Ep 26. Building a Better Zotter. Erik Zotter’s Health Transformation as a Guardian

In Episode 26 of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable, we dive into the remarkable health journey of Erik Zotter. This episode captures the essence of personalized health and how tailored approaches to lifestyle changes can bring profound transformations. In just seven weeks, Erik, a 45-year-old VP of People, Organization, and Communication at Ellab, Inc., transitioned from alarming health concerns to a more balanced and healthier lifestyle.

The Wake-Up Call: Health Scare and Initial Lab Results

Erik’s journey began with a significant wake-up call. He started his health program with very poor lab results that painted a grim picture of his overall well-being. With an initial weight of 314 pounds and lab results indicating critical health risks such as high blood pressure (157/105) and elevated liver enzymes (GGT level of 419), Erik realized he was a “ticking time bomb.”

His daily habits included regular alcohol consumption and an unhealthy diet, largely consisting of fast food and sweets, paired with a sedentary lifestyle. Remarkably, Erik’s fear that extreme treatments might be necessary was quelled when his subsequent lab results showed significant improvements. This shift ignited his commitment to long-term health changes.

Struggles and Support: Alcohol Use and Family Impact
A critical aspect of Erik’s health issues stemmed from his regular alcohol consumption. His tendency to drink a few beers every night after work significantly impacted his liver and overall health. Realizing the extent of the damage through lab results was a turning point for Erik.

Family support played a crucial role, especially given the cultural context where men are typically less inclined to seek health assistance. Erik’s story underscores the importance of a supportive, judgment-free environment and the effectiveness of a “tough love” approach.

Personalized Health Coaching: Tailored to Genetic Markers
Erik’s transformation was largely due to personalized health coaching. Susan Robbins, an epigenetic human performance coach, collaborated with Erik to develop a plan tailored to his genetic markers and specific needs. This approach moved away from generic health advice and instead focused on Erik's unique genetic profile.

Crucial dietary adjustments included incorporating nutrient-dense foods and temporarily reducing protein intake to lessen stress on his kidneys and liver. Furthermore, Erik increased his physical activity dramatically, finding joy in hiking and daily walks.

Significant Health Improvements: Substantial Lab and Body Composition Changes

Over the course of his seven-week program, Erik saw substantial health improvements. His weight dropped from 314 to 281 pounds, and his lab results showed critical improvements:
- Blood pressure normalized to 120/79, allowing him to cease blood pressure medication.
- Liver enzymes decreased, with ALT levels lowering from 93 to 45.
- Glucose levels reduced from 96 to 77, and insulin levels improved from 11.2 to 6.
- Cholesterol, HDL, and LDL levels saw significant positive changes.

Erik’s body composition also improved, with significant reductions in overall inflammation, rib cage size, and neck thickness, all contributing to decreased diabetes risk.

Mental Health and Resilience: Building a Better Framework

Beyond the physical improvements, Erik’s mental health and resilience saw noteworthy enhancements. He felt more energetic, confident, and clear-headed, enabling him to be more present and active in both personal and professional spheres. The reduction in stress and improved communication with his wife further enhanced his mental resilience and overall marriage quality.

Erik began delegating work more effectively, reducing his own workload and prioritizing personal well-being over relentless work hours. His engagement with the Radiant Life Project also helped address underlying issues of self-worth and mental health.

Epigenetic Expression: The Importance of Personalized Health Choices

Erik's journey reinforces the critical importance of personalized health choices and epigenetic expression. From managing dietary habits to suitable physical activities, a one-size-fits-all approach fails to accommodate individual genetic differences. Susan Robbins emphasized that focusing on nutrient-dense foods, mental and social well-being, and proper body movement is key.


Erik Zotter's story is a powerful testament to the life-changing potential of personalized health coaching. By understanding and addressing his unique genetic markers, Erik significantly improved his physical, mental, and emotional well-being. His journey continues, with regular updates and keen insights into maintaining long-term health and achieving the best quality of life.

The episode concludes with Susan’s encouragement to listeners to share their health journeys and seek the help they need, highlighting the broader goal of Everyday Epigenetics to empower individuals to live their healthiest and most authentic lives.

RESOURCES:
Episode 17 with Dr. Cam: https://healthyawakening.co/episode17

Show Links:
Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast
Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links
SHOW NOTES: healthyawakening.co/episode26

Connect with Susan:
Schedule a FREE consultation, send an email to susan@healthyawakening.co
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Instagram: @susanrobbins_epigeneticcoach
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Learn more about Erik Zotter:
Erik Zotter, 45 Years Old. Vice President of People, Organization & Communications at Ellab, Inc. Father of 3 girls 17, 16 and 10 + 1 8 year old Boy. Born and raised in Eastern PA and in Colorado since 2018. Interests include Hiking, DiscGolf, Photography and Record Collecting