“I just wanted to be able to do more – for my kids, for my health, for myself.”
When Chris Barker, CEO of Spirit Health, first considered his weight loss journey, he wasn’t just thinking about appearances. He was thinking about his children, and about the future. One of Chris’ key goals was to keep up with the kind of active, memory-making life he wanted to share with his family.
“I’ve never been someone who rushes into things like this,” Chris comments. “I was hesitant. Partly because I wasn’t sure if it was the right time, partly because I’d tried things in the past and not really stuck with them. But mostly because I didn’t want this to be just another short-term quick fix.”
At 117kg, with a BMI of 35, Chris knew that while he was managing day to day, the longer-term risks were starting to weigh on him, especially as life got busier, responsibilities grew, and personal health moved further down the list.
Getting started – and overcoming hesitation
Despite leading a healthcare company, Chris admits the hardest part was reaching out.
“I think people assume that because I’m a healthcare CEO, I’ve got it all figured out. But I was genuinely unsure about using weight loss medication or even asking for help. It took a real mindset shift to say: I’m doing this for the long term, and I don’t need to do it perfectly, just consistently.”
Chris joined the EMPOWER programme (run by Spirit Health) with access to clinical oversight, education, and structured guidance to help him take a more sustainable approach.
“What made the difference was having a plan that gave me clarity. I had access to resources, templates, and support that made it easier to make good choices consistently – and understand the ‘why’ behind them.”
15kg down in 4 months – without losing muscle
Over four months, Chris steadily lost 15kg, going from 117kg to 102kg through a combination of GLP-1 medication, lifestyle changes, and working on his mindset towards food, drink and exercise.
But what stood out for him wasn’t just the number on the scale.
“It wasn’t about ‘going on a diet.’ It was about building a system around me that made better decisions easier. I started tracking my food, being more mindful about portions, and prioritising movement. They were just small shifts, done consistently.
“Staying strong was also important to me – so I focused not just on weight loss, but on maintaining muscle. With regular exercise and a focus on protein, I’ve managed to keep muscle mass while losing fat.”
A shift in daily life – and outlook
What changed most, though, wasn’t just Chris’s weight.
“I’ve got more energy. I’m outside more. I’m doing more with my kids, and I feel like I’m living the life I want to be living, not just trying to keep up.”
Alongside the physical changes, Chris noticed a shift in how he approached his day. The structure of the EMPOWER programme, including educational content, helped him build confidence and stay on track.
“It wasn’t about perfection. There were days I didn’t get everything right. But I stopped letting one bad meal turn into a bad week. It’s the overall pattern that matters.”
Chris is the first to say he’s still quite early on his journey – but now he’s got the direction, and the tools to keep going.
On the fence? A message to others
For anyone unsure about taking the first step, Chris offers this:
“If you’re unsure it’s the right time, or you’re a bit embarrassed to ask for help – just start. Do it for your health, your future, the people around you. You don’t need to do it alone, and you don’t need to be perfect. You just need to begin.”
Thinking about your own journey?
Our EMPOWER team is here to support you – with clinical expertise, the tools for long-term change, and no judgment. Start with a consultation to find out if it’s right for you.
This is one individual’s experience. Results vary. Weight loss medication is only prescribed after a clinical assessment confirms it’s safe and appropriate. The EMPOWER programme includes medical oversight, education, and lifestyle support.
