Turmeric and Tequila™

Host: Kristen Olson

IG: @Madonnashero

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Website: www.KOAlliance.com

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310. The Athlete Beyond the Game: Chloe Barnes-Henderson on Identity, Purpose, NIL & Building Athletech Academy Sep 16, 2026

Show notes

"Your identity is bigger than the game, and the skills you build as an athlete can become the foundation for your future."

— Chloe Barnes-Henderson

What happens when the identity you've built around being an athlete no longer fits? In this episode of Turmeric & Tequila, I'm catching up with one of my favorite humans, Chloe Barnes-Henderson, for a conversation about student-athlete identity, mental health, entrepreneurship, NIL, artificial intelligence, and building a future where more young people have access to opportunity. Chloe is a former Division I basketball student-athlete, technology executive, professor, and entrepreneur. After a career that included leadership roles at Twitter, IPG Media Brands, and Oscar Health, she is now working to reimagine how young people prepare for the future of work through the Athletech Academy and Athletech LLC. We start with the athlete experience—what happens when an injury changes your identity, how difficult it can be to find purpose outside of sport, and why the life skills developed through athletics can become the foundation for an entirely new career. From there, we get into the business of social media, the realities of NIL, and why young athletes need more than monetization opportunities. They need education, support, ethical guidance, and the tools to navigate a world where their personal brand follows them long after the game ends. Chloe also shares how her experiences in corporate America, including the challenges of her final corporate role, helped clarify the work she was meant to do next.

We talk about:

• Student-athlete identity and finding purpose beyond sport

• Mental health, career transitions, and knowing when to choose a different path

• The business and cultural impact of social media

• NIL education, contracts, brand partnerships, and financial wellness

• AI upskilling and preparing young people for the future of work

• Why sports can be the gateway to entrepreneurship and opportunity

• Building a more accessible ecosystem for students, athletes, and communities

This is a conversation about graceful disruption, choosing purpose over the expected path, and using everything you've learned to build something that matters. Because sometimes the next chapter isn't about starting over. It's about finally putting all the pieces together. Connect with Chloe and learn more about the work: https://www.athletechacademy.org/

Time Stamps:

00:00 — Welcome to Turmeric & Tequila and Chloe's third appearance

01:03 — Introducing Chloe Barnes Henderson and her D1 athlete background

04:31 — Life skills through sports and helping athletes prepare for life beyond competition

05:00 — Chloe's basketball injury, depression, and losing her athlete identity

06:45 — The administrator who helped Chloe reconnect with purpose through other student-athletes

09:00 — Transitioning from athlete to technology executive, professor, and entrepreneur

12:00 — Lessons from working at Twitter, IPG Media Brands, and Oscar Health

15:00 — Social media, cyberbullying, ethics, and mental health

18:00 — Recognizing signs, trusting timing, and knowing when it is time to leave

19:00 — The creation of Athletic Academy

21:23 — Building Athletic Academy into a grades 9–12 sports-focused high school

22:19 — Athletic LLC and Athletic IQ

22:29 — NIL education, contract management, market research, and conflict resolution

23:00 — The interpersonal dynamics and challenges surrounding NIL compensation

23:00 — Athletic Advantage and AI upskilling for businesses, schools, and nonprofits

23:30 — Using sports as a gateway to teach future-of-work skills

24:00 — AI, financial wellness, entrepreneurship, credentialing, and skill-based learning

33:29 — Connecting student interests with sports, technology, culture, music, and fashion

34:00 — Helping students explore interests instead of locking into one career path

37:00 — Why access to sports and opportunity should not depend on income or ZIP code

37:12 — Keeping Athletic Academy programming free for students

37:43 — Corporate partnerships, donations, and workforce development

38:00 — Teaching students and organizations to use AI ethically and responsibly

44:56 — Chloe's vision for the future of sports, education, and workforce development

45:10 — Final thoughts, where to learn more, and closing conversation

46:34 — End of episode

Chloe Barnes-Henderson is a former Division I student-athlete, technology executive, professor, and entrepreneur reimagining how young people prepare for the future of work. A former leader at Twitter, IPG Mediabrands, and Oscar Health, she now serves as a Professor of Practice at Michigan State University and leads Athletech Academy and Athletech LLC, two organizations using AI, workforce development, and the business and culture of sport to create new pathways to opportunity for students across the country.

https://www.facebook.com/chloe.barnes.750983

https://www.instagram.com/chloebarnes03

Athletech Academy is a 501(c)(3), who uses the business and culture of sport to prepare students for the future of work. We are less than a year old and are in grassroots fundraising mode! Anyone that feels compelled by our mission, we would love them to consider a tax-deductible donation via the following link: https://givebutter.com/athletechacademy.

https://www.athletechacademy.org/

Connect with T&T:

IG: @TurmericTequila

Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila

Host: Kristen Olson

IG: @Madonnashero

Tik Tok: @Madonnashero

Website: www.KOAlliance.com

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309. NIL Explained: Name, Image & Likeness, Athlete Branding, Money & Mental Health Sep 08, 2026

Show notes

"Your name is your brand. Your reputation is your resume. Protect both."

-Kristen M. Olson

NIL is changing college sports—and athletes, parents and coaches need to understand the game. In this episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, Kristen M. Olson breaks down the basics of NIL (Name, Image & Likeness) and why it represents one of the biggest shifts in college athletics in modern history. What exactly is NIL? Who pays athletes? How do NIL deals work? And perhaps most importantly, how can young athletes take advantage of new opportunities without losing sight of their values, identity, mental health and long-term goals? As a former Division I athlete, Kristen brings a unique perspective to the conversation. She competed at a time when college athletes could generate tremendous value for their universities but had very few opportunities to monetize their own name or influence.

Today, athletes can potentially earn money through social media partnerships, brand sponsorships, appearances, camps, merchandise, YouTube, podcasting, affiliate marketing and other opportunities connected to their personal brand.

But opportunity comes with responsibility.

Kristen explores both sides of the NIL conversation—from entrepreneurship, financial opportunity and athlete ownership to the challenges of comparison, recruiting, transfer culture, team dynamics and the pressure young athletes can face when money and social media become part of the equation. The bigger message? NIL should be about more than today's paycheck. Athletes are building brands while they're still competing, which means the decisions they make today can influence their reputation, relationships and opportunities long after their playing careers end. Kristen also dives into the importance of choosing brand partnerships that align with personal values, protecting authenticity and understanding that your reputation is an asset that can't simply be rebranded.

Because ultimately, being an athlete is only one part of being human. Your name is your brand. Your reputation is your resume. Protect both. This episode is a starting point for athletes, sports parents, coaches and anyone interested in the rapidly evolving business of college sports. And if you're interested in going deeper, Kristen's upcoming conversation with Chloe Barnes Henderson explores Athletic Academy and how athletes and families can better navigate NIL.

What You'll Learn:

What NIL actually means
How Name, Image & Likeness changed college athletics
How college athletes can monetize their personal brands
The difference between NIL opportunities and simply being paid to play
Why NIL creates opportunities beyond professional sports
How athletes can learn entrepreneurship, negotiation and marketing
Why athlete identity and mental health matter
The potential downside of money and social-media comparison
How NIL is changing recruiting and team culture
Why athletes need guidance when evaluating deals
How to choose brand partnerships based on values
Why reputation may be an athlete's greatest long-term asset
Where Kristen believes NIL and athlete entrepreneurship are headed

Timestamps:

00:00 — Welcome to Turmeric & Tequila™

00:08 — Why We're Talking About NIL

01:44 — NIL: One of the Biggest Shifts in College Sports

02:17 — What Is NIL? Name, Image & Likeness Explained

03:01 — How College Athletes Can Monetize Their Personal Brand

03:19 — NIL Is Not the Same as Getting Paid to Play

03:42 — Why NIL Became Necessary

04:45 — The Positives: Entrepreneurship, Opportunity & Ownership

05:39 — Athletes Are More Than Athletes

06:50 — The Challenges & Unintended Consequences of NIL

07:22 — Transfer Portals, Recruiting & Changing Team Culture

07:55 — When "Who Pays the Most?" Becomes the Question

08:43 — Would Kristen Have Wanted NIL as a Division I Athlete?

09:24 — Why Athletes Need Guidance

09:35 — Your Reputation Is Your Greatest Asset

09:35 — Three Questions Every Athlete Should Ask Before Taking a Deal

10:07 — Authenticity, Audience Trust & Choosing the Right Brands

10:43 — Playing the Long Game With Your Personal Brand

11:38 — The Future of NIL: Founders, Investors & Entrepreneurs

12:09 — Your Name Is Your Brand. Your Reputation Is Your Resume.

12:17 — Advice for Athletes, Parents & Coaches

12:49 — NIL as a Tool for Bigger Opportunities

13:04 — Finding Brand Partnerships That Actually Fit

13:28 — Know the Game. Build Your Team.

14:00 — Final Thoughts & Closing

14:30 — Cheers to Living with Intention

14:50 — End

Kristen M. Olson is an entrepreneur, coach, speaker, athlete and host of Turmeric & Tequila™. A former Division I athlete and longtime competitive athlete, Kristen brings a unique perspective to conversations at the intersection of performance, business, leadership, wellness, identity and personal evolution. Through KO Alliance, Kristen works at the intersection of branding, marketing, community and strategic partnerships, helping people and brands build meaningful relationships, amplify their missions and create opportunities with purpose. As the host of Turmeric & Tequila™, Kristen explores what it means to become a better, more intentional human—embracing what she calls "graceful disruption" and challenging people to choose growth over comfort. Links to connect below:)

Connect with T&T:

IG: @TurmericTequila

Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila

Host: Kristen Olson

IG: @Madonnashero

Tik Tok: @Madonnashero

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308. Coming Home to Yourself: How Your Story Shapes Who You Become with Antonio Michael Downing Aug 24, 2026

Show notes

"It's not what happens. It's the story you tell yourself about what's happening."

-Antonio Michael Downing

On this episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, Kristen Olson sits down with critically acclaimed author, speaker, and musician Antonio Michael Downing for a deeply personal conversation about identity, resilience, creativity, reinvention, belonging, and the power of storytelling.

Antonio Michael Downing is the author of the acclaimed memoir Saga Boy, the novel Black Cherokee, and Stars in My Crown, and he creates music under his alter ego John Orpheus. His work explores identity, transformation, belonging, and what it takes to change the way we see ourselves. But this conversation goes far beyond books. Kristen and Antonio unpack the question so many of us eventually face: Who am I—and who am I becoming? Antonio shares how his childhood in Trinidad, his grandmother, music, sports, mentors, and the different identities he created throughout his life ultimately helped him understand himself more deeply. They talk about the experience of "trying on" different versions of yourself, what happens when those versions no longer fit, and why making peace with your past can be necessary before you can confidently choose your future. Antonio also explains how writing Saga Boy became part of his own process of coming back to himself, including conducting hundreds of hours of interviews with people from his life to reconstruct his story. The conversation then moves into one of the most powerful ideas of the episode: You have the ability to rewrite the story. Antonio explains that the events of our lives aren't necessarily the thing that defines us—the meaning and narrative we attach to those events can profoundly influence how we move forward.

You'll also hear about:

Finding your identity
Coming home to yourself
The power of your childhood self
Reinvention and personal transformation
The role of sports and coaches in shaping identity
Creativity as a pathway to self-discovery
Antonio's musical alter ego, John Orpheus
Saga Boy and the journey of becoming
Black Cherokee and questions of belonging
Storytelling and personal narrative
Journaling and grounding
Breathwork and reconnecting with yourself
How problems and adversity reveal character
Why identity matters in an increasingly noisy world
How to consciously reshape the story you tell yourself

Antonio's own mission is beautifully aligned with this conversation: "the story you tell defines you," and he believes great stories are rooted in authenticity, empathy, and integrity. This is a conversation about identity, self-discovery, resilience, and the courage to become the person you were always capable of being.

Timestamps:

00:00 — Welcome to Turmeric & Tequila™ 01:01 — Meet Antonio Michael Downing 02:26 — Growing up in Trinidad & the influence of his grandmother 04:00 — Childhood, creativity & discovering his voice 06:00 — How our early identities shape who we become 08:00 — Coming home to yourself 09:30 — Sports, basketball & lessons that last a lifetime 12:30 — The coaches and mentors who shape us 14:25 — Women's sports & the power of representation 16:25 — Why knowing yourself matters more than ever 17:00 — What does it actually mean to "come home" to yourself? 17:45 — We are all at some stage of becoming 18:10 — When life forces us to rethink who we are 18:30 — The story behind Saga Boy 18:45 — Trying on different versions of yourself 19:00 — Making peace with your past 19:30 — The 10-sentence exercise for telling your life story 20:00 — Why problems reveal character 22:00 — Grounding, journaling & connecting with your subconscious 23:30 — The power to rewrite your story 24:00 — Reframing your narrative & taking back your power 30:00 — Black Cherokee: identity, belonging & becoming 34:00 — Transformation and choosing your next chapter 34:50 — John Orpheus & the power of a creative alter ego 44:00 — Antonio's books, music & where to find him

Antonio Michael Downing is an Afro-Caribbean-Canadian author, artist, and speaker whose work explores identity, resilience, and the courage to reinvent yourself. Born in Trinidad and raised in Canada, he traded a successful career in tech sales for his true calling as a writer and musician — known as John Orpheus. He is the author of the memoir Saga Boy and the novel Black Cherokee, and host of Canada's top book radio show.

https://x.com/John_Orpheus

https://www.facebook.com/john.orpheus.3/

https://www.instagram.com/antoniomichaeldowning/

Connect with T&T:

IG: @TurmericTequila

Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila

Host: Kristen Olson

IG: @Madonnashero

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307. Are We Killing Our Pets? The Truth About Ultra-Processed Pet Food, Vaccines & Natural Pet Health with Dr. Judy Morgan Aug 12, 2026

Show notes

"Food is the foundation of life. We can use food to heal or we can use food to harm."

— Dr. Judy Morgan

What if the way we've been taught to care for our pets isn't always the best way? In this powerful and unapologetically disruptive episode of Turmeric & Tequila, Kristen Olson sits down with Dr. Judy Morgan, an integrative veterinarian with more than 40 years of experience, to challenge conventional thinking around pet health, nutrition, vaccines, and veterinary care. Dr. Morgan shares the personal journey that took her from a traditional veterinary practice she says she hated to an integrative approach incorporating food therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, and natural healing therapies. Then the conversation gets REAL. Dr. Morgan takes a hard look at ultra-processed pet food, how pet food is manufactured, ingredient labels, rendered products, carbohydrates, and what she believes pet parents need to understand before choosing what goes into their dogs' and cats' bowls. She explains why she prefers whole-food, raw, or gently cooked approaches and discusses what she considers red flags on pet food labels.

The conversation also tackles:

• Why Dr. Morgan believes ultra-processed pet food deserves more scrutiny

• What "meat meal," "animal digest," and other pet food ingredients can mean

• Raw vs. gently cooked pet food

• Protein, carbohydrates, and species-appropriate nutrition

• Why cats have unique nutritional needs

• Taurine, carnitine, and the discussion around heart health

• How to make homemade pet food more practical

• Freeze-dried food and traveling with pets

• Pet vaccines, including rabies, DAP and leptospirosis

• Vaccine titers and the importance of understanding your pet's individual risk

• Flea, tick and heartworm prevention

• Why pet parents should advocate for themselves and their animals

• Finding a veterinarian you trust

• When surgery may not be the only option

• Acupuncture, chiropractic care and other integrative approaches

• Lipomas, arthritis and mobility

• Grooming as part of overall pet health

• Feeding schedules, fasting and "hunger pukes"

• The importance of asking questions instead of simply doing what you've always been told

At the heart of the conversation is a bigger message that applies far beyond pets: Question better. Learn more. Advocate for yourself. And don't be afraid to look for another answer.

Dr. Judy Morgan DVM, CVA, CVCP, CVFT has over 40-years-experience as an integrative veterinarian, acupuncturist, chiropractor, food therapist, best-selling author, international speaker, podcast host and owner of Dr. Judy Morgan's Naturally Healthy Pets. Her goal is to change the lives of pets by educating and empowering pet parents worldwide in the use of natural healing therapies, and minimizing the use of chemicals, vaccinations, and poor-quality processed food.

NaturallyHealthyPets.com

@drjudymorgan

LISTENER OFFER: TANDT50 for 50% off of Dr. Judy authored books found on NaturallyHealthyPets.com

Timestamps:

00:00 — Welcome to Turmeric & Tequila + Meet Dr. Judy Morgan -Kristen introduces Dr. Judy Morgan and the conversation around disrupting conventional approaches to pet health.

01:45 — Dr. Judy Morgan's Journey Into Veterinary Medicine-From horses and 4-H to veterinary school and a 40+ year career in animal health.

04:00 — Discovering Integrative Veterinary Medicine- How acupuncture, food therapy, chiropractic care and Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine changed Dr. Morgan's approach.

07:20 — Are We Killing Our Pets? The Big Pet Food Problem-Dr. Morgan immediately challenges the way we think about processed pet food and the influence of the pet food industry.

09:00 — What's Actually in Commercial Pet Food?-A deep dive into rendering, animal byproducts, waste streams and what Dr. Morgan believes pet parents should know about their animals' food.

13:00 — Whole-Animal Nutrition: What Animals Naturally Eat-Why organ meats, feathers, fur and other parts of the whole animal can provide important nutrients.

17:30 — Ultra-Processed Pet Food & Why Ingredients Matter-Dr. Morgan explains her concerns about ultra-processed kibble, fillers, starches and highly processed ingredients.

19:00 — Do Dogs & Cats Need Carbohydrates?-A controversial conversation about carbohydrates, grains, protein and species-appropriate nutrition.

21:00 — Cats, Taurine & Heart Health-Why cats have unique nutritional requirements and the conversation around taurine, carnitine and heart health.

23:00 — Raw vs. Gently Cooked Pet Food-Dr. Morgan explains what she feeds her own animals and why she prefers whole-food approaches over ultra-processed food.

25:00 — Can You Really Make Your Own Pet Food?-How homemade feeding can work—and why many pet parents make it harder than it needs to be.

27:00 — Building a Balanced Homemade Diet-Eggshell, bone meal, calcium and other considerations when preparing food at home.

29:00 — Batch Cooking, Freezer Space & Making Pet Food Practical-How to prepare ahead, save time and make homemade feeding fit into real life.

31:30 — Feeding Your Pets While Traveling-Freeze-dried food, road trips, RV travel and practical options when you don't have a freezer full of homemade food.

33:15 — Pet Vaccines: What Do Our Dogs & Cats Actually Need?-Dr. Morgan breaks down rabies and the broader conversation around vaccination schedules.

35:00 — Rabies Vaccines, Titers & Understanding Immunity-The conversation moves into vaccine requirements, antibody testing and how vaccination decisions can differ by animal and circumstance.

37:00 — Why "Every Vaccine, Every Year" Isn't the Whole Story-Dr. Morgan reflects on how veterinary vaccine recommendations have changed throughout her career.

39:30 — Vaccine Decisions Should Consider Lifestyle & Risk-Why Dr. Morgan believes pet parents should consider where their animals live, travel and what they are exposed to.

42:00 — Finding a Veterinarian Who Will Actually Listen-What to do when your veterinarian doesn't agree with your approach—and why communication matters.

45:00 — How to Question Your Vet Without Creating Conflict-Dr. Morgan shares how pet parents can advocate for their animals while maintaining a productive relationship with their veterinarian.

48:00 — Don't Be Afraid to Get a Second Opinion-Why Dr. Morgan believes pet parents should keep searching until they find the right veterinary relationship.

50:30 — Natural Flea & Tick Prevention-A conversation about chemical exposure, environmental factors and alternative approaches to flea and tick management.

53:30 — Heartworm Prevention: It Depends Where You Live-How geography, mosquitoes and individual risk can influence the heartworm conversation.

55:00 — Fasting, Feeding Schedules & "Hunger Pukes"-Dr. Morgan talks about meal timing and what pet parents can do when their dogs struggle with an empty stomach.

57:00 — Why Grooming Is About More Than Looking Good-Grooming as an opportunity to check your pet from nose to tail and notice changes early.

59:30 — Lipomas: What Are They & Can They Shrink?-Dr. Morgan discusses fatty tumors, nutrition, weight management and integrative approaches including acupuncture.

61:30 — Arthritis, ACL Injuries & Rethinking Surgery-A deeper discussion about mobility, orthopedic injuries and whether surgery is always the first or only answer.

64:00 — Braces, Chiropractic Care & Alternative Options for Dog-Dr. Morgan shares examples of approaches that may help some animals avoid or delay more invasive procedures.

66:30 — The Bigger Lesson: Question Better-Kristen and Dr. Morgan connect pet health back to the larger Turmeric & Tequila philosophy of questioning conventional wisdom.

68:00 — What Does Success Look Like?-A more personal conversation about success, purpose and creating meaningful change.

70:00 — How Do We Actually Create Change?-Dr. Morgan and Kristen discuss advocacy, asking better questions and being willing to challenge the status quo.

72:00 — Final Thoughts + Where to Find Dr. Judy Morgan-Closing thoughts, resources and how listeners can continue learning about natural and integrative pet care.

Connect with T&T:

IG: @TurmericTequila

Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila

Host: Kristen Olson

IG: @Madonnashero

Tik Tok: @Madonnashero

Website: www.KOAlliance.com

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306. AI Dysmorphia: How Social Media & AI Are Changing Beauty Forever | Dr. Ruslan Jul 28, 2026

Show notes

"AI is creating beauty standards that aren't even humanly possible."

-Dr. Ruslan

What happens when AI creates beauty standards that don't even exist in real life? In this eye-opening episode of Turmeric & Tequila, Kristen Olson sits down with renowned facial plastic surgeon Dr. Ruslan to discuss one of the biggest mental health and social issues emerging in 2026: AI Dysmorphia. From Instagram filters and AI-generated selfies to cosmetic procedures and self-worth, this conversation explores how technology is reshaping the way we see ourselves—and why more young people are seeking procedures based on faces that aren't even real.

Dr. Ruslan explains:

• What AI Dysmorphia actually is

• Why social media has changed cosmetic surgery forever

• How ethical surgeons know when to say "no"

• The psychology behind cosmetic procedures

• Helping teens build confidence before changing their appearance

• How parents can talk with kids about unrealistic beauty standards

• Why confidence starts internally—not with surgery

This isn't an anti-plastic surgery conversation. It's a conversation about making healthy decisions for the right reasons. If you're a parent, educator, athlete, creator, or anyone navigating today's digital world, this episode is a must-listen.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Welcome to Turmeric & Tequila + Why This Conversation Matters

01:45 Meet Dr. Ruslan: From Artist to Facial Plastic Surgeon

04:30 The Pressure of Operating on Faces & Lessons from Sports

07:00 The Psychology Behind Cosmetic Surgery

10:00 Why Ethical Surgeons Need to Say "No"

13:30 Confidence vs. Chasing Perfection

16:30 What Is AI Dysmorphia?

19:45 How AI Filters Are Creating Impossible Beauty Standards

23:00 Why Social Media Is Changing Self-Image

26:00 Talking to Kids About Beauty, Filters & Confidence

30:00 Teens, Cosmetic Procedures & Responsible Decision-Making

33:30 Advice for Parents Navigating Social Media Pressures

36:30 Final Thoughts: Confidence, Authenticity & Protecting the Next Generation

39:11 Thanks for Watching | Subscribe & Follow Turmeric & Tequila

Dr. Ruslan

Dr. Ruslan Zhuravsky is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon and founder of Z Face Plastic Surgery. He specializes exclusively in facial surgery, with a focus on primary and revision rhinoplasty, ethnic rhinoplasty, teenage rhinoplasty, and complex corrective cases. Known for his meticulous technique and artist's eye, Dr. Ruslan blends advanced surgical science with an artistic approach to facial harmony and structure. His boutique practice emphasizes comprehensive, education-driven consultations and ethical patient care, attracting patients globally who seek natural, long-lasting results that preserve individuality.

https://www.facebook.com/DrZface/

https://www.instagram.com/drzface/

https://www.tiktok.com/@drzface

Connect with T&T:

IG: @TurmericTequila

Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila

Host: Kristen Olson

IG: @Madonnashero

Tik Tok: @Madonnashero

Website: www.KOAlliance.com

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305. From Las Vegas Nightlife to Longevity: Justin Hibbert on Ironman, Everhaus & Human Optimization Jul 22, 2026

Show notes

"Health isn't perfection. It's having a healthy relationship with every part of life."

-Justin Hibbert

What happens when one of Las Vegas' top nightlife executives walks away from the party scene to chase peak human performance?

In this episode of Turmeric & Tequila, Kristen Olson sits down with Justin Hibbert, founder of Everhaus, a groundbreaking longevity and human optimization club opening in Las Vegas.

Justin shares his incredible journey from managing VIP nightlife and celebrity events to competing in Ironman triathlons, documenting his transformation in a feature documentary, and building one of the most ambitious longevity communities in the country.

Together they discuss:

The "Morning Buy-In" philosophy that shaped Justin's life
Leaving a successful nightlife career to pursue purpose
The hidden mental health challenges of extreme optimization
Ironman training and the pursuit of elite performance
Why community may be the most overlooked longevity tool
Biohacking without losing your humanity
Personalized health, AI, blood testing and recovery
The vision behind Everhaus
Creating healthier humans through connection—not perfection

If you're interested in longevity, biohacking, fitness, mental health, leadership, entrepreneurship, or simply becoming your healthiest self, this conversation delivers practical insights alongside powerful life lessons.

Timestamps:

00:00 Welcome & Fit Expo Announcement

01:15 Meet Justin Hibbert

03:10 The "Morning Buy-In" & Growing Up with Purpose

07:00 From Las Vegas Nightlife to Executive Leadership

11:45 Why Justin Walked Away from the Party Lifestyle

15:15 Discovering Ironman & Chasing Peak Performance

19:45 The Hidden Cost of Extreme Human Optimization

24:00 Mental Health, Balance & Why Community Matters

28:00 Building Everhaus: The Future of Personalized Longevity

32:15 AI, Recovery Modalities & Concierge Health

35:15 Who EverHaus Is Built For & What's Next

37:15 Final Thoughts, Where to Connect & Closing Remarks

Justin Hibbert is a Las Vegas native, endurance athlete, and founder of Everhaus, a new private health and lifestyle club opening in Las Vegas this fall. A longtime Ironman competitor, Justin's approach to performance and longevity is rooted in consistency, intentionality, and the belief that vitality is built through daily practice.

https://everhaus.club/

Connect with T&T:

IG: @TurmericTequila

Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila

Host: Kristen Olson

IG: @Madonnashero

Tik Tok: @Madonnashero

Website: www.KOAlliance.com

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304. I Got "Got" — Red Flags, Narcissists & Choosing a Better Way Jul 07, 2026

Show notes

"A useful question to ask yourself is: how do I consistently feel after spending time with this person? That is so huge — all of your intel is right there."

— Kristen Olson

In this raw, unplanned episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson pulls back the curtain on something she rarely discusses publicly: her own dating life. After receiving unexpected news about a past situationship, Kristen shares an honest, in-real-time story about falling hard for someone despite early red flags — and what she learned about attachment styles, self-worth, and narcissistic relationship patterns along the way.

At 45, successful in business and athletics, Kristen admits relationships have always been her growth edge. She walks listeners through the instant-connection "fireworks" that pulled her in, the inconsistencies and broken promises she chose to overlook, and the moment she discovered the situation was far messier than she realized. Rather than naming names or seeking revenge, she reframes the experience as a lesson in awareness, boundaries, and grace.

The back half of the episode turns into a practical mini-guide: what narcissism actually is (versus normal narcissistic *traits*), the difference between narcissistic behavior and clinical NPD, common signs you may be dating someone with strong narcissistic traits (love bombing, gaslighting, entitlement, lack of empathy, idealize-then-devalue cycles), and healthy steps to take if you recognize the pattern — trusting behavior over promises, setting boundaries, documenting your experience, and leaning on your support system.

This episode is for anyone who's ever asked themselves, "How did a smart, grounded person like me end up here?" Kristen's answer: you're not alone, give yourself grace, and let the lesson make you wiser — not smaller.

The Deets:

- Why an instant, "fireworks" connection isn't always a green light

- Ignoring red flags because "you just care"

- Anxious attachment, avoidant attachment, and why relationships reveal parts of you therapy alone can't

- A breakdown of narcissistic traits vs. Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)

- Signs you might be in a relationship with narcissistic patterns

- Practical, healthy steps if you recognize these patterns in your own relationship

- Why shady behavior in relationships impacts far more people than just the couple involved

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro to Turmeric & Tequila

00:30– Kristen sets up today's unplanned, real-time episode

01:20 – Sponsor shoutout: Colorado Clownfish Swim School & Plantiva

01:50 – Why she's sharing this story: awareness, not revenge

03:05 – The story begins: instant connection, early red flags

05:15 – Internal conflict — staying despite inconsistencies

06:30 – Deep dive into attachment theory and dating a narcissist

08:00 – Red flags mount: flirting, hidden phones, broken plans

09:30 – A transparent (and vulnerable) conversation about intimacy

11:15 – Walking away — and how it circled back again

12:45 – The discovery: finding out the full truth

14:30 – Why cheating and dishonesty are non-negotiable values

16:20 – Cost-benefit of staying: impact on friendships and mental space

17:45 – Unpacking attachment — nervous systems, familiarity, and childhood patterns

20:00 – What is a narcissist? Traits vs. NPD, explained

21:00 – Signs you may be dating someone with narcissistic traits

22:00 – Healthy steps: boundaries, documentation, support systems, therapy

23:00 – Closing thoughts, gratitude, and sign-off

Kristen Olson: is the host of *Turmeric & Tequila*, a podcast built on gracefully disruptive conversations about business, sports, relationships, and personal growth. A strategic partnerships and sponsorships professional by trade, Kristin brings the same candor and awareness to her personal life as she does to the boardroom — sharing real, unfiltered lessons on attachment, boundaries, and becoming a better human, one honest conversation at a time. New episodes available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. @madonnashero

Connect with T&T:

IG: @TurmericTequila

Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila

Host: Kristen Olson

IG: @Madonnashero

Tik Tok: @Madonnashero

Website: www.KOAlliance.com

Sponsors:

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303. Biohacking Starts Here: Nervous System Regulation for High Performers Jun 23, 2026

Show notes

"You cannot mindset your way out of a dysregulated nervous system."

-Kristen Olson

For years we've been told to think positive, push harder, and power through challenges. But what if the answer isn't changing your mindset first? In this solo episode of Turmeric & Tequila, Kristen Olson dives into the science of nervous system regulation, burnout recovery, emotional resilience, anxiety, addiction recovery, and stress management. Drawing from her experiences as a former Division I athlete, CrossFit Games competitor, entrepreneur, and podcast host, Kristen explores why so many high performers are exhausted despite doing everything "right."

You'll learn how chronic stress impacts the body, why trauma lives in the nervous system, how burnout affects performance and health, and practical tools you can use today to regulate your nervous system and improve your quality of life.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, athlete, parent, leader, or simply feeling overwhelmed, this conversation offers evidence-based insights and actionable strategies to help you move from survival mode into sustainable success.

In This Episode:

✔️ The difference between mindset work and nervous system regulation✔️ Why burnout is more than just being tired✔️ The science behind anxiety and stress responses✔️ Trauma-informed approaches to healing✔️ Addiction recovery through a nervous system lens✔️ Evidence-based resilience practices✔️ Breathwork, movement, sleep, community, and purpose as recovery tools✔️ Why awareness is the first step toward healing

KO's Key Take Aways/ Life learned lessons:

Many people think they need more motivation when what they really need is recovery.
The issue isn't stress itself. The issue is becoming stuck in stress.
Community may be the biggest biohack of all.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Welcome to Turmeric & Tequila

01:10 Sponsor shoutouts & Fit Expo announcement

03:00 Why nervous system regulation is the foundation of biohacking

04:45 Awareness: recognizing stress, burnout & chronic fatigue

06:30 You cannot mindset your way out of a dysregulated nervous system

08:15 Segment 1: What is nervous system regulation?

09:30 Fight-or-flight vs. rest-and-digest explained

11:30 Why chronic stress keeps us stuck

13:15 Segment 2: Burnout is more than being tired

15:00 Burnout, inflammation & physical health impacts

16:45 Segment 3: Why anxiety feels so physical

18:45 Entrepreneurs, athletes & high-performance stress

20:15 Segment 4: Trauma lives in the body

22:15 Why community may be the ultimate biohack

23:30 Segment 5: Addiction recovery through a nervous system lens

25:15 Social media, dopamine & modern-day addiction

27:00 Segment 6: Science-backed ways to build resilience

27:15 Movement & exercise for stress recovery

28:10 Sleep and nervous system health

28:55 Breathwork, vagus nerve activation & recovery

29:55 Social connection, community & longevity

30:45 Purpose, meaning & emotional resilience

31:30 Final takeaways: awareness, regulation & sustainable success

Kristen Olson

Kristen Olson is a former Division I athlete, 5-time CrossFit Games competitor, entrepreneur, speaker, coach, and host of the globally ranked Turmeric & Tequila Podcast. Through conversations centered around human optimization, mental health, resilience, entrepreneurship, and personal growth, Kristen's mission is to inspire a positive, radical social evolution—one gracefully disruptive conversation at a time.

Connect with T&T:

IG: @TurmericTequila

Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila

Host: Kristen Olson

IG: @Madonnashero

Tik Tok: @Madonnashero

Website: www.KOAlliance.com

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302. George Foreman, Juicing & Business Growth: Cherie Calbom's Incredible Journey Jun 16, 2026

Show notes

"Don't be afraid to make your voice heard. Opportunity often comes to the people willing to step forward and make the ask."

— Cherie Calbom

What does it take to build a lasting brand in the ever-changing world of health and wellness? In this episode of Turmeric & Tequila, Kristen Olson welcomes back wellness pioneer and bestselling author Cherie Calbom, widely known as "The Juice Lady." While their first conversation focused on nutrition and healing, this episode dives into the business side of wellness, entrepreneurship, branding, marketing, and disruption. Cherie shares her remarkable journey from graduate nutrition student to international wellness authority, including her work with the original Juice Man movement, her role as George Foreman's nutritionist, and the lessons learned from building a career that has spanned decades of industry change.

Together, Kristen and Cherie discuss:

• How opportunity often appears before you're ready

• The power of adaptability in business

• Building authority before social media existed

• Why entrepreneurs must continue learning and evolving

• The importance of speaking up and making your pitch

• Consumer-driven disruption in food and wellness industries

• Leadership lessons for women in business

• Creating impact while building a sustainable career

Whether you're an entrepreneur, health professional, creator, coach, or simply someone looking to make a bigger impact, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom and inspiration.

Time Stamps:

00:00 – Welcome back to Cherie Calbom

01:15 – Cherie's incredible nutrition and publishing journey

02:45 – Why business matters in the wellness industry

03:00 – Landing her first opportunity with the Juice Man company

05:30 – Turning nutrition expertise into a career

08:00 – Early lessons in entrepreneurship and saying yes

10:45 – Building credibility before social media existed

13:15 – Working with major brands and industry pioneers

16:30 – Adapting to change as an entrepreneur

17:00 – Learning social media, reels, and modern marketing

19:00 – Why continuous learning matters

21:00 – The evolution of consumer awareness around food

23:15 – How consumer choices influence business behavior

24:05 – Big Food, health trends, and market disruption

26:05 – Branding, influence, and entrepreneurship lessons

26:30 – The importance of the elevator pitch

28:00 – Finding confidence and using your voice

30:30 – Advice for women building businesses

33:00 – Persistence, purpose, and long-term success

35:00 – Final wisdom for entrepreneurs and wellness leaders

36:30 – Closing thoughts and where to connect with Cherie

Cherie Calbom:

Known worldwide as "The Juice Lady," Cherie Calbom, MS, CN is a leading authority on juicing, detoxification, and whole foods nutrition. She is a bestselling author of more than 35 books focused on health, wellness, and natural healing, including Juicing for Life and The Juice Lady's Big Book of Juices and Green Smoothies. Cherie has spent decades helping people improve their health through nutrition, cleansing programs, and lifestyle transformation. She has appeared on CNN, Fox News, and numerous national media outlets and has lectured internationally on wellness and detoxification.

@juiceladycherie

Order Book: The Truth About Seed Oils

Connect with T&T:

IG: @TurmericTequila

Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila

Host: Kristen Olson

IG: @Madonnashero

Tik Tok: @Madonnashero

Website: www.KOAlliance.com