Wake Up and Read the Labels!
Jen Smiley
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Wake Up and Read the Labels is your guide to eating simple and feeling good. If you want to eat clean and feel your best, you’re in the right place. Join us each week as we talk about real ingredients, ethical brands, and the stories of people just like you who woke up and read the labels.
Available episodes
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Oldest first
6 days ago
The Truth About Yogurt Alternatives with Erin Asaad
We’re taking a closer look at dairy-free yogurt alternatives that are hiding a pretty big secret. What’s really in your yogurt?
Erin Asaad, Founder and CEO of Culina Yogurt, drops some bombshells about the norms of mass-produced yogurt alternatives. She explains the essence of Culina's yogurt, highlighting its coconut-rich formula in contrast to common watered-down alternatives. Erin's insights go beyond the kitchen, shedding light on the misleading charm of natural flavors found in many mainstream products. Through Culina, she encourages a dairy-free movement, inviting consumers to enjoy a genuine and uncompromised yogurt experience.
In this episode, Erin talks to Jen about her inspiration to create dairy-free yogurt at Culina, the truth about conventional alternatives, and the secrets behind some of Culina’s ingredients.
Key Takeaways
[02:00] - What inspired Erin to make Culina Yogurt?
[09:19] - What makes Culina Yogurt different?
[13:36] - Erin explains why she uses maple syrup as a sweetener.
[19:45] - What is Agar, and why does Erin use it in yogurt?
[23:02] - How Erin makes coconut taste similar to a dairy-based product.
[29:21] - Erin explains how bands keep dairy-free foods cheap.
Quotes
[07:54] - “It’s so depressing to remove things and not to know what to fill your diet with.” ~ Erin Asaad
[11:04] - “I think the thing that we’ve done really well is we’ve learned how to culture a non-dairy base in the best way.” ~ Erin Asaad
[12:30] - “The way I create products is that I’m taste, texture, and flavor first.” ~ Erin Asaad
Links
Erin Asaad Instagram
Erin Asaad LinkedIn
Culina Yogurt
Culina Yogurt Instagram
Whole Foods Market
Walmart
Natural Grocers
Sprouts
Silk
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
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Nov 28, 2023
Creating Clean Nut Butter and Empowering Women with Carolyn Cesario and Julie Sullivan
Ever wondered how a jar of nut butter could contribute to changing lives? Julie Sullivan and Carolyn Cesario, Founders of Ground Up, share their fascinating journey of how their business not only creates nut butter but also empowers women dealing with adversity.
Julie transitioned from living in Uganda where she empowered women entrepreneurs and moved back to Portland, Oregon where she and Carolyn built their company. They discuss some of the challenges working with formerly incarcerated women and how their job training program helps women set goals and transition out of homelessness. From the inception of their job training program to the process of crafting small-batch nut butter, the duo sheds light on how they combine business and social change.
In this episode, Julie and Carolyn talk to Jen about their inspiration for building their business, the empowering journey of women overcoming adversity, and their unique approach to creating nut butter products.
Key Takeaways
[01:10] - The meaning of Ground Up.
[01:46] - How Ground Up started.
[04:39] - Pros and cons of Ground Up’s business model.
[07:35] - How Julie and Carolyn chose nut butter for their business.
[10:16] - The difference between Ground Up and other nut butters.
[13:04] - Why nut butters are using oils and fillers.
[13:52] - Why Ground Up uses roasted nuts.
[14:15] - Why gluten and soy-free is important to Ground Up.
[15:09] - Flavors that Ground Up offers.
[16:07] - How people use Ground Up’s nut butters.
[19:06] - Where you can find Ground Up.
[20:00] - A transformational story of a Ground Up employee.
Quotes
[01:30] - “Our mission is to is to employ women overcoming adversity.” ~ Julie Sullivan
[09:56] - “It’s fun now to see all the folks that come through the training program start to eat healthier and start to be more conscious about what they’re eating.” ~ Carolyn Cesario
[11:31] - “I think what makes our nut butter unique is we use a blend of nuts.” ~ Carolyn Cesario
Links
Julie Sullivan LinkedIn
Carolyn Cesario LinkedIn
Ground Up Nut Butters
Ground Up Instagram
Target
Whole Foods Market
Connect with our host
Jen on Instagram
Jen on Facebook
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Schedule a 15 Min Breakthrough Chat with a WURL Food Coach!
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Get 15% off your order
For 15% off, use this code: WAKEUP
https://grounduppdx.com/
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Nov 21, 2023
Healing the Body Through Healthy Baking with Laurel Gallucci
Refined sugar is a major source of inflammation for the body and some baking innovators are finding ways to ditch them without sacrificing the taste and comfort of baked goods.
Laurel Gallucci, Co-Founder and CEO of Sweet Laurel Bakery, shares her journey of being diagnosed with an aggressive autoimmune disease and the transformation that led her to create a unique baked goods company. She shares the story of her diagnosis in her 20s, her switch to an anti-inflammatory diet that eliminated gluten, grains, dairy, refined sugar, and legumes, and her commitment to using whole, real ingredients in her baking. Laurel's dedication to clean and health-focused recipes has not only helped her manage her autoimmune disease but has also led to the creation of Sweet Laurel as a successful brand, offering grain-free, refined sugar-free, dairy-free, and truly delicious baked goods.
In this episode, Laurel talks to Jen about her journey from being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease to creating a successful bakery, the importance of using real ingredients, and Sweet Laurel's popular products.
Key Takeaways
[01:44] - Laurel talks about Sweet Laurel Bakery’s s’more.
[02:32] - How Laurel addressed the root causes of her autoimmune disease.
[10:10] - Laurel’s view on anti-inflammatory eating for everyone.
[13:18] - Ingredients used in Sweet Laurel’s products.
[16:33] - Products offered by Sweet Laurel’s Bakery.
[21:08] - Jen and Laurel review a Betty Crocker label.
[24:47] - Jen and Laurel review a Sweet Laurel Bakery label.
Quotes
[04:19] - “So many things were happening to me, and I just felt like I needed to try to do better.” ~ Laurel Gallucci
[11:15] - “Bread today is not what bread was 200 years ago it’s like a completely different species.” ~ Laurel Gallucci
[14:40] - “That is Sweet Laurel’s approach. We use ingredients that are linked to whole foods.” ~ Laurel Gallucci
Links
Laurel Gallucci Instagram
Laurel Gallucci LinkedIn
Sweet Laurel Bakery
Sweet Laurel Bakery Instagram
Belly Brands Foods
Lovebird Cereal
Outer Aisle
Nutsola
Plantable Kitchen
Whole Foods Market
Sprouts
Betty Crocker
Food Rules
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Nov 14, 2023
Creating Guilt-Free Snacks with Susan O’Brien
Everyone loves snacks, but they’re not always the healthiest option and snacking can come with a lot of guilt. Susan O’Brien, Founder of Hail Merry Snacks, wants to change that by making guilt-free snacks that you can eat daily.
Susan started her career as an architect but she found her stride when she trained as a raw food chef. She merged her design skills and built a commercial kitchen to start Hail Merry Snacks. With a focus on reducing sugar, eliminating inflammatory ingredients, and using vegan milk chocolate, Hail Merry redefines the snacking experience. Susan uses her mastery of food science to navigate the challenges with recipe building for products like the key lime pie, Meyer lemon, sweet potato, and chocolate almond butter.
In this episode, Susan talks to Jen about her journey from architecture to creating nutrient-packed snacks with clean ingredients, the importance of mindful snacking, and the creation of Hail Merry's popular products.
Key Takeaways
[00:42] - Jen and Susan discuss managing demanding workloads.
[05:05] - Susan talks about her all-raw food diet experience.
[09:09] - Why people became worried about fats.
[15:25] - Susan talks about the ingredients in Hail Merry Snacks.
[23:41] - Susan’s inspiration behind her pie cups.
[28:45] - How Susan went from being an interior designer to founding Hail Merry.
[31:09] - How Susan's children adapted to eating well.
[33:07] - Where can you find Hail Merry Snacks.
Quotes
[06:08] - “Fats are actually good for you if they’re raw and they’re good quality fats.” ~ Susan O’Brien
[10:24] - “Plant-based fats can actually help lower your cholesterol level.” ~ Susan O’Brien
[34:08] - “The consumer has all the power at the shelf. Whatever the consumer wants is what the retailers will bring in.” ~ Susan O’Brien
Links
Susan O'Brien LinkedIn
Susan O’Brien Instagram
Hail Merry Snacks
Hail Merry Snacks Instagram
Udo Erasmus
Udo’s Choice
University of Texas
MD Anderson Cancer Centre
Houston Methodist Hospital
Instacart
Connect with our host
Jen on Instagram
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Schedule a 15 Min Breakthrough Chat with a WURL Food Coach!
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Nov 7, 2023
Balancing Health and Holistic Healing with Dr. Michelle Iona
The world of holistic healing, Chinese traditional medicine, and functional medicine is fascinating but often misunderstood. Many people don’t know where to find practitioners, who to trust, or whether these practices truly work.
Dr. Michelle Iona, a doctor of acupuncture in Chinese herbal medicine, licensed acupuncturist, and experienced clinical herbalist has been on a personal journey with endometriosis since her teen years. Her journey shaped her approach to medicine, driving her to explore alternative and holistic healing methods. She emphasizes the importance of a patient-centric approach to healthcare, one that goes beyond treating symptoms and seeks the root causes of health imbalances.
In this episode, Dr. Michelle talks to Jen about the importance of nutrition, her personal journey with endometriosis, and her approach to healing chronic illnesses.
Key Takeaways
[01:44] - Dr. Michelle talks about her patient-centered approach.
[03:06] - How Dr. Michelle learned about how nutrition affected her.
[04:26] - Why wheat, barley, and oats weren’t good for Dr. Michelle.
[07:07] - Dr. Michelle describes traditional Chinese and functional medicine.
[08:43] - Why many Americans have celiac disease.
[10:10] - Where to start when you want to heal yourself.
[11:35] - How to tell if a functional medicine doctor is qualified.
[12:17] - Dr. Michelle talks about the elimination diet and eliminating specific food.
[18:39] - Five foods to stock up on this fall.
[20:32] - Two common myths about acupuncture.
[21:31] - Acupuncture and herbal services offered by Dr. Michelle.
[22:54] - Why certain herbs may not be suitable for everyone.
[23:23] - Dr. Michelle’s Wake-Up moment.
Quotes
[05:51] - “I always tell patients the less you eat out of a box, the healthier you will always be.” ~ Dr. Michelle Iona
[11:07] - “I think it’s hard to self-diagnose, no matter how knowledgeable a person may be.” ~ Dr. Michelle Iona
[18:32] - “A lot of people were brought up to believe that milk is good and we should be having it, but it doesn’t work for everybody.” ~ Dr. Michelle Iona
Links
Dr. Michelle Iona LinkedIn
Dr. Michelle Iona Instagram
Healing Points Acupuncture
The Institue for Functional Medicine
Connect with our host
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Schedule a 15 Min Breakthrough Chat with a WURL Food Coach!
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Oct 31, 2023
Mastering the Art of Celiac-Safe Baking with Jenny Larsson
Sweet treats often come loaded with ingredients that can wreak havoc on our health, Jenny Larsson, Founder of Belly Brand Foods, brings a breath of fresh air. She's on a mission to make clean-label baked goods, making them delicious and celiac-safe.
Jenny Larsson was diagnosed with celiac disease at a young age, but that diagnosis became the driving force behind Belly Brand Foods. Jenny shares how her personal struggles with health issues fueled her passion for clean-label baking. Her dedication to creating gluten-free, grain-free products packed with gut-friendly ingredients like cassava flour and collagen peptides is truly inspiring. Jenny emphasized the importance of ingredient transparency and how her brand is dedicated to providing safe options for those with dietary restrictions.
In this episode, Jenny talks to Jen about her journey from a celiac diagnosis to creating a line of gut-friendly baking mixes, the importance of ingredient transparency, the benefits of using cassava flour, and the role of collagen peptides in promoting gut health.
Key Takeaways
[01:55] - Why Jenny started Belly Brand Foods.
[09:29] - The idea behind the name Belly Brand Foods.
[10:05] - When Jenny started Belly Brand Foods.
[11:59] - Jen discusses why you should avoid Kodiak Power Cakes.
[13:49] - Ingredients in Belly Brand Foods pancakes.
[16:08] - What’s inside Brand Brand Foods brownies?
[19:35] - Where you can find Belly Brand.
[20:41] - Usages of Belly Brand’s mixes.
Quotes
[08:30] - “Everything, at the end of the day, was related to chronic inflammation, and one of the big drivers of inflammation is an unhealthy gut.” ~ Jenny Larsson
[15:13] - “I’ve been adding collagen peptides to my smoothies for years now, and then I started adding into my baking as well because it's such a wonderful gut-friendly superfood.” ~ Jenny Larsson
[19:50] - “People need to know that you can eat healthy and fuel your body with healthy foods and still enjoy the foods that you love.” ~ Jenny Larsson
Links
Jenny Larsson LinkedIn
Belly Brand Foods
Belly Brand Foods Instagram
Bob’s Red Mill
Simple Mills
Betty Crocker
Pearl Milling Company
Kodiak Cakes
Amazon
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Schedule a 15 Min Breakthrough Chat with a WURL Food Coach!
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Oct 24, 2023
Finding the Perfect Thanksgiving Turkey with Tyler Dawley
As Thanksgiving approaches, our focus shifts to the star of the holiday feast: the turkey. While many folks might be tempted to choose their turkey solely based on size, there is so much more to consider when selecting the perfect Thanksgiving bird for your family.
Tyler Dawley, affectionately known as the "Head Chicken Wrangler" at Big Bluff Ranch, and his family have been deeply rooted in ranching since the 1960s. They embrace holistic management practices, producing top-quality, organic poultry. Today, Tyler shares his knowledge of sustainable and regenerative agriculture and explores the nuances of turkey labeling and why it matters. He breaks down the confusing terminology, pointing out key factors to consider including the turkey's diet. According to Tyler, opting for turkeys that are organic, pasture-raised, and part of regenerative farming practices, offers a healthier and more flavorful meal for our loved ones.
In this episode, Tyler talks to Jen about holistic and regenerative agriculture, the world of Thanksgiving turkey labels, and the impact of the turkey’s diet on meat quality.
Key Takeaways
[02:06] - How Tyler became the head chicken wrangler.
[03:38] - The origin of the name Big Bluff Ranch.
[04:30] - Jen and Tyler discuss the difference between turkey and chicken labels.
[07:25] - How the turkey became symbolic of Thanksgiving.
[08:35] - Why you shouldn’t buy self-basted or injected turkeys.
[10:43] - The meaning of a young turkey.
[15:25] - Why you should avoid 100% vegetarian feed poultry.
[18:16] - What makes Big Bluff Ranch’s turkeys different?
[23:17] - The difference between pasture-raised meat versus conventional.
Quotes
[05:12] - “Something like 80% of the turkeys are consumed on Thanksgiving.” ~ Tyler Dawley
[15:52] - “Turkeys and chickens are omnivorous. They’re little baby dinosaurs.” ~ Tyler Dawley
[20:35] - “We have to realize that all the things that apply to humans apply to animals as well.” ~ Tyler Dawley
Links
Tyler Dawley LinkedIn
Big Bluff Ranch
The U.S. Department of Agriculture
Diestel Turkey Ranch
Butterball
Connect with our host
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Wake Up and Read the Labels!
Schedule a 15 Min Breakthrough Chat with a WURL Food Coach!
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Get $10 off your turkey order
For $10 off your turkey, use this code: WAKEUPTDAY23
https://perennialpasturesranch.com/
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Oct 17, 2023
Nourishing Your Skin From Within with Adele Uddo
We place a lot of emphasis on how clean ingredients make our body feel, but these same ingredients have an incredible impact on how we look too. The skin is the body's largest organ, and the right products can leave your skin with a healthy glow from within.
Adele Uddo, Owner of Essentiel by Adele as well as a parts model, grew up reading the labels. Her household took a strict radical approach to eating clean, which she dreaded as a child but appreciated in adulthood. Adele founded Essentiel to emphasize the importance of nourishing the body inside and out. She went on a journey of meticulous research to create a hydrating, multi-use moisturizer with essential oils like frankincense, raspberry leaf extract, and hyaluronic acid. Her moisturizer is an alternative to traditional skincare that is usually filled with harmful ingredients like artificial fragrances and toxic chemicals.
In this episode, Adele talks to Jen about her radical upbringing with food, the importance of natural ingredients in skincare products, and the journey behind creating a clean multi-use moisturizer.
Key Takeaways
[01:58] - Adele’s connection to New Orleans.
[03:52] - How Adele became a body parts model.
[05:54] - Adele talks about how she became interested in ingredients.
[08:22] - What’s Adele’s diet?
[12:13] - Adele discusses her lotion, Essentiel by Adele.
[14:30] - Adele’s experience using skincare products in her career.
[16:20] - How Essentiel by Adele feels on the skin and the ingredients.
[18:49] - Frequently asked questions about Essentiel by Adele.
[21:12] - Where you can find Essentiel by Adele.
[22:10] - Adele’s wake-up moment.
Quotes
[08:08] - “To me, that was just second nature. I grew up reading labels. A lot of people do not do that.” ~ Adele Uddo
[08:48] - “Interestingly, I really feel far more grounded when I’m eating clean.” ~ Adle Uddo
[20:40] - “Up to 60% of whatever you put on your skin gets absorbed into your bloodstream.” ~ Adele Uddo
Links
Adele Uddo Instagram
Essentiel by Adele
H2O Salon and Spa
Nola Tree Project
Dior
Christian Louboutin
Apple
Revlon
Chick-Fil-A
Connect with our host
Jen on Instagram
Jen on Facebook
Wake Up and Read the Labels!
Schedule a 15 Min Breakthrough Chat with a WURL Food Coach!
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For 20% off your order, use this code: WAKEUP
https://essentielbyadele.com/
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Oct 10, 2023
Raising Resilient Kids with Dr. Elisa Song
Keeping your kids healthy is every parent’s priority. When they get sick, our first instinct is to rely on traditional medicine but understanding holistic approaches to pediatric care can make all the difference.
Dr. Elisa Song, Pediatrician and Founder of Healthy Kids Happy Kids, believes that a robust immune system is the foundation of a child's well-being. She explains that a child’s immunity is being built from inside the womb and a fortified immune system acts as the body's guardian, warding off common illnesses and fostering overall health. She emphasizes the role of proper nutrition in nurturing a child's health and advocates for nutrient-dense diets filled with vibrant fruits and vegetables. While nutrition is important, Dr. Song’s approach isn’t limited to just prevention. She also tackles how to support children during illnesses using homeopathic remedies like Oscillococcinum and herbal syrups as a natural alternative to conventional medicines.
In this episode, Dr. Song talks to Jen about bolstering children’s immunity naturally, preventing common childhood illnesses, and providing natural support during illnesses.
Key Takeaways
[01:56] - How an integrative pediatrician differs from traditional pediatricians.
[04:05] - Why parents bring their children to Dr. Song’s practice.
[05:56] - How a mother's diet impacts a child in the womb's well-being.
[10:58] - Tips on how to prevent your child from getting a cold.
[16:43] - Dr. Song talks about how important Vitamin D is for children.
[20:56] - What to do when your child has a cold.
[30:20] - How to prevent and treat ear infections and eczema in children.
[36:20] - Free resources for listeners.
Quotes
[02:59] - “As we know, there are many, many unintended consequences that we are now realizing about our conventional interventions.” ~ Dr. Elisa Song
[07:12] - “If we have a vision in mind of how we would love our children to eat when they’re older, we’ll start while you’re pregnant.” ~ Dr. Elisa Song
[32:09] - “When we take antibiotics, we really need to make sure we’re restoring the gut microbiome after antibiotics.” ~ Dr. Elisa Song
Links
Dr. Elisa Song Instagram
Dr. Elisa Song LinkedIn
Healthy Kids Happy Kids
Whole Family Wellness
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Why All Kids Need Vitamin D
Nordic Naturals
Carlson Labs
Tylenol
Advil
Whole Foods Market
Integrative Therapeutics
Herb Pharm
Connect with our host
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Jen on Facebook
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Schedule a 15 Min Breakthrough Chat with a WURL Food Coach!
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Oct 3, 2023
Exploring Regenerative Agriculture with Kevin Muno
It wasn’t uncommon for our grandparents to know the farmer who harvested their food and the butcher who carved their meats. Today, the average American gets their meat and produce directly from a grocery store. Kevin Muno, Principal at Landscape Function Management and Founder of Perennial Pastures Ranch is forging connections with consumers and encouraging them to ask questions about the origins of their food.
At Perennial Pastures Ranch, Kevin provides nutrient-dense grass-fed beef, pastured chicken, beef bone broth, and ancestral beef snack sticks directly to consumers through his website and farmers market pop-ups. Kevin is passionate about regenerative agriculture and is committed to ethical and sustainable farming. He believes the food we eat should not only nourish our bodies, but it should also nourish the planet and restore our ecosystem. He is doing his part at his ranch by promoting biodiversity, soil health, and rotating his animals while they graze.
In this episode, Kevin talks to Jen, about the benefits of nutrient-dense food for our health, regenerative agriculture and ranching practices that nourish the planet, and sustainable snack options.
Key Takeaways
[01:39] - How Kevin’s injury inspired him to create Perennial Pastures Ranch.
[06:52] - What makes Perennial Pastures product superior?
[11:30] - How regenerative agriculture enhances the quality of beef.
[16:27] - The meaning of grass-fed in grocery stores.
[17:58] - The significance of chickens raised on a pasture.
[21:52] - The benefits of having regenerative foods in your diet.
[23:56] - Products made by Perennial Pastures.
[30:49] - Kevin’s wake-up moment.
Quotes
[07:22] - “There is a ton of greenwashing going on, and the most greenwashing is occurring at the grocery store.” ~ Kevin Muno
[08:00] - “The focus of organic early on was soil health, but that soon got co-opted by larger forces.” ~ Kevin Muno
[32:44] - “I can honestly say I feel like I’m called to be a rancher. I’m called to regenerate this planet.” ~ Kevin Muno
Links
Kevin Muno LinkedIn
Kevin Muno Twitter
Perennial Pastures Ranch
Landscape Function Management
University of San Diego
MLB
USDA
The Bionutrient Food Association
Dr. Stefan van Vliet
Gabe Brown
Allen Williams
Shane New
Dan Kittredge
Connect with our host
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Wake Up and Read the Labels!
Schedule a 15 Min Breakthrough Chat with a WURL Food Coach!
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Sep 26, 2023
Understanding Type 1 Diabetes with Dr. Jody Stanislaw
Managing type 1 Diabetes is a delicate balance between insulin, diet, and exercise. But the mental and emotional aspect of diabetes is the silent struggle that can sometimes leave patients feeling hopeless and burnt out.
Dr. Jody Stanislaw has been a type 1 diabetic for over 40 years. Diagnosed as a child in the 80s, she set out on a lifelong journey to manage her diabetes and become the master of her own health. She became a naturopathic physician and diabetes expert. Dr. Jody delves into the mental and emotional aspects of living with type 1 diabetes, offering guidance on staying positive and avoiding burnout. She shares her personal journey and how she provides ongoing support to her patients through regular live sessions. She explains how continuous glucose monitoring, regular exercise, and strategic eating can help patients gain better control over their diabetes.
In this episode, Dr. Jody talks to Jen about her early diagnosis of type 1 diabetes, the importance of understanding…
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Sep 19, 2023
The Secrets of Gut-Friendly Baking with Barbara Zeiss
Bread is a universal symbol of sharing and community, but it can also be a delicate subject for people with gluten intolerance, celiac disease, or a preference for eating clean. Luckily, passionate cooks are developing delicious clean bread alternatives with ingredients like almond flour, flax seeds, cassava flour, and psyllium husk.
Barbara Zeiss, Founder and CEO of Plantiful Kitchen, is on a mission to redefine baked goods with superior ingredients. Growing up in Germany, she developed a deep connection to the origins of food and was nurtured by her parents to learn where food comes from and how it's prepared. This connection with food, combined with the Germans' unwavering love for bread, sparked the idea of Plantiful Kitchen. Barbara shares her journey of relocating to the U.S. and seeing the stark differences in ingredient quality. This exposed the unsettling truth about the harmful additives and depletion of fiber in traditional bakery products that affect both health and the gut…
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Sep 12, 2023
Navigating Breast Implant Illness with Dr. Robert Whitfield
Breast implants have been around since the '60s, but their popularity skyrocketed in the '90s. With their popularity, it’s easy to forget the possible long-term risks involved with the procedure.
Dr. Robert Whitfield, a board-certified plastic surgeon, has over 26 years of experience in the industry conducting breast implant procedures and helping patients find relief from breast implant illness. He shares his insights on how breast implant illness is intricately linked to chronic inflammation within the body. He highlights the complexity of this issue, where symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and brain fog are often overlooked as indicators of breast implant illness. With a focus on holistic and personalized care, Dr. Whitfield emphasizes the importance of individualized treatment plans and offers expert guidance on testing for breast implant illness, considering genetic factors and detox pathways.
In this episode, Dr. Whitfield talks to Jen about the symptoms of breast implant illn…
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Sep 5, 2023
Transforming Your Life Through Clean Eating with Jen Smiley
Jen Smiley, Host of Wake Up and Read the Labels and Founder of The Clean Eating Academy, helps listeners discover the power of eating clean for a healthier life. Jen's podcast and coaching have already transformed how people see food.
Jen dives into the world of clean eating, revealing how simple changes can lead to big health improvements. She talks about common foods like tea and coffee and how hidden toxins can affect our bodies. Jen references past episodes with experts like Dr. Emily Gonzalez, who talked about the toxins in coffee, and Dr. Michael Goran who spent 20 years studying the effects of sweeteners. She also shares inspiring stories from the Clean Eating Academy including Michelle's journey from shedding excess weight to discontinuing medications, and Marie's story of noticing the difference in how she looks and feels after changing her diet.
In this episode, Jen talks about the hidden toxins in everyday foods, the importance of mindful eating habits, and real success sto…
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Aug 29, 2023
Plant-Powered Wellness with Dr. Yami Cazorla-Lancaster
Plant-based foods have remarkable healing properties, but many physicians overlook them when consulting with families about their health and wellness. Physicians like Dr. Yami Cazorla-Lancaster, Board-Certified Pediatrician and Certified Lifestyle Medicine Physician, are changing the face of pediatrics with a plant-powered approach.
Dr. Yami is a traditionally trained pediatrician bridging the gap between using conventional medicine to treat serious illnesses while also promoting the healing power of food through holistic plant-based diets. In her own home, her family lives a vegan lifestyle and eats a vegan diet. She shares her insights on the profound impact of plant-based diets on gut health and overall well-being and debunks the concept of kids' menus. Instead, Dr. Yami encourages parents to embrace a more diverse and nutrient-rich approach to feeding their children, including lots of fruits and veggies. She also delves into how a child's dietary habits can predict their adult choi…
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Aug 22, 2023
Healing Your Body Through a Wild Diet with Teri Cochrane
Our genes have a profound impact on what we can comfortably eat and digest. Experts like Teri Cochrane, Founder and CEO of Beyond Nutrition, dedicate their time to helping us figure out the complex world of epigenetics.
Teri shares her personal journey as a mother determined to find answers for her son's health challenges, which led her into the field of epigenetics. She developed The Cochrane Method, an approach that explores how nutrition affects gene expression and its impact on our overall well-being. She emphasizes the vital role of stress management in achieving overall wellness. Her precision wellness approach goes beyond functional medicine to help individuals become the CEOs of their own health journeys.
In this episode, Teri talks to Jen about how genetic expression impacts health, the principles of the Wildatarian diet, and inspiring success stories from clients who followed The Cochrane Method.
Key Takeaways
[01:32] - Teri’s background in nutrition and epigenetics.
[…
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Aug 15, 2023
Creating a Clean Medicine Cabinet with David Johnson
Pharmaceutical drugs have become increasingly prevalent in our lives, but we rarely stop to consider the synthetic ingredients they contain. David Johnson, Co-Founder and CEO of Genexa, is on a mission to revolutionize the world of medicine with clean, simple ingredients and medical efficacy.
David shares his personal journey and motivation behind creating Genexa. Coming from a background of health-conscious living, he was shocked by the unpronounceable ingredients in children's cold and flu medicine. This led him and his partner to question why the clean movement hadn't extended to the pharmaceutical industry. David explores the concept of clean medicine, which involves using effective, recognizable, active ingredients without synthetic or artificial fillers. His company Genexa focuses on creating products that use organic and natural components, such as organic blueberries for flavoring instead of artificial dyes.
In this episode, David talks to Jen about his journey to create a clea…
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Aug 8, 2023
Food as Medicine: Healing Cancer and Nourishing the Body with Chris Wark
Sickness doesn’t wait for the “right time” to strike. It can show up when you least expect it but through determination, faith, and informed choices, we can overcome even the most challenging health battles.
Chris Wark, speaker and author of “Chris Beat Cancer”, received a life-altering diagnosis of stage three colon cancer at 26 years old and was immediately advised to undergo surgery. Instead of succumbing to fear and rushing into conventional treatment, Chris chose to confront his mortality and embark on a path of exploration, seeking alternative options and relying on the power of prayer for guidance. Chris emphasizes that food can serve as both medicine and poison and making the right food choices can greatly impact one's health and longevity. He shares his feelings on the fear-based decisions often made by cancer patients due to a lack of knowledge and encourages them to make decisions rooted in facts and faith rather than fear.
In this episode, Chris talks to Jen abo…
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Aug 1, 2023
Healthy Snacking and Mindful Eating with Aaron Gailmor
The journey towards a healthier lifestyle often begins with simple yet impactful modifications to our daily eating habits. For many, the first step involves eliminating harmful substances and additives that may be causing discomfort or pain. This conscious decision to listen to one's body, discern what is causing distress, and make a change can be transformative. Recognizing the impact of making conscious dietary choices, many individuals are championing the commitment to providing healthy snacks that satiate our cravings and support our overall well-being.
In this episode, Jen talks with Aaron Gailmor, Founder and CEO (Chief Eats Officer) of Brass Roots, a snack food company whose plant-based products use organic sacha inchi seeds, nicknamed "the Incan peanut." Launched in 2019, Brass Roots has developed high-protein salty snacks for young parents that can feel good about sharing them with their kids. The company is focused on giving back to the local community through working with or…
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Jul 25, 2023
The Truth About Bottled Water with Bryan Pullen
Water, one of the most important sources of nutrition, has become a concern over the years due to issues in the public water system. In search of a safer alternative, many people have turned to bottled water and the sheer variety of options can be overwhelming.
Brian Pullen, Owner of Summit Spring, is a 40 plus-year commercial airline pilot turned water advocate. Brian shares the history of Summit Spring, one of North America's oldest natural spring sources dating back to the late 1700s. He highlights the authenticity of true natural spring water, in contrast to the existing definition created by regulatory changes. Brian also explains the differences between natural spring and purified water, debunking myths about treatments such as alkaline and vitamin water. He sheds light on the deceptive practices of mainstream bottled water brands, urging the audience to read labels and research their water sources diligently.
In this episode, Bryan Pullen talks to Jen about the difference betwe…
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Jul 18, 2023
Six Best Practices for Personal Development with Hal Elrod
We often witness people experiencing distress. Some find solace in it, believing it is their only reality. But what if we can shift our perspective and mold our lives into the shape we desire? What if there was a way to elevate our consciousness and unlock our true potential?
In this episode, Jen talks with Hal Elrod, Founder and CEO of The Miracle Morning, motivational speaker, and author. At age 20, a drunk driver hit Hal’s car head-on at over 70 miles per hour. He died for six minutes, broke 11 bones, suffered permanent brain damage, and was told by doctors that he would never walk again. Then, at age 37, he was diagnosed with a rare, aggressive form of cancer. After being given a 30% chance of surviving, Hal once again defied the odds to beat it. His journey is featured in his most recent project, ”The Miracle Morning” movie. This documentary shows you how to live to your full potential and highlights stories of ordinary people doing the extraordinary.
With a mission to eleva…
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Jul 11, 2023
Navigating the Grocery Aisles with Jennifer Fisher
True wellness comes from changing your lifestyle and mindset about food, not from a diet. It is about cutting through the noise and listening to your body and eating the food that makes you feel your best.
Jennifer Fisher, Owner of Jennifer Fisher Kitchen and Jennifer Fisher Jewelry, went on a journey to heal her Hashimoto’s disease with a gluten-free diet. She discovered that true wellness isn't achieved by fixating on a specific diet but by embracing a whole-food approach with simple ingredients. Jennifer became more discerning about the so-called "healthy" food found on supermarket shelves and learned the difference between products marketed as healthy and those that genuinely nourished her. For her, the key is not to be deceived by the health food industry but to align your choices with personal preferences and goals.
In this episode, Jennifer talks to Jen about the deceptive marketing tactics of so-called "healthy" products, sharing personal experiences and practical tips for na…
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Jul 4, 2023
Protecting Your Skin With Clean Sunscreen with Sara D’Amelio
It’s no secret that consistent sunscreen application is crucial to aging gracefully and protecting your skin against prolonged sun exposure. However, very few people take the time to understand what is actually in their sunscreen and how these harmful chemicals could be causing breakouts, irritation, or rashes. How can you protect your skin from the sun as safely as possible, without all of the toxic ingredients?
Sara D’Amelio struggled to find beauty products that suited her sensitive skin for years. In 1998, she started working in a luxury beauty store hoping that the high-end products would heal her skin issues, but these toxin-filled products only exacerbated her irritation. Sara vowed to use only clean and natural products and spent five years training to become a holistic esthetician. She committed to treating clients with difficult skin issues and eventually founded her own clean skincare company, Skincando. Skincando’s sunscreen product, Liquid Silver, aims to show that…
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Jun 27, 2023
Empowering Women Through Fitness with Megan Roup
Fitness as a practice is often looked at as a competitive, serious business, but some practitioners are finding ways to infuse joy into the fitness culture.
Megan Roup, Founder of The Sculp Society, started teaching fitness part-time to fund her career as a classical ballet dancer. Unexpectedly, she unlocked a passion for fitness she didn’t know existed. But her journey into wellness wasn’t without doubts and struggles. Megan shares her challenging relationship with food and body image issues that she knew she needed to overcome in order to find joy in her fitness journey for herself and her community. Megan explains the philosophy behind The Sculpt Society and her unique approach.
In this episode, Megan talks to Jen about empowering women through joyful movement, creating a positive environment for all fitness levels, and transforming women's relationship with working out.
Key Takeaways
[01:40] - Megan’s background and the Sculpt Society.
[06:13] - How Megan wants women to f…
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Jun 20, 2023
Making the Switch to Natural Wine with Todd White
Eating clean is a journey that requires discipline, intentionality, and awareness. This journey can improve your quality of life and lead to better memory, improved sleep, and stronger performance. While many people associate clean eating with cutting out toxicity in their diets, some products can still be enjoyed in moderation. If you are intentional about what goes into your body, can you still drink wine on your wellness journey?
Todd White, Founder and CEO of Dry Farm Wines, asked himself this question in 2015 as both a clean eater and wine enthusiast. After a friend recommended he try natural wines, Todd extensively researched the wine industry and horrifically discovered there are 76 winemaking additives approved by the FDA. As a result, Todd built Dry Farm Wines, a natural wine company that is committed to the “conscious consumption” of wine without sugar, high alcohol levels, and toxic additives.
In this episode, Todd talks to Jen about what is inside your wine. They disc…
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Jun 13, 2023
Prioritizing Pure Protein with Autumn Smith
Protein is the fuel that humans need to function properly and maintain good health. This key nutrient is responsible for building, repairing, oxygenating, digesting, and regulating your body. It is an essential part of any diet, and The National Academy of Medicine recommends that adults consume at least 0.8 grams of protein daily. Without enough protein, humans could experience inflammation, mood swings, fatigue, and prolonged illness.
For years, Autumn Smith suffered from debilitating digestive issues and crippling anxiety. She found that her body healed when she implemented a paleo diet. Autumn and her husband Chase launched Paleovalley, which strives to provide people with essential nutrients, such as protein, without all of the processed foods or added sugars. Paleovalley prioritizes health above profit and creates products with integrity, devoid of any problematic ingredients.
In this episode, Autumn talks to Jen about why clean protein products are difficult to find, which dan…
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Jun 6, 2023
The Power of Probiotics with Tina Anderson
When we hear “bacteria,” we usually associate it with inflammation and disease, but not all bacteria are created equal. There is such a thing as “good bacteria,” found in probiotics, that can balance the gut and alleviate digestive issues, stimulate antibody production, and reduce inflammation. Which strains of probiotics are best for our individual needs, and how long will the healing process take before we start to see results?
While working in the pharmaceutical industry, Tina and Bill Anderson realized that they were part of a larger healthcare problem. Medications were addressing symptoms, but not the root cause of health issues. After deep diving into natural and progressive solutions, Tina and Bill discovered the life-changing impact that probiotics could have on an individual’s health. The two never looked back at the pharmaceutical industry and founded Just Thrive together, a scientifically-backed probiotics company that empowers people to take their health into th…
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May 30, 2023
Dining Fearlessly with Seed Oil Scout
Going out to eat is a luxury, but dining out means that you have no real knowledge or control over what is put in your food. While you may spend time in your personal life jumping through hoops to avoid processed foods or seed oils, any progress could be deterred by local restaurants who do not take the same precautions. Is there a solution for dining out consciously and carefully?
Seed Oil Scout is a free app that maps out conscious cooking and encourages you to “dine as if your life depends on it.” The app allows you to identify restaurants using healthy oils and local ingredients, contact restaurants about their cooking oils, and share knowledge with others seeking the same information.
In this episode, a representative from Seed Oil Scout talks to Jen about what seed oils are, how different cooking oils impact your body, and how to get more restaurants on the Seed Oil Scout app.
Key Takeaways
[04:04] - What are seed oils and how do they impact your body?
[07:34] - Se…
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May 23, 2023
Sourcing Real Ingredients with David Harrison
Other countries’ regulations against food additives are generally stricter than the United States. Much of the food on the shelves or in restaurants can be processed and filled with GMOs or seed oils. Anyone who has traveled abroad has probably noticed reduced inflammation after going out to eat. Is it possible to enjoy authentic Italian food, sourced from real ingredients, without having to travel all the way to Italy?
David Seggiano, Co-Founder of Seggiano with his wife Peri, wanted to build a brand based on holistic well-being, sustainable agriculture, and authentic Italian food. Thirty years later, they source their ingredients from all over Italy with handpicked, handmade, simple ingredients. Seggiano is committed to ingredients of provenance and quality.
In this episode, David talks to Jen about how David and his wife got Seggiano started, what inspired the duo to source real ingredients, and how Seggiano compares to other Italian foods.
Key Takeaways
[01:51] - How did Seggia…
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May 16, 2023
Using Ketosis to Reset Your Metabolic State with Ben Azadi
Our ancestors did not have food available to them at all times, so fasting became a natural part of their routine. As humans became more civilized, we replaced fasting regularly with grazing constantly. Our portion sizes increased, and so did our waistlines.
Ben Azadi, Founder of Keto Kamp, lost 80 pounds of pure fat in 2008. Ben accredits much of his weight loss journey to the ketogenic diet, where your body burns fat for energy instead of glucose. Ben is now a keto expert, a best-selling author, and an award-winning podcast host who is on a mission to help 1 million people lead a healthier lifestyle.
In this episode, Ben talks to Jen about intermittent fasting in the ketogenic diet. They discuss Ben's weight loss journey, how to get started with keto, and how the metabolic process affects the body.
Key Takeaways
[02:03] - An introduction to Ben Azadi.
[06:00] - What is keto?
[09:46] - Is there a link between genetics and obesity?
[11:54] - How to get started with keto.
[15:1…
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May 9, 2023
Healing Your Thyroid with Dr. Izabella Wentz
According to the National Library of Medicine, hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid affects up to 5% of the general population with an additional estimated 5% going undiagnosed. The lack of thyroid hormones can lead to irregularities in your metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature and trigger symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, and weight gain. 95% of people that are hypothyroid may actually have an autoimmune disease called Hashimoto’s disease, in which the immune system creates antibodies that attack thyroid cells as if they were bacteria, according to Dr. Izabella Wentz.
After Dr. Izabella Wentz received her Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis diagnosis in 2009, she was shocked to see how limited information existed about Hashimoto’s, hypothyroidism, and autoimmune conditions. This motivated Dr. Wentz to discover the root cause of the illness and focus on healing herself and others with Hashimoto’s. Dr. Wentz spent years researching Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism. She has summa…
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May 2, 2023
Preventing Cancer by Taking Control of Your Health with Dr. Jenn Simmons
The CDC defines cancer as “a disease in which cells in the body grow out of control.” Next to skin cancer, breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in women in the United States. Breast cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, are very hard on the body and can accelerate other unwanted health issues such as cardiovascular disease, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and bone loss.
Dr. Jenn Simmons studied traditional medicine and was a breast cancer surgeon for years in Philadelphia. It wasn’t until her own health came crashing down that led her to scrutinize the traditional health system. While searching for answers, Dr. Simmons learned about functional medicine and recognized that alternative medicine empowers patients to take control of their own health with lifestyle and dietary changes.
In this episode, Dr. Simmons talks to Jen about why the body makes cancer cells, how to gain control and awareness of your health, and the top risks for cancer recurrence.
Key…
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Apr 25, 2023
Biohacking Your Environment to Optimize Your Health with Rachel Varga
Waking up and reading the labels is not limited to the food we eat. It also applies to the skincare products we use. What we put on our bodies directly relates to our mood, energy, and appearance. Unfortunately, there are toxins hiding in every aspect of our environment. These omnipresent toxins can disrupt your hormones easily and impact your ability to age naturally and gracefully.
Rachel Varga, Aesthetic Nurse Specialist with double-board certification, teaches her clients about biohacking in order to slow aging, detoxify, and rejuvenate the skin. She has performed over 20,000 rejuvenation procedures and hosted hundreds of interviews with functional wellness leaders. Rachel serves as an executive board member for the Plastic and Aesthetic Nursing Journal and regularly contributes to the Journal of Aesthetic Nursing. Jen and Rachel discuss how oxidative stress status impacts the body, why regular detoxification is necessary, and how to age gracefully.
In this episode, Rachel talks…
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Apr 18, 2023
Taking Charge of Your Health with Dr. Mignonne Mary
Conventional medicine relies on clinical reference ranges to diagnose disease. The problem with waiting until a disease is diagnosed is it already feels too late. Are there ways to detect these issues before they arise and take a preventative, proactive approach to our own health?
Dr. Mignonne Mary took on a career in medicine after being inspired by her father’s work as a doctor. She learned a lot from her dad that wasn’t taught in medical school, which eventually led her to integrative medicine. In 2013, Dr. Mary founded The Remedy Room, an innovative wellness clinic focused on optimal nutrition, disease prevention, nutritional medicine, and infusion therapy. Dr. Mary’s mission is to help her patients, including Jen, lead healthier lives.
In this episode, Dr. Mary talks to Jen about common deficiencies and how they affect the body, why you should take charge of your health journey, and small actions you can take to improve your health.
Key Takeaways
[01:30] - Dr. Mignonne…
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Apr 11, 2023
How Blood Sugar Impacts Your Health with Danielle Hamilton
A recently published study by the Journal of American College of Cardiology found that only 6.8% of American adults had optimal metabolic health. Over 93% of adults have some level of insulin resistance or metabolic dysfunction, and symptoms are skyrocketing such as dizziness, brain fog, fatigue, exhaustion, headaches, heart palpitations, and anxiety. Doctors are encouraged to prescribe medication for these issues but rarely do they examine the root cause of them.
Danielle Hamilton had a chronic history of health issues, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), cystic acne, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and weight loss resistance. She became a Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and blood sugar expert in search of a solution. By reversing insulin resistance, Danielle was able to balance her hormones, heal her PCOS, and find the root cause of these pervasive illnesses. Together, Jen and Danielle discuss the early signs of blood sugar dysregulation, the consequences of leav…
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Apr 4, 2023
Activating Calm in the Body With Essential Oils with Jodi Cohen
When we feel stressed, our body’s ability to heal deteriorates. Our body strives to exist in a parasympathetic state 80% of the time to bring balance to the autonomic nervous system (ANS), but most people cannot achieve the calmness they crave. ANS affects all involuntary mechanisms in the body such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, breathing, cell activity, and even body temperature. To put it simply, when one thing is even slightly off, everything feels off.
For years, Jodi Cohen found herself feeling perpetually stressed despite her healthy habits. Jodi tried everything from clean eating to consistent exercise, but she still struggled to find her calm. It wasn’t until she created an essential oil blend that Jodi could feel the calmness she craved by stimulating her parasympathetic state. This experience led Jodi to become the founder and CEO of Vibrant Blue Oils to spread the word about the healing power of essential oil blends and naturally turn on the body’s ability…
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Mar 28, 2023
Chocolate That Gives You Energy with Adam Kukoff
It’s no secret that chocolate is decadent and delicious. But while the added sugars and artificial sweeteners may give us an initial boost of energy, they leave us feeling lethargic and bloated. For consumers who take extra caution when it comes to their nutrition, it seems like there’s no such thing as a healthy or clean chocolate bar that actually tastes good.
Adam Kukoff, Co-Founder and CEO of NUTSÓLA, set out on a mission to create food products that are both tasty and nutritional. He co-founded NUTSÓLA with his father after launching a Kickstarter campaign in 2019. They recently expanded their selection to include DÄT Chocolate bars, which are naturally sweetened with dates instead of artificial ingredients. Sweetening the product with dates provides a boost of fiber, antioxidants, and no sugar crashes.
In this episode, Adam talks to Jen about why DÄT Chocolate differs from other sweets on the shelf, NUTSÓLA’s commitment to clean ingredients, transparency, and innovat…
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Mar 21, 2023
The Healing Powers of Algae with Catharine Arnston
We tend to associate algae with the ocean, but this superfood deserves recognition for all of its nutritional properties. In fact, this sustainable whole food crop is the most nutritionally dense food in the world. Algae is suitable for all diets and is absorbed much more easily by the body than some popular vitamins. With so many fleeting health trends in the world today, why does algae remain virtually unknown outside of Asia, despite being endorsed by NASA and the United Nations for over 50 years?
Enter Catharine Arnston, an expert in algae nutrition, who wants to spread the word about all that algae has to offer. Catharine began her career working corporate jobs, but it wasn’t until her younger sister was diagnosed with breast cancer that Catharine discovered algae’s powerful healing properties. Even after her sister fully healed, Catharine felt compelled to improve people’s health and eventually went on to become the CEO and Founder of ENERGYbits. Her premium algae tablets…
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Mar 14, 2023
A Relationship-Driven Approach to Patient Care with Dr. Anna Cabeca
With age, women can experience intensified symptoms such as hot flashes, hair loss, weight gain, mood swings, exhaustion, and fatigue. While bodies continue to change over time, the education about what’s happening behind the scenes stops as soon as we leave school. Women have questions about these personal subjects but not all have someone they trust to turn to for guidance.
Dr. Anna Cabeca, also known as “The Girlfriend Doctor,” takes a relationship-driven approach with all of her patients and provides a safe space for them to speak about menopause and hormones. As a certified OB/GYN and women’s health expert, she’s gained valuable wisdom about the topics she wants to share so that people don’t have to suffer. She’s used this knowledge to write bestselling books about hormones, menopause, and ketogenic eating and created her own brand of The Girlfriend Doctor products. Dr. Anna discusses how her experience as a mother and grandmother drove her to this type of work, her…
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Mar 7, 2023
Subconscious Rewiring with Stephanie Kwong
Relying on sheer willpower to achieve any goal is challenging. We may experience thoughts, emotions, and beliefs that tell us that we are undeserving of achieving those goals or having certain experiences. When those thoughts get too loud, how can we turn down the volume and try to live a normal life?
Stephanie Kwong, Co-Founder of the Rapid Rewire Method, is passionate about helping her clients achieve their goals and heal efficiently through subconscious rewiring. The Rewire Method training does not replace the grieving process but can expedite healing in 60-minute sessions. Jen and Stephanie discuss the differences between meditation and subconscious rewiring, how emotional charges impede healing, and the benefits of rewiring your beliefs and improving your mindset.
In this episode, Stephanie talks to Jen about her path to healing efficiently using subconscious rewiring, how the training method works to catalyze transformation, and how to get started rewiring your brain.
Key Take…
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Feb 28, 2023
The Benefits of Intermittent Fasting with Gin Stephens
Shedding pounds is easier said than done. Marketing companies prey on our physical insecurities, and every product claims to be the next miracle pill for weight loss. It’s impossible to discern facts from fiction when it comes to slimming down. Are there ways to trim our waistlines without being miserable, and keep the weight off for good?
Gin Stephens spent years struggling with weight. In 2014, she began her intermittent fasting journey and lost 80 pounds. Gin is the host of the Intermittent Fasting Stories podcast and author of the New York Times bestseller Fast. Feast. Repeat., and Delay, Don’t Deny: Living an Intermittent Fasting Lifestyle, an Amazon #1 best seller in the weight loss category. Jen and Gin discuss the science behind intermittent fasting, misconceptions about the lifestyle, and the importance of listening to your body when following an intermittent fasting routine.
In this episode, Gin talks to Jen about becoming a happier and healthier version of herself thro…
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Feb 21, 2023
Vetting Your Vitamins with Lauren Trostorff
The supplement industry is worth billions of dollars, yet 92% of Americans are deficient in one or more vitamins and minerals. At the top of that list are magnesium, vitamin D, and
omega-3s.
Lauren Trostorff, Founder of Vibrant Market, was conscious about nutrition and clean beauty when it was just an underground and mostly cultural practice. At 19 years old, she paid attention to the foods she ate and used only the best dermatologist-recommended skin care products. Lauren was always the go-to friend who could recommend the latest products and treatments in clean beauty. She carried this devotion into her business, where she stocks a carefully vetted list of clean beauty products and supplements. Before a product can sit on Vibrant Market’s shelf, Lauren tests them on her own skin, shares them with friends, and researches each ingredient and founder story.
In this episode, Lauren talks to Jen about the impact of biohacking and functional medicine, the importance of vetting su…
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Feb 14, 2023
Letting the Food Speak for Itself with Tyler Dawley
It is becoming harder to discern which grocery store labels are legitimate and which are fluffy marketing claims. When it comes to chicken, the most consumed meat in the U.S., there is no shortage of labels you will encounter while shopping: natural, vegetarian-fed, cage-free, organic, and pasture-raised. But which chicken is worth paying extra for?
Tyler Dawley, Founder and Owner at Big Bluff Ranch, is well-versed in which meat claims are legitimately determined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and which ones are meaningless. Tyler believes that the tastiest meat starts with the natural environment and regenerative farming practices. Big Bluff Ranch’s chicken is pasture-raised and organic, which isn’t always available at your local grocery store.
Tyler talks to Jen about his decision to become a full-time farmer, the difference between meat label claims, and the benefits of regenerative agriculture.
Key Takeaways
[01:49] - What drew Tyler back to the ranch.
[05:48] - The…
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Feb 7, 2023
How to Reverse Insulin Resistance with Shana Hussin
Many people view bloating, inflammation and energy plunges as an expected part of growing older. While it’s true that health issues without clear causes become more common as we age, that doesn’t mean they should be ignored because we think they’re “normal.” When we finally commit to taking medical action, we rarely get the answers we need from conventional doctors. The arduous process can leave us with extra expenses and no real solutions.
Shana Hussin, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and Owner of SMH Nutrition and Wellness, discusses a health issue many doctors don’t even know to test for: fasting insulin. According to Shana, 80% of the adult population in the United States is experiencing this problem but many people don’t even know it. With over 20 years of experience in the nutrition field, Shana is on a mission to reverse chronic illness and insulin resistance, both of which sit at the crux of stubborn weight and lifestyle issues.
Shana talks to Jen about th…
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Jan 31, 2023
Balancing Your Brain with Dr. Patrick Porter
As we grow older, many people consider anxiety, low energy, difficulty losing weight, and brain fog to be the body and mind’s normal reaction to aging. The harsh truth is that burnout and stress paralyze us, but our brain is smarter and more resilient than we think. In fact, our brain is neuroplastic, regardless of age, and has the power to change and adapt due to different experiences. Most people aren’t aware of the power that lies within our brain.
Dr. Patrick Porter, Founder and CEO at BrainTap, has spent over 20 years educating people about the brain’s potential. He strives to improve lives by enhancing the brain’s function and true capabilities. He’s an award-winning author, educator, consultant, entrepreneur, and speaker who’s on a mission to “better a billion brains.”
Dr. Porter talks to Jen about how BrainTap relies on neuropsychology to unlock optimal living, deregulate stress, and find balance in a chaotic world.
Key Takeaways
[02:17] - Dr. Patrick Porter…
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Jan 24, 2023
Developing a Positive Mindset with Dr. Ana-Maria Temple
It is no longer a question of if you have health issues, it’s a matter of how many you have, how severe they are, and how you’re being treated. Children are not exempt from this category as illness can strike at any age. But not all prescriptions are safe and healthy for children to use.
Dr. Ana-Maria Temple, also known as The Eczema Lady, talks to Jen about how her children’s chronic illness prompted a lifestyle revamp and dietary changes. Together, they discuss healing illness through real food, top products to avoid, and the role that community plays when making drastic changes.
In this episode, Dr. Temple talks to Jen about the challenges of becoming healthier and how to overcome them. Sustaining momentum in your health journey can be achieved by building community and developing a positive mindset.
Key Takeaways
[02:10] - How Dr. Ana-Maria Temple became a holistic pediatrician.
[04:14] - When Dr. Ana-Maria discovered the root cause of her children’s chronic illness.…
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Jan 17, 2023
The Snacking Solution with Katy Tucker and Lisette Howard
Healthy snacks in the grocery store are hard to come by, especially for kids. Colorful packaging and smiling mascots appeal to young audiences and disguise several toxic ingredients. With such a plethora of sugary, nutritionless, highly processed snacks, it’s rare that your child would leap for a low-sugar, natural option. Are there snacks that are tasty and kid-approved, without all of the harmful ingredients?
Enter Katy Tucker and Lisette Howard, Co-Founders of Sunnie, who created a solution for parents craving a convenient, clean alternative to sugary snacks. The two mothers promised they would build a brand with integrity and snacks that use real foods and minimal processing. They partnered with top childhood nutrition expert, Jill Castle, MS, RDN, to develop their products with pride and equip families with healthier snacking choices.
Katy and Lisette talk to Jen about the lack of healthy kids' snacks available to parents, the ingredients that differentiate Sunnie from other s…
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Jan 10, 2023
Physical and Emotional Healing with Steven Wright
When we are struck with illness, we are willing to go to extremes to bring a semblance of normalcy back to our lives. The conventional medical system is ridden with hidden costs, and a person could easily spend thousands of dollars trying to find solutions with minimal results.
That’s what happened to Steven Wright, Co-Founder and CEO of The Healthy Gut Company. He spent years looking for the answers to his digestive and chronic health issues to no avail. His frustrations eventually led him to start his own business. Steven discusses how the specific carbohydrate diet (SCD) bettered his body, how supplements can help with deficiencies you might not even be aware of, and why the emotional component of healing is as important as the physical one.
Steven talks to Jen about his personal path to healing, the value of magnesium, and his advice for anyone struggling with health complications.
Key Takeaways
[01:41] - Introduction to Steven Wright.
[04:48] - A summary of Steven’s healt…
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Jan 3, 2023
How High-Quality Ingredients Transform Your Health with Jason Bronstad
Milk alternatives have become increasingly popular over the years, with 41% of consumers choosing a dairy-free approach to their life. With so many options available - soy, coconut, oat, almond, rice, hemp, cashew - it’s become difficult to decide which alternative milk suits you. What factors should we consider when switching to a plant-based alternative, and how do we know which alternative milk is right for us?
Jason Bronstad wants the decision to be easy for consumers by providing a simple, clean dairy-free option: MALK Organics. Before becoming MALK Organics’ CEO in 2020, Jason’s health journey began in 2019 after realizing his children mirrored his poor habits. He lost over 100 pounds and prioritized high-quality, organic products, and clean eating. This commitment in Jason’s personal life also rings true professionally as the CEO of MALK Organics. Unlike many alternative milk companies, MALK Organics only uses a handful of high-quality ingredients in their plant-based…
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Dec 27, 2022
Avoiding Hidden Toxins in Your Coffee with Dr. Emily Gonzalez
Starting off your morning with a strong cup of coffee (or two, or three) is a daily ritual that brings peace to many of us. With caffeine pulsing through our veins, we feel ready to tackle whatever challenge the day may bring. While this coffee may give us a burst of energy, how often do we think about what it is actually made of?
Dr. Emily Gonzalez, Manager of Science and Nutrition at Bulletproof, speaks to Jen about how mold is sneaking into our coffee and the possible side effects of drinking toxins. Coming from a naturopathic medical background, Emily believes in the importance of research and ingredient testing at Bulletproof to produce the highest quality products. At first, those higher quality products may have a heftier price tag, but you won’t be shelling out a fortune at the doctor’s office later on.
In this episode, Emily talks to Jen about the insidious toxins that could be hiding in your coffee, how to avoid them, and how Bulletproof differs from your average cup of j…
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Dec 20, 2022
Healing Illness with Herbal Therapy with Dr. Bill Rawls
Our bodies are constantly talking to us, but we don’t always choose to listen. It is not until we are struck with a health crisis that we are forced to seek the necessary changes. Even then, there’s no guarantee that our health ailments will be fixed easily.
That was the case for Dr. Bill Rawls, Co-Founder and Medical Director of Vital Plan. A traditionally trained physician for over 30 years, he was diagnosed with fibromyalgia in his 40s. After having little luck with traditional medical recommendations, Dr. Rawls turned to alternative treatments and herbal supplements, which healed his chronic health issues. Dr. Rawls now combines his knowledge of traditional medicine with herbal therapy for a holistic health approach. His journey inspired Vital Plan, an herbal supplement and wellness company Dr. Rawls co-founded with his daughter.
In this episode, Dr. Rawls talks to Jen about the benefits of herbal therapy, the body’s reaction to stress and healing, and how to get started with…
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Dec 13, 2022
Minimizing the Effects of Environmental Toxins with David Roberts
Humans are creatures of habit who are not always aware of the world around us. Rarely will we make lifestyle changes without a catalyst that leaves a lasting impression on us and drives us to behave differently.
For David Roberts, everything changed when his late wife, Mara, was diagnosed with breast cancer 10 years ago. This unfortunate news propelled David to study the environment around him. He discovered that toxins are everywhere. Coming from a public health background, this inspired David to co-found Mara Labs and develop their hallmark product, BrocElite.
In this episode, David talks with Jen about what environmental toxins are, where they can be hiding, and how to minimize their negative consequences.
Key Takeaways
[01:51] - An overview of David’s public health experience.
[03:00] - How, why, and where environmental toxins are hiding.
[06:23] - How environmental toxins in the U.S. compare to other countries.
[07:13] - What is glyphosate?
[09:12] - How to combat the nega…
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Dec 6, 2022
Intentionality, Mindfulness, and Wellbeing with Dr. Monisha Bhanote
Health complications have become so omnipresent in the United States that we don’t usually think twice about them. We turn to our healthcare providers to prescribe us pills that offer relief, but not long-term solutions. While many want to find another solution, many of us don’t know how to take action.
Dr. Monisha Bhanote, also known as the Wellbeing Doctor, talks to Jen about her work as an integrative lifestyle medicine physician and the steps we can take to control our health proactively. Dr. Bhanote believes that doctors have a responsibility to help patients listen to their bodies, keep their cells healthy, and find sustainable long-term solutions to their ailments.
In this episode, Dr. Bhanote talks to Jen about the difference between traditional medical treatment and integrative medicine, the importance of listening to your symptoms and keeping your cells healthy, and how to switch off autopilot and live with intention.
Key Takeaways
[04:18] - What people receive by s…
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Nov 29, 2022
Automating Meals Using the Brava Oven with Travis Rea and Annie Garcia Lucey
Imagine if you could snap your fingers and have an oven that generates recipes, cooks at the speed of light, and reminds you when your food is done so it never burns. The Brava oven uses pulses of light to cook meals faster than you can order bad takeout.
Travis Rea, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, and Annie Garcia Lucey, Director of Recipe Development and Culinary Content at Brava Home Inc. both use the Brava oven in their homes. It can be utilized by experienced cooks as well as people who are intimidated by cooking. As a trained chef from the restaurant world, Travis was skeptical of kitchen gadgets but became a convert after tasting a meal made in a Brava oven.
In this episode, Travis and Annie talk to Jen and Seth Smiley about how the Brava smart oven works, how technology fits into clean eating, and fun recipe ideas.
Key Takeaways
[04:19] - Travis and Annie explain the Brava oven.
[07:07] - The difference between a traditional oven and a Brava oven.
[08:42] - What…
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Nov 22, 2022
Revolutionizing the Bread Industry with Jeanne David
Flour-based products like bread, pasta, and crackers make up a major part of the standard American diet, leading to inflammation, blood sugar spikes, and weight gain. This high-carb diet is said to be one of the reasons the current generation is living with long-term inflammatory illnesses.
Jeanne David, Founder, and CEO at Outer Aisle, is leading a wave of bread alternatives that are hitting supermarket shelves. After leaving her job as a director for a nonprofit, she started Outer Aisle as a family project with her four sons. Jeanne wanted to change her diet and get more servings of vegetables without depriving herself of some of her favorite bread-based dishes. Today, her manufacturing plant turns 70,000 pounds of cauliflower into cauliflower sandwich thins and pizza crust. Jeanne’s philosophy is that people can improve their health by eating the nutrient-rich food usually found in the outer aisles of the supermarket.
In this episode, Jeanne talks to Jen about switching to a…
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Nov 15, 2022
Regulating Your GI Health with James and Dahlia Marin
Understanding your GI health requires patience and a holistic health approach that western medicine doesn’t always offer. There’s no quick fix or magic pill that can solve every GI issue, so the question is – where do you start?
James Marin and Dahlia Marin, Registered Dietitians, Co-Founders of Married to Health, and husband and wife, are back for a second time to explain the different lifestyle choices that impact our GI health. Many of the people who come to Married to Health have tried using laxatives, antacids, and supplements recommended by their practitioners to fix their GI issues. But James and Dahlia believe that great GI health starts with a solid foundation of stress management, hydration, probiotic foods, and a wide variety of plants. In their practice, James and Dahlia along with their team of specialists spend time understanding their patients’ lifestyles and the depth of their symptoms.
In this episode, James Marin and Dahlia Marin talk to Jen about their pr…
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Nov 8, 2022
Nutrition in a Pinch with James Barry
When the average American prepares meat for dinner, liver, heart, and pancreas are probably not on their table. Many cultures recognize organ meats, or “offal”, for their incredible flavor and nutrient-rich qualities, so why does the standard American diet discard them?
James Barry, Founder and CEO at Castle Hill Foods, Inc., was inspired to make a nutritional supplement after his youngest daughter got sick with a life-threatening toxin and was barely able to eat. Luckily, she recovered but James knew the standard American diet, which is made up of about 70% processed food, was not good enough to keep his family healthy. He created Pluck to promote conscious eating and sustainable agriculture without sacrificing flavor. His seasonings are packed with nutrients from the highest quality meat.
In this episode, James talks to Jen about what motivated him to start his business, focusing on organ meats or “offal”, the benefits of eating every part of the animal, and his experience a…
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Nov 1, 2022
Upgrading Your Meat Products with Autumn Smith
Being the champion of our health often requires us to go against what’s popular, cut through the noise and misinformation and listen to our bodies.
On the outside, Autumn Smith appeared to be a happy, successful celebrity trainer working with stars like Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, and Ellen Pompeo. Below the surface, she struggled with debilitating digestive issues and crippling anxiety. She’s been in and out of doctors’ offices since she was 10 years old and her health kept her from making plans with friends and enjoying life with her husband. So Autumn took her health into her own hands, cut out processed foods, quit her job, and went back to school to learn about food and health. She founded Wild Pastures and Paleovalley to change people’s perception of meat and animal products and focus on agriculture practices that are good for people and the environment.
In this episode, Autumn talks to Jen about quitting her job as a celebrity personal trainer and building a business foc…
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Oct 25, 2022
Teaching Kids to Find Power in Their Food with Haley Scheich
The most formative years of our lives are during childhood. It’s where we develop attitudes towards wellness that will likely follow us throughout our lives. However, most people don’t start learning about healthy eating until adulthood.
Haley Scheich, Co-Founder of My SuperHero Foods, didn’t get in tune with her body until she was in her 20s. She dealt with bloating, brain fog, and frequent headaches until she changed her diet. When she became a mom, she used the lessons learned on her own clean eating journey to empower her children to cook with her, try new recipes, and tune into how food makes them feel. This inspired Haley’s husband Dr. Tarek Pacha to co-write a children’s book titled “My SuperHero Foods”. The book features a fictional story with two characters based on her two eldest children learning about how superhero foods make them stronger, faster, and better.
In this episode, Haley talks to Jen about dedicating her life to teaching children about wellness,…
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Oct 18, 2022
Creating Wake Up and Read the Labels with Jen Smiley
Nutrition and entrepreneurship were a right of passage for Jen Smiley. Growing up, she practically lived in her parent's grocery store, stocking shelves, and watching brand reps quarrel over shelf space.
After Jen became a stay-at-home mom, she wanted an outlet and she knew she wanted to start a business. When a social media consultant encouraged her to get uncomfortable in front of the camera and share her clean eating journey, things started to align. People started asking for help clearing out their pantries and shopping for groceries with cleaner, simpler ingredients.
Jen’s “freak food” wasn’t always understood by the people around her. But nearly three years later, she’s helped improve people’s lives through Wake Up and Read the Labels along with her husband Seth. She also has a book on the horizon.
In this episode, the roles are reversed and Sarah Persich, Head of Operations at Wake Up, interviews Jen about her clean eating journey, how Wake Up and Read the Labels s…
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Oct 11, 2022
Restoring Gut Health Through the Coconut Cult with Noah Simon-Wadell
Reading the labels is an easy way to tell what food is clean and what food isn’t. But what happens when labels are created with the intention to mislead?
Noah Simon-Wadell, Co-Founder and Chief Innovation Officer of The Coconut Cult, created clean yogurt with high-quality medicinal probiotics that can help heal the gut. He struggled with a weak immune system and digestive issues for most of his life. On a journey to heal his inflammation, he made a radical change to his diet and experimented with probiotics to see what would regulate his digestion. During Noah’s research, he looked into yogurt brands that claim to have millions of good probiotics. But when he dug deeper and spoke to experts in the field, he discovered that all the probiotics in most yogurts on the shelves were dead.
In this episode, Noah talks to Jen about his journey with digestive issues, the food industry’s fear of living organisms, and why he decided to make clean yogurt.
Key Takeaways
[01:17] - An introduc…
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Oct 4, 2022
Prevailing Through Food with Ashley Kohn
Inflammation is like an unfortunate gift. It doesn’t feel great, but it’s the body’s way of protecting itself and revealing that something in our food or environment needs to change. Often, change is simply going back to food the body recognizes.
After a childhood filled with food allergies, Ashley Kohn, Founder and CEO at Prevail Jerky, knew it was time for a change when she went into the hospital with swollen lips. She went back to basics and started eating scratch-made dressings, vegetables, and homemade jerky. Pretty soon, she was able to drop the medications and focus on healing through food. When Ashley and her husband created Prevail Jerky, they wanted to go back to the roots of jerky when the process and ingredients were simple while adding their stamp on an old favorite.
In this episode, Ashley talks to Jen about overcoming food allergies, living with celiac disease, and what inspired her to make organic jerky.
Key Takeaways
[01:19] - An introduction to Ashley Kohn.…
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Sep 27, 2022
Prioritizing Your Internal Ecosystem with James and Dahlia Marin
A healthy balanced gut is an ultimate goal. Keeping it that way can be a challenge when it’s easily thrown out of whack by chemical, physical, and emotional stress.
James Marin and Dahlia Marin are Registered Dieticians and Co-Founders of Married to Health. They are also life partners who both struggled with obesity and had a long list of health issues as a result. After conquering their difficult relationship with food and health, they started living by the philosophy that gut health is the epicenter of all health and they embody that philosophy through their plant-based diet.
In their practice, Married to Health, James and Dahlia help people struggling with disordered eating, IBS, and metabolic diseases to introduce plant-based foods into their life while managing their symptoms.
In his episode, Jen talks to James and Dahlia, about working with your spouse, raising a fully plant-based kid, and prioritizing your gut health.
Key Takeaways
[00:56] - An introduction to James and…
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Sep 20, 2022
Living With Parents Who Read the Labels with Jude and Luke Smiley
Do you remember how you felt about food as a kid? Could you pronounce the words on the ingredient list of a bag of chips? Well, 11-year-old Jude Smiley and 8-year-old Luke Smiley are just your average boys who like soccer, video games, and donuts. But, there’s one major difference - in the Smiley household, they eat clean.
Jude remembers life before eating clean and indulging in all the sugary snacks kids love. When Luke was born, things changed and their mom Jen started swapping regular butter for grass-fed butter and cane sugar for coconut sugar. It’s tough getting kids to eat clean but with a bit of creativity, the boys have grown to love their mom’s clean recipes, especially her chip chicken.
Jude and Luke aren’t restricted. They eat french toast sticks at grandma’s house on the weekends and drink sports drinks at their soccer games. It’s all about balance for the Smiley boys, who gladly name some of their favorite processed snacks. The important thing for Jen is that t…
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Sep 13, 2022
Keep the Adventure Alive: Healing Osteoarthritis with Dr. Alyssa Kuhn
When the body breaks down, many people turn to surgery searching for what they believe will be a permanent fix. Often, what the body really needs is the chance to heal through diet, lifestyle change, and therapy.
Dr. Alyssa Kuhn is the founder of Keep the Adventure Alive based in Salt Lake City Utah. She’s on a mission to educate people around the globe on osteoarthritis pain reduction and prevention through diet and movement.
When Alyssa started working in an independent living facility, she was inspired by the residents who were very active. This affirmed that osteoarthritis didn’t have to be a life of pain, isolation, and immobility. She saw this firsthand when her 50-year-old client living with debilitating osteoarthritis could finally do a stair jump after months of therapy.
In this episode, Jen talks to Alyssa about osteoarthritis misinformation online and healing chronic pain through diet and therapy.
Key Takeaways
[00:51] - Intro to Dr. Alyssa Kuhn and Keep the Adventure…
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Sep 6, 2022
Not All Almonds Are Created Equal with Grace Runnels
There is an unmistakable link between what we eat and how we feel. After losing a son to mental health issues, Daily Crunch Snacks' Co-Founder Diane Orley dedicated her business mission to feeding the mind as much as the body. For her, that starts with a daily ritual of a handful of almonds.
Over 15 years ago, Diane’s sister visited India where she learned the health benefits of sprouted almonds. Inspired by her sister’s travel, Diane merged the practice of sprouting almonds with additional added flavors using clean ingredients. When her niece, Laurel Orley, was pregnant with her third child, her cravings were intense. Diane’s almonds were one of her favorite healthy snacks. Laurel saw potential in her aunt’s business and joined forces to start Daily Crunch Snacks.
In this episode, Jen talks with Grace Runnels, Brand and Content Marketing Lead at Daily Crunch Snacks about the story behind the brand, the benefits of sprouting almonds, and the importance of mental health at Dai…
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Aug 30, 2022
The Rise of Plant-Based Butter with Lauren Montgomery
When did you notice the connection between your diet and the way you feel? Lauren Montgomery aka Monty, the founder of Monty’s, grew up on the Standard American Diet (SAD). She battled anxiety, depression, and body dysmorphia, but she never connected the dots that her diet was impacting her mental health.
Lauren cycled between being a hardcore vegan and a pescatarian until she settled on a plant-based, whole food, and dairy-free diet. Today, she promotes bio-individuality and finding the diet that works for you. Her business, Monty’s, creates clean, cultured cashew cream cheese and plant-based butter in NYC. Lauren believes plant-based butter is not just for vegans – it’s for everyone who wants simple, healthy, and delicious food. But running a business without preservatives comes with its challenges.
In this episode, Jen talks with Lauren about how she created her plant-based dairy essentials, became a health coach, and founded Monty’s.
Key Takeaways
[00:50] - A brie…
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Aug 23, 2022
More Than a Hot Sauce Brand with Joey Repice
Like many great products, Joey’s Hot Sauce originated from love. In this case, the love Joey felt for his wife, who couldn’t find a delicious hot sauce free from additives, preservatives, and sugar. So Joey grabbed organic peppers from the farmer’s market and blended up a custom hot sauce in his Vitamix. On that day, Joey’s Hot Sauce was born.
From the Southern part of Italy, Joey’s mother lived off the land. Her family owned goats and ate fresh figs and oregano straight from the source. As a child, Joey watched his mother’s intentional approach to cooking, making use of every ingredient and treating meals with reverence. Those Italian roots and his mother’s appreciation for high-quality food inspired Joey’s love for fresh, simple ingredients, and eventually, Joey’s Hot Sauce.
In this episode, Joey talks with Jen about the inspiration behind his hot sauce flavors, why every flavor is fresh, clean, and simple, the importance of mind-body health for Joey, and why Jo…
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Aug 16, 2022
Leaving Law for Wake Up! with Seth Smiley
Like many of us, Seth Smiley used to pay little attention to his health symptoms. Diagnosed with ADHD at 16 and struggling with heartburn from college onwards, Seth believed he’d need over-the-counter meds his entire life. Still slim and training to compete as a long-distance runner, Seth had no reason to believe his underlying health issues were anything to worry about.
It wasn’t until early in Seth and Jen’s marriage that Seth began exploring biohacking, anti-aging, and anything he could do to improve his running time, that the two discovered the power of diet changes. What started with vegetarian meals progressed into veganism and at some point, Jen’s Wake Up moment with simple ingredients.
In this episode, Seth talks with Jen about his life before clean eating, why men looking to bulk up need clean ingredients just like men hoping to lose weight, what Seth eats in a typical day, and why Seth ultimately decided to leave the law firm he built and join Jen full-time at…
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Aug 9, 2022
Cleaning Up Cereal with Parker Brook
Sometimes all we need is a little push to propel us over the edge and chase our destiny. Before the birth of his daughter, Parker Brook was working for the big food industry while battling an autoimmune disease. Parker knew the products he marketed weren’t great for the general public, designed to increase hunger versus fulfill nutritional needs. And maybe even subconsciously, Parker knew that his own diet was contributing to the symptoms he wrestled with daily.
But when Parker’s daughter came into the world, he couldn’t ignore that intuition any longer. The thought of plastering mermaids on sugary snacks so kids just like his own would grab them at the grocery store wasn’t something he could stomach. And having an inside look into the types of ingredients big food stuffed their products with, he knew those mermaids were leading kids to chronic health conditions versus a balanced diet. So Parker quit his job and created Lovebird, a cereal free from fillers, chemicals, and infla…
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Aug 2, 2022
Fixing Your Kitchen Before Fixing Your Meds with Sheila Cunningham
Having spent 30 years as a registered nurse, Sheila Cunningham knew what it meant to treat patients afflicted with disease and chronic conditions. What she never experienced, and what they failed to teach in nursing school, was how to prevent illness by transforming your pantry.
It wasn’t until Sheila went from working in a hospital to working in a school that her own health started to decline and she could see first-hand how many children were afflicted with stomach problems, ADHD, and eczema. Also, how many parents fed them chemical after chemical, unknowingly fueling the inflammatory fire.
That’s when Sheila knew there had to be more to healthcare than the food pyramid and healing patients after the fact. She dove into nutrition school and, shortly after, discovered Jen Smiley. The puzzle pieces clicked and Sheila knew she had to share her new wealth of nutritional knowledge with the world.
Today, Sheila talks with Jen about why hospitals aren’t the key to holistic health,…
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Jul 26, 2022
Feeling 20 at 40 with Anna Cash
Many people discover they’ve got major health issues through changes in appearance or struggles with daily tasks. It took a dentist appointment for Anna Cash.
Anna’s teeth were all but crumbling and her dentist advised she cut out gluten, suspecting the problem was gut-related. However, despite reluctantly removing sandwich bread and pizza, Anna wasn’t feeling much better. In fact, depriving herself throughout the day, Anna would reward her daily discipline with late-night McDonald’s runs and watch as the weight piled on.
On top of a dental mishap, the passing of Anna’s husband prompted anxiety, depression, and overindulging. Her mental health and poor diet led to frequent illness and trips to the doctor’s office. Although professionals pushed medicine, when a friend sent Anna a post by Jen Smiley, everything changed.
In this episode, Anna talks with Jen about learning to navigate clean eating, the medicine Anna no longer needs, how Anna’s changing her community with…
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Jul 19, 2022
Cooking Clean, From Desserts To Cajun Classics with Robin Borne
When you discover your child has a food allergy, eliminating foods is no longer a decision. Robin Borne realized her son had a milk allergy and she tossed out the gallon her family chugged weekly. Even going dairy and corn-free, Robin felt tired and despite sweating hard in Jen’s spin classes, her weight loss goals seemed unreachable.
Jen’s class on clean eating was the puzzle piece Robin was missing. As the pandemic hit and moms across America made banana bread, Robin created clean alternatives. Her neighbors caught on to Robin’s desserts and before she knew it, Robin had a full-blown bakery business in her backyard. Today, Reborne Bakery offers clean alternatives to your favorite cookies, cakes, muffins, and of course, that chocolate chip banana bread.
In this episode, Robin talks with Jen about learning to love clean cooking, why her meals haven’t changed much, the biggest benefit to clean eating, how to cook cajun foods with a clean twist, and why reading the labels has…
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Jul 12, 2022
Mindy Pelz: The Power of Fasting and Learning to Read the (Keto) Labels
At 43, Mindy Pelz felt like someone had hijacked her body. Despite avoiding obvious ingredients like sugar and exercising, she couldn’t sleep and felt depressed. Mindy snacked non-stop to combat hypoglycemia, but those snacks were “healthy”, so what could possibly be the problem?
That’s when she discovered the power of fasting. Through trial and error, Mindy learned to listen to her body and use fasting to stay sharp, stay healthy, and regulate the hormonal landmine of menopause. 10 years later, Mindy is a best-selling author, keynote speaker, and functional health expert teaching people to retrain their health through fasting and smart choices.
Today, Dr. Mindy Pelz talks with Jen about how and when she fasts, reading labels beyond the word “keto”, what ingredient Mindy always avoids, how big brands spread the biggest food lies, and her top four tips for metabolic health.
Key Takeaways
[00:39] - A brief introduction to Mindy.
[01:25] - What and how Mindy eats.
[0…
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Jul 5, 2022
Anyone Can Eat Clean with Mollie Lodin
In the cycle of dieting, weight loss, and weight gain, results can feel out of reach. When Mollie Lodin stumbled upon the Wake Up program, the simplicity of Jen’s advice got her started on a health (and life) transformation.
Struggling with weight since her teenage years, Mollie tried every diet on the market. By 2020, she was labeling herself a “gluten-free vegan” but when sharing her dietary restrictions, the response was, “then why are you big?” Although offended, Mollie took the criticism seriously and wondered why she was still far from her weight loss goals. Didn’t gluten-free and vegan mean healthy?
Now 10 months into clean eating, Mollie’s lost weight and actually maintained it, impressed gym junkies, improved her sleep, and began a new career as a wellness coach and soon-to-be certified personal trainer.
In this episode, Mollie talks with Jen about why clean eating made a difference while other fads failed her, the biggest improvements Mollie noticed after sw…
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Jun 28, 2022
Change Your Body, Change Your Lifestyle with Dr. Trey Sands
You may think going under the knife to improve your appearance and changing the way you eat are two mutually exclusive paths toward improving your health and confidence. But the foods you’re putting into your body can impact the results you see, and even your ability to participate in elective surgeries.
Dr. Trey Sands is a plastic surgeon specializing in body contouring procedures and what he calls, “The Mommy Makeover.” While Trey can use his expertise to create a fantastic result for clients, it’s up to clients to ensure that result is achievable and sustainable. And when it comes to plastic surgery, changing the way you eat is the only way clients can hold up their end of the surgical deal.
In this episode, Dr. Trey Sands talks with Jen about who plastic surgery is a fantastic option for, the key link between overall health and long-term results, why lifestyle changes work better than crash diets, and why clean eating eases an otherwise painful recovery.
Key Takeaways
[…
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Jun 21, 2022
Combining Fasting and Keto for a Healthy Body and a Healthy Mind with Alexia Bjarkan
Some equate fasting with a disguised eating disorder; a restriction tool forcing our bodies to ignore natural hunger pangs. Fat Burning Coach Alexia Bjarkan reminds us that our ancestors fasted at the dawn of time. Letting our digestive systems rest, when done properly, can cause transformative health improvements like increased energy, mental clarity, and of course, weight loss.
After years of self-medicating with sugar and processed foods, Alexia was drowning in depression and insomnia. A false bipolar disorder diagnosis eventually led her to harsh and mind-numbing medication. Fortunately, Alexia stumbled upon keto coffee in what she considers a divine intervention. Just one sip of coffee tipped Alexia off to the power of eating keto and, eventually, combining keto with fasting.
Today, Alexia talks with Jen about the people who benefit best from fasting, why combining keto with fasting produces revelatory health results, how to incorporate keto into a normal life, and why fasting, ke…
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Jun 14, 2022
Eating Clean and Honoring Your Body with Carly Patterson Caldwell
You’d think as an Olympic Athlete, Carly Caldwell would have met with top-tier nutritionists and clean eating specialists. Unfortunately, those resources were never provided to her as a professional gymnast, and Carly never learned how to “read the labels” until discovering Jen. In fact, before Jen, when Carly wanted to lose weight, she thought cutting out dessert, chips, sugars, and carbs would do the job.
Now, months into the Clean Eating Academy program, Carly eats her favorite foods every day, hardly looks at the calorie count, and has lost 15 pounds. She fits into her closet filled with previously unworn clothes, and her newfound energy levels have allowed her to resume the hobbies she once felt too tired and sluggish to even attempt.
In this episode, Carly talks with Jen about navigating food after the Olympics, what foods Carly swaps for household brands, why eating clean doesn’t have to break your bank account, and the ways in which clean eating has transformed Carly…
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Jun 7, 2022
The Real Secret to Staying Sugar Proof with Dr. Michael Goran
Did you know that there are more than 260 names for sweeteners? The next time you’re searching for a sugar-free snack in the grocery aisle or your kitchen pantry, just remember that a “low sugar” or “no sugar added” label isn’t the whole story. You have to look closer.
Luckily, Dr. Michael Goran is an expert at reading the (sugar) labels. Trained as a biochemist, Dr. Goran transformed into a pediatric nutrition research powerhouse on a mission to help families reduce their sugar intake. His ah-hah moment? Years ago, Dr. Goran began a study tracking the onset and development of chronic diseases. Throughout his research, one data point remained consistent: diet. Particularly, sugar intake.
Taking a hard look at kids’ diets, sugar is time and time again the primary problem. Unfortunately, going sugar-free isn’t easy. With hundreds of deceptive codenames, the food industry has snuck sugars into almost everything.
Today, Dr. Goran talks with Jen about avoiding sugar-st…
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May 31, 2022
Just Press Play: How to Start Moving and Keep Moving with Andrea Leigh Rogers
Eating clean is so important for living a healthy lifestyle. Moving your body is also essential for keeping your body and mind feeling great. Not to mention, the more you can motivate yourself to exercise, the more motivated you’ll feel to eat well and have, what Andrea Leigh Rogers calls, a “fridgervention”.
A true intuitive eater, Andrea is also the queen of movement. She’s a former professional dancer, pilates instructor, founder of Xtend Barre, and creator of the phrase, “movement snacks.” Her philosophy on nutrition and bite-sized exercise helps men and women learn to incorporate movement into their lives without feeling intimidated and overwhelmed by a grueling hour-long workout.
Today, Andrea talks with Jen about helping everyday people flip the exercise switch and actually stick to a workout plan, her philosophy on exercise schedules and nutrition, learning to indulge guilt-free, and the relationship between a stellar workout, a healthy mind, and a clean fridge.…
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May 24, 2022
Small Steps to Clean Eating Success with Megan Schmidt
Reading about Jen’s Jumpstart program is one thing. But hearing a first-hand account of someone who experienced massive results through small change is entirely different. Megan Schmidt is a full-time nurse who spends most of her days putting the needs of others before her own. She wakes up early, works long hours, and, up until a month ago, placed her own health on the backburner. Eating breakfast at Starbucks and grabbing processed foods to quell her daily acid reflux, Megan was feeling the effects of poor eating habits without realizing the root cause.
Tired of feeling sick and tired, Megan decided to give The Wake Up! Jumpstart program a try. Burned by fad diets and processed meal kits, Megan lowered her expectations and followed Jen’s advice to start small. In the first week, all she changed was her breakfast. By week two, Megan was feeling better and hooked on clean eating.
Today, Megan talks with Jen about her experience just one month into the Jumpstart program, how she i…
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May 17, 2022
Nourishment Directly From Nature with Jenny Eu
Over the years, the demand for plant-based milk has skyrocketed. While almond and oat milk may be trending, non-dairy doesn’t automatically mean healthier. Especially when it comes to milk.
Jenny Eu’s clean milk epiphany started out like any other morning: making fresh soy milk. One day, on a whim, Jenny threw a few nuts into her milk maker. The result was a creamy and delicious plant-based beverage. As she sipped, Jenny realized that no clean plant-based milk existed in the marketplace — every option was filled with unnecessary oils, gums, and additives. So she set out to produce her own. And Three Trees was born.
Three Trees, a nod to Jenny’s grandmother who believed, like Jenny, that the best nutrition comes directly from nature, began as a way to fill the void of clean plant-based milk. Today, Three Trees has more than just almond milk and is continuing to revolutionize the way we start our mornings.
Jenny talks with Jen about developing clean non-dairy milk, why most…
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May 10, 2022
Nourishing Your Skin and Your Stomach with Sara D’Amelio
Do you know what’s in your skincare? While it’s easy to analyze the foods we’re putting into our bodies, many of us disregard the products we’re placing on our body. From foundation to lotion, cleansers and even chapstick, 20-year holistic aesthetician and owner of Skincando Sara D’Amelia is here to help us wake up and read our skincare labels.
Growing up, Sara always had sensitive skin. She attributed her constant reactions to using only the cheap products she could afford and waited for the day when expensive luxury brands would heal her skin. But when Sara landed a job at a premium skincare company and finally had access to those coveted pricey bottles, her skin got worse. Frustrated and confused, Sara did her own research on skincare and what she found left her feeling scammed and betrayed by the beauty brands pushing chemical-filled products.
Today, Sara talks with Jen about creating a clean skincare company, the secret to glowing skin, what skincare and nutrition ha…
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May 3, 2022
Snacking Responsibly for Sustainable Energy with Adam Kukoff
When Adam Kukoff sells products at the local farmers market, customers flip his packaging all around, searching for the tiny nutrition labels they’ve been conditioned to read. NUTSÓLA products list their ingredients, but not in the deceptive way major food brands do, cramming their artificial fillers into a size 2 font. Adam has nothing to hide.
Fortunately, Adam grew up in a healthy household, so labels and ingredients have always been a no-brainer. In fact, NUTSÓLA was born from his father’s innovation, always snacking on a mixture of fruit, nuts, seeds, and spices.
Since launching NUTSÓLA, Adam’s brand has evolved from a superfood granola mix to a ready-to-eat snack food perfect for busy parents on the go who still want to feed their kids (and themselves) guilt-free. Unlike most granola brands, NUTSÓLA sweetens their products with fiber-filled dates rather than added sugars.
Today, Adam talks with Jen about the other ingredients NUTSÓLA embraces and avoids to create…
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Apr 26, 2022
Beyond Skin Deep: Why Clean Food Is the Secret Ingredient to a Beautiful Life with Mally Roncal
It takes work to be as happy as Mally Roncal, makeup stylist to the stars and gratitude aficionado. But Mally is as intentional with her thoughts as she is with the food filling her pantry. At least since finding Jen and realizing a clean swap for ketchup made her kids just as happy as the preservative-filled go-to.
While she’s naturally high-energy, since swapping to clean foods, Mally’s seen her already peppy attitude skyrocket and watched with awe as her husband’s chronic pain dissipated. As a makeup artist, Mally’s life revolves around skin. She’s experienced firsthand the power food has on complexion, beauty, and even facial expression.
Today, Mally shares her tips for a happy and grateful life, a pantry swap that changed her kids’ taste buds, how she grocery shops for clean foods in the major chains, a few A-List makeup tips, and why clean swaps clear more than just complexion.
Key Takeaways
[00:39] - A brief introduction to Mally.
[01:39] - How Mally and J…
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Apr 19, 2022
Healing From the Inside Out with Sally Pressman
When Sally Pressman was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, a painful stomach condition that left her debilitated, she thought her only path to recovery would be filled with medication and daily injections. Then her husband met a woman who cured her Chrohn’s disease just by changing what she ate. Sally’s husband made her promise to try the diet switch before resorting to daily medication.
As she began changing her diet, Sally’s body experienced symptoms of food withdrawal. But after three days, she began to feel better. And after seven, her ulcerative colitis symptoms disappeared completely.
Years later, Sally advocates for clean eating just like Jen. She’s experienced a phenomenal health transformation but her process is simple: stick to single-ingredient foods. Today, Sally shares her complete journey to recovery and her food “re-awakening.”
Sally talks with Jen about how clean eating healed Sally’s ulcerative colitis, her absolute favorite clean foods, and how Sally…
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Apr 8, 2022
Introducing: Wake Up and Read the Labels!
Welcome to Wake Up and Read the Labels! — to eating simple and feeling good.
If you want to eat clean and fail your best, you're in the right place. Each week we talk about ingredients that may be holding you back from feeling your best. We also talk to brands that are going against the grain and actually using real ingredients we can recognize. Plus, we’re sharing stories with people just like you who actually woke up and read the labels.
Our first episode drops in April. Subscribe now, wherever you listen to podcasts. In the meantime, if you want to learn more about Wake Up and Read the Labels, visit us online at WakeUpandReadtheLabels.com.
Connect with our host
Jen on Instagram
Jen on Facebook
Wake Up and Read the Labels!
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