In this compelling episode, Amy Cassels hosts Heather Hartman Potter, a retired law enforcement officer and founder of Hartman Tactics, to discuss empowering women through self-defense education, situational awareness, and personal safety training. Heather shares her journey from law enforcement to entrepreneurship, driven by her passion for justice and empowering others. The conversation covers essential safety insights, from recognizing potential dangers to developing the confidence to navigate them. Whether through gun safety, situational awareness, or understanding the nuances of online security, Heather’s mission is clear: to empower women with tools for safety and self-assurance.

Key Points:

[0:00] - Introducing Heather Hartman Potter  

Amy introduces Heather, a retired law enforcement officer with a rich background in investigating crimes against persons. Heather shares her journey and mission to empower women through Hartman Tactics.

[2:20] - The Drive to Protect and Serve  

Heather reflects on her childhood experiences that led her to law enforcement and her dedication to helping vulnerable individuals, particularly women and children.

[8:30] - From Officer to Advocate  

After nearly two decades in law enforcement, Heather retired to focus on helping women build strength, confidence, and awareness through self-defense and safety education.

[20:00] - The Realities of Law Enforcement Trauma  

Heather speaks candidly about the emotional toll of her work and the need for law enforcement officers to have mental health support, noting the obstacles many face in seeking help.

[28:45] - Situational Awareness Essentials  

Heather explains "situational awareness," offering practical tips to help individuals stay alert and prepared in potentially dangerous situations, including her OODA loop technique.

[34:15] - Comprehensive Self-Defense and Firearm Training  

Heather outlines her approach to self-defense and handgun training, designed to make individuals feel confident and competent, even if they're new to firearms.

[43:00] - Addressing the Unique Needs of Women  

Heather shares how Hartman Tactics tailors programs to meet the specific needs of women, including realtors and college students, with situational awareness and safety training.

 Quotable Moments:

[3:15] - “I just knew that somehow I had to help women see their value and strength.” - Heather Hartman Potter

[16:30] - "When your nervous system is dysregulated for an extended period of time…you know it’s time to step away for your well-being." - Heather Hartman Potter

[39:20] - “I don’t teach paranoia—I teach awareness and preparedness.” - Heather Hartman Potter

 Links Mentioned:

• Hartman Tactics: http://hartmantactics.com
• Hartman Tactics Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hartmantactics/
• Hartman Tactics Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hartmantactics

Heather’s journey underscores the importance of empowerment through knowledge, safety, and confidence. Her expertise and heartfelt dedication are a resource for anyone looking to strengthen their personal safety skills. Visit Hartman Tactics to learn more about Heather’s courses, from situational awareness to comprehensive self-defense training.  

Mentioned in this episode:

Sparkle Dust

NingxiaRed

Opal Silica and Diatomaceous Earth

In this episode, Amy digs into the fascinating world of diatomaceous earth and its incredible health benefits, particularly centered around one of the main components of food-grade diatomaceous earth, opal silica. Amy is joined by Diatomaceous Earth expert and advocate Neil Dailey, with over 33,000 combined hours of research on the topic. Neil is an admin and lead contributor for 3 Facebook mega groups.

1. Diatomaceous Earth
2. Diatomaceous earth Food Grade Support Group
3. Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth Eaters LOL

The conversation covers various aspects, including opal silica's impact on the body, its role in removing toxins, and it's surprising efficacy in boosting the immune system.

Key Points:

Opal Silica's Vital Role:

  - Opal silica is a crucial component of diatomaceous earth that constitutes various elements in the body, such as bones, cartilage, collagen, teeth, skin, hair, nails, tendons, and more. 

- It plays a fundamental role in maintaining the structure and health of the entire body.

Diuretic Properties:

  - Opal silica, when concentrated in the body, acts as a diuretic, desiccating and removing anything that does not belong. 

- This process aids in drying out and eliminating parasites, providing a natural defense against their harmful effects.

Detoxification Mechanism:

  - The discussion explores how opal silica, especially in the form of food-grade diatomaceous earth, functions as a detoxifying agent. 

- It is highlighted that the substance sticks to unwanted elements in the digestive system, pulling them out and contributing to the cleansing of the colon.

Gut Revolution:

  - Opal silica, particularly in the form of food-grade diatomaceous earth, is praised for revolutionizing the entire digestive system by attaching to anything unwanted in the gut, including biofilm, and effectively pulls it out.

Detox Protocols:

  - It is suggested to gradually increases in opal silica consumption to minimize die-off reactions. 

- Different protocols are discussed, with specific recommendations for individuals dealing with cancer or autoimmune diseases.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties:

  - Opal silica, especially in the form of food-grade diatomaceous earth, is highlighted as a potent anti-inflammatory. 

- Its ability to reduce inflammation is compared to other anti-inflammatory substances, such as MSM and colloidal copper.

Plant and Animal Benefits:

  - Opal silica's benefits extend to plants and animals, where its incorporation into soil or dietary supplements enhances overall health. 

- The discussion covers the application of opal silica for various purposes, such as dental health and immune system support.

Quotable Moments:

“If you take that stone [opal] off of Earth, there is no life. You won't have plants, you will not have animals, you will not have people. You're not going to have anything. It's going to be devoid of life. There's no life without it.” - Neil @ 3:26

“All your connective tissue is made out of collagen. Well, the greatest collagen maker and what you cannot make collagen without, again, is opal silica. “ - Neil @ 19:41

Note: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

In this episode Amy goes solo and focuses on longevity, antioxidants, and the Ningxia Wolfberry. Inspired by her curiosity about the diets of people from various cultures. She shares insights from her exploration of the Ningxia region in China, known for having a high number of centenarians, and recounts a remarkable story about an Olympic Chinese swimmer whose secret to success was tied to traditional Chinese medicine.

Key Points:

Longevity Concerns and Fear of Nursing Homes

• Amy and Trey express the desire for a healthy and active life as they share concerns about aging and nursing home experiences.

Antioxidants for Longevity

• Introduction to the significance of antioxidants for overall well-being and their association with increased longevity.

Ningxia Wolfberry's Antioxidant Prowess

• Ningxia Wolfberry highlighted as the highest known antioxidant food, backed by the Orac test results.

Comparative Nutritional Analysis

• Detailed exploration of Ningxia Wolfberry's nutritional components, surpassing other fruits and vegetables in antioxidants, protein (15.6% by weight), minerals, amino acids, and vitamins.

Synthetic Multivitamins vs. Natural Diet

• Amy discusses concerns about synthetic multivitamins and advocates for a balanced diet rich in diverse fruits and vegetables.

Introduction to Ningxia Red Juice

• Overview of Ningxia Red Juice, a blend of whole Ningxia Wolfberries with grape seed extract, blueberry, plum, cherry, and pomegranate juices, sweetened with stevia.

Essential Oils and Antioxidant Boost

• Essential oils (orange, yuzu, tangerine, and lemon) in Ningxia Red Juice contribute to antioxidant benefits and cellular function.

14-Day Ningxia Red Reset

• Amy shares an initiative involving a 14-day Ningxia Red reset, combining increased juice intake with exercise and nutrition.

Positive Testimonials

• Enthusiastic testimonials received from participants in the 14-day reset, citing improved energy, digestion, and eyesight.

Invitation to Wellness Group Coaching

• Amy invites listeners to join upcoming wellness group coaching sessions, emphasizing the holistic benefits of Ningxia Red.

Quotable Moments:

"Antioxidants act as a guard against oxidative stress, providing cellular protection and reducing chronic inflammation.”

"Whether you're putting antioxidants on your face or taking them in from fruits and vegetables, you'll have better skin health."

In this episode, Amy and Tray Cassles discuss various aspects of their lives, including the recent holiday season and Amy's second sinus surgery. They share insights into how they navigated the festive season stress-free and the motivation behind it. The episode also reaches into their goals for the new year, focusing on deepening relationships and embracing simplicity.

Key Points:

• Amy and Tray reflect on their approach to holidays, emphasizing the importance of avoiding stress and enjoying the festive season.
• Amy shares her experience with sinus surgery and the motivation to have Christmas preparations completed before the surgery.
• The couple discusses the success of hosting Christmas, making many things from scratch, and enjoying a stress-free holiday season.
• Tray opens up about his spiritual journey and the desire for a peaceful and Christ-like mindset amidst life's chaos.
• Both Amy and Tray reveal their chosen words for the year - Amy's is simplicity, while Tray's is relationships.
• The discussion extends to their individual growth, intentions, and the continuous effort to better relationships with family, friends, and each other.
• Amy and Tray share humorous moments, including their morning routines and the importance of family meals without distractions.
• The episode concludes with expressions of gratitude, and well wishes for the new year.

Quotable Moments:

"I read, 'The only thing that you can grasp without losing your soul is God's hand. Anything else you grasp, you're risking your soul because God is who you need to grab in any and all things.’” - Tray @ 38:59

"Simplicity is my word. And that's it. It's my word, and I'm sticking to it.”- Amy @ 41:14

"My focus this year is if I can deepen and strengthen my relationship in everything, I can really look towards an amazing year.” -  Tray @ 41:012

In this episode, Amy Cassles goes solo to discuss the importance of carbohydrates in our diet, especially during the winter months. She emphasizes the role of carbohydrates in providing energy for the body and highlights the different categories: simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates. Amy explores the benefits and challenges associated with these carbohydrates, touching upon issues like high blood sugar, metabolic syndrome, and the impact of Candida overgrowth on overall health. Listeners are likely to gain valuable insights into the role of carbohydrates in their diet and how mindful eating can contribute to overall well-being.

Key Points

Seasonal Changes and Carbohydrates:

- Our bodies react to seasons, akin to animals growing winter coats. Amy commits to staying mindful of diet and physical activity during colder months.

Understanding Carbohydrates:

- Carbs, a macronutrient, are crucial for brain function and energy. Amy categorizes them into simple (quick-digesting) and complex (slow-digesting), dispelling the notion of carbs as the enemy.

Impact of High Blood Sugar and Candida:

- High blood sugar challenges, including metabolic issues and mental health, are discussed. Amy explores the cycle of cravings due to Candida overgrowth.

Importance of Mindful Eating:

- Amy advocates for mindful eating, distinguishing between added and natural sugars. She highlights the benefits of complex carbohydrates found in various foods.

Weight Management and Individualized Diets:

- Amy emphasizes the need for personalized diets based on factors like body type and stress response, using her and Trey's differences as an example.

Tailoring Carbohydrate Intake:

- Understanding unique needs in carb intake is crucial, considering factors like body size, muscle mass, and metabolism. Amy stresses the absence of a universal correct amount for everyone.

Age and Carbohydrate Requirements:

- As people age, nutritional needs change. Amy notes the shift towards protein and good fats in adults, advocating for tailored intake based on muscle mass and activity level.

Nutrient Quality and Food Sources:

- Amy highlights the importance of nutrient-rich food sources, encouraging local, organic, and non-GMO choices. She discusses the impact of soil quality on produce.

Impact of Chemicals on Food Supply:

- Amy addresses the issue of chemicals and pesticides in the food supply, citing her experience with gluten consumption in Scotland. She criticizes farming practices in the U.S. compared to Italy.

Advocacy for Conscious Food Choices:

- Amy advocates for conscious food choices, suggesting local and organic options. She shares positive experiences with imported flour and stresses the importance of high-quality ingredients.

Practical Advice for Listeners:

- The episode concludes with practical advice, urging listeners to note carbohydrate percentages and create personalized meal plans. Amy invites engagement on Instagram, emphasizing the need to adapt dietary choices individually.

Quotable Moments

   - "I kind of tell myself, Hey, this is my winter coat. Like, I've got some extra fur going on. It's keeping me warm, it's giving me that extra fluff. And that's okay."- Amy @ 0:01:31

   - "Carbohydrates are a good thing, and it's not always a bad thing. They're not the enemy."- Amy 0:03:35

   - "When you are constantly having high blood sugar, you're constantly feeding that Candida and you're creating this whole ecosystem inside your body that just wreaks havoc."- Amy 0:09:14

Mentioned in this episode:

NingxiaRed

Sparkle Dust

In this episode, Amy delivers a compelling message, urging baby boomers to prioritize their health for the sake of themselves and their loved ones. Due to changes in food quality, farming practices, and environmental factors, current health factors require us to prioritize regular checkups and reconsider unnecessary medications. You will also explores the positive impact of exercise on productivity, mental clarity, and emotional well-being, completed by a comprehensive list of health check recommendations. This is a hard conversation rooted in love and concern for grandparents to monitor their health.

Key Points

• Amy emphasizes the significant differences in health issues between baby boomers and their parents. Changes in food quality, farming practices, and environmental factors contribute to health challenges unique to this generation.
• Discussing the effects of genetically engineered foods and increased environmental stressors, Amy urges baby boomers to recognize the need for regular checkups and reconsider unnecessary medications.
• Amy shares inspiring stories of elderly individuals leading active lives, challenging the perception that aging inevitably leads to nursing homes and medication dependence.
• Drawing parallels between car maintenance and body care, Amy compares the body's various systems to a vehicle, emphasizing the importance of internal health, nutrition, and regular check-ins.
• Amy urges listeners not to neglect their heart health and draws an emotional connection between heart health and life itself.
• The importance of staying active for grandparents, especially considering family dynamics with teenagers and young children. She highlights the positive impact of exercise on relationships, suggesting that staying healthy lowers the likelihood of grandparents feeling left out or hurt.
• The financial aspects of health, emphasizing that investing time and money in preventative healthcare can significantly reduce future medical costs. She addresses the increasing expenses of healthy food and the importance of being aware of potential health risks from environmental factors.
• Discussing the benefits of exercise on productivity, Amy notes that staying fit can lead to better mental clarity, emotional support, and a sense of responsibility and purpose. She gives examples of individuals working into their elderly age, promoting the idea that fitness contributes to overall well-being.
• Amy provides a comprehensive list of health check recommendations for baby boomers, including visits to cardiologists, urologists, OB-GYNs, mammograms, DEXA scans, and more. She emphasizes the need to maintain a health folder with test results, regularly revisiting and adjusting health goals.
• Amy concludes the episode by expressing love and concern for grandparents, emphasizing the desire for their longevity without compromising their quality of life. The show closes with a reminder to subscribe and follow Amy on Instagram for updates.

Quotable Moments

"Consider the possibility that you are not invincible and that you cannot be stubborn anymore and that you have to go and get your checkups.”

"Consider the possibility that you, your body is like a car and it can't be replaced, and we can't just go buy another body.”

LINKS MENTIONED:

www.amycassels.com

https://twitter.com/amy_cassels?lang=en

https://www.instagram.com/acassels/?hl=en

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBzoQfLNzz_ieatgaoWDTcw

Mentioned in this episode:

NingxiaRed

Sparkle Dust

In this episode, Amy Cassels takes the solo stage to delve into the significance of protein while keeping to a busy holiday schedule. Touching on intentionality in 2023, her Christmas bucket list, and personal updates. The main topic for this episode is the importance of prioritizing protein. Amy not only emphasizes its role in navigating the holiday feasts but also delves into the math behind protein intake for weight loss. Our episode concludes with practical insights into meal planning, preparation, and introduces protein supplements from Young Living.

Key Points:

• Amy discusses the impact of stress on the body, highlighting the importance of intentional living.
• She shares her word for 2023 - "intentionality" - and how it shaped her approach to the year.
• Amy reveals her Christmas bucket list, showcasing her intentional approach to holiday activities.
• Updates on her upcoming sinus surgery and emphasizes the importance of planning amid health challenges.
• Sourdough starter, named Brenda, is good for overall well-being and nutrition.
• The role of protein in managing holiday indulgences and making better food choices.
• Introducing the calculation method for protein intake, linking it to weight loss and overall health goals.
• Practical examples for calculating protein needs based on lean body mass and discusses scenarios for different meal frequencies.
• Advocates for meal planning and preparation as a practical way to meet daily protein goals.
• Introduces protein supplements from Young Living, emphasizing their benefits for muscle preservation, antioxidants, and digestive health.

Quotable Moments:

"Your body does not know the difference of whether the stress is actually real or perceived."

"I decided I'm going to be intentional in everything that I do. So I can honestly say that this year has been the year of intention."

"Protein should be your primary item that you're putting on your plate. If you fill up more on protein, then there's less room for sugar."

"Maybe change your verbiage instead of saying, 'This is the year I'm going to lose weight.' How about, 'This is the year I'm going to prioritize protein and nourish my body.'"

Mentioned in this episode:

NingxiaRed

Sparkle Dust

In this episode of "According to the Cassles," Amy and Tray are talking about gratitude. We get into various aspects of their lives, addressing their personal and professional journeys. They tackle the challenges posed by the current economic climate, emphasizing the importance of choosing a positive approach and exploring ways to navigate through it. The episode also dips into Tray's return to a more hands-on role in his company and the adjustments this brings to their family dynamics. Additionally, they recount recent incidents where their wave runners were stolen, reflecting on the gratitude they feel despite the violation. Using humor, candid discussions, and insightful reflections on both the highs and lows of life the Cassels demonstrate how gratitude helps navigate the various struggles in life.

Key Points:

• The hosts acknowledge the challenges presented by the current economic situation but emphasize the importance of choosing a positive approach.
• Tray shares his experience of returning to a more active role in his company after a period of mentoring and consulting. He reflects on the impact on the company culture, the motivation it provides for both him and his employees, and the need for continuous growth and anticipation of challenges.
• With Tray spending more time at work, the hosts discuss the need for adjustments in their family routines. 
• They highlight the importance of communication and flexibility in adapting to changes, both in the business and home spheres. 
• The conversation touches on the challenges of balancing work and family life and the shared responsibilities between Amy and Tray.
• Amy and Tray recount the recent theft of their wave runners, expressing gratitude for insurance coverage despite the violation of their property. 
• They share details of the investigation, the challenges posed by limited surveillance, and the resourcefulness of a friend who conducted additional investigative work. 
• The emotional impact of the incident and the unexpected positive outcome.
• Despite the regret, the host encourages a focus on gratitude. They emphasize looking back on the positive impact the person had on their life and expressing gratitude for the lessons learned and the positive influence.
• S.E.C.T.A.F. Acronym:
• S: Story in Your Head: Identify the narrative or story you are telling yourself about a situation.
• E: Emotion: Recognize the emotion you are feeling in response to the situation.
• C: Coming From: Understand where the emotion is coming from, whether it's past experiences or external influences.
• T: Truth: Question whether the story you are telling yourself is the absolute truth or just your perception.
• A: Avoid: Consider what actions or situations you might need to avoid in the future to prevent similar negative emotions.
• F: Forgiveness: Forgive the other person involved and focus on self-improvement rather than blaming others.
• 
  

Quotable Moments:

• Tray: "I think we have a choice. We can complain, we can get really upset and post on Facebook and then just get all the comments to stir the energy of the fact that the economy sucks, or we can work a little harder, spend less, be mindful and intentional with our money.”
• Amy: "I'm talking to myself here. If you're listening, we're not perfect. We're talking to ourselves. This is for our future reference, where we can go back and listen to our podcast and say, Hey, remember that one time we're going to start Monday?"
• Amy: But you know, I can focus on that regret. I could put all my time, my energy and focus into that regret, or I could express gratitude and think about all the ways that she had an impact on my life.

Links Mentioned:

https://www.amycassels.com

https://twitter.com/amy_cassels?lang=en

https://www.instagram.com/acassels/?hl=en

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBzoQfLNzz_ieatgaoWDTcw

Mentioned in this episode:

Sparkle Dust

NingxiaRed

In this episode of "According to the Cassels," your hosts Amy and Tray Cassels are joined by guest Sarah Lindley Bailey, a medical freedom activist dedicated to spreading awareness about the possible causes of cancer. They discuss The Cassels’ recent trip to Scotland, sharing the unique experiences, the food they enjoyed, and the history they explored. Then Sarah shares her personal story of losing her daughter to cancer and discusses the importance of uniting families to bring about change. Sarah also highlights her efforts to start selling life insurance to provide financial support for families facing similar situations.

Key Points:

• Introduction of Sarah Lindley Bailey, a medical freedom activist lovesomeonewithcancer.com
• Discussion about the importance of raising awareness about cancer causes before diagnosis.
• Tray and Amy recount their recent trip to Scotland, staying in Gleneagles and exploring Edinburgh.
• Amy and Tray describe the gothic and eerie atmosphere of Edinburgh, resembling Gotham City.
• Highlights of their activities in Scotland, including playing golf at Gleneagles and trying traditional Scottish food like haggis.
• Sarah emphasizes the rarity of survival in children undergoing High-Dose Radiation Therapy (HRT) for cancer, citing a less than 20% survival rate.
• Sarah advocates for the need to change laws and regulations related to medical treatments, hospice care, and disability support for families facing chronic illnesses.
• Sarah discusses her intention to start selling life insurance as a means of providing financial assistance to families dealing with terminal illnesses.
• Information on contacting state representatives and senators through "who represents me" for advocacy on medical issues.
• Encouraging individuals to reach out to her through her website, love someone with cancer.com, and Facebook for support and information sharing.
• Expressing admiration for Sarah's courage in sharing her story and stress the importance of speaking out to bring about positive change.

Quotable Moments:

“It is wise to seek counsel from people or places that have experience”- Amy @ 31:40

“So take all the pictures, enjoy those moments because you'll never get them back.” - Sarah @ 43:13

“Well, the electronics are robbing these children but that's a whole other podcast” - Amy @ 44:41

Links Mentioned:

https://lovesomeonewithcancer.com/

https://www.amycassels.com

https://twitter.com/amy_cassels?lang=en

https://www.instagram.com/acassels/?hl=en

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBzoQfLNzz_ieatgaoWDTcw

Mentioned in this episode:

Sparkle Dust

NingxiaRed

In this podcast episode, Amy and Tray discuss recognizing and supporting each other's stress cycles. They reflect on how they've grown over the years and developed a deeper understanding of their own and each other's reactions to stress. The discussion emphasizes the importance of keeping calm, showing empathy, and offering support to your partner during stressful times.

Key Points:

• Amy and Trey discuss the changing weather, with Amy expressing her love for cold weather and longing for consistent 70-degree temperatures.
• They touch on the migration of people from California to Texas, possibly due to the desire for more comfortable weather.
• Amy mentions her excitement for making soups during this time of year, and they briefly mention their recent meals, including spaghetti and meatballs and spaghetti squash.
• Amy shares her migraine and stress cycle, detailing how stress leads to physical tension, inflammation, and migraines, which can keep her down for a couple of days.
• Tray's stress cycle is discussed, starting with irritability, followed by anger and withdrawal, leading to remorse and ultimately a positive outlook on life.
• The importance of recognizing and understanding each other's stress cycles in their marriage.
• They wish they could go back in time to tell their younger selves how to handle stress and not take it personally.
• They discuss the discomfort of experiencing stress after becoming accustomed to calm and tranquility.
• The compounding effect of their efforts to improve their marriage and themselves is evident in their increased ability to manage stress.
• Amy encourages listeners to support their stressed partners by asking about their feelings and offering help without joining in on their stress.

Quotable Moments:

"I wish that we could go back and tell ourselves that. Okay, have each other's back. Marriage is teamwork.”

"If you can keep your calm and not join in on their stress, you can be a better, grounded support for your spouse."

LINKS MENTIONED:

www.amycassels.com

https://twitter.com/amy_cassels?lang=en

https://www.instagram.com/acassels/?hl=en

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBzoQfLNzz_ieatgaoWDTcw

Mentioned in this episode:

Sparkle Dust

NingxiaRed