The Joyous Health Podcast

In this episode of the Joyous Health podcast, host Joy McCarthy sits down with Amber Romaniuk, an emotional eating, digestive, and hormone expert. Amber shares her personal journey of overcoming binge eating from gaining and losing over 1000lbs and spending over $50,000 on binge foods. She offers valuable strategies for breaking the cycle.    From addressing emotional triggers to implementing self-care practices, this conversation provides valuable insights for those struggling with binge eating. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the connection between hormones, emotions, and food, and discover how to cultivate body confidence and optimal health.    Episode Highlights: [00:00:37] Emotional eating and hormones. [00:10:09] Triggers for binge eating. [00:14:37] Emotional healing and sugar addiction. [00:24:35] Binge eating and overeating. [00:27:53] Signs of triggering binge eating. [00:31:08] Breaking certain unhealthy habits with children. [00:33:19] Setting good eating habits. [00:37:38] Hormones and binge eating. [00:40:10] Overcoming guilt and self-awareness. [00:43:31] Body awareness and healing. [00:46:41] Digestive aids and emotional triggers.   Resources:  Find Amber on Instagram Amber’s Website Amber’s Podcast   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Connect with Joyous Health on TikTok  

In this episode of the Joyous Health podcast, host Joy McCarthy interviews Natalie von Teichman, the creator of the first meditation stuffie for kids. Natalie shares her expertise in children's mental health and discusses the importance of mindfulness for children. She also opens up about her own experience with COVID-19 and the impact it had on her mental health.  As a mom of four boys and an entrepreneur, Natalie understands the challenges of balancing a busy schedule with self-care. She offers valuable insights and holistic-minded practical tips on how to incorporate mindfulness practices into our hectic lives, helping us find moments of calm and joy amidst the chaos. She emphasizes the need to treat mental fitness with the same level of importance as physical fitness. Just as we prioritize our physical health through exercise and self-care, we should also prioritize our mental well-being by practicing strategies and exercises to strengthen it. Don't miss this insightful conversation about supporting children's well-being through mindfulness.   Episode Highlights: [00:01:48] Importance of mindfulness for children. [00:04:14] Times of isolation and lockdown. [00:07:53] Mental health and COVID symptoms. [00:11:09] Children's mental health. [00:19:34] Meditation and overcoming anxiety. [00:23:01] Conscious breathing and meditation. [00:27:33] Mindfulness for kids. [00:30:23] Transitioning to parasympathetic state. [00:34:08] Sensory stimulation for kids. [00:37:35] Mesh toys for mental health. [00:41:09] Creating a meaningful business. [00:44:36] Box breathing and race car driving.   Resources: Learn more about Miindfully Find Miindfully Meditate on Instagram Use code JOYOUS15 to save on a MediTate stuffie   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Connect with Joyous Health on TikTok

This week Joy chats with Kena Peranjape, the founder of All You Are. The conversation with Kena was truly inspiring and motivating. Joy was deeply moved by Kena's journey and her remarkable ability to overcome challenging situations and find her purpose. She shares the importance of maintaining a positive mindset, even through difficult situations, finding purpose and connecting with your inner spark.   Tune in to be inspired and motivated to discover your own passions and empower yourself.   Episode Highlights: [00:01:29] Maintaining a positive mindset. [00:03:43] Transitioning in career paths. [00:08:05] Following nudges and taking action. [00:12:25] Finding positivity through adversity. [00:15:42] Advice for difficult situations. [00:19:22] Wearing a dress at the hospital. [00:23:02] Purpose and fulfillment in life. [00:30:37] Finding your inner spark. [00:34:05] Shifting energy and mindset. [00:37:59] Journey back to happiness. [00:41:32] Finding gratitude in tough times. [00:45:43] Meditation with young children.   Resources: Kena on Instagram Her coaching business: All You Are.  More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Connect with Joyous Health on TikTok Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.

In this episode of the Joyous Health podcast, host Joy welcomes Jill, a registered nurse and certified functional medicine practitioner, who is on a mission to change the way we approach menopause and aging. Jill believes that it is possible for midlife women to feel vibrant, happy, healthy, balanced, sexy, and strong. She guides women to greater well-being by addressing the root cause of their symptoms and educating them about their bodies. Join Joy and Jill as they discuss the importance of taking small steps towards better health and embracing the notion that aging doesn't have to mean decline.   Episode Highlights: [00:00:39] Embracing Aging and Menopause. [00:03:34] Hormones and perimenopause. [00:07:38] The journey of menopause. [00:11:33] Lifestyle habits for menopause. [00:16:18] Sleep and menopause. [00:18:41] Hormones and sleep issues. [00:20:44] Hormone replacement and progesterone cream. [00:25:13] Drawbacks of taking oral progesterone. [00:28:30] Hormone replacement therapy benefits. [00:32:23] Symptoms of estrogen plummeting. [00:36:48] Vaginal dryness and micro tears. [00:39:22] When should I start? [00:43:22] Testosterone and healthy aging. [00:44:39] Hormone support and body function. [00:48:05] The more people we can help.   Resources: Estrogen Matters Book Find Jill on Instagram Find Jill’s website    More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Connect with Joyous Health on TikTok Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.

This week Joy chats with Dr. Kwado Kyeremanteng, the department head of critical care at the Ottawa Hospital. He shares his insights on the importance of finding the leader within oneself and the courage to be authentic, even if you're not in a leadership role. He discusses his new book, "Unapologetic Leadership," and inspires listeners with his stories and energy.  Dr. K also talks about his work in caring for the sickest patients in the ICU and his research on improving ICU resources and access to palliative care. Don't miss this empowering conversation on finding courage and making a positive impact.   Episode Highlights: [00:02:25] Authentic leadership and courage. [00:04:51] Making decisions from our values. [00:09:32] People's unwavering belief systems. [00:12:30] Speaking up in challenging environments. [00:18:37] Authenticity and its impact. [00:28:16] Using rejection as fuel. [00:30:09] Developing a stomach for difficult decisions. [00:36:59] Managing stress and relaxation. [00:38:56] Leaning on your partner. [00:42:49] Improving healthcare and avoiding ICU.   Resources: Dr. K’s new book: Unapologetic Leadership: Finding The Moral Courage To Do The Right Thing Dr. K on Instagram Dr. K on Tiktok Solving Healthcare Website Solving Healthcare Podcast   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Connect with Joyous Health on TikTok Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.

This week Joy chats with Dr. Rachel Schwartzman, a board certified and licensed naturopathic doctor, about perimenopause. They discuss the lack of information available on this topic and the various symptoms women experience during this time of transition. Dr. Rachel provides actionable steps for managing these symptoms and offers valuable insights into women's health and hormonal imbalances. Tune in to gain knowledge and take control of your health during perimenopause. This is definitely an episode where you'll want to take some notes, so settle in with a skin-nourishing cuppa tea and get your notebook ready! Episode Highlights: [00:01:11] Lack of information on menopause.  [00:05:00] Common symptoms in perimenopause.  [00:09:37] Heavy periods and alarming symptoms.  [00:11:23] Body changes and societal pressure.  [00:15:19] Supporting testosterone with weight-bearing exercises.  [00:19:17] The Toxic 10 ingredients.  [00:23:09] The power of healthy fats.  [00:26:17] Clean estrogen and cruciferous vegetables.  [00:29:09] Fermented foods and vegan chili.  [00:33:14] Toxic cleaning products vs. natural alternatives.  [00:36:34] Natural health products.  [00:40:17] Herbs for nervous system support.  [00:45:11] Magnesium and its benefits.  [00:48:08] Conscious breathing and meditation.  Resources: Rachel’s Website Rachels’s Instagram  Rachel’s Facebook   Dupont Family Clinic Website  JHP: Raising healthy eaters with Dr. Rachel Schwartzman    More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Connect with Joyous Health on TikTok Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.  

This week Joy chats with Dr. Eric Korem, who has always been driven by a relentless pursuit of high performance as he’s coached athletes from football players to Olympic athletes. As time progressed, that drive became a purpose — to improve the lives of others in ways they didn’t know were possible. He did his PhD on sleep so he knows a thing or two about how to get better quality shut-eye and he’s super passionate about helping others truly thrive.  If you want to learn more about how to get the best sleep of your life and boost your resilience to stress then you won’t want to miss this episode. So settle in with a skin-nourishing cuppa tea and get your notebook ready–you’ll want to make notes of his amazing advice! Episode Highlights:  Accuracy of wearable tech devices for sleep Breakdown of sleep stages and what hormones are involved  The power of sleep for immune health Testosterone and sleep The ideal number of hours of sleep 3 key sleep behaviours everyone needs to focus on Importance of having a consistent sleep schedule  How sunlight impacts hormones, mood and sleep How to get a better sleep  Tips to manage a racing mind aka monkey brain Dr. Korem’s fave app to help you relax, focus and sleep How to make stress your friend How to boost your stress resiliency  The power of strength training  Optic flow: What happens when you’re walking Dr. Korem’s app AIM 7   Resources: Dr. Korem on Instagram Dr. Korem’s website  Dr. Korem on LinkedIn  Dr. Korem on Facebook Dr. Korem’s podcast  Round up of accuracy of wearable devices  Endel: App to help you focus, relax and sleep  The Joy of Movement Book Aim 7   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Connect with Joyous Health on TikTok Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care.  

This week, Joy chats with Matt Maruca who is the founder and CEO of Ra Optics, a company that teaches people about the essential role that light plays in health and develops advanced light therapy-based products. He founded Ra Optics after a decade-long personal health journey that ultimately led him to light. The discovery that we are ultimately beings of light has led him to a profound interest in the nature of consciousness and existence itself. In this episode Matt shares how he cultivates his inner light everyday and how you can take steps to begin letting your inner light shine. You’ll love hearing about his perspective on walking and why he’s decided to do the Camino de Santiago. Matt is such a joy to speak with, so we know you’re going to love this episode! If you want to learn more about what it means to have an internal light and how to cultivate it daily, then you won’t want to miss this episode. So settle in with a calming cuppa tea and get ready to be inspired by Matt’s incredible outlook on life!   Episode Highlights: How Matt’s health issues inspired him to explore the healing power of light.  His process of believing his issues were genetic to things he could change. Why the internal aspect of light is as important as external light.  The damaging effects of functioning from a place of fear.  Actionable suggestions to begin cultivating your inner light.  The importance of meal timing to promote sleep and circadian rhythm.  How changing our thoughts can change how we live our life.  Why how we start our morning sets the foundation for our energy for the rest of the day.  The importance of catching when you slip into problem consciousness so you can shift to opportunity consciousness.  Why we need to embrace the energy of hope.  What the “cult of speed” is and why we need to reject it.  Hope requires willful action in order to create a new reality.  The book that inspired Matt to slow down, step outside of his comfort zone and explore the world.  The rejuvenating power of walking.  Why Matt decided to walk the Camino de Santiago.  The importance of being honest in all of your actions.  What Matt hopes to get out of his pilgrimage.    Resources: Ra Optics Website–use code Joyoushealth to save! Matt on Instagram Ra Optics on Instagram The Light Diet Podcast JHP: Using Light to Optimize Your Health with Matt Maruca   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy’s Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids  

This week, Joy chats with Allison Tannis, a practicing Registered Holistic Nutritionist with a masters degree in Nutritional Sciences. She is the founder of Enthusiastic Nutrition Inc., a company specializing in witty Nutritional Communications Content. Allison has also written five nutrition books on topics ranging from probiotics to healthy aging and healthy foods for pregnancy. Passionate about making healthy eating easy, she's known for adding a dash of humour to her meticulous research, making it easy to swallow.   In this episode Allison shares her vast knowledge on the most amazing foods, supplements, and lifestyle tips to help you nourish your skin from within. You’ll love her vibrant energy and ability to break down complex information into easily digestible tidbits that you can incorporate into your life right away.   If you want to learn more about how to feed your skin for a healthy glow no matter your age,  then you won’t want to miss this episode. So settle in with a skin-nourishing cuppa tea and get your notebook ready–you’ll want to make notes of her amazing advice!   Episode Highlights: What inspired Allison to pursue a career in holistic nutrition.  How she navigates contradictory scientific findings to find the truth in nutrition research. The importance of bio-individuality when it comes to choosing health habits that work for you.  What inspired her to explore the connection between the foods we eat and the health of our skin.  The danger of following health trends versus creating a sustainable lifestyle.  The connection between inflammation and aging skin.  Why we should cherish how we look every single day.  How a healthy glow reflects inner health and joy.  An interesting discussion of Botox and collagen injections. The role of internal and external hydration in skin health and wrinkles.  Why hyaluronic acid is a great skincare ingredient.  Her top supplement recommendations for skin health.  What to look for in omega-3 supplements. Why some ingredients are better when taken internally versus topically. Allison’s favourite foods for skin health. Simple lifestyle habits that can promote healthy skin.  The nourishing power of plants.    Resources:   Allison on Instagram   Allison’s Website   Allison on Facebook   Allison on Twitter   Shop Allison’s Books    Allison’s Tahini Salad Dressing   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy’s Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids  

This week, Joy chats with Kate Taylor Martin, founder of nutbar, the world’s first superfood cafe. While studying nutrition at the institute of holistic nutrition, Kate began to dream up a concept for a healthy cafe in Toronto–one which would replace the typical coffee shop fare of muffins, donuts and croissants with alternatives that were still delicious but also good for you. She built nutbar around a holistic approach to health and the basic foundation of focusing on real, whole food.   In this episode Kate shares how she was inspired to create a community space that served nourishing, whole foods to busy people on-the-go so they can truly thrive. She gets vulnerable about what it’s like being a full-time entrepreneur and mom to three small children and the challenges of both. You’ll love her practical tips for developing non-negotiable healthy living routines!   If you want to learn more about building your life’s vision and living a life you’re proud of, then you won’t want to miss this episode. So settle in with a cozy cuppa tea and get ready to be inspired to follow your dreams!   Episode Highlights: Kate’s wellness journey and how Joy inspired her to apply to IHN! How she found her wellness community through school. Her inspirational transition from studying nutrition to opening her first nutbar cafe. How being a little naive helped her take the leap into entrepreneurship.  Taste and health benefits of homemade nut milks vs. boxed nut milks How Kate built a brand as opposed to just working in her business.  The cost of maintaining quality and commitment to organic products.  Her guide to eating well without restrictive labels.  What life looks like being a mom of three young kids and running her business. The things she needs to do to find equilibrium.  Kate’s routines and the non-negotiables that changed her life.  The physical and psychological benefits of cold exposure and how to do it.  The impacts of modern day life on stress and health.  The foundation she builds at home to keep her kids healthy.  Why it’s important to help kids build connections between what they eat and how they feel, without shame or restriction. What’s next for nutbar. The one thing you must try when you go to nutbar.    Resources:   nutbar’s Website    nutbar on Instagram     nutbar TikTok   nutbar Locations    barmilk luxurious nutmilk    More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy’s Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids  

This week, Joy chats with Brandi Garden, the co-founder of Eversio Wellness, a family-owned and operated, Canadian mushroom wellness company. Together with her husband, her hope is to foster a world that seeks natural options to help treat the root cause of health problems and to upgrade everyday moments. She loves mushrooms because they can change natural ecosystems and people’s lives in so many meaningful ways. She looks forward to a day when our education systems will include the importance of fungi as a part of the curriculum.  In this episode Brandi shares her vast knowledge on all things medicinal mushrooms and how you can incorporate them into your routine to improve everything from stress resilience to sleep quality to immunity. She also highlights what to look for when it comes to purchasing high quality supplements that actually work so you’re not wasting your money. You’ll finish this episode feeling educated and empowered to start incorporating these functional fungi into your life. If you want to understand how medicinal mushrooms can support lasting health, then you won’t want to miss this episode. So settle in with a calming cuppa tea and get ready to soak up Brandi’s mushroom wisdom!    Episode Highlights: Brandi’s health journey that led her to discover a passion for medicinal mushrooms.  How her psoriasis evolved into psoriatic arthritis.  Her experience with immuno-suppressant drugs.   Why she finally decided to stop taking pharmaceuticals.  How she made over her diet and lifestyle to get to the root cause of her health issues. The importance of gut health for autoimmune disease.  The empowerment of neurogenesis.  Scientific research on lion’s mane for brain health.  The difference between mycelium and fruiting bodies.  How to grow potent mushrooms vs. cost cutting methods.  The importance of taking extracts for health benefits.  Health benefits of cordyceps mushrooms.  Why dual extraction is important for medicinal mushrooms.  The molecules that pass the blood-brain barrier for nerve growth. The rigorous testing process all Eversio products go through.  Everything you need to know about reishi.  What you need to know about cordyceps and fertility (learn more here). The importance of voting with your dollar and paying for quality.  What it’s like working with her husband every day.  Why she wants to see fungi incorporated into school curriculums.  How much more there is to learn about the health benefits of mushrooms.   Resources: Eversio on Instagram Brandi on Instagram Eversio’s Website–Use code JOYOUS to save 15%! Eversio on Facebook  Eversio on TikTok Eversio on YouTube   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy’s Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids  

This week, Joy chats with Dr. Elisa Song, a Stanford-, NYU-, UCSF-trained holistic pediatrician. She integrates conventional pediatrics with functional medicine, holistic nutrition, homeopathy, acupuncture, herbal medicine, and essential oils. She founded Whole Family Wellness, an integrative pediatric practice in Belmont, CA – one of the first and most highly regarded holistic pediatric practices in the country. She has helped thousands of kids get to the root causes of their health concerns and helped their parents understand how to heal their children from the inside out using an integrative pediatric approach. In this episode Dr. Song shares tons of incredible tips and actionable steps that you can take to support the microbiome and overall health of your kids. But even if you don’t have kiddos, this episode is still great to listen to since anyone can benefit from making the same dietary and lifestyle shifts, no matter their age. You’ll walk away feeling empowered to make the changes you need for you and your family to thrive! If you want to learn about the connection between your child’s gut health, immune system, and the development of chronic childhood disease, then you won’t want to miss this episode. So settle in with a cuppa gut-nourishing tea and get ready to be inspired to heal your child’s gut, naturally.    Episode Highlights: What being a holistic, integrative pediatrician means to Dr. Song. How she became interested in a holistic approach to pediatrics.  Why she’s moving away from the term “chronic” in her practice.  The roadmaps she’s found to help children recover from illness.  The shocking stats around persistent childhood illnesses and mental health.  Why our children are expected to have a shorter life expectancy than us.  The power of epigenetics for changing our future health.  Markers that can predict risk of autoimmune disease.  The importance of the microbiome in the development of autoimmunity.  How kid’s microbiomes develop from birth to teenage years. Dr. Song’s process for examining gut health in kids. How to support the microbiome after antibiotic or medication exposures.  The gut-brain connection and the vagus nerve.  How to strengthen the resilience of the microbiome through the vagus nerve.  The power of breath & mindfulness for vagus nerve health.  Tips for fun mindful moments to practice with your child.  How the gut and immune system are connected.  Why babies get reflux & why antacids are not the best treatment.  How mom’s stress can impact baby’s reflux.  Dietary tips to support kid’s microbiomes and keep them happy and healthy.  Lifestyle changes that can support a healthy microbiome.   Resources: Dr. Song on Instagram Healthy Kids, Happy Kids Website Dr. Song on Facebook Tiny Health: At Home Gut Test Colbie Caillat, Common, & Elmo Breathing Video   Free Guides: The 5 Rs to Heal Your Child’s Leaky Gut Choosing Your Child’s Probiotic Food as Medicine for Immune Resilience   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy’s Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids  

This week, Joy chats with Samantha Gladish, a Hormone Nutritionist, with a speciality in metabolic and thyroid health. She is author of the Amazon bestseller, The 30-Day Hormone Solution and the host of one of Canada’s top-rated podcasts, The Wellness Witch. She is the founder of HolisticWellness.ca; a website dedicated to helping women optimize their health and hormones. In her spare time, you can find her baking up delicious healthy treats in her kitchen and getting woo-woo with tarot cards, plant medicine and diving into spiritual growth. In this episode Samantha dives deep into plant medicines such as ayahuasca and psilocybin and how they can be used to access your intuition and spirituality. She shares her experiences in ceremony with these plant medicines and the amazing lessons she has learned along the way. You’ll love how Samantha weaves the scientific with the experiential in this episode!  If you have ever been curious about plant medicines and whether they might be right for you, then you won’t want to miss this episode. So settle in with your favourite cuppa tea and get ready to dive into the mystical world of plant medicines.    Episode Highlights: Why Samantha evolved her focus from solely hormonal health to embodying the woo woo of the Wellness Witch.  Her relationship with spirituality and astrology.  How slowing down and blocking out the noise helped her connect with spirit.  The power of nature for soothing the nervous system. An explanation of ayahuasca, DMT, and spiritual experiences.  How ayahuasca can physically support the body as well as spirit.   Samantha’s experiences in ayahuasca ceremony. Why each ceremonial experience is unique to the individual. The connection between DMT and plant medicine healing.  How ayahuasca allowed her to access parts of herself to deeply heal.  Why integrating what comes up in ceremony is crucial for healing. The biggest lesson she learned from ceremony.  Plant medicine safety.  Why ayahuasca medicine needs to be passed down through a lineage.  What is psilocybin and how it’s used as plant medicine.  How psilocybin is prepared in ceremony & Samantha’s experiences with it.  How psilocybin & ayahuasca affect the body differently.  The difference between taking psilocybin in ceremony or as a microdose.  Her experience in ceremony with her husband.  The importance of finding a safe person to guide your ceremonies.  How her experiences with plant medicine have allowed her to connect to her intuition more deeply.  Who shouldn’t take plant medicines.    Resources: Samanatha on Instagram Samantha’s Website The 30 Day Hormone Solution Book Sign up for her Newsletter Wellness Witch Podcast Hormone Healing Programs Samantha on Facebook Samantha on YouTube   More about Joyous Health: ·   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health ·   Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks ·   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter ·   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram ·   Find Joyous Health on Facebook ·   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program ·   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. ·   Join Joy’s Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge ·   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids  

This week, Joy chats with Mike Feldstein, CEO of Jaspr and a seasoned air quality expert and entrepreneur. He leveraged his experience in wildfire restoration and air quality consulting to found Jaspr, a premium air purifier company, to innovate in air science and technology. His purpose is to protect air quality and boost human health using the latest in air quality science and tech.  In this episode Mike shares his vast knowledge on all things indoor and outdoor air quality. He provides tons of actionable steps you can take to improve the air in your home, which can have big impacts on your sleep quality and overall health. We breathe roughly 17 000 litres of air per day and Mike’s information will help you improve every breath If you want to learn how to improve the air quality in your home, then you won’t want to miss this episode. So settle in with a gently detoxifying cuppa tea and get ready to be inspired to improve the air that you breathe for long lasting health!   Episode Highlights: How outdoor air impacts indoor air quality long-term.  Mike’s journey to becoming an air quality expert.  His experience cleaning homes after the Fort McMurray fire.  How long the air can stay contaminated after a wildfire. What inspired him to create a high quality at home air purifier.  How nose blindness can trick you into thinking your indoor air is clean.   The top things to be concerned about when it comes to indoor air quality.  How outdoor pollution varies from region to region.  How pets can impact air quality & how to improve it.  The relationship between mold and air quality.  Why cooking decreases air quality.  Why home energy efficiency is at odds with air quality. How to optimize your home to promote health.  How using an air purifier can improve sleep & health issues. Why we’re unable to recover during sleep if air quality is poor.  The impact of clean bedroom air on seasonal allergy symptoms.  How to clean your air without an air purifier.  Why size does matter when it comes to air purifiers.  How often to clean your car filter annually.  When you should open your windows to optimize air quality.  How to lower CO2 levels in your home.   Resources: Jaspr on Instagram Jaspr Website Use code JOYOUS to save $200!  Jaspr on Facebook Mike on Instagram IQ Air Quality App   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on FacebookLearn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy’s Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Bianca Osbourne, a trained chef and holistic nutritionist. She has come through the world of catering to her role as a resident chef and food expert on the popular Marilyn Denis show. She is also a blogger and podcaster. A child of Caribbean immigrants, the Edmonton, Canada native calls Toronto home where she teaches Food Media and Business at Centennial College.  In this episode Bianca shares her journey with eczema and healing her body from the itch and inflammation. She talks about the importance of emotions and how they affect your gut health can’t be overlooked when healing. She also talks about the important connection between blood sugar balance and healthy skin. This is a very conversational, enjoyable chat; you’re going to love listening to Bianca share her wisdom! If you want to learn how to get to the root cause of inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, then you won’t want to miss this episode. So settle in with a skin-loving cuppa tea and get ready to be inspired to take control of your health and healing!   Episode Highlights: How she developed eczema on her whole body & its link to stress.  The effects of using steroid cream on her skin.  Her decision to take her skin healing into her own hands.  The link between trauma and emotions and skin conditions like eczema.  How antibiotics impact skin health.  Why you need to manage stress in order to fully heal.  The power of breathwork for healing.  How stress influences gut health & the microbiome.  The link between blood glucose, sleep, and skin health.  How she intuitively shifted her diet to heal her skin.  The importance of becoming your own health advocate and being the expert of your own body.  How she manages flare ups and maintains her skin health.  The importance of healing your gut to support your skin.  The routine she follows for daily maintenance.  The link between blood sugar balance, menstrual health and skin health.  Signs that your blood sugar is not balanced.  How to use a glucose monitor to help manage your blood sugar balance.  Her supplement recommendations for skin health.    Resources: Bianca on Instagram Bianca’s Website Bianca on YouTube Glow Up for the Gurls Podcast Glucose for the Gurls on TikTok The Glucose Glow Up Community Breathwork with MJ Renshaw   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy’s Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Laura Di Lorenzo, the founder of Sunshine Mattress Co. - an online organic mattress experience that focuses on solving individual needs, concerns, and preferences. Sunshine products are handcrafted locally in Canada at a family-run facility that specializes in manufacturing organic mattresses and other textiles. Her mission is to educate on the importance of high-quality and clean products that you can feel good about getting into every night. After all, we sleep one third of our lives! In this episode Laura shares her wealth of knowledge on all things organic, clean mattresses and bedding. She gets into why you want to avoid polyurethane mattresses and the amazing natural alternatives that last ages and are great for you and the planet. You will walk away with all the tools you need to create the non-toxic, cozy bedroom of your dreams.  If you want to learn how to start replacing your bedding with nontoxic, earth-loving alternatives then you won’t want to miss this episode. So settle in with a calming cuppa tea and get ready to be inspired to turn your bedroom into a healing sanctuary!   Episode Highlights: How Laura became interested in clean beauty and reducing toxins in her life.  How she ended up starting Sunshine Mattress Co. during covid.  Her passion for educating people on the importance of a clean mattress and bedding.  What we’re being exposed to when we’re sleeping.  Issues with the mass produced mattress market.  The link between skin and health issues and petrochemicals in mattresses. The chemicals used in mattress and bedding production.  What to look for in a clean foam mattress.  The certifications and standards to look for when shopping for your bedding. Which certification is a sign of greenwashing.  Different types of eco-friendly ingredients for natural pillows. Misconceptions about wool and rubber bedding.  The perfect pillows for kids. How to take care of your mattress so it lasts longer.  Why it can be confusing to understand the different types of certifications.  Customer stories of health improvements after purchasing clean mattresses.  How you can customize your organic mattress for your unique needs. Laura’s top tips for creating a peaceful, cozy bedroom sanctuary.    Resources: Sunshine Mattress Co. on Instagram Sunshine Mattress Co. on Facebook Sunshine Mattress Co. Website Sunshine Mattress Co. Blog   More about Joyous Health: ·   Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health ·   Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks ·   Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter ·   Follow Joyous Health on Instagram ·   Find Joyous Health on Facebook ·   Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program ·   Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. ·   Join Joy’s Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge ·   Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with James McCrae, author, poet, meme artist, and creative strategist based in Austin, Texas. In his writing and art, he applies the principles of mindfulness and Eastern philosophy to modern life with humor and candor. As the founder of Re-Creation Studio, James offers coaching and consultation services and teaches classes on conscious creativity. He also hosts Sunflower Club, a podcast that explores the intersection of creativity, consciousness, and culture.  In this episode James shares his unique take on the relationship between creativity and spirituality. He discusses the difference between your ego and higher self and how ego-death, or breakdowns, can lead to some of our biggest breakthroughs. You will love his unique take on creativity, meme creation, communication, and art!  If you want to tap into your intuition to figure out how to cultivate curiosity, intuition, and creativity in your life then you won’t want to miss this episode. So settle in with a calming cuppa tea and get ready to be inspired to tap into your own creative intuition!   Episode Highlights: How he built his community around meme creation.  The importance of staying a student of life to cultivate wisdom.  His creative process for making memes and his connection to the muse.  The different forms his creativity has taken over the years.  How spirituality and creativity are interconnected.  The artists, poets, and creators who inspire his work.  The difference between the ego and the higher self.  How to tap into higher self and quiet the ego.  How he navigates the political landscape online.  Why breakdowns can sometimes lead to breakthroughs.  The important role of pain and grief in opening up our capacity to feel.  Why we as a society are so afraid of sadness and pain.  Our place in the universal cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.  The power of embracing your cringe in everyday life.  Why you should accept the great unknown to connect to the magic of life.  His most popular meme and how he created it.  Why triggering responses in people can sometimes be good for growth.  How the themes of his work evolve over time to help him make sense of the universe.  What he hopes others gain from his work.  Why he believes memes are a relevant form of art and communication.    Resources: James on Instagram Re-Creation Studio Website Work With James Sunflower Club Podcast  Sh#t Your Ego Says Book  How to Laugh in Ironic Amusement During Your Existential Crisis Book  Embrace Your Cringe Post When I Remember Post   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy’s Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids  

This week, Joy chats with Shanna H. Swan, Ph.D., one of the world’s leading environmental and reproductive epidemiologists. She is a Professor of Environmental Medicine and Public Health at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City where she is also a member of the Transdisciplinary Center on Early Environmental Exposures. For over twenty years, Dr. Swan and her colleagues have been studying the dramatic decline in sperm count around the world and the impact of environmental chemicals and pharmaceuticals on reproductive tract development and neurodevelopment. In this episode Dr. Swan shares her first hand research results on the impact of phthalate exposure during pregnancy on reproductive health. She is a wealth of knowledge on this topic and shares her top suggestions for avoiding exposure to these chemicals in everything from your food and drink to the air we breathe. You will be blown away by her extensive knowledge and clear communication.  If you want to learn how common everyday chemicals can impact fertility and reproductive health you won’t want to miss this episode. So settle in with a cuppa delicious, liver-loving detox tea and get ready to be empowered to take simple steps to improve your health.    Episode Highlights: The varied path Dr. Swan took from child actress to world-renowned epidemiologist.  An explanation of what reproductive & environmental epidemiology is.  A breakdown of her current epidemiological study on phthalates & pregnancy.  The suggestive conclusions found on the impacts of Tylenol and pregnancy.  What phthalates are and how they’re used across various industries.  The definition of non-persistent chemicals.  How phthalates consistently enter the body.  How phthalates leach out of plastics and into the environment.  The impact of phthalate ingestion during pregnancy.  What is phthalate syndrome?  The impact of phthalates on male reproductive organs.  The relationship between phthalates and fertility.  How phthalate exposure impacts sperm counts.  The connection between perineum length and reproductive function in males.  How phthalates may impact libido and sexual satisfaction.  Her top tips for avoiding phthalate exposure.  Other chemicals in plastics to avoid for optimal health. How to avoid phthalates in food shopping, storage, and cooking. The way Dr. Swan treats her water to remove chemicals.    Resources: Dr. Swan’s Website Dr. Swan’s Instagram Dr. Swan’s Twitter Count Down Book Helpful Resources Million Marker Test Kits   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy’s Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids

This week, Joy chats with Andrea Nakayama, a Functional Medicine Nutritionist and educator. After losing her young husband to a brain tumor in 2002, she discovered a passion for using food as personalized medicine and is now regularly consulted as the nutrition expert for the toughest clinical cases in the practices of many world-renowned doctors. Since then she has led thousands of clients, and now teaches even more coaches and clinicians around the world in a revolution reclaiming ownership of both their own and their clients’ health. This episode is packed with vulnerability as Andrea shares how her husband’s life, illness, and death has inspired her work and passion for nutrition. She also outlines the three root causes of autoimmunity that she sees in her practice and how to differentiate between signs and symptoms so you can make the best decisions for your health. You will love her raw honesty and personalized approach to healing.  If you want to learn how genes, gut health, and blood sugar balance are connected to autoimmune conditions, then you won’t want to miss this episode. So settle in with a cuppa your favourite radiant tea and enjoy soaking in Andrea’s hard won wisdom.    Episode Highlights: How her young husband’s brain tumour diagnosis kickstarted her health journey. The long medical journey to her diagnosis with autoimmune Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis.  How autoimmune conditions can manifest with different symptoms.  The importance of individualizing diet based on specific conditions.  How the medical system isn’t necessarily set up to investigate early stages of chronic illness.  The differences between a sign and a symptom.  Her breakdown of the triggers of autoimmunity–the three roots, many branches systems.  How immune cell memory impacts the management of autoimmune diseases. What is functional nutrition vs. other types of nutrition.  The importance of a systems-based approach to managing autoimmunity.  Her non-negotiables for addressing any health condition.  Some helpful dietary recommendations for supporting gut health & managing autoimmunity. How Andrea helps her patients fall in love with whole foods through education.  Why we need to leave the sympathetic nervous system state to heal.  Developing your yes, no, maybe list of foods to connect with your body’s needs. How pregnancy can trigger autoimmunity.  How managing autoimmunity changes depending on the decade of your life.  Her advice for single parents trying to juggle their health and parenting needs.  How her late husband’s life, illness, and death inspires her work to this day.  The importance of finding the spaces where you feel accepted.    Resources: Andrea’s Website Andrea’s Instagram  Andrea’s Twitter Sign up for Andrea’s Substack 15 Minute Matrix Podcast  Functional Nutrition Alliance Website Functional Nutrition Alliance Instagram   More about Joyous Health: Check out our award-winning blog Joyous Health Check out  Joy’s bestselling cookbooks Sign up for the Joyous Health newsletter Follow Joyous Health on Instagram Find Joyous Health on Facebook Learn more about The Joyous Health Business Program Check out our full line of Natural & Organic Haircare and Body Care. Join Joy’s Hair Care Challenge at Natural Hair Care Challenge Explore Joyous Health Kids at Joyous Health Kids