspect of it?

Every day brings something new and different, giving me the space to constantly challenge myself, learn, grow, and evolve. It’s an opportunity to develop new skills and perspectives, which I’m grateful to pass on to my family—my daughter and husband—and the health coaches I mentor. It’s all about creating a ripple effect of growth and well-being.

What is something you are proud of yourself for accomplishing or overcoming?

I’m most proud of manifesting my dreams and turning them into reality. From achieving health milestones to creating the home I envisioned, and nurturing my relationships with my husband and daughter, everything I’ve desired has aligned with my values and integrity. This journey speaks to the incredible power of the mind, combined with alignment and trust. Mastering my mindset has been a profound accomplishment, and I’m honored to share this gift with others to inspire and empower them on their own paths.

How do you unwind and relax? What are your interests outside of your career?

To unwind and relax, I immerse myself in activities that nourish my soul. I practice yoga, which helps me stay centered and calm. Singing bowls are a favorite for their soothing, resonant tones that bring a deep sense of peace. I also love riding horses, an experience that connects me with nature and brings immense joy. Meditation is another key part of my routine, allowing me to find stillness and clarity. These practices help me maintain balance and recharge outside of my career.

Are you involved with any organizations for business or philanthropy?

Yes, I’m actively involved with Soul Harbor Ranch, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals through holistic and therapeutic programs. Additionally, I give back by offering free health coach office hours open to the public, specifically designed to support fellow health coaches. This initiative allows me to share my expertise and resources with the community, helping others thrive and grow in their careers.

What is a little-known fact or talent about yourself?

A little-known fact about me is that I have a talent for playing the singing bowls. This unique skill not only enriches my personal meditation practice but also allows me to create calming, therapeutic experiences for others. It’s a special way I connect with and support the well-being of those around me.

Name three songs that resonate with you.

Aint No Mountain High Enough

Respect

L-O-V-E by Nat King Cole

Have you ever given a compliment to a stranger, if so, do you recall what you said?

I love your attitude!

In photography, there is a shooting mode called Burst Mode.  It's where you capture a lot of photos in a short amount of time.  Let's go into Interview Burst Mode with quick short answers.

Would you rather dance or sing in public?

Dance

Heels or flats?

Flats

There are not enough ____________ in the world.

Health Coaches

Doing laundry or cleaning the kitchen?

laundry

What do you usually bring to a party?

Non-Alcoholic drinks!

To learn more about working with Elyse, checkout her website www.elysewagner.com.  Elyse Wagner