In this episode, we are joined by Certified Functional Nutrition Counselor and Functional Nutrition Lifestyle Practitioner Susan French of Everything Matters. Susan reveals how stress extends far beyond what we typically recognize—encompassing environmental toxins, chemical exposures, and hidden physiological stressors that constantly impact our health. Drawing from her diverse background and personal experience, Susan explains how chronic stress systematically shuts down critical body system...
Ready to make this year's health-related resolutions actually stick? In this episode, Kelly shares seven practical strategies for maintaining motivation as we work to make our new year goals become reality. For those with autoimmune conditions or other chronic health challenges, these techniques will help us keep the momentum going long after January ends. From developing a personal “Why" to measuring our progress holistically, learn how to create sustainable habits that support us on o...
In this episode, former ICU physician Dr. Anna Sattah shares why she transitioned to Functional Medicine and how its "root cause approach" powerfully transforms the treatment and outcomes of autoimmune and other chronic diseases. Drawing from her unique perspective practicing both Conventional and Functional Medicine, Dr. Sattah explains how the functional approach—with its emphasis on nutrition, comprehensive testing, and personalized treatment plans—focuses on lasting healing rather t...
In this episode, we explore three key areas that become increasingly important for our health, aging, and vitality after age 40. Learn how our bodies' needs change and what this means for nutrition, exercise, and alcohol consumption. We'll examine the complicated and challenging new realities that this decade can bring. We'll draw from recent research and functional medicine insights to discover practical age-appropriate strategies for optimally and naturally supporting ourselves as we age. ...
In this episode, we dive deep into the often misunderstood world of perimenopause with Integrative and Functional Dietician JeJe Noval. JeJe offers clarity, wisdom, and detailed recommendations for navigating this phase of life. Highlights include: - Understanding perimenopause: its symptoms and how it differs from menopause - The role of minerals, particularly zinc and copper, in hormone regulation - The connection between methylation, genetics, and hormone balance &n...
When it comes to our family histories, did you know we have way more control over our genes than we might think? In this eye-opening episode, we challenge the notion that our genes must dictate our health destiny. We discover how research shows our lifestyle choices can influence up to 95% of our health outcomes, even with genetic predispositions! We learn about epigenetics, the power of diet, exercise, stress management, and more when it comes to shaping our present and future health. Dive d...
Our guest for this episode is Dr. Renee Exelbert — psychologist, elite personal trainer, and two-time breast cancer survivor. In this episode, Dr. Exelbert shares her remarkable story: from treating cancer patients to becoming one herself, to reclaiming her body through a healing mindset, consistent hard work, simple self-care, and unwavering determination. She discusses how lifestyle changes, visualization techniques, and the power of the mind-body connection all play crucial roles in overco...
In this comprehensive episode, we dive deep into the tenacious affliction that is health anxiety (also know as hypochondria or Illness Anxiety Disorder). Kelly shares how, after experiencing her battles with severe autoimmune disease, she found herself entangled in the relentless grip of health anxiety. This episode offers a raw and insightful exploration of this common yet deeply challenging form of anxiety, particularly prevalent among those who have experienced a serious illness or witness...
In this episode, yoga instructor Leda Huta joins us to discuss the transformative power of yoga for holistic healing, graceful aging, and confident living. Leda shares her wisdom on how yoga unites the mind, body, and spirit, promoting physical strength, flexibility, and balance while also fostering a deep sense of mindfulness and self-connection. We highlight how yoga can be a vital tool in aging with resilience, strength, and vitality. We draw inspiration from renowned figures like B.K.S. I...
In this inspiring “Healing Hero” episode, triathlete Maria Phelps shares her remarkable story of resilience. From her battles with bulimia that began due to a coach's misguided comments, to her mysterious symptoms, to her harrowing experience with misdiagnosis, and then to her inspiring recovery from the debilitating autoimmune disease, Sjogren's Syndrome, Maria's story is a testament to the unbreakable human spirit. Through her powerful personal mantra, "Be the Possible," Maria exemplifies t...
In this episode, we explore the life-changing power of simplicity as an important part of the healing process. In a world that often feels overwhelming and chaotic, embracing a more simplified lifestyle can be a powerful tool, helping to reduce stress and anxiety – two of the biggest roadblocks on our path to healing. Kelly discusses the benefits of being intentional with our physical possessions, time commitments, and energy expenditure, while sharing practical tips and personal insights on ...
In this thought-provoking episode, I’m joined by Paul Blanchard, founder of Whole Body Mindset. Paul shares his unique perspectives on healing, mindset, and the importance of genuine human connection in our fast-paced world. Paul emphasizes that healing is an autonomic process and that our bodies innately know how to heal when given the right support. He introduces the concept of the "Whole Body Mindset," which involves three interconnected aspects: the thinker mind, the heart mind, and the g...
In this episode, Brian Haney joins as co-host for a Q&A on my latest recommendations for healing resources that I’ve come across. Items discussed include a hodgepodge of books, podcasts, recipes, health-promoting products, and interesting new research results. We chat about centenarians, vocabulary, ‘90’s nostalgia, and mocktails, among other things. There’s a lot of laughing going on in this mostly light-hearted episode, especially while discussing my recent baking fail! Links to resourc...
In this episode, I'm joined by nutrition, fitness, and overall wellness virtuoso, Haley Gillespie. Haley shares with us her vast insight on a variety of topics, including tips for creating crowd-pleasing nutritious and delicious meals, physical fitness strategies for being our healthiest selves and aging gracefully, and taking time out for self-care and true rejuvenation. As a delightful finale, Haley shares with us her decadent "Healthy Fudge," a recipe that proves indulgence and...
It's now been 13 years since the end of my horrific flare of the autoimmune disease, Ulcerative Colitis, 13 years since the beginning of my healing journey, and 13 years remaining completely flare-free! In this episode, I honor this flare-free anniversary by sharing with you 13 of the many things that have helped get me to this place. 13 of the tools, methods, concepts, and strategies that have helped me to heal from years of mild to moderate flares, and then from the fallout of the major fla...
In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Patty Ford, who is a doctor of public health, an eating disorder registered dietician, and a Habit Finder coach. Together, we embark on an enlightening expedition, unravelling the knotted threads of food addiction and emotional connections to our dietary patterns, particularly in relation to those with chronic illness. With each individual's dietary odyssey as unique as their fingerprint, we discuss the symphony of societal, environmental, and subcons...
Get ready for a holiday special that's all about reclaiming the joy and wonder of the season, while kicking stress and excess to the curb. Feeling overwhelmed by your packed calendar and other holiday tasks? We're here to help you say 'no' to the things that don't light up your life, bringing back the true spirit of the season through simplicity. Let's debunk the myth of the perfect holiday, learn how to delegate, prioritize self-care, and shift our focus from the perfect table setting to fos...
What would you do if the person you love most in the world was struck with a severe chronic illness? It's a tough question, but it's one my partner, Brian, had to face head on when I experienced a life-threatening, year-long flare of Ulcerative Colitis. Join us for this raw and honest discussion about the emotional and physical turmoil that chronic illness brings, not just for the patient, but for their loved ones too. Our conversation reveals the real-life challenges and lessons learned thro...
Ready to kick the Standard American Diet to the curb and reclaim your health? Join me as we navigate the transformative power of nutrition. In overcoming my own major health issues, I've discovered the undeniable link between diet and true healing. Together, we'll map out the four "must haves" of long-term dietary success - becoming a rebel, having an unfaltering commitment to your health, having a compelling "why", and educating yourself, along with the two "must do's" - heal your gut, and e...
Hi there! I'm Kelly, a Certified Nutrition Coach, health blogger, and now a podcaster! I'm also a survivor and overcomer of severe autoimmune disease. This podcast is for anyone who is sick and tired of being sick and tired, particularly those with autoimmune or other chronic illness. It's for those who are ready to truly heal, and more importantly, truly stay healed. Through my training as a Certified Nutrition Coach, but mostly through insight gained from my personal experience with o...