Daniel Barber MS, ReCODE Certified Health Coach, Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach (FMCHC)
My Background
I hold a Masters of Science degree in Physics, which I relied on in my 32 year career in the high technology optics industry. In my fourteen year career as an employee in this industry, I worked as an optical engineer for Perkin-Elmer, the company responsible for the Hubble space telescope.
In 1996 I became a co-founder and CEO of a high technology optics firm, LightWorks Optics, Inc. In 2013 we sold this organization to a public company, and then in 2014 I stepped down as CEO and retired.
My Personal Path to Wellness
With my family history of Alzheimer's disease -- both my mother and my maternal grandfather died of Alzheimer's disease -- the moment after I retired 10 years ago, I was laser focused on what I could do to minimize the likelihood of an Alzheimer's future for myself. I knew I carried one copy of the Alzheimer’s gene ApoE4; which gives me a 30% chance of being diagnosed with Alzheimer's in my lifetime.
As an avid reader, I eventually discovered a lifestyle change protocol that has recently been clinically demonstrated to have a high success rate (~80%) in the reversal of early Alzheimer's disease and cognitive decline.
When I began this cognitive decline prevention and reversal protocol, I had no idea that I was already in the early stages of cognitive decline. My first cognitive test score put me in the 43rd percentile relative to my age cohort. A little over two years later I'm scoring in the 87th percentile on my cognitive tests.
How I Came to Be a Health Coach
When I began to see this success, I also started thinking about all the other people on a similar lifestyle path to chronic disease; and the bleak message given to them by the traditional medical system.
Our traditional western medicine sick care model assumes that all chronic conditions are simple diseases — like pneumonia or tuberculosis—so we just need to find the cause, develop a drug, and write a prescription. This system is not working, and those in the system don't seem to be able to face this failure and change course.
As a result, I decided to pursue a new avocation in Health Coaching.
Helping Others Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle
I am in this role because I care deeply about others who might be on a lifestyle path leading towards a chronic disease diagnosis. Our traditional medical system has no effective treatments to offer against the chronic diseases of our times, and is curiously unwilling to provide patients the alternative of lifestyle medicine. Knowing through my own experience that there is a path that leads to chronic disease prevention and reversal, I could not just sit back and watch as other's lives are destroyed by these terrible diseases. I am here for you, and I will not let you down. We will win this fight, the fight for your health and your life, together.
About Me
When not coaching, I enjoy day-long hikes in the mountains of Wyoming, taking long leisurely walks with my wife and our dog in the hills around our house, or cross country skiing together. I am also an avid reader, and spend many a leisurely morning enjoying reading to learn and expand my horizons. Of late, most of my reading has centered on science-informed books related to the power and effectiveness of lifestyle change as a way to prevent and reverse the chronic diseases common to our times -- and in particular cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. I live about 20 miles south of Jackson, Wyoming, but can coach all over the world via video conferencing.
Patricia Mitchell Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach (FMCHC)
My Personal Path to Wellness
I'm your guide to a holistic journey to improve your wellness. With a passion for functional medicine, culinary arts, and a personal understanding of health challenges, I'm here to help you embrace a vibrant, healthy life. As a functional medicine certified health coach, I combine the power of science-based Functional Medicine and holistic wellness to guide you on a path to optimal health.
My journey started in the world of culinary arts, where I was a classically trained chef and pastry chef. After years of not feeling great, I started working with a Functional Medicine doctor. My life took a more profound turn when I discovered that I carried two copies of the Apoe4 gene. ApoE4 is considered a major genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer's disease. Individuals who inherit one copy of the ApoE4 allele have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's, and those who inherit two copies have an even higher risk.
Having witnessed the challenges faced by my own family members who battled Alzheimer's and dementia, I understand firsthand the impact it has on both the individual Alzheimer's patient and their loved ones. This deeply personal connection fuels my determination to empower you with strategies that support brain health and overall well-being.
Navigating Health Challenges
Life has presented me with other health challenges, like osteoporosis and hypothyroidism. I've learned that health is a journey that requires dedication, knowledge, and resilience. It also requires a lot of
research and hard work. Through my own experiences, I've discovered ways to manage and even thrive despite these physical challenges. This journey has given me insights into the importance of personalized care and integrative approaches.
Embracing the Healthy Life
I am a living testament to the transformative power of healthy living. I've embraced a lifestyle that combines functional nutrition, mindful movement, and holistic practices. Every day, I'm reminded of the joy that comes from nurturing both body and mind.
My training at The Functional Medicine Coaching Academy taught me to respect your individuality. As your health coach, I’ll support you in your personal journey as you navigate the intricacies of health and wellness on your way to a healthier life. I provide support via coaching sessions to help you discover ways in which you can take charge of your health. We can work on your diet in conjunction with your physician-prescribed food plan. In addition, we can consider other modifiable lifestyle factors such as
sleep, stress management, movement, relationships, and mindfulness. And I will be there to provide the unwavering support needed to meet your goals.
Whether you are seeking to optimize your well-being, manage specific health concerns, or simply want to live your best life, I’m here to assist you in developing practical skills and sustainable changes. I will be your coach, partner, and champion. But you are always the leader in your health journey. Together, we will co-create a roadmap to vibrant health that aligns with your own unique needs and aspirations. I provide support via coaching sessions to help you discover ways in which you can help yourself with movement, a healthier diet and a new lifestyle, sleep and stress management to name a few. And I will be there to provide the unwavering support needed to meet your goals. Whether you're seeking to optimize your well-being, manage specific health concerns, or simply want to live your best life, I'm here to assist you in developing practical and sustainable changes.
About Me
When not coaching, I’m happy working out in the gym, practicing a variety of mindfulness techniques, gardening, walking my dogs, hiking, sewing, traveling, and enjoying friends and family. I live in Bastrop, Texas, but can coach all over the world via video conferencing. Here’s to your health, happiness, and the exciting journey ahead!