Wake Up and Read the Labels!

Latest Episodes:

From Crohn’s to Clean: How Kyle Fitzgerald Took Back His Health May 20, 2025

Show notes

At just 21, Kyle Fitzgerald was sitting in a hospital getting infusions for Crohn’s disease—until one day, he decided to take his health into his own hands. In this episode, Kyle joins Jen to share how he went from chronic inflammation and medications to reading labels, prioritizing real food, and building a thriving online community through Clean Kitchen Nutrition. They talk gut health, what most people misunderstand about fatigue, and simple swaps that make a big difference.

Key Takeaways:

Chronic inflammation often starts with poor food quality, not genetics
Most Americans are overfed and undernourished—calories ≠ nutrients
Clean eating reversed Kyle’s Crohn’s symptoms without medication
Plant-based diets aren’t always gut-friendly—bio-individuality matters
Ground beef, fruit, and cooked veggies became Kyle’s healing staples
You can feel full and energized by changing what you eat, not just how much
Don’t overlook non-toxic living—start with water, detergent, and skincare
Grocery tip: Shop the outer aisles first for whole, real foods
For better mornings and sleep, get sunlight first thing and consider grounding

🔗 Follow Kyle: Instagram & TikTok

🎧 Listen to more Kyle: Clean Kitchen Podcast

🌐 Learn more about Kyle’s mission: Clean Kitchen Nutrition

Disclaimer:

The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines.

Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.

Jen’s Links:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels

The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribe

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX

Is Your Coffee Making You Sick? Mold, Toxins & What to Avoid May 13, 2025

Show notes

You wake up, reach for your coffee, and rely on that first sip to power your day—but what if your daily brew is secretly working against you? In this solo episode, Jen breaks down what’s really in your coffee: from mold and pesticides to plastic and toxins leaching from pods. She also reveals exactly what to look for in a clean cup—from roasting practices to third-party testing—and names nine coffee brands that go the extra mile. If you’re relying on sugar-laden creamers to mask the bitter taste or feeling jittery and bloated after your morning cup, this episode will open your eyes to what’s really brewing.

Key Takeaways:

Coffee should just be coffee — no mold, pesticides, plastic, or toxins
That bitter taste? It’s likely low-quality beans or contaminated coffee
Pod users beware — hot water over plastic can leach chemicals into your drink
Organic ≠ mold-free — look for brands that test for mycotoxins and toxins
Common symptoms of tainted coffee include bloating, fatigue, IBS, and jitters
Creamers can be the real problem too — loaded with gums, fillers, and oils
Clean coffee is a great first step — but full results come from clean eating overall

Disclaimer:

Jen’s Links:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels

The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribe

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX

Food Lies You’ve Been Fed Your Whole Life May 06, 2025

Show notes

Ever feel like everything you’ve been told about healthy eating doesn’t actually make you feel healthy? You’re not alone. In this episode, Jen is joined by Brian Sanders, creator of the upcoming Food Lies docu-series and host of the Peak Human podcast. They dive deep into the shocking truth behind the food pyramid, how marketing has hijacked our nutrition labels, and why conventional health advice is making us sicker.

From beef and grains to calories and cholesterol, Brian unpacks decades of misinformation—backed by science and common sense. If you’ve ever questioned your food labels, your cravings, or even your doctor’s advice, this episode will open your eyes.

Key Takeaways:

The food pyramid is broken — it was designed to push cheap grains, not optimize health
Red meat and fat aren't the enemy — processed food and fake health claims are
Nutrition labels are misleading — 90 calories sells better than 30 unrecognizable ingredients
Fiber ≠ whole grains — eating fiber can be good, but real food is what matters
Oats are everywhere for a reason — they’re cheap, glyphosate-heavy, and highly profitable
Doctors aren't taught nutrition — many still demonize healthy fats and meat
Regenerative meat matters — but even conventional beef is better than processed carbs
Want to be full and lose weight? Change what you eat, not how much
Support for Food Lies is live — preorder the docu-series at foodlies.org

Disclaimer:

Jen’s Links:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels

The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribe

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX

Why Grocery Store Meat Is Making You Sick (And What to Buy Instead) Apr 29, 2025

Show notes

Trying to eat more protein but still feeling bloated or inflamed? The problem might not be how much you're eating—but what kind. In this solo episode, Jen Smiley breaks down the hidden dangers of conventional grocery store meat, why it’s often loaded with hormones and antibiotics, and what it’s doing to your body. She dives into the nutritional, environmental, and ethical differences between conventional and pasture-raised organic meat, plus how to decode misleading meat labels at the store.

From grain-fed cows to glyphosate-laced feed, you’ll learn why you are what your cow eats—and how choosing better protein can help build muscle, reduce cravings, and improve your health.

Key Takeaways:

Every cell in your body needs protein—but not all meat supports that repair
Conventional meat comes from animals raised in confined, unsanitary conditions with grain-based diets (mostly corn + soy)
You are what your cow eats: If they’re fed GMOs and junk, it ends up in you
Grass-fed ≠ grass-finished — always check the brand’s website to confirm
Organic ≠ Pasture-Raised — organic feed still matters, but access to pasture is better
Pasture-raised meat is higher in omega-3s, antioxidants, and flavor
Conventional meat is cheaper, but the health cost is high (inflammation, cravings, hormone disruption)
Best clean meat brands:
Force of Nature
Holy Cow
Clean eating = fewer cravings, more energy, and better long-term health

Disclaimer:

Jen’s Links:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels

The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribe

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX

The Real Reason You’re Bloated (and How to Fix It for Good) Apr 22, 2025

Show notes

If you’ve been battling bloating, sugar cravings, or gut issues—and your doctor says everything looks “normal”—this episode is for you. Jen Smiley sits down with Dr. Daryl Gioffre, a leading gut microbiome and longevity expert known for his acid-kicking approach to nutrition. From the truth about acid reflux and hidden sugar to the long-term impact of antibiotics, Dr. Gioffre explains how most people are suffering from low stomach acid and leaky gut—and what you can do to start healing now.

He shares simple daily hacks, the five supplements everyone needs, and a powerful post-antibiotic protocol to repair your gut lining. You’ll also learn how to spot food sensitivities, reduce inflammation, and finally understand why the foods you think are healthy may be holding you back.

🎧 Get 20% off Dr. Gioffre’s gut-healing supplements at getoffyouracid.com with code WAKEUP20

📩 DM @drdarylgioffre on Instagram for 10% off gut testing.

Key Takeaways:

Low stomach acid—not high—is the root cause of most reflux and gut issues
Sugar (even "healthy" types like honey and coconut sugar) feeds inflammation and raises uric acid
Everyone has leaky gut—and it’s driving more than just bloating (think brain fog, anxiety, hormone imbalances)
Post-antibiotic protocol: Silver + aloe + spore-based probiotic can rebuild the gut in just 2 weeks
Avoid seed oils, dairy, gluten, and carbonated drinks to reduce inflammation
Supplements everyone needs:
Magnesium
Omega-3s
Probiotic
Vitamin D3 + K2
Greens (liquid is best!)
Best gut-healing products: Acid-Kicking Minerals & Gut Punch (dairy-free colostrum + organic collagen)
Kombucha and probiotic yogurt? Not so fast—they may be doing more harm than good
Bonus: Kombucha can contain hidden alcohol and yeast, fueling Candida

Disclaimer:

Jen’s Links:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels

The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribe

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX

The Cleanest Breads of All Time: Why European Bread Doesn’t Bloat You Apr 15, 2025

Show notes

Ever wondered why you can eat bread in Europe without the bloating, breakouts, or fatigue—but suffer in the U.S.? In this solo episode, Jen Smiley breaks down the real differences between American and European bread, from gluten content to glyphosate exposure. She explains why traditional fermentation, fewer additives, and better ingredients make all the difference—and shares her favorite clean bread brands and grain-free swaps you can find in the freezer aisle or order online.

If you’ve been told to ditch bread altogether, don’t worry—Jen has your back with clean swaps that support your digestion and energy, not work against them.

Key Takeaways:

American bread is highly processed and often contains additives, enzymes, and glyphosate.
European breads use traditional fermentation and heirloom grains, making them easier to digest.
Additives like dough conditioners and high-fructose corn syrup disrupt digestion.
Refined flours = blood sugar spikes, cravings, and inflammation.
Real bread goes in the freezer, not the shelf—watch out for shelf-stable traps.
Look for clean ingredients like sprouted buckwheat, almond flour, flaxseed, and coconut flour.

Disclaimer:

Jen’s Links:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels

The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribe

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX

Inflammation, Hormones & Hidden Imbalances with Dr. Erin Ellis Apr 08, 2025

Show notes

Show Notes:

Could inflammation be the reason you're bloated, fatigued, or struggling with your cycle? Naturopathic doctor Dr. Erin Ellis joins Jen to explain the real signs of chronic inflammation, what most lab results don’t tell you, and how hormone imbalances are often overlooked in conventional care. Learn how to support your health naturally—starting with awareness, better choices, and listening to your body.

Key Takeaways:

Inflammation is natural, but chronic inflammation is not—and it often goes undetected.
Common signs include brain fog, bloating, puffiness, joint pain, and fatigue.
Stress, poor sleep, toxins, and processed food are key inflammation drivers.
Hormone imbalances may present as mood swings, hair loss, irregular periods, and weight gain.
Most doctors only test what’s “normal”—not optimal. Don’t stop at normal.
Fun isn’t frivolous—it’s essential for hormone balance and nervous system health.
Reduce your toxic burden by becoming ingredient-aware and making clean swaps.
Learn more from Dr. Ellis through her free Menstrual Cycle Nutrition Guide and 7 Hormones Affecting Weight Loss video.

🔗 Dr. Erin Ellis Resources & Links:

🌐 Website
📩 Menstrual Cycle Nutrition Guide (Free Download)
🎥 7 Hormones Affecting Your Weight Loss Goals (Free Video)
📱 Follow on Instagram

Disclaimer:

Jen’s Links:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels

The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribe

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX

Why Oatmeal Is Wrecking Your Gut (And What to Eat Instead) Apr 01, 2025

Show notes

Is your “healthy” breakfast secretly the reason you feel tired, bloated, or foggy by 10am? In this episode, Jen Smiley breaks down the hidden truth about oatmeal—from its effects on your blood sugar and gut health to the anti-nutrients and pesticides lurking inside. Plus, she shares easy clean swaps to satisfy your cravings without sacrificing your health.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Oatmeal spikes blood sugar like ice cream—causing energy crashes and cravings.
✅ It contains phytic acid, an anti-nutrient that blocks mineral absorption.
✅ Most oat-based products are contaminated with glyphosate, a toxic pesticide.
✅ “Non-GMO oats” is a marketing myth—there’s no such thing as GMO oats.
✅ Bloating? Fatigue? Leaky gut? Oats may be the silent culprit.
✅ Clean swaps: Use nut milk pulp (like almond or macadamia) or try Wella grain-free oatmeal for the same texture without the toxins.
✅ Make your own anti-inflammatory nut milk at home—Jen shares how!
✅ Use the Read the Labels app to scan foods and spot hidden toxins.

Disclaimer:

The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines.

Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.

Jen’s Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels

The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribe
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX

The Truth About Hashimoto’s: Is Your Thyroid Being Ignored? Mar 25, 2025

Show notes

Are you tired all the time, gaining weight unexpectedly, or struggling with brain fog? You might have Hashimoto’s or hypothyroidism—and not even know it! Over 20 million Americans suffer from thyroid disease, but nearly 60% go undiagnosed due to incomplete testing.

In this episode, Jen Smiley sits down with Inna Topiler, board-certified clinical nutritionist and host of Thyroid Mystery Solved, to reveal why conventional thyroid testing misses the real problem, the 5 thyroid types, and how to get your energy, metabolism, and health back on track!

Key Takeaways:

✅ Standard thyroid tests are incomplete—you need a full panel to uncover issues.
✅ 95% of hypothyroidism cases are actually Hashimoto’s, an autoimmune disease destroying the thyroid.
✅ Your thyroid affects EVERYTHING—energy, weight, digestion, brain function, and even mood.
✅ The 4 biggest triggers of thyroid issues: Food, infections, toxins, and stress.
✅ You CAN feel better! Supporting the immune system and understanding your thyroid type is the key to healing.

🔗 Connect with Inna:
💻 Website & Programs: https://innatopiler.com
📷 Instagram: @innatopiler
🩺 Take the Thyroid Audit: https://innatopiler.com/#thyroid-audit

Disclaimer:

Jen’s Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels

Toxic Teas: What’s Really in Your Cup & How to Choose the Best Mar 18, 2025

Show notes

If you start your day with tea, you need to hear this! Many popular tea brands contain pesticides, heavy metals, and harmful additives—even the ones labeled “healthy.” In this episode, Jen Smiley uncovers the truth about toxic teas, how misleading labels trick consumers, and the clean tea brands you should be drinking instead. Learn how to choose the best teas, why loose-leaf beats bagged, and how to brew the perfect cup.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Popular teas like Lipton, Twinnings & Celestial contain pesticides—avoid them!
✅ Natural flavors & citric acid in tea? 🚨 Red flag! That means lower-quality ingredients.
✅ Loose-leaf tea is best—no plastic tea bags or hidden chemicals.
✅ Organic & tested for heavy metals—these are the teas you should be drinking.
✅ Top clean tea brands: Kauai Pharmacy, Your Tea, Zealong Tea

🔗 Use the Read the Labels app to scan your tea & find the cleanest options!

Disclaimer:

Jen’s Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels

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