Dr Kirsty Seward Dietitian (APD, AN). Behaviour Scientist (PhD)

Who are you and what business did you start?

I am a dietitian, behaviour scientist (PhD) and body image coach form Newcastle, Australia. I have an online coaching business that offers group and 1:1 coaching programs, plus I offer my signature ‘Revive YOU’ online nutrition and mindset self paced course. I support women to break free from diet culture and fad diets – to heal their relationship with food and their body – to ultimately find their happiest and healthiest self.

What’s your backstory and how did you come up with the idea?

I have been a dietitian for almost 10 years and a behavioural scientist for 3 years. I founded my business in 2013 and in early 2020 I transitioned the business to the online space. I spent many years of my career working in the body transformation space and over this time saw how diet culture (eg. fitness challenges, detoxes and other fad diets) set women up for a toxic relationship with food and their body – the classic ‘all or nothing’ approach to ‘health’. This combined with my personal journey with breast implant illness and explant surgery (2020/21) shifted me to re-align my business to my values and help women heal their relationship with food and their body – to find their happiest and healthiest self.

Describe the process of launching the business.

In early 2020 when I transitioned by business to an online model I started with a single 1:1 package offer, from there I then grew to offering group coaching programs. Today I offer a range of 1:1 and group offers, plus a signature online self paced course. I became really clear on who my ideal client was and Instagram has been my primary marketing and engagement tool to attract ideal clients.

Since launch, what has worked to attract and retain customers?

Listening to the clients needs and collating client feedback about the offerings – what is or isn’t working. Being open to feedback and being open to pivot offerings.
Narrowing down my niche and marketing message.
I also believe being authentically me and aligning the business and it’s mission to my core values.

How are you doing today and what does the future look like?

I am loving my business and am attracting my ideal clients – I am expanding and over the last 6 months have been tapping more into my intuition to guide the business. The future looks very exciting! I’m working on my second online course at the moment, plus am also expanding my offerings.

Through starting the business, have you learned anything particularly helpful or advantageous?

Find a mentor to guide you – someone who inspires you or is doing well in your field, someone you trust. I’ve made some of the biggest leaps in business when I’ve had a mentor or coach in my corner.

Proximity is power – surround yourself with those who are where you want to be or are on the same journey as you.

Let go of the outcome and have fun – I’ve learnt to make my business fun and enjoyable.

Embody a growth mindset – always be looking for the opportunity to learn, there is no failures, just lessons.

What platform/tools do you use for your business?

For marketing I use instagram, facebook, activcampaign, CANVA and PLANN.
Practice management software – nutrition professionals cannot go wring with ‘Practice Better’ – it does everything, from scheduling, invoicing, client management and online course hosting.
Accounting – Stripe and Xero

What have been the most influential books, podcasts, or other resources?

One of my mentors gifted me the book ‘Principles – by Ray Dalio’ – I’d say it’s definitely a must read for anyone, especially those balancing business and life.
‘The Second Mountain’ by David Brooks was another highlight on my read book list.
At present, I’m a big fan of the start-up ‘booknotic’ – they do 20 minute hypnotic snippets of some of the top personal development books. It’s incredible and you really take in the books content! Definitely check them out.

Advice for other entrepreneurs who want to get started or are just starting out?

Follow your passion and let your intuition guide you – don’t attach yourself to the outcome of a product or launch – just have fun!

Where can we go to learn more?

Instagram @drkirstyseward – Website drkirstyseward.com.au