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The Truth About Our Food System with Zen Honeycutt Jan 09, 2024

Show notes

It’s time to take a closer look at fast food and the not-so-friendly surprises hiding in those quick and easy meals. We often think fast food is a harmless choice when we're in a hurry, but what if there's more to the story?

Zen Honeycutt, a passionate advocate for food safety, is the driving force behind Moms Across America and the author of Unstoppable.

In this episode, she talks with Jen about her mission to spread the word about harmful chemicals and GMOs lurking in our daily meals. Zen discusses her recent fast food tests, exposing alarming toxin levels in popular brands, and stresses the urgency of switching to healthier, organic options. She also shares inspiring stories that prove the power of mindful food choices.

Key Takeaways

[01:41] - Why Zen founded Moms Across America.
[05:51] - The three types of pesticides.
[15:14] - How fast food is harming people.
[26:59] - How to combat toxic foods.
[29:02] - Safer alternatives to fast food.
[42:03] - How to find Zen and Moms Across America.
[43:08] - The difficulty of getting a TV interview.

Quotes

[05:31] - “Unless you’re eating organic, you’re eating very high levels of GMOs in processed food and glyphosate on grains.” ~ Zen Honeycutt

[10:33] - “People are messing with the food supply, and they’re mostly doing it because they want to sell more chemicals.” ~ Zen Honeycutt

[46:26] - “You can fire a scientist or a doctor or a reporter, but you can’t fire a mom.” ~ Zen Honeycutt

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Non-Toxic Living with Kim Konte and Bruce Lanphear Jan 02, 2024

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Ever wondered about the chemicals lurking in your local parks and schools? The issue of pesticides in neighborhoods is not just about pretty lawns; it's about the well-being of our families, especially our little ones.

Kim Konte and Bruce Lanphear are the duo behind Non-Toxic Neighborhoods. They're on a mission to kick harmful pesticides out of our public spaces. Kim, certified in organic land management, shares the details of their advocacy work. Bruce, a researcher, talks about prevention in pediatric healthcare. Throughout the podcast, they discuss the challenges faced in bringing about policy changes, success stories, and the need for a paradigm shift in prioritizing children's health. They highlight the need for preventive steps, shaking up norms for the sake of future generations' well-being.

In this episode, Kim and Bruce talk to Jen about their mission to eradicate harmful pesticides from parks and schools, the challenges and wins in their journey, and the need for a shift in pediatric healthcare towards prevention over treatment.

Key Takeaways

[01:48] - What are pesticides?
[04:43] - Symptoms of glyphosate exposure.
[06:24] - How Bruce became an adviser at Non-Toxic Neighborhoods.
[07:47] - What made Kim start Non-Toxic Neighborhoods?
[10:30] - Tests available for parents to check their children's pesticide levels.
[11:18] - How to get help from Non-Toxic Neighbourhoods.
[15:00] - Why are pesticides seen are safe?
[17:51] - How to read a pesticide label.
[22:39] - States in the United States that have banned glyphosate.
[25:07] - Non-Toxic Neighbourhoods success stories.
[30:28] - Three things to minimize exposure to pesticides.
[34:45] - The Non-Toxic Neighbourhoods Organic Tool Kit.

Quotes

[05:17] - “There are about 200,00 people every year that die from acute pesticide poison.” ~ Bruce Lanphear

[08:06] - “No school district or municipality wants to hear that they’re using chemicals that can potentially harm the residents, students, teacher, or staff.” ~ Kim Konte

[29:40] - “We’ve actually created an environment that makes it easy to become sick, and too often, we put the burden on families.” ~ Bruce Lanphear

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Replacing Traditional Ingredients With Healthier Alternatives with Jason Burke Dec 26, 2023

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Meat snacks are flavorful but loaded with sodium. Ever wondered about the secret behind clean, gut-friendly meat snacks that defy the norm?

Jason Burke shares the story of his brands, Noble Made and The New Primal. He talks about the tricky parts of creating grass-fed meat snacks at The New Primal that are not just delicious but gut-friendly. He also explains why using grass-fed beef is a big deal, especially for kids who can't get enough of them. Jason delves into Noble Made's sauces, from no-sugar ketchup to rich barbeque sauce made from quality ingredients. From the decision to eliminate harsh preservatives like sodium nitrite to the process of replacing sugar with healthier alternatives, Jason is committed to offering consumers a healthier and tastier choice.

In this episode, Jason talks to Jen about the story behind both of his brands, the challenges of crafting clean, gut-friendly meat snacks, and the craft of replacing traditional ingredients with healthier alternatives.

Key Takeaways

[01:19] - The difference between FDA and USDA.
[03:06] - Grass-fed beef in The New Primal beef sticks.
[05:26] - What made Jason interested in holistic foods?
[09:34] - Jason’s inspiration to start The New Primal.
[11:38] - The difference between beef jerky and meat sticks.
[14:11] - Jason talks about the ingredients in The New Primal meat sticks.
[20:27] - Jen and Jason talk about Noble Made sauces and products.
[24:14] - The meaning of the name Noble Made.
[27:47] - Where you can find The New Primal and Noble Made products.

Quotes

[03:35] - “Grass-fed beef, these are animals that get to eat grass their whole life, and that's what they were designed and meant to do.” ~ Jason Burke

[04:56] - “If you’re going to eat protein and animal-based protein, you should source those from the healthiest animals.” ~ Jason Burke

[18:58] - “I think for a long time the sentiment about health food or food that's better for you just taste like crap, and very candidly, a lot of it did and still does.” ~ Jason Burke

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Getting Well Through Naturopathy with Dr. Adrienne Stewart Dec 19, 2023

Show notes

Illness isn’t always straightforward, but listening to your body and understanding symptoms is one of the keys to staying healthy. Your body talks to you through little signs, like how you feel or what hurts. Paying attention to these signals is like learning a secret language between your mind and body.

Dr. Adrienne Stewart, a naturopathic doctor and the owner of Nourish Medical Center, shares insights into her journey as a “health detective” who helps people find the source of their symptoms. With a focus on thyroid disorders, particularly Hashimoto's, she emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach beyond conventional medicine's quick fixes. Dr. Stewart opened up about her health, particularly her diagnosis of multiple sclerosis and how it has influenced her compassionate approach towards her patients. The conversation explores the significance of listening to your body, deciphering symptoms, and the role of quality supplements in achieving sustainable health.

In this episode, Dr. Stewart talks to Jen about holistic approaches to thyroid health and hormone balance, the importance of comprehensive testing, and her journey with a recent diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.

Key Takeaways

[01:42] - Introduction to Dr. Adrienne Stewart.
[02:24] - The importance of balance and joy in a treatment plan.
[03:15] - Body image issues in ballet.
[04:29] - Health issues that Dr. Stewart treats.
[07:00] - Why a person can be vitamin deficient despite eating well.
[08:58] - How Nourish Medical Center differs from conventional doctors.
[11:25] - What folks should understand while shopping for food.
[13:10] - Bodily signs people should pay attention to.
[15:12] - Factors to watch for when dining out.
[17:52] - Do all supplements have the same quality or effectiveness?
[19:41] - Dr. Stewart’s recommended supplements brands.
[21:42] - Symptoms that should raise an alarm.
[22:46] - How to get in touch with Nourish Medical Center.
[23:48] - Dr. Stewart talks about her health.

Quotes

[02:52] - “I often ask my patients what brings joy in your life because it gives a bit of a meaning to why someone is doing their treatment plan.” ~ Dr. Adrienne Stewart

[04:59] - “People often call me their health detective to figure out why am I feeling this way.” ~ Dr. Adrienne Stewart

[10:52] - “What we’re rooted in is identifying the root cause and not just suppressing their symptoms with medication.” ~ Dr. Adrienne Stewart

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Unlocking the Healing Power of Chocolate with Christy Goldsby Dec 12, 2023

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Chocolate has a reputation for being a guilty pleasure. But Honey Mama’s chocolate challenges the notion that chocolate is nothing more than a sweet treat. This chocolate has a secret – it has healing properties.

Christy Goldsby, Founder of Honey Mama’s, shares her journey from owning a bakery to creating refrigerated truffle bars with real whole ingredients. She shares her inspiration behind using honey as a sweetener, a natural preservative, and an anti-fungal ingredient that has a profound impact on our bodies. Christy reveals the challenges of breaking industry norms and emphasizes the importance of meeting consumers where they are. Drawing from personal experiences and a background in baking, she discusses the power of a gut-focused cleanse, which motivated her to venture into chocolate.

In this episode, Christy talks to Jen about how she created chocolate with healing properties, the challenges of going against industry standards, and the expansion of Honey Mama’s into conventional grocery stores.

Key Takeaways

[02:07] - Why Christy created Honey Mama’s.
[08:14] - Christy tells the story behind the name Honey Mama’s.
[11:42] - Why Christy chose honey as a sweetener.
[15:07] - Interesting ways to use Honey Mama’s bars.
[16:21] - Christy’s experience going against the industry standards.
[20:04] - Honey Mama’s flavors you can find in stores.
[21:55] - How Christy is making Honey Mama’s more accessible.

Quotes

[05:59] - “The ease of digestion and anti-inflammation equaled a simple approach to taking care of your health.” ~ Christy Goldsby

[10:22] - “I love a lot of different natural sweeteners, but honey was the one that my body felt absolutely the best when I was working with it.” ~ Christy Goldsby

[19:25] - “I wanted people to feel that there is not a dogma attached to this product.” ~ Christy Goldsby

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The Truth About Yogurt Alternatives with Erin Asaad Dec 05, 2023

Show notes

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

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Creating Clean Nut Butter and Empowering Women with Carolyn Cesario and Julie Sullivan Nov 28, 2023

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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

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For 15% off, use this code: WAKEUP

https://grounduppdx.com/

Healing the Body Through Healthy Baking with Laurel Gallucci Nov 21, 2023

Show notes

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

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Creating Guilt-Free Snacks with Susan O’Brien Nov 14, 2023

Show notes

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

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Balancing Health and Holistic Healing with Dr. Michelle Iona Nov 07, 2023

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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

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