The Coaches Corner University Podcast

#167 - Diet and Nutrition Are NOT the Same Thing - Erik Bustillo

Dec 2, 2025
Guest
Erik Bustillo
In this discussion, Erik Bustillo, a seasoned Registered Dietitian and sports nutrition expert, sheds light on the vital distinction between diet and nutrition. He explores how performance-focused nutrition differs from long-term health strategies. Erik delves into the psychology behind food choices, addressing disordered eating and the pervasive myths propagated by the diet industry. He emphasizes the importance of building trust with clients through empathy and realistic coaching, advocating for incremental change and metabolic flexibility for optimal health and performance.
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INSIGHT

Fear Shapes Eating Behavior

  • Many people carry lifelong disordered eating patterns driven by diet-industry fear and misinformation.
  • That fear (carbs, fat) shapes decisions and complicates coaching progress.
ADVICE

Lead With Empathy And Small Wins

  • Build trust first by validating clients' experiences and using empathy before teaching science.
  • Start small and use clients' own choices to open the door for education and long-term change.
ADVICE

Start With The Lowest Barrier Action

  • Prioritize the smallest, most feasible change the client can commit to and let them choose it.
  • Use that early win to teach why the change works and to build trust.
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