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Radical Vitality

Radical Vitality

By Kanchan Koya

Welcome to Radical Vitality, a podcast dedicated to helping you live a healthy, vibrant, joyful life. Dr. Kanchan Koya is joined by leaders in science and medicine who are passionate about sharing their knowledge along with actionable tips for better health. Whether you’re a woman juggling the demands of modern life or someone who wants to optimize their health in an evidence-based, sustainable way, this podcast is your go-to source for cutting-edge science and practical tips.
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Simple Yet Powerful Tools To Transform Your Gut Health with Dr. Will Bulsiewicz

Radical VitalityApr 18, 2024

00:00
01:19:18
Simple Yet Powerful Tools To Transform Your Gut Health with Dr. Will Bulsiewicz

Simple Yet Powerful Tools To Transform Your Gut Health with Dr. Will Bulsiewicz

Welcome to Radical Vitality! In this episode, I speak with Dr. Will Bulsiewicz, a gastroenterologist and New York Times best-selling author, to discuss the fascinating interconnectedness of gut health with every aspect of our well-being. 

Gut health is inextricably linked with our overall health, disease risk and longevity. The science is emerging at breakneck speed and it’s telling us that most if not all of our chronic disease burden has a relationship of some sort with the health and vitality of our gut. There is compelling, accumulating evidence that when people have high-fiber, plant-rich diets, they significantly lower their risks of these diseases, and this is precisely what Dr. B speaks with me about today.

The microbiome is like a command center for human health, which includes digestion as well as metabolism, the immune system, hormones, mood, and brain health. Dr. B emphasizes the importance of examining one’s bowel movement patterns to identify potential problems and understand the possible interconnectedness of other symptoms with one’s gut health.

We speak about the imperative of eating a wide variety of plants and fermented foods. For me, the best way to ensure consistent diversity across plants is to make them delicious! Dr. B then walks us through two companies he is associated with, firstly Zoe, which I can vouch is amazing, that offers microbiome testing and very personalized diet suggestions, as well as 38TERA, which manufactures a truly innovative microbiome and prebiotic fiber supplement. 

If you want to learn more about how gut health is connected to seemingly every pillar of our health, from inflammation, exercise, sleep, skin, and even conditions such as leaky gut and acid reflux, and simple yet powerful ways to optimize it, this episode is not to be missed! 


Episode Outline:

(03:12) The importance of prioritizing gut health

(09:23) Signs that your gut health is great, or not

(12:33) Bristol Stool Scale

(19:20) Gut microbiome tests and the Zoe diet

(28:45) The gut loves consistent variety!

(34:42) Coffee and acid reflux

(38:01) Everyday foods Dr. B recommends for gut health

(42:29) America doesn’t have a protein problem but a fiber problem

(50:59) Fiber supplements vs the real thing

(52:43) Exercise and the gut connection(55:32) Small fasts yield big impact

(1:00:09) Truth behind leaky gut

(1:05:13) Hormesis, or how different kinds of stress impact the microbiome

(1:10:20) The nuance of probiotics 


Resources Referenced:

Efficacy of Probiotics in Children and Adolescents With Atopic Dermatitis: research paper

Bristol stool scale: diagram

Going Head to Head with Heartburn course: enroll here

How to Become FIBER FUELLED and Revolutionize Your Health: Momlight! podcast episode

Can Spices Improve Your Health? with Kanchan Koya: ZOE podcast episode


Connect with Dr. Will Bulsiewicz: 

Instagram: @theguthealthmd

Website: theplantfedgut.com

Learn more about Zoe: zoe.com

Learn more about Dr. B's new science-based prebiotic supplement: 38tera.com

Buy Fiber Fueled

Buy The Fiber Fueled Cookbook

 

Connect with Kanchan: 

Instagram

Website

Subscribe on YouTube

Apr 18, 202401:19:18
Practical Optimism: A Path To Exceptional Wellbeing

Practical Optimism: A Path To Exceptional Wellbeing

Welcome to Radical Vitality! In this episode, I speak with Dr. Sue Varma, a distinguished psychiatrist and cognitive behavioral therapist, to discuss her latest book, Practical Optimism, which holds the keys to establishing greater meaning, mastery, and acceptance in your life. 

Dr. Varma’s new book, Practical Optimism, is written as a solution to the mental health crisis our society continues to face. Practical optimism is about becoming a resourceful, realistic, and thoughtful problem solver. It’s a mindset to develop so that you can cope with any crisis and use it as fuel to flourish, supported by life skills. 

Optimists are predisposed to better mental health than non-optimists. Dr. Varma draws a distinct line between toxic optimists and practical optimists. Optimists are defined as taking positive action steps, investing in themselves, and having better habits than non-optimists. Ultimately, she stresses, practical optimism is a practice, like yoga or journaling.

Dr. Varma introduces the 8 pillars to becoming a practical optimist as detailed in her book. In several cases, she compares how a pessimist and an optimist might handle the same situation to illuminate the best form of behavior. She also offers quick-to-implement tips for when you’re up against negative emotions, such as the name it, claim it, frame it, tame it framework. 

Ultimately, there is no health without mental health. Good and bad feelings will come and go, and they are all part of the human experience. This conversation with Dr. Varma is honestly full of amazing wellness tips that you can integrate into your daily wellness practice today!

Episode Outline:

(03:09) Dr. Varma’s passion for psychiatry began at home 

(05:55) Current state of mental health

(09:02) Optimists tend to be the mental healthiest

(12:04) Research of resilience

(14:54) How to become a practical optimist

(18:58) What to do with negative feelings 

(26:05) Introduction to the eight pillars of practical optimism

(31:43) Physical health supports an optimistic mindset 

(38:02) Intentional social media habits

(42:51) Tips for engaging in a healthy hustle culture 

(48:09) Dr. Varma’s non-negotiable daily habit


Resources Referenced:

Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zin


Connect with Dr. Sue Varma:

Instagram

Website

Newsletter

Order Practical Optimism: The Art, Science & Practice Of Exceptional Wellbeing


Connect with Kanchan: 

Instagram 

Website

Newsletter
Subscribe on YouTube

Apr 11, 202451:35
Thriving On The Power Of Plants With Muzammil Ahmad @dr.plantbased
May 18, 202101:01:42
Prevent Alzheimers, Optimize Your Brain Health + Live Your Best Life With Drs Ayesha & Dean Sherzai

Prevent Alzheimers, Optimize Your Brain Health + Live Your Best Life With Drs Ayesha & Dean Sherzai

If you are tired of the nutrition wars, mindless bickering among so called health experts and diet debates and are looking for REAL solutions for optimal brain and overall health, this conversation is for you.

Drs. Ayesha and Dean Sherzai are clinicians, researchers and educators on a mission to help us prevent Alzheimers disease, prevent cognitive decline and enjoy optimal brain (and overall) health through the power of science-based dietary and lifestyle measures.

Learn about the best diet for brain health based on the scientific evidence and other key lifestyle practices that can help you show up as the sharpest version of yourself so you can share your gifts with the world, be present for those you love and essentially live a life of radical vitality.

Pick up their new book THE 30 DAY ALZHEIMER'S SOLUTION
here and follow them on Instagram @sherzaimd


About the Sherzais:

Dr. Dean Sherzai is a behavioral neurologist / neuroscientist whose entire life has been dedicated to behavioral change models at the community and population level. He has revolutionized the world of public health nationally and internationally. Dean finished his medical and neurology residencies at Georgetown University with a subsequent fellowship in neurodegenerative diseases at the National Institutes of Health, followed by a second fellowship in Dementia and Geriatrics at the University of California, San Diego. He also holds two master’s Degrees; in advanced sciences at UCSD and in lifestyle epidemiology from Loma Linda University. He has received a PhD in Healthcare leadership focused on community empowerment from Loma Linda/Andrews University. Finally, he completed the executive leadership program at Harvard Business School. His vision has always been to revolutionize healthcare by empowering communities to take control of their own health.

Dr. Ayesha Sherzai finished two residencies at Loma Linda University; preventive medicine and neurology. She also holds a master’s in advanced sciences from UCSD. Subsequent to completing her residency Dr. Sherzai completed a fellowship in vascular neurology from Columbia University, and is currently enrolled to finish a PhD in women’s leadership. Knowing the importance of empowering her patients, and their communities Ayesha completed an extensive culinary training program and now teaches large populations how to make tasty, easy, and healthy food for their brain health.

Mar 30, 202101:05:12
How To Stop Feeling So Effing Tired With Dr. Amy Shah
Mar 12, 202152:55
Raising Healthy Kids In An Unhealthy World With Dr. Ana-Maria Temple
Feb 12, 202146:23
Dr. Anna Yusim: Becoming Fulfilled Through Science & Spirituality
Jan 08, 202145:25
Feeding Kids, Taking The Pressure Off & Self-Care with Jennifer Anderson of Kids.Eat.In.Color

Feeding Kids, Taking The Pressure Off & Self-Care with Jennifer Anderson of Kids.Eat.In.Color

Jennifer Anderson, MSPH, RDN is a social media sensation with her Instagram account kids.eat.in.color now at over a million followers and her pragmatic, inclusive, empathetic and knowledgable advice on how to feed kids with minimal stress often going viral (for good reason)!

I had the good fortune of being able to sit down with Jennifer to chat about the inspiration for her platform, her powerful and down-to-earth approach to nourish our kids (and ourselves as moms!), her own health struggles and how she overcame them, and all her incredible programs, offerings and free resources to help more parents raise adventurous eaters without the stress and anxiety that is all too common these days. 

This chat was honest, refreshing and packed with insight. You can follow Jennifer on instagram @kids.eat.in.color or visit her website at www.kidseatincolor.com

Dec 04, 202001:00:15
The Unique Nutritional Needs Of Women With Dr. Erin Stokes of MegaFood

The Unique Nutritional Needs Of Women With Dr. Erin Stokes of MegaFood

This episode is sponsored by MegaFood but all opinions and discussion points are my own.

When it comes to recommendations on nutrition and health, the unique needs of women are often overlooked. In this episode, packed with information and insight, Dr. Erin Stokes, the Medical Director at MegaFood guides us through specific micronutrients and other aspects of health that women need to pay attention to for optimal vitality. If you are a woman looking to access your deepest health and radiance of body AND mind, this is a conversation you do not want to miss.

More about Dr. Erin Stokes

Erin received her Naturopathic Doctor degree from Bastyr University in 2001. Shortly afterwards she pursued her passion for education by becoming an instructor at Southwest Acupuncture College.

Erin combines her experience in private practice as a Naturopathic Doctor with an extensive background in the natural products industry. In her role as Medical Director at MegaFood, she has the opportunity to educate on health and wellness topics via webinars, podcasts, and radio shows. She is a registered Naturopathic Doctor in the state of Colorado, and lives with her family in Boulder, Colorado.

More about MegaFood

MegaFood is a leader in the natural supplements industry and the first company to have harnessed the nutritional power of farm fresh foods to make vitamins and supplements from scratch. They are a certified B corp, joining together with some of the world’s best brands to not just be the best in the world, but to be the best for the world by being committed to meeting rigorous standards for social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. You can learn more about MegaFood and their top quality supplements and products here.

Nov 18, 202049:58
This Is Your Brain On Food with Harvard Nutritional Psychiatrist Dr. Uma Naidoo

This Is Your Brain On Food with Harvard Nutritional Psychiatrist Dr. Uma Naidoo

What we eat doesn't just impact our physical health but also has powerful implications for our mental health. In fact, the body and the mind are intimately connected and to help us understand how we can optimize our brain health with food, I sat down with Dr. Uma Naidoo, a rare kind of medical doctor who is not just a Harvard trained psychiatrist but also a nutrition expert AND a chef!!!! Dr. Naidoo recently released the bestseller, THIS IS YOUR BRAIN ON FOOD and shares potent tips to help us improve our brain health with delicious food starting right now. You can learn more about Dr Uma Naidoo here and follow her on Instagram @drumanaidoo


More about Dr. Uma Naidoo

Michelin-starred chef David Bouley described Dr. Uma Naidoo as the world’s first “triple threat” in the food and medicine space: a Harvard trained psychiatrist, Professional Chef graduating with her culinary schools’ most coveted award, and a trained Nutrition Specialist. Her nexus of interests have found their niche in Nutritional Psychiatry.

Dr. Naidoo founded and directs the first hospital-based Nutritional Psychiatry Service in the United States. She is the Director of Nutritional and Lifestyle Psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) & Director of Nutritional Psychiatry at MGH Academy while serving on the faculty at Harvard Medical School.

She was considered Harvard’s Mood-Food expert, has been featured in the Wall Street Journal.


Oct 23, 202046:27
Non-Toxic: A Guide To Living Healthy In A Chemical World with Dr. Aly Cohen

Non-Toxic: A Guide To Living Healthy In A Chemical World with Dr. Aly Cohen

When it comes to chemicals in our food supply, homes and environment, ignorance is sadly, not bliss. Mounting research continues to suggest that these chemicals, all too rampant in our modern world, are wreaking havoc on our health.

In this actionable and insightful episode, Dr. Aly Cohen, author of the newly released Non-Toxic and founder of www.thesmarthuman.com helps us understand WHY we should care about chemicals and what to do about them without feeling the need to be perfect or paranoid. 

If you want to take your health or the health of your families seriously, this episode is an invaluable resource to detoxifying your life in an approachable, practical and accessible way.

More about Dr. Aly Cohen

Dr. Aly Cohen is tripled board certified in internal medicine, rheumatology, and integrative medicine, and she is also a trained specialist in environmental health. She specializes in a variety of rheumatologist ailments as well as mental health issues, migraines, dementia prevention, diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, obesity, and women’s health.

Dr. Cohen received her undergraduate degree at the University of Pennsylvania. She went on to medical training at Hahnemann University Hospital School of Medicine in Philadelphia, and completed her internship and residency in internal medicine at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City. Dr. Cohen continued her specialist training in rheumatology and autoimmune diseases at Montefiore Hospital/Albert Einstein University Hospital in the Bronx, New York. Dr. Cohen is currently in private practice in Princeton, New Jersey. Her practice, that she founded in 2011, Integrative Rheumatology Associates P.C., focuses on both traditional western medical management of rheumatologic ailments, as well as integrative options for total “wellness”, such as biofeedback, acupuncture, cognitive therapy, diet and exercise counseling, environmental toxin counseling, smoking cessation, stress management and sleep evaluations.

Learn more at www.thesmarthuman.com and follow Dr. Aly Cohen on Instagram @thesmarthuman





Sep 29, 202049:56
How Intermittent Fasting Can Change Your Life With Dr. Amy Shah
Aug 07, 202047:48
The Healing Magic of Herbs With Rachelle Robinett
Jul 16, 202054:12
The FRESH approach to medicine with Harvard trained Integrative Medicine Expert Dr. Robert Graham

The FRESH approach to medicine with Harvard trained Integrative Medicine Expert Dr. Robert Graham

In this episode of Momlight, I sat down with Dr. Robert Graham, founder of FRESH MED that is pioneering a whole new way of treating patients for radiant health. We talked about the integrative medicine approach and how the FRESH FIVE are the key pillars to health. 

Dr Graham rightfully believes that “food plays a major role not only in the treatment of existing diseases, but also in health promotion and disease prevention.” Dr. Graham is the real deal as he is one of the less than 20 doctor/chefs worldwide helping patients thrive by combining conventional medicine with an integrative approach. 

Dr. Graham is a Harvard-trained physician, Board Certified in both Internal and Integrative Medicine and has over 15 years of clinical experience. Dr. Graham received a Master’s of Public Health from the Harvard School of Public Health while completing fellowships in General Internal Medicine and Complementary and Integrative Medical Therapies at Harvard Medical School and Medical Education at Mount Auburn Hospital in Cambridge, Massachusetts. He also completed course-work in Mind/Body Medicine, Positive Psychology, Lifestyle Medicine, Culinary Medicine, Botanical and Traditional Chinese Medicine. In 2018, Dr. Graham became a rare breed of doctor chefs as he obtained his culinary degree from the Natural Gourmet Institute.

In the summer of 2016, Dr. Graham started FRESH MED, an integrative health and wellness center at SHIFT WELLNESS, where he currently sees patients. FRESH is an INTEGRATIVE HEALTH practice that represents a paradigm shift from the conventional approach of "a pill for an ill" to one that "addresses the root cause of disease."

The FRESH model of healthcare combines the best of conventional medicine including diagnostic testing, tools and technologies, as well as clinical nutrition, functional medicine, health coaching (grounded in positive psychology), complementary therapies, and extensive and innovative testing. 

Dr. Graham believes healing should be a fully collaborative meaningful partnership between the doctor and the patient, and believes wellness is just as important as treatment. To learn more about Dr. Graham and to work with him as a patient, visit https://www.freshmednyc.com/dr-robert-graham-integrative-medicine-nyc.




Jul 07, 202001:00:01
Moringa, Broccoli Sprouts & Health & Longevity Magic From Plants With Dr. Jed Fahey

Moringa, Broccoli Sprouts & Health & Longevity Magic From Plants With Dr. Jed Fahey

In this episode, I sat down with Dr. Jed Fahey to talk about sulforaphane, arguably one of the most beneficial plant-derived phytochemicals currently known to man. Dr. Fahey (who will soon retire from his successful career at Johns Hopkins Medical School) is a world expert on sulforaphane and other plant-derived compounds called isothiocyanates that have tremendous benefits for our health.

I may be biased but this episode truly feels akin to attending a lecture at a world-renowned university on an incredibly important subject of human health, namely leveraging the potency of some of the most powerful plant-based compounds to prevent disease and optimize our health. You will learn about sulforaphane and a similar compound found in the moringa tree. We discuss how to ingest these plants for optimal benefits,  the mechanism of action that confers health benefits, supplements, and caveats around TREATING rather than preventing diseases like cancer with these compounds. Get your notebooks out, get comfortable and let's dive deep into the health-boosting magic of plants.

Dr Fahey is a nutritional biochemist with broad training and extensive background in plant physiology, human nutrition, phytochemistry and nutritional biochemistry. He is currently the Director of the Cullman Chemoprotection Center at Johns Hopkins Medical School, where plant-based cancer prevention agents are being developed. His research addresses the induction by phytochemicals, of cytoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant responses in mammalian systems. His work draws on elements of natural product chemistry, enzymology, nutritional epidemiology and clinical research to develop nutritional strategies for chronic disease prevention in humans. Many of these studies deal with the glucosinolates and isothiocyanates that are found primarily in cruciferous vegetables and in a nutritious tropical tree called the drumstick tree or Moringa oleifera. Other work focuses upon a variety of flavonoid and phenolic secondary metabolites from ginseng, honey, ginger, ashwagandha, black cohosh, and other plants.

BRANDS DISCUSSED: 

Kuli Kuli Moringa that is bringing high quality, organic moringa from Africa to the US and empowering women farmers in the process. Use code CHIEFSPICEMAMA for 15% off at www.kulikulifoods.com

Avmacol sulforaphane supplements (note the caveats discussed in the episode that supplementing with high doses may be counterproductive once full blown cancer has already developed). 

Jun 16, 202050:01
How To Become FIBER FUELED & Revolutionize Your Health

How To Become FIBER FUELED & Revolutionize Your Health

As the chief medical resident at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Dr. Will Bulsiewicz was crushing his goals professionally, yet personally, his health, anxiety levels and confidence were at rock bottom. When he started dating his now wife who ate a plant-based diet, he became intrigued and decided to give it a try. Taking baby steps away from his standard American diet, Dr. B began to experience a monumental shift in his weight, energy levels and gut health! When he dove into the scientific literature, he was astounded to find scores and score of studies linking plants to optimal gut health and began incorporating this evidence into his gastroenterology practice. The transformation he witnessed among his countless patients propelled him to write FIBER FUELED, his latest bestselling book on the science behind why a plant-forward diet is the ONLY way to have a healthy gut and bullet proof overall health.

In this episode, Dr. B shares his top tip for optimal gut health, why gut health is intimately linked to every aspect of overall health, why FIBER is the game changer, issues with fad diets and trends, supplements that are hype versus genuinely helpful and common myths that are holding us all back from the gut and overall health we all deserve. You will finish this episode empowered and inspired to begin to transform your health TODAY.

You can learn more about Dr. B and his inspiring work at www.theplantfedgut.com , pick up your copy of his bestseller FIBER FUELED, and follow him on instagram @theguthealthmd



May 21, 202001:14:01
From Carnivore to Vegan With Model & Wellness Warrior, Jules Horn
May 06, 202049:45
Mastering Diabetes: Conquer Insulin Resistance & Unlock Your Vitality With Cyrus Khambatta PhD & Robby Barbaro MPH
Apr 15, 202001:23:34
How I Defeated T2 Diabetes With Food As Medicine With Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams

How I Defeated T2 Diabetes With Food As Medicine With Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams

When Brooklyn borough president, Eric Adams, was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, he refused to resign himself to a life of medication and mere symptom management. Putting on his ex-cop detective hat, he dug deep for root cause solutions and discovered Whole Food Plant Based nutrition. A couple months into this new diet, his diabetes was reversed, including vision loss! Since then, Eric is on a mission to bring the power of food as healing medicine to Brooklyn and New York City residents. In this inspiring episode, Eric shares his journey overcoming diabetes and why he is now a passionate advocate of plant-based nutrition for the health of our bodies and our planet. You can learn more Eric and his story here.

For the past three decades, Eric L. Adams has served the residents of Brooklyn as borough president, state senator, police officer, and coalition builder. In November of 2017, he was reelected for a second term to represent all of Brooklyn as borough president. Born in Brownsville and educated in the City’s public school system, Eric is committed to ensuring Brooklyn’s bright future by helping each and every Brooklynite reach his or her full potential. Eric has worked to make the popularity of Brooklyn’s brand translate into prosperity for the over 2.6 million Brooklynites that call the borough home. He is a big believer in the power of connections, of bringing together people in need of services with resources that have long existed but have been underutilized. As a legislator, Eric’s record in the New York State Senate was one that underscored his strong commitment to the rights of those from every walk of life, including protecting the right to privacy, supporting marriage equality, defending a woman’s right to choose, as well as fighting for students’ rights, workers’ rights, and animal rights. His work involved efforts to prevent racial profiling, gender discrimination, domestic violence, and elder abuse.

Apr 02, 202029:36
Giving Zero Fs And Loving Yourself No Matter Your Size With Pia Schiavo-Campo

Giving Zero Fs And Loving Yourself No Matter Your Size With Pia Schiavo-Campo

In this powerful episode I sat down with Pia Schiavo-Campo also known as @MIXEDFATCHICK to talk about how we can learn to love, honor and embrace ourselves no matter our size. Pia is a fat writer, social justice warrior, style enthusiast, and a certified coach. She is also co-author of the book, Love It!: 234 Inspirations and Activities to Help You Love Your Body. You might be familiar with her by way of the Internet, public speaking or from features in Good Morning America, People magazine, and Yoga International Magazine. She made waves through the web with Chronicles of a Mixed Fat Chick, a blog that questions conventional notions of beauty and empowers women to take up as much space as they damn well please while dismantling the patriarchy. Pia believes that when women work together, they can heal and lead the world. While writing articles about body image, she has also spent the last ten years working in social justice at both the direct service level and policy level. She is currently a partner, and brand strategist with the social impact firm, Momentum Solutions Team. Pia is a graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park and the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York. She is Black and Sicilian, speaks Italian fluently, and lives in South Los Angeles her awesome husband, Will and hilarious son, Paolo. 

Mar 22, 202046:17
Supercharge Your Gut Health With Integrative Gastroenterologist Dr. Marvin Singh MD
Feb 21, 202048:05
Indistractable: How To Control Your Attention And Choose Your Life With NYTimes Bestselling Author Nir Eyal

Indistractable: How To Control Your Attention And Choose Your Life With NYTimes Bestselling Author Nir Eyal

Nir Eyal knows a thing or two about the power of technology and other distractions to suck us in. As the New York Times bestselling author of Hooked: How To Build Habit Forming Products, Nir began noticing how the very technology he admired for all the good it could do in the world also had the power to distract us from the things we valued. When a sweet and poignant exchange with his young daughter was something he couldn't even remember because of 'a ding' from his phone, he knew he had to come up with strategies to manage modern day distractions in a sustainable way. 

In this true gem of an episode, Nir helps us understand that distraction is not a modern day challenge but something that has plagued humanity for centuries (it's just taken different forms). Nir discusses the internal triggers that drive us to get distracted in the first place and how we can manage them. He also teaches us how to hack back habit forming apps and technology so that they can serve us instead of us serving them. My favorite part of the conversation was Nir's advice on raising indistractable kids (take notes)!

Instead of seeing ourselves as victims of 'evil' technology, Nir's framework leaves us empowered so we can move forward with our goals while enjoying the benefits of technological advancements. In a time when so many of us feel helpless and paralyzed by omnipresent distractions, INDISTRACTABLE is a breath of fresh air and hope so we can become the masters of our health, happiness, productivity and ultimately, our lives. 

Follow Nir and his valuable insights at www.nirandfar.com , on Instagram @neyal99 and check out his amazing, ultra helpful book Indistractable wherever books are sold. 



Jan 23, 202055:01
What Is Acupuncture Anyway?! With Dr. Shari Auth, Founder of WTHN

What Is Acupuncture Anyway?! With Dr. Shari Auth, Founder of WTHN

Acupuncture has been around for centuries but still evokes a 'this is woo woo' reaction from many. It turns out that the science is catching up to this ancient practice and even institutions like Harvard Medical School recognize it's utility as a healing tool. 

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Shari Auth to help demystify acupuncture and herbal medicine for us. And if you're in the NYC area, I HIGHLY recommend getting a session with her at her beautiful new spa WTHN. I felt completely rejuvenated after my treatment! 

Sought after by clients from around the world, Dr. Shari Auth, has been a leading holistic health practitioner in New York City for over two decades. Her signature treatments combine ancient wisdom from global traditions with scientific knowledge and deep intuition to treat a wide range of conditions including chronic and acute pain, mental health, women's health, insomnia, digestion, and postural issues, among others.

Dr. Auth has studied the healing arts globally from China to India, Peru, Thailand and beyond – becoming steeped in ancient healing practices that have woven the rich tapestry of her healing practices today. She studied at the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine and is a licensed and NCCAOM certified Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine. She has a Master’s in Herbology and is a Board Certified Chinese Herbalist also with extensive training in Vedic and Western herbs. Among her many other accreditations, she is a licensed massage therapist, guild-certified in the Rolf Method of Structural Integration and a Faculty Member of the Swedish Institute, NYC. She founded The Auth Method of Therapeutic Massage and has trained thousands of practitioners on this method.

From her work at Deepak Chopra’s Center in Southern California to her own wellness practice in New York City, Shari has attracted celebrity clientele with her signature blend of acupuncture, herbs and bodywork.

Learn more about Dr. Shari Auth at https://www.shariauth.com/about

Learn more about WTHN at https://wthn.com/

Follow Dr. Auth on social https://www.instagram.com/drshariauth/?hl=en

Dec 11, 201940:41
Healing IBS With Mindfulness And What It Takes To 'Get The Glow' With Highly Sought After Integrative Health Coach, Madeleine Shaw

Healing IBS With Mindfulness And What It Takes To 'Get The Glow' With Highly Sought After Integrative Health Coach, Madeleine Shaw

Madeleine Shaw became a health and wellness warrior when the word 'wellness' was barely a part of our lexicon. In fact, I started following Madeleine's blog back in the day in 2014 and was so inspired by her fresh and holistic approach to health and 'getting your glow'. In this heartfelt and fun chat, Madeleine opens up about her own early health challenges with IBS and how a mindful, 360 approach helped her heal. Now she is helping others do the same through her truly revolutionary 'Happy Gut Guide' online program that she designed with a a Clinical Nutritionist that puts mindfulness front and centre in the IBS conversation. Madeleine shares her tips on how to get that elusive glow in #momlife and being a mother of a toddler, she has sure been in the trenches like the rest of us. Madeleine's approach is gentle, compassionate and delicious (her recipes will make you salivate truly). Don't miss our chat for just hearing Madeleine and tuning into her calm, genuine vibe will bring you closer the glow. You can follow Madeleine on instagram, subscribe to her blog for delicious weekly inspiration, and check out her revolutionary IBS healing program

Nov 17, 201959:52
The Four Pillars Of Health + The Smoothie That Will Change Your Life With Celebrity Nutritionist, Solluna Founder and Bestselling Author, Kimberly Snyder

The Four Pillars Of Health + The Smoothie That Will Change Your Life With Celebrity Nutritionist, Solluna Founder and Bestselling Author, Kimberly Snyder

Kimberly Snyder has worked with some of the most beautiful, A-list stars in Hollywood but knows that real beauty is anything but skin deep. In this rich episode packed with actionable tips and authentic, heartfelt wisdom, Kimberly shares her four pillars of wellness, why self-care is about going within (not about seeking pleasures outside of ourselves), how her #GGS smoothie saves her in #momlife, how to deconstruct and approach sugar and other unhealthy cravings and why difficulty losing weight is an emotional, not just a physical issue + SO MUCH MORE. Buckle up and get ready for this is a chat you don't want to miss. 

Kimberly Snyder, C.N. is the multi-time New York Times bestselling author of The Beauty Detox book series and Radical Beauty, co-written with Deepak Chopra. She is the founder of Solluna, a holistic lifestyle brand and the #FeelGoodMovement, which promotes eating and living to be connected to our unique bodies, intuition and true worth.

Snyder is also a nutritionist, renowned speaker, meditation teacher, certified yoga instructor, and holistic wellness expert. She hosts the top-rated Feel Good Podcast with Kimberly Snyder, which airs on the PodcastOne network. 


Kimberly has worked with dozens of A-list celebrities, such as Drew Barrymore, Reese Witherspoon and Channing Tatum, and has been featured in media outlets including Ellen, Today, Good Morning America, The Dr. Oz Show, The New York Times, Vanity Fair, The Wall Street Journal, Elle, and InStyle, and is a member of the Wellness Council for Well + Good. Named one of the top “results-oriented nutritionists” by Vogue, she runs her Solluna organic juice and smoothie bar at the iconic Four Seasons hotel in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles.




Oct 31, 201938:52
Powerful Tools To Manage Anxiety With Holistic Health & Anxiety Coach Amrit Sadhana Khalsa
Oct 18, 201901:02:12
Nurturing our Microbiome with Ara Katz, co-founder and co-CEO of game-changing probiotics company, SEED

Nurturing our Microbiome with Ara Katz, co-founder and co-CEO of game-changing probiotics company, SEED

Disclaimer: While this podcast episode was not sponsored by SEED, I am engaged in a paid partnership with the company whereby if you purchase their daily SYNBIOTIC (pro and pre-biotic combination) here, I make a commission at no extra cost to you. You can use the code MOMLIGHT for 15% off your first month's purchase. Now onto the show!

This week I sat down with Ara Katz, mompreneur extraordinaire and a profoundly thoughtful and wise human to dive deep into the world of bacteria and particularly, our microbiome.

Ara is the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Seed, a consumer life science company pioneering applications of bacteria to improve human and planetary health. Seed (the consumer division of Seed Health, Inc.) develops broad spectrum and targeted consumer probiotics from strain-specific research validated in human clinical trials. Seed’s life science approach brings much-needed precision, efficacy and education to the rather unregulated global probiotics market.

Ara’s breastfeeding experience led her to the microbiome and inspired a personal mission to bridge science and consumer health.  A serial entrepreneur, Ara previously Co-Founded and served as CMO of mobile commerce marketplace, Spring (recently sold to Shoprunner), was on the Founding Team of social commerce company, BeachMint (sold to Conde Nast), advises various companies across health, tech, and consumer, including Violet Grey, Tamara Mellon and, Stadium Goods, which was recently acquired by FarFetch and is an angel investor to companies like Mahmee (women’s health startup) and Hong Kong-based ALLIES.  Ara has been a fellow at the MIT Media Lab’s Center for Future Storytelling and CCA’s Design MBA program. She was named in Marie Claire’s “The New Guard: The 50 Most Influential Women in America”, listed on Business Insider’s “Silicon Alley Top 100” and “36 Rockstar Women in NYC Tech”, and was recently included in Create + Cultivate’s 100 List for STEM.

Ara was the Founding Board Member of International Non-profit, I AM THAT GIRL, a community and movement for any badass young woman who is looking to find her purpose, lift her voice, and make positive change in her world.  She lives in Venice, California with her husband and three-year-old son, Pax–without whom Seed wouldn’t exist. Oh, and she’s the proud owner of several tardigrades who now live at Harvard’s Museum of Natural History.  You can follow Ara on instagram @arakatz @seed @seeduniversity


Oct 03, 201948:38
Why We Overeat & Gain Weight ( + What To Do About It) With Scientist & Author Of The Hungry Brain, Dr. Stephan Guyenet
Sep 08, 201956:13
YOU Have The Power To Prevent Cancer with Dr. Christian Gonzalez

YOU Have The Power To Prevent Cancer with Dr. Christian Gonzalez

In this information-packed episode, Dr. Christian Gonzalez popularly known as Doctor G shares his vast knowledge of diet and lifestyle changes that can profoundly lower your risk of developing cancer.

Dr. Gonzalez subscribes to the belief that the body has an innate ability to heal itself when given favourable conditions to thrive. He completed his Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine at the University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine in 2014. His doctorate work included a thesis reviewing the current and complementary treatments for bladder cancer. As part of his training, Christian completed clinical rotations in pediatrics, general medicine, oncology, homeopathy, botanical and mind-body medicine, along with a preceptorship at the NYU Langone Integrative Urology Center.  Dr. Gonzalez completed a two-year residency position at the competitive Cancer Treatment Centres of America in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Here, he became proficient in Integrative Oncology through exposure to various disciplines and modalities. Dr. Gonzalez’s rare balance of focus and bedside manner during his residency caused him to grow very popular amongst his peers and patients. He provides optimal patient care, by incorporating Naturopathic modalities, such as botanicals, homeopathy, nutrient and nutritional support as well as various other therapeutics. He integrates the latest understanding of Naturopathic therapeutics into all types of medical conditions.

Don't walk but run to listen to this actionable, useful and super important conversation that will empower you beyond belief. You can follow @doctor.g_ on instagram for amazingly useful tips and tools for cancer and disease prevention and also listen to his wildly popular podcast Heal Thyself. 

Aug 21, 201948:53
Time Restricted Eating + Intermittent Fasting for Moms

Time Restricted Eating + Intermittent Fasting for Moms

In this solo episode, I dive into the science and the basics of time restricted eating and intermittent fasting especially focused on mothers and busy #momlife. I suggest actionable steps you can take to implement these science-backed powerful practices in your life as a mom with potentially game changing health benefits. Hope you enjoy! 

Aug 16, 201932:06
Overcoming anxiety and creating a safe space for other mamas to do the same with Nicole DeLeon of Soulmamaspodcast
Aug 01, 201954:04
How Breast Cancer Awakened My Inner Warrior with Anu Sehgal of The Culture Tree

How Breast Cancer Awakened My Inner Warrior with Anu Sehgal of The Culture Tree

Anu Sehgal was a successful, health conscious, busy mama in her 40s with no genetic predisposition to cancer when she was blindsided by a breast cancer diagnosis. In this episode of Momlight, Anu shares her journey from feeling utterly shell-shocked, helpless and afraid to going into 'warrior mode' to get the job done and get past the cancer. This conversation is incredibly inspiring and shows us how in the face of the most intense challenge, we all have an inner strength that helps us rise to the occasion. Anu shares changes that she has made in her life after her battle with cancer including intermittent fasting, a mindfulness practice and an attempt to slow down and sleep more #workinprogress I know you will find this episode moving and inspirational. 

Anu Sehgal is the Founder of The Culture Tree. She lives in New York with her husband and her two sons. She is a marketer by profession. She holds an MBA from Yale University and has worked in the corporate sector for almost 15 years.

Anu grew up in India and is a native Hindi speaker. She is an active parent and believes an awareness of one’s heritage, culture and language is key for children to become self-aware and confident individuals. Anu founded her company The Culture Tree four years ago, with a desire to fill a vacuum for quality and educational South Asian events and classes in the New York City area. Her company continues to grow and expand.

As a cultural educator, she is always looking forward to providing children with authentic, immersive and inspiring experiences. In general her focus is at providing children and their families cross-cultural exposure that can help develop knowledgeable, open-minded and respectful individuals.

Anu is a health enthusiast, she leads an active and healthy lifestyle. For exercise she swims and does yoga regularly. She is also into mindful eating and healthy cooking, she is constantly making delectable Indian dishes that are healthy and made with fresh and seasonal ingredients. She teaches cooking classes both to children and grownups and is an active volunteer at WITS (Wellness In The Schools).


Jul 17, 201958:41
From alcohol, addiction and anxiety to radiant health and joy with Lisa Roberts Hurd of Food.Body.Soul
Jul 03, 201958:43
Ayurveda for the Modern Age with Noelle Kovary
Jun 26, 201952:22
How to raise healthy + adventurous eaters with dietician Nicole Silber of FoodieKid
Jun 18, 201951:28
Why Turmeric Rocks + 5 Must Have Spices for Health + Flavor
Jun 13, 201923:28
Thriving Despite Endometriosis, Dietitian Tips + Power of Faith with Noelle Martin of motherhoodandmeals
Jun 05, 201952:10
Health not Size, Veggie Loading + How Gratitude Changes Everything with Taesha Butler of The Natural Nurturer

Health not Size, Veggie Loading + How Gratitude Changes Everything with Taesha Butler of The Natural Nurturer

This week's guest, the lovely Taesha Butler, is the founder of www.thenaturalnurturer.com where she shares her passion for natural living, veggie loaded everything (for kids and adults!), delicious recipes, and wise parenting tips. Taesha is a truly conscious mama who is helping elevate the mom game in a light hearted and genuine way. In this episode, we chat about why she founded The Natural Nurturer, how she has a coffee date with her husband every morning www.thenaturalnurturer.com and on Instagram @thenaturalnurturer and you can purchase her gorgeous e-book with must-have delicious recipes Veggie Loaded Love. 

May 29, 201948:03
Teeny Tiny Workouts that Work + Veganism's Transformative Power with Melanie Darnell of fitmomma.com

Teeny Tiny Workouts that Work + Veganism's Transformative Power with Melanie Darnell of fitmomma.com

Melanie Darnell, the founder of www.fitmomma.com teaches us how byte-sized, mini workouts done daily (even while giving your kids a bath!) can transform your fitness and your life as a mother. Through her Instagram page @fitmomm4three, her website and youtube channel, Melanie shows us how Daily Doses of Movement even in busy momlife has transformational effects. She is  passionate about Veganism and raising a plant-based family for optimal health, wellness an vitality. Melanie also shares compassionate and gentle parenting tips that have inspired me to become a more mindful mom. Melanie's book recommendations include Eating Animals, No Drama Discipline and Siblings Without Rivalry. I love following and learning from Melanie and I know you will too.

May 21, 201957:13
Sleep Hacks for Sleep Deprived Moms with Dr. Dan Pardi of www.humanOS.me

Sleep Hacks for Sleep Deprived Moms with Dr. Dan Pardi of www.humanOS.me

Dan Pardi PhD is the founder and CEO of the cutting-edge platform, www.humanOS.me  which leverages a novel behavior model to promote health fluency, skill development, and lifestyle insights so people can master their health practice. He does research with the Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Department at Stanford, and the Departments of Neurology and Endocrinology at Leiden University in the Netherlands where he investigates how lifestyle factors, like sleep, influence decision making, cognitive performance, and metabolism. In this episode, Dan shares simple, practical sleep hacks for sleep-deprived moms and the science of why sleep is SO important and can't be cheated. He also talks about the often underappreciated importance of light and how it impacts our health. I walked away with so many tangible tips that I have immediately put into effect in my life and I know you will feel the same way! You can learn more about Dan and his work at www.humanOS.me 

May 14, 201901:01:32
Your PCOS SOS Call Answered with World Renowned MD + Integrative Medicine Doctor, Dr. Felice Gersh

Your PCOS SOS Call Answered with World Renowned MD + Integrative Medicine Doctor, Dr. Felice Gersh

Dr. Felice Gersh is a rare kind of medical doctor combining a top notch MD and Residency in OB/GYN with an Integrative Medicine specialization. Because of this unique combination of skill sets, Dr Gersh works with women with PCOS and other hormonal imbalances in a truly revolutionary way through her medical practice  and her incredibly informative and moving book where in seven simple but revolutionary steps, Dr Gersh shows women how to beat PCOS naturally, replacing pills with powerful and scientifically-backed lifestyle interventions that harness the body's capacity to heal. This was a truly special interview and I know you are going to derive so much value from it whether you have PCOS or not.

May 05, 201952:27
Feel and Look your Best without Dieting or 'Exercise' with Tyler Jean of @functional.foods
Apr 24, 201901:00:45
Intuition, Plant Power, and Self Care with Tasha Rose, founder of Tasha Rose Remedies

Intuition, Plant Power, and Self Care with Tasha Rose, founder of Tasha Rose Remedies

Tasha Rose was a plant-loving, vibrant little girl who developed a debilitating and mysterious set of symptoms in her 20s. She leaned into her intuition and healed herself from what was severe Candida overgrowth (This book by Linda Page was pivotal in this process). This experience, together with her first yoga class, catapulted her on a journey as a wellness warrior where she learned to journey with plants and bow down to their medicinal magic. She now uses this connection with nature to create beautiful and effective herbal elixirs and remedies at www.tasharoseremedies.com. She also shares her simple yet grounding morning routine and other practices that help her feel amazing and vibrant in momlife. 

Tasha's recommendation for online, affordable and amazing yoga: https://www.glo.com/

Apr 19, 201949:56
How a Doctor Became a Healer with Dr. Vivian Chen of www.platefulhealth.com

How a Doctor Became a Healer with Dr. Vivian Chen of www.platefulhealth.com

Dr. Vivian Chen was practicing conventional medicine in the UK when her own debilitating symptoms of fatigue, brain fog, mood swings, and acne were dismissed as 'normal' by the medical community. She took matters into her own hands, became her own health detective, and uncovered a deep, holistic approach to understanding health at a whole body level and healed herself. She is a certified Integrative Health Practitioner and founder of www.platefulhealth.com through which she helps her clients find true, long lasting vitality of body and mind. In this episode, she shares her challenges with heavy metal toxicity, her way out of the fog, why listening to the body's wisdom is the most powerful thing we can do, and her tips for optimal wellbeing. You can learn more about Dr. Vivian Chen at www.platefulhealth.com and follow her on instagram @plateful.health

Apr 12, 201901:07:43
The Gift of Illness: From IBD to Vitality with Kayla Mangione, creator of The Family Food Project

The Gift of Illness: From IBD to Vitality with Kayla Mangione, creator of The Family Food Project

Kayla Mangione is a vibrant mother who radiates health and vitality but this wasn't always the case. In this episode, Kayla gets raw and real about her struggle with Crohn's disease and how she overcame her health challenges using food as medicine, helping us all see how sometimes our biggest difficulties can be our greatest gifts. You can follow Kayla for inspiring and delicious recipes and family food tips on instagram @thefamilyfoodproject

Apr 10, 201901:05:59
'I Am Enough' with Renee Jain, Founder and Chief Storyteller at GoZen!
Apr 03, 201950:24
Welcome to Momlight!

Welcome to Momlight!

Welcome to the Momlight podcast! In this first episode (woohoo!) I share a bit about my journey, my personal struggles with heaviness, and why that inspired me to create the Momlight podcast. I want this podcast to help mothers find lightness in body, mind and spirit. I'm so excited (and nervous!) to embark on this exciting podcasting journey with you but I know that as we hang out together with my amazing guests, we are going to feel inspired and empowered to shine our MOMLIGHT bright bright bright into this world. Stay tuned!

Mar 20, 201910:32