Each month we’ll be spotlighting a member of our team. We’ll share a bit more of their background, what motivates them, and how they stay active, along with much more. Be sure to follow along, so you don’t miss your Health Advisor’s chance to shine!
What is your name and what condition-specific team do you work on?
Michael McMorris, Director of Health Advising
Why do you work at Pack Health? What’s your favorite part of your job? Where do you get your inspiration?
I started work at Pack Health because it was an interesting way to use my education and experience to be an integral part of a startup healthcare company. My favorite part of my job is that I’m able to work with members to help them to reach their goals as well as leading our staff of Health Advisors to continue to be great at their jobs and grow as individuals and professional health coaches. I get my inspiration from multiple sources: members, team members, past experiences, and I listen to a lot of podcasts especially interview related podcasts.
What’s your favorite healthy food and why? Share a recipe with us!
I have really come to love roasted cauliflower. Take a head of cauliflower, and slice it into one inch thick pieces. Place it on a foil lined pan, drizzle with olive oil, salt, pepper, and several cloves of smashed garlic. Roast in a 450-degree oven for 25 minutes. It is a great main dish or side.
What’s your favorite way to stay active and why?
Walking and Cycling! I bought a bicycle a year and a half ago and have been riding ever since. I ride at least 20 miles a week and I like cycling since it is just you and the road and it helps to clear the mind. I live one mile from work so I walk or ride to and from work, and walk my dog for one hour each day. He loves a long walk!
How else do you practice self-care?
I enjoy hiking in nature. We have some great places to hike in Birmingham like Ruffner Mountain or Red Mountain. Exercise is my main stress reliever and form of self-care. I read as well. I started a goal this year to read a book a month.
What advice do you have for someone just joining the program?
Start where you are and start slow and increase over time. It is the best way to develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime. Do not expect any quick fixes, but focus on changing your lifestyle. Health and wellness springs from a healthy lifestyle.
Share your favorite member story with us!
One member came to Pack Health with metabolic syndrome (meaning borderline, hypertension, high cholesterol, overweight). After a visit to the doctor, the member decided to get healthier. Later that week the member responded to a company email for a chance to work with a health coach from Pack Health. We worked together for a year, and they lost nearly 30 pounds, and they reached all of their health goals. The member picked up running as the main form of exercise and is on track to run a marathon at the end of 2018. The best part of the story is the member is on a healthier track and is leading others to do the same at work!
Michael McMorris, Director of Health Advising
