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PNN Interviews:
Ashleigh Gass

Ashleigh Gass is a current Precision Nutrition Network superstar, having been with the program for the last 2 years and having had much success in delivering top notch nutrition information to her clients while making money doing so. In this interview with Ashleigh, we’ll discuss the Precision Nutrition program and how it’s working for her.

Dr Berardi:
Ashleigh, first of all, thanks for taking the time to do this interview – I know you’re a busy girl with all that you have on the go. Can you share a little bit about yourself with the readers? What is your involvement in the sport and/or fitness community?

Ash:
Well, Dr. B, for starters, here’s a little on my educational training. A few years back, I completed BSc in psychology from the University of Victoria. Since then I’ve pursued several certifications and currently am a level IV (NCCP) elite athlete development coach certified through the National Coaching Institute, a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the NSCA, and am a Certified Sports Performance Nutrition Advisor. Also, at the time of this interview, I’m working on a masters degree in sports science through Edith Cowan University in Perth, Australia.

Dr Berardi:
So what do you do with all those certifications?

Ash:
Currently, I’m running a private health, fitness and nutrition practice out of Synergy Health Management in Victoria, BC, Canada.

In my practice I see a variety of people: those with chronic pain and dysfunction, people who have been malnourished and de-conditioned for decades and want to improve themselves, and athletes seeking improved performance.

Dr Berardi:
So how long have you been doing this – working with clients, that is?

Ash:
I’ve been at Synergy for 5 years, originally mentoring under Jeremy Sheppard. I took over his practice 3 years ago. I’ve been studying health and wellness for about 8 years now.

Dr Berardi:
So, with all of your training and experience, what motivated you to seek out the Precision Nutrition Network? Why did you think it was important? What needs did your clients/athletes have that weren’t being met?

Ash:
Around 4 years ago I was reading your articles and books, and then lost touch. However one year ago a colleague of mine sent me a link to one of the Gourmet Nutrition recipes. For there, I went to your website, checked it all out, and the rest is history. After learning about your PNN, I knew it would be perfect for my practice.

I quickly joined the PNN because I saw the value in networking with colleagues around the world. Also, in my practice I cannot spend hours working on detailed nutritional plans for everyone I see; thus I saw value in working with you to expose my clients to more opportunities.

As humans we simply cannot be everything to everyone we work with, and the opportunity to create leverage with your team was more than welcome.

Dr Berardi:
Great answer – and a great reason to join. But be honest, did you have any reservations before you joined the PNN? If so, what were they?

Ash:
Honestly, when I educated myself on what the PN product was all about, how the forum worked, etc, I had no hesitation.

Dr Berardi:
What about the distance-based nature of the program? Isn’t it a tough sell to sign up for a program like this over the web? I mean, why didn’t you just select a local dietitian?

Ash:
Hahahaha! Local dietician? Ya right. I wanted results!

When I got caught back up to speed on everything you have accomplished in the nutrition world over the years I knew I was working with the best. The bottom line is you don’t waste time being a fuddy-duddy, you know how to get results and you know how to educate others to do the same. It has made absolutely no difference that you aren’t on site, you provide everything we need in excess, and the forum is available 24/7.

Dr Berardi:
What do you and your clients/athletes like best about the PN system?

Ash:
My clients enjoy listening to the information you provide in audio format. After they hear you they just ‘get it’ and it makes my job easier. As you have stated so clearly, getting results requires an individual to completely restructure their beliefs about nutrition. In my experience, this is impossible to do alone. Sure, you can make small changes here and there, but massive overhauls need so much more than one voice. My second voice is you JB and there is no failure!

Dr Berardi:
Did your clients/athletes find the advice in PN hard to follow?

Ash:
The advice is simple to follow because it makes so much sense to everyone.

Dr Berardi:
What kinds of results did your clients/athletes get when using the program?

Ash:
My athletes experienced marked increases in energy levels and recovery capabilities. My clients enjoy huge changes in body composition, increases in energy levels, decreases in chronic pain and of course big improvements in day to day function.

Dr Berardi:
And how about you? What benefits have you received?

Ash:
It’s difficult to put things into point form because I have learnt so much, but here goes.

1. When JB says it’s necessary for clients to completely re-shape their nutritional beliefs, he’s right.

2. Don’t try do this on your own unless you’re JB. If you want to maintain your sanity jump on board and take advantage of this system.

3. You have to stay on top of the monitoring process biweekly or it’s easy for clients to get lazy.

4. JB’s audio and video info is a huge hit with clients, and they truly do love you giving them the opportunity to get in on that knowledge.

5. This system allows your clients to take an active role in their health. It’s not about you telling them what’s right and what’s wrong because that doesn’t work. This system creates well-educated clients. They then have the power to make the right nutritional decisions for the rest of their lives. Knowledge truly is power for your clients.

6. When I struggle with a client, I have several experts to run things by and get help from quickly. That alone is invaluable.

7. The system is incredibly well explained. Nothing is left to guess, no stone unturned. It’s simple; you just have to be able to put it into practice!

8. It saves time. I doubt if I would have ever spent the time putting something this detailed together for any of my clients.

9, 10, and beyond. There is still a world of info to learn and I’m excited to be on board, learning from the best.

In the end, it’s a no-brainer. Clients come to you wanting to change their lives, usually in several ways. You give them access to the best group of coaches around, and they succeed every time.

Dr Berardi:
If someone was hesitant about working with us, what advice would you give them?

Ash:
I’d identify their hesitations and put them to rest.

But really, if a fitness professional can’t make the PN work, they need to be in another profession. In my opinion, the best system out there is right here with JB.

Dr Berardi:
Thanks Ash – at this point we should probably wrap up our discussion. Any parting words for the readers?

Ash:
Anyone can contact me personally if they are expressing doubts or want to speak with someone who’s been there from the beginning. Just click the “contact us” link at my web site (www.ashleighgass.usana.com) to get in touch.