Believe Big Podcast

Water seems like a simple topic, right?  Not so fast!  There is quite a lot to know about the water we drink and the water we use in our daily lives.Water is a key component of life.  Every living organism must have water to survive.  Today we jump into the deep end of water with Jess Higgins Kelley, a Master Nutrition Therapist and Oncology Nutrition Consultant.  Jess truly takes a deep dive into water and the importance of hydration for our overall health. Jess has something for everyone today!  You won't want to miss all the nuggets of information about water including: water as the master nutrient,hydration for various health conditions,the importance of water quality,electrolytes and why they matter, and so much more!Connect with Jess Kelley at the Oncology Nutrition Institute:https://www.oncologynutritioninstitute.com/Suggested Resource Links:BOOK:  The Metabolic Approach to CancerMercola/Bush Hydration PodcastLMNT ElectrolytesTrace Minerals ElectrolytesEnvironmental Working Group (EWG)LINK:  Home urinalysis stripsLINK:  Home urine sample collection cupsNote from Jess:  Carbonated vs Non-Carbonated Water and Hydration Status. There are currently no studies showing both intracellular and extracellular hydration status when comparing carbonated vs non carbonated water. Intracellular hydration is more important to mitochondrial function than external. Because of this, currently it is widely accepted that both are equally hydrating. However, since we practice ancestral nutrition, we know that humans didn’t add carbonation = carbonic acid a weak acid, to water until about 100 years ago. It also REALLY depends on the sparkling water/carbonated water source. In general, plain mineral waters in glass are excellent. Those with any artificial or natural flavors, sugars, etc should be avoided. All that said, many people do not have access to drinking water AT ALL so something is better than nothing!!!!

In this week’s episode, I am joined by Edna Ness and Cait Wilson, owners of In Light Hyperbaric, who share their mission to help people heal and thrive after cancer treatment.   They discuss various ways to promote healing without relying on medication, particularly for cancer patients.Edna shares her husband's experience with stage four base of tongue cancer and their use of Gerson therapy, hyperbaric chamber, and tissue regenerative therapy (TRT) for his recovery. Tissue Regenerative Therapy (TRT) becomes the focus of this interview as we learn about its benefits, such as breaking up scar tissue and calcification, reducing inflammation, and improving blood flow promoting healing without harming healthy tissue.Connect with Edna and Cait at In Light Hyperbaric:https://inlighthyperbarics.com/Suggested Resource Links:BOOK:  Radical Recovery: Extraordinary Healing with Oxygen and Light After Chemotherapy and RadiationLINK:  Gerson TherapyLINK:  Seattle Cancer Care Alliance (Fred Hutchinson Cancer Clinic)LINK:  Liquid HopeLINK:  Softwave TRTPODCAST:  Believe Big Podcast with Dr. Derek Guillory (Hyperbaric and O2 Benefits)

Daniel Wellington is our guest on today's podcast.  Daniel is currently on an active cancer journey after being diagnosed with stage 4 sarcoma, however he continues to defy the odds and is living and thriving.  How is he living and thriving?He shares how his cancer diagnosis caught him by surprise, and that surprise was followed by the fear and reality of having cancer.  Daniel goes on to talk about the books he found helpful as he dove into a self-healing journey of mindfulness and the importance of being present in his daily life, something he had taken for granted previously.  Daniel's words are insightful and encouraging to anyone dealing with cancer.  He even shares a beautiful story of his daughter, Josie, and how she inadvertently taught him a lesson of laughter and living, and a new word that he continues to use today.Suggested Resource Links:BOOK:  The Untethered Soul by Michael SingerBOOK:  Radical Remission by Dr. Kelly TurnerBOOK:  Radical Hope by Dr. Kelly TurnerThe PAUSE app - 30 Days to a Resilient Life

This week’s podcast features Jason and Lindsay Swain of Two Rivers Church in Fort Collins, Colorado, as they discuss the power of lament and its ability to bring healing, connection, and hope. Jason and Lindsay share their personal experiences and insights on grief and loss as ministers and people, including their own journey of grief after losing their child and how emotions evolve over time.  They also talk about:finding peace through lament and the importance of honoring pain the need for self-care the benefits of exercise for mental and emotional well-being seeking support from safe people such as counselors, friends, and spiritual directorsthe importance of intentional reflection and allowing oneself to feel and much more. Don’t miss this important episode and take time to make lament part of your faith in healing.Connect with Jason and Lindsay Swain at Two Rivers Church:https://tworiverschurchfc.com/Suggested Resource Links:Two Rivers Church - About pageJason's Lament sermon seriesBelieve Big podcast with Kim Hamer:  100 Acts of Love

Kicking off Season 2 of the Believe Big podcast, Ivelisse interviews Dr. Lindsay Adrian, an integrative physician specializing in cancer care and chronic conditions. This episode is PACKED with practical examples and clearly articulated information about glutathione, sometimes hailed as the body's ultimate defense against free radicals and oxidative stress.  Dr. Adrian sheds light on the significance of glutathione, especially for those navigating a cancer diagnosis,glutathione as a crucial amino acid that acts as a master antioxidant in the body,the importance of glutathione for healthy mitochondrial function, and how glutathione aids in detoxification.The discussion highlights key cautions, emphasizing that glutathione should be judiciously integrated, particularly avoiding overlap with conventional treatments to prevent potential interference.  Dr. Adrian underscores the seriousness of working with an integrative practitioner who understands when and how to incorporate glutathione in a patient's treatment plan.Connect with Dr. Lindsay Adrian:Port Moody HealthSuggested  Resource Links:Tri-Fortify by Researched NutritionalsLiposomal Glutathione by Designs for Health

This is our final Season 1 Replay.  Season 2 will begin October 10, 2023 with a brand new Believe Big Podcast episode.Dr. Dagmara Beine is not only an amazing practitioner, but she truly understands what a family goes through as her daughter Zuza was diagnosed with cancer AND given a very poor prognosis at 3 ½ years old. Having worked in emergency medicine for 12 years, Dagmara understood the value of western medicine and how it could save her daughter's life. However, as her daughter moved through her treatment and recovery, she was shocked at how western medicine failed to care for Zuza as a whole person. She knew as a mother and clinician that she needed to incorporate other tools to guide Zuza through treatment and help her thrive as a cancer survivor. She is going to share with us today the tools she found and uses today in her practice.Updates on the release of Dagmara's pediatric cancer book can be found on social media (Instagram and Facebook):  Zuza's Way Integrative CareConnect with Dr. Dagmara Beine:https://www.zuzasway.com/dr-dagmara-beineSuggested Resource Links: Zuza's Way websiteZuza's Way Facebook pageZuza's Way Instagram page

Whether you are currently on a cancer-fighting journey today or you have a family history that indicates you may be on that path in the future, you will want to listen to today's episode.Dr. Kirsten West of the Riordan Clinic's integrative oncology team joins us to talk about things you can do TODAY to prevent cancer.  She shares a wealth of knowledge and practical lifestyle changes through her Top Five Prevention Tips and even goes beyond that with some bonus content.  Connect with Dr. Kirsten West at the Riordan Clinic:https://riordanclinic.org/Suggested Resource Links:Apps for your phone:  PAUSECALMINSIGHT TIMEREnvironmental Working Group (EWG)

Healing is hard work and so is forgiveness; and we all struggle with forgiveness.   Did you know there is a direct correlation between forgiveness and healing?   Whether you need to find peace with yourself, peace with someone else or peace with God, this episode is for you.Rev. Dr. Michael Barry shares his experience with cancer patients learning how to forgive and find peace in their circumstances to help their bodies heal.  This episode is packed full of helpful information for ANYONE wanting to learn how and why a lifestyle of forgiveness is so important for our health. Suggested Resource Link:BOOK:  The Forgiveness Project: The Startling Discovery of How to Overcome Cancer, Find Health, and Achieve Peace

A cancering journey can be a tough road.  Conventional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can take a toll on a patient mentally, emotionally and physically.  But, there are some things that can be done to help alleviate some of the side-effects and even enhance the treatments!Join me today as I speak with Jen Nolan, owner and lead oncology nutrition consultant with Remission Nutrition.  Jen has a lot of fascinating information about practical things a cancering patient can do the benefit their treatment plan and even some information for anyone looking to improve their health through food.Connect with Jen at Remission Nutrition:https://www.remissionnutrition.com/Suggested Resources:NutivaPerfect AminosDesigns for HealthFour SigmaticForce of NatureBOOK:  The Metabolic Approach to CancerSuggestions for snacks to take on a trip or to the hospital:grain-free, low-carb granolajar/carton unsweetened nut milk or coconut milkfresh berrieshard boiled eggsegg salad with avocado mayo and crunchy veggies (think celery) or canned tunagrass fed meat sticksgreen apple slices and nut butter (sugar-free nut butter packets are available)1/2 avocado with salt and lemon/lime juice (eat with a spoon)macadamia nut hummus with veggies (celery, cucumber, bell pepper, etc.). suggested recipe:  Macadamia Nut HummusJen's Go-To Travel snack:  In a "dry" jar combine ground flax, hemp hearts, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, cinnamon, coconut flakes, blueberries.  In a "wet" jar bring a nut milk.  Pour milk into the "dry" jar and eat with a spoon.

When you are diagnosed with cancer, so many questions come to mind:How quickly do I need to begin treatment?What tests do I need to understand my cancer?What changes do I need to make to my lifestyle and food choices?What is a CSC or a CTC and is that important for my cancer journey?Dr. Leigh Erin Connealy answers these questions and provides so much more information for anyone who is currently a cancer patient or anyone who wants to take preventative steps.  She has been named one of the top fifty functional and integrative doctors in the US.  Don't miss this episode!Connect with Dr. Leigh Erin Connealy at the Cancer Center for Healing:https://cancercenterforhealing.com/Suggested Resource Links:Center for New MedicineBOOK:  The Cancer RevolutionBOOK:  Perfectly HealthyPUBMEDBelieve Big - Key Questions to Ask Your Oncologist (pdf)Berkey Water FiltersInstagram:  Cancer Center for Healing

Imagine taking your child to urgent care thinking they have appendicitis and instead being told they have cancer, and not just cancer, but Ewing sarcoma.  Ewing sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the bones and in the soft tissues around the bones.This is exactly what happened to Jen and Ella Edwards when Ella was only 9 years old!Today, Jen and Ella join me to talk about Ella's cancer journey, what they learned about pediatric cancer treatments, the choices parents can and cannot make, and some of the practical tools they put in place to help Ella heal.  She is now 15 years old and shares advice for other pediatric cancer patients. This is an inspiring episode that will surely touch your heart!Connect with Jen and Ella:https://www.ellastrong.org/Suggested Resource Links:EllaStrong Foundation - websiteEllaStrong Foundation - Instagram pageEllaStrong Foundation - FaceBook page: Team Ella EdwardsForever Fierce Foundation - Facebook page

Parents, this episode is especially for you!  Do you have a picky eater in the family?  Does the thought of mealtime with your picky eater cause a wave of anxiety for you?  Do you want to know how to better approach mealtime in a fun way to help your picky eater expand his/her palette and improve their nutrition levels?Well today, you are in the right place.  This week's podcast episode features Natalie Pelto, a mom and former healthcare worker with over 20 years of experience.   Natalie shares the incredible story of her son, his autism diagnosis at the age of 2 and how she helped him overcome that diagnosis by the age of 8 with proper nutrition.Natalie will touch on the relationship between childhood toxicity, the gut-brain connection for kids, and nutrition for autism and cancer patients.  There's something here for ANYONE who is or has a picky eater in the house.Connect with Natalie on her website:https://nataliepeltoheal.weebly.com/Suggested Resource Links:LINK:  Think Dirty appEnvironmental Working Group (EWG) websiteAthletic Greens (AG1)Plantiful Kiki websiteToomey SyringesBOOK:  The Power of HabitNatalie's Instagram Page

Hope is defined as an optimistic state of mind based on an expectation of positive outcomes; a feeling of trust;  or confident expectation.This week I am joined by author Andrea Herzer and Andrea knows all about hope, growing it and maintaining it.  Andrea shares her story of managing extreme challenges and finding hope in difficult times, primarily through chronic health issues. Despite her hardships, Andrea has been able to find hope and resilience by relying on her faith, leaning on her support system, and focusing on gratitude.Listen in as Andrea shares her insights and experiences on how to overcome adversity and find hope in life's toughest moments. She emphasizes the importance of staying positive and focusing on the good things in life, even when things seem bleak. This episode provides an inspiring and uplifting message for listeners who may be going through their own struggles and need some encouragement to keep going.Connect with Andrea Herzer on her website:https://www.andreaherzer.com/Suggested Resource Links:BOOK:  Incurable Faith, 120 Devotions of Lasting Hope for Lingering Health IssuesPODCAST:  Believe Big podcast interview with Kim HamerLINK:  Believe Big Spotify playlist

This week’s podcast features an interview with Maggie and Brad Jones. Maggie is a cancer survivor who was diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer at the age of 40 and given a terminal prognosis.  Maggie is now NED.Brad is a director, writer, and producer and has worked in the film industry for over 20 years.  Together, they have used Maggie’s cancer journey as an inspiration to create a new docu-series, CANCER/EVOLUTION which premieres this coming September.In this episode, Maggie shares her journey from cancer diagnosis to recovery and her use of metabolic therapies to treat her cancer.  She talks about the details of her metabolic therapy protocol and how it helped her overcome her cancer. Brad shares about the new docu-series, why he and Maggie decided to create it and some of the research that went into the project.From the docu-series website:  "CANCER/EVOLUTION is the story of the revolutionary scientists and practitioners committed to following scientific evidence rather than institutional dogma to find effective cancer treatments. In the process, they are starting to redefine not just cancer treatment, but our very definition of cancer and what causes it."Be sure to register with the link below for the World Premier of CANCER/EVOLUTION.Connect with Brad and Maggie on their docu-series Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/CANCEREVOLUTIONdoc/Suggested Resource Links:Register for the World Premier of CANCER/EVOLUTIONCANCER/EVOLUTION docu-series websiteBOOK:  Radical RemissionVideo:  Crazy Sexy CancerBOOK:  Radical Hope

Today’s podcast episode features Karen Dubs, a fitness and wellness expert. Karen shares her insights on managing stress and implementing self-care practices in daily life.We discuss the importance of recognizing the signs of stress, such as fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and irritability, and taking steps to address these. She emphasizes the role of physical activity in managing stress, recommending activities such as stretching/movement, strength training, and cardio workouts.She also shares tips for incorporating self-care practices into daily life, such as making time for hobbies and activities that bring joy, getting enough sleep, and maintaining healthy eating habits. She stresses the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care, even in the face of demanding work schedules or other obligations.Connect with Karen on her website:https://flexiblewarrior.com/Suggested Resource Links:BLOG:  Flexible WarriorLINK:  Peloton AppLINK:  CSA Organic Farms informationLINK:  Four Sigmatic (Believe Big affiliate)PDF:  Five Recipes to Kick Your Sugar Addiction (includes a smoothie recipe)PDF:  Self Care TipsYouTube LINK:  Breathe & Believe BigFlexible Warrior YouTube ChannelFollow Karen on her Instagram page:  Flexible Warrior

This is a very special episode for EVERYONE.   What do you do when your family member, your friend, your co-worker, your neighbor is diagnosed with cancer or is facing a difficult crisis?Have you ever said to that person you care about, "if you need anything, let me know"?  But you really didn't know what they needed.  You didn't really know what you could do for them, but you wanted to offer your care, support and love in their time of need.Kim Hamer has been there on both sides experiencing the need for practical help and  later supporting a person in her life who was in crisis.   She's written a pragmatic book as an amazing guide for anyone who wants to truly help and love a person dealing with challenging circumstances.  Kim exudes warmth and light in this podcast interview as she shares several key things she learned during her husband's cancer journey and ultimately his death.  Connect with Kim on her website:https://www.100actsoflove.com/Suggested Resource Links:BLOG:  100 Acts of LoveBOOK:  100 Acts of LoveFollow Kim on Instagram

The western American diet is under fire for the amount of sugar we consume on a daily basis.  Overconsumption of sugar creates all sorts of health issues for us and it is a big topic of discussion for everyone these days, especially cancer patients.In this episode, Dr. Lucas Tims of the Riordan Clinic returns for a second time to talk about sugar and the role it plays in cancer. Can consuming sugar increase your risk for cancer?Are there certain types of cancers that are more sensitive to sugar intake?Does sugar affect cancer treatments?Are artificial sweeteners beneficial to someone on a cancer journey?Dr. Tims answers these questions and talks about how sugar consumption can lead to inflammation in the body.  This inflammation can create an environment that is conducive to cancer growth.   He also discusses the importance of maintaining a healthy, balanced diet that is low in sugar and high in nutrients, sharing how he has helped his patients reduce their sugar consumption in their individual health journeys. You won't want to miss this enlightening episode!Connect with Dr. Tims at the Riordan Clinic - Overland Parkhttps://riordanclinic.org/Suggested Resource Links:LINK (PubMed Article): The Warburg Effect, Diet Based Strategies for Cancer PreventionWEBSITE:  Dr. Thomas Seyfried PODCAST:  Riordan Clinic BLOG:  Riordan Clinic's Educational Articles

Gut health, we've talked about it before.  It's a BIG part of our overall health picture and daily detox, colon cleansing and lymphatic drainage are essential pieces to good gut health.   When our gut is in good shape we experience a supported immune system, better sleep, hormone balance and bowel movements.  There are so many ways we can detox our bodies, and today's discussion revolves around castor oil packs.Dr. Marisol Teijeiro, ND, also known as Queen of the Thrones, is my guest today.  She has helped thousands of patients overcome digestive issues, reduce stress and take control of their toilet troubles.  In today's episode we talk about detoxing with castor oil packs, how castor oil packs workthe best time of day to use the packs and how long to use the packs,the many benefits of using castor oil packsand so much more.Connect with Dr. Marisol Teijeiro, ND on her Instagram page:https://www.instagram.com/bewellqueen/Suggested Resource Links:Website:  Queen of ThronesCastor Oil Packs - Believe Big Affiliate LinkQueen of Thrones - Instagram PageCastor Oil Pack Quiz - find out which pack is right for you

In this episode I get to speak with Dawn Swann, a certified integrative health coach, about the importance of gut health. Dawn shares her personal journey of healing her gut and gives tips on making simple changes in diet to improve overall health. She emphasizes that the key to optimal health is a process of continual learning and small steps. We also discuss the impact of food on overall health and how the gut microbiome affects the immune system. A few recommendations include:consuming dark chocolate, but suggests looking for a source with as little sugar as possible,using alternative sweeteners such as coconut sugar or coconut oil, consuming nuts with a higher fat content, such as walnuts and macadamia nuts. The conversation then moves on to misconceptions about healthy eating, with a focus on the hidden sugars and corn syrup found in many processed foods, and the importance of individualized nutrition guidance from a qualified practitioner. Connect with Dawn on her website:http://dawnswann.com/Suggested Resource Links:Recipe:  Blackberry Chocolate Mousse CupsRecipe:  Loaded Breakfast Muffins (gluten free, Paleo) - note from Dawn "I use unsweetened craisins instead of raisins and cut the maple syrup in half"PubMedRECIPE - Chocolate Almond Butter Yogurt Bark:1 1/2 cups unsweetened yogurt1/2 cup unsweetened almond butter ( or nut butter of choice)1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup ( can omit )1/3 cup chocolate chips ( I use Hu or Lily’s)Line a sheet pan with parchment paper, then mix first 3 ingredients in a bowl. Spread yogurt mixture onto sheet pan.Melt chocolate chips in microwave 20 second intervals to avoid burning or in a double boiler, then drizzle onto yogurt mixture and swirl with a knife.Freeze for about 4 hours then break into bark and enjoy! Store in freezer.Optional add ons:  shredded coconut, pumpkin seeds or berries.

In the information age, we are bombarded by traditional methods of healing that often fall short of supporting our needs. To thrive, we must get back to how our bodies heal themselves naturally through a combination of therapies including (but not limited to) light, vibration, PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) therapy, manual therapy, and exercise.Today’s podcast features Chris Hodel, my friend and an integrative practitioner who uses low-level laser therapy and rolfing to treat various conditions. Chris shares a health tip for stimulating the vagus nerve and calming the nervous system. He also explains that rolfing is a type of bodywork that unblocks the body's fascia, and how he incorporates lasers into his practice to enhance rolfing's objectives.Connect with Chris at 212° Wellness:https://212wellness.comSuggested Resource Links:LINK:  ErchoniaLow-Level Lasers, FAQsBlogpost:  Laser Myths and MisconceptionsFind a Laser Provider