Crunchy Stewardship

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Join Katie and Chrissy as they record together in person for the first time! In this episode, we share practical tips for maintaining your health while traveling—from bringing your own breakfast to navigating restaurant menus and minimizing toxin exposure in hotel rooms.

Got a trip coming up or love to travel? This episode is for you!

In this episode, we discuss:

• Bringing your own food while traveling (oatmeal, coffee, and more)
• How to order healthy meals at restaurants when nothing on the menu works
• The best types of restaurants for clean eating (Mediterranean, salad spots, and Chipotle)
• Minimizing toxin exposure in hotel rooms (bedsheets, towels, shampoo, EMFs)
• Beach tips: zinc oxide sunscreen and the benefits of grounding
• Katie's discovery of Sabbath mode on appliances
• Dealing with chlorine in hotel water and fragrance sensitivities
• Balancing health consciousness with travel stress

Chapters: 

00:00 Welcome to Crunchy Stewardship

00:38 Random Revelation: Sabbath Mode on Appliances

05:45 Recording Together for the First Time

06:58 Crunchy Travel Tips

27:55 Packing Essentials for a Healthier Hotel Stay

32:05 The Importance of Avoiding Fragrances

36:23 Beach Day Tips: Sunscreen and Grounding

43:53 Balancing Health and Stress While Traveling

Helpful Resources Mentioned:

• Vanni Hari (Food Babe) - Book: "Feeding You Lies" - https://amzn.to/3L49avH 
• Bobby Approved App - For scanning food ingredients and finding healthier options - https://www.bobbyapproved.com

Remember: You don't have to do everything at once! Pick the tips that work for you and your family, and don't let the pursuit of health create more stress than it relieves.

We pray these episodes are helpful in your journey to becoming a better steward of your body, mind, and soul!

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Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama

Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship 

FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

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Join Chrissy and Katie for a very real life update episode! In this candid conversation, the cousins dive into what's really happening behind the scenes of their crunchy journeys.

Chrissy shares her intensive 6-month gut reset program with a naturopathic doctor—complete with dramatic sugar withdrawals, surprising food discoveries (yes, even sushi has sugar!), and the emotional rollercoaster of preparing her body for pregnancy naturally. Meanwhile, Katie opens up about the chaos and decision fatigue of renovating their new 2.5-acre homestead, from researching non-toxic paints to learning that LED lights might be affecting more than just your circadian rhythm (spoiler: it gets wacky...)

You'll also hear about DIY cough drop experiments, balcony garden planning, the great almond butter debate, why carrots are flammable, and how God's grace covers even our crunchy failures.

Plus: The cousins need YOUR help naming these special life update episodes—drop your ideas in the comments or Facebook group!

Topics covered: gut health protocols, sugar addiction, healthy home renovations, non-toxic building materials, balcony gardening, DIY health remedies, and finding peace in overwhelming seasons.

Check out Azure Standard: https://www.azurestandard.com/?a_aid=50bb0fcd9b

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Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama

Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship 

FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

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Are you tired of reaching for the medicine cabinet every time cold and flu season hits? In this episode, Katie and Chrissy explore how to build a robust immune system naturally—the way God designed it to work.

We dive into the science behind immunity, why our obsession with hand sanitizer might be doing more harm than good, and how gut health is the foundation of a strong immune system. Plus, we share practical natural remedies you can use when illness strikes, from bone broth to eucalyptus oil.

In This Episode:

• Why microplastic exposure from contact lenses matters (and Katie's experiment with reversing poor eyesight!)
• How leaky gut syndrome weakens your immune response
• The power of bone broth, raw honey, and organ meats
• Natural remedies: mullein tinctures, eucalyptus oil, and more
• Why sunshine, sleep, and stress management are non-negotiables for immunity

Helpful Resources & Links:

Bone Broth Brands:

• Kettle & Fire: https://www.kettleandfire.com
• Pacific Foods: https://www.pacificfoods.com

Essential Oils & Herbal Remedies:

• Mountain Rose Herbs (quality dried mullein, eucalyptus): https://www.mountainroseherbs.com
• Plant Therapy (quality essential oils): https://www.planttherapy.com

Local & Healthy Food Sources:

• Local Harvest (find farmers markets & local suppliers): https://www.localharvest.org
• Eat Wild (pasture-raised meat directory): https://www.eatwild.com

Further Reading:

• Children's Health Defense measels article: https://childrenshealthdefense.org/defender/latest-measles-outbreaks-result-failed-vaccines-not-failure-to-vaccinate/
• Weston A. Price Foundation (traditional foods & health): https://www.westonaprice.org

Remember: These natural approaches aren't about instantly stopping illness—they're about giving your body the tools it needs to fight effectively and build lasting immunity.

Connect with us: Subscribe for weekly newsletters and leave us a five-star review to help others discover natural stewardship!

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to your health routine.

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Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama

Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship 

FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

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For decades, we've been told that fat is the enemy - but what if we've been wrong this whole time? Chrissy and Katie challenge conventional wisdom about dietary fat, exploring why our bodies actually need quality saturated fats to thrive. From biblical references the "fat of the land" as God's portion, to the science of how fat affects brain function and hormones, this episode will change how you think about fat in your diet.

Random Revelation of the Week: Chrissy discovered the ultimate natural cleaning solution using baking soda, Dr. Bronner's castile soap, and hydrogen peroxide - it cleaned her moldy grout in one pass!

Memorial Moment: The hosts take time to honor Charlie Kirk and reflect on the spiritual revival happening worldwide following his recent passing.
Katie's Facebook Post https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1AGYWPp6c2/

Helpful Links & Products Mentioned

Biblical References:

• "Fat of the Land" - Biblical concept of fat representing abundance and blessing
• 1 Samuel 2 - Story of Eli's sons stealing the fat from sacrifices before it was burned to God
• Old Testament Sacrificial System - Fat as the "first and best" portion given to God, paralleling modern tithing principles

Healthy Fat Sources (Naturopathic Doctor Approved):

• Avocado & Avocado Oil - Rich in monounsaturated fats
• Coconut & Coconut Oil - Medium-chain triglycerides for energy
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Cold-pressed, unrefined
• Ghee - Clarified butter with high smoke point
• Grass-Fed Butter - Rich in fat-soluble vitamins
• Grass-Fed Beef - Bioavailable nutrients and quality saturated fats
• Pasture-Raised Chickens - Better omega-3 profile
• Pasture-Raised Eggs - Complete protein with healthy fats
• Pasture-Raised Pork - When sourced properly
• Raw Cacao - Healthy fats plus antioxidants
• Raw Dairy Products - Unprocessed, nutrient-dense
• Raw Nuts and Seeds - Variety of beneficial fats
• Olives - Mediterranean diet staple
• Wild-Caught Fish - Omega-3 fatty acids

Fats to Avoid:

• Trans Fats - Banned in the US since June 18, 2018
• Polyunsaturated Seed Oils - Vegetable oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil
• Processed "Fat-Free" Products - Due to their chemical processing and often contain harmful additives

Harmful Additives in Fat-Free Foods:

• Carrageenan - Linked to intestinal inflammation
• Modified Starch - Highly processed thickener
• Various Gums - Artificial thickening agents
• Synthetic Vitamins - Less bioavailable than natural vitamins
• Added Sugars - Fructose, dextrose to replace flavor

Remember: This episode contains educational information only. The hosts are sharing research and personal experiences, not providing medical advice. Always consult healthcare professionals for personalized guidance, especially regarding significant dietary changes.

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Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama

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FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

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Chrissy and Katie are back with their most honest episode yet - a candid conversation about alcohol from two cousins who openly admit they know very little about drinking! With Katie's last drink being in June and Chrissy having maybe one or two glasses of wine per month, they bring you a refreshingly research-based (rather than experience-based) discussion on alcohol and health.

From biblical wine at Jesus' first miracle to Paul's advice to Timothy about using wine for stomach troubles, they explore what Scripture actually says about alcohol consumption. But don't worry - they also dive into the modern health implications, including why the US Surgeon General is now recommending cancer warning labels on alcoholic beverages and why that trendy "glass of wine a day" advice from the 80s has been debunked.

Whether you're sober curious, an occasional drinker, or just want to make more informed choices, this episode offers a balanced, biblical perspective on alcohol without any judgment or pretense of expertise.

Random Revelation of the Week: Oregano oil outperforms amoxicillin in killing bacteria according to a high school science fair project (that's been getting major recognition).

Helpful Links & Products Mentioned

Health Information Sources:

• US Surgeon General's Advisory (January 2025) - Recommended cancer warning labels for alcohol
• RFK Jr. Health Initiatives - Redesigning the food pyramid and addressing alcohol labeling
• Cancer Risk Research - Links between alcohol and breast, colorectal, and liver cancers

Alcohol Alternatives & Mocktails:

• Spindrift Sparkling Water - No natural flavors, real fruit juice 
  • Available at Costco and Amazon for bulk purchases
  • Recommended flavors: Fuji Apple, Guava, and the pink can variety
• Arnold Palmer - Unsweetened tea and lemonade combination
• Hot Toddy - Traditional remedy with bourbon and tea (mentioned for historical context)
• Sparkling Water with Lime/Lemon - Classic mocktail option

Remember: This episode is from two self-proclaimed non-experts sharing research-based information. Always make decisions that align with your personal health needs, family situation, and spiritual convictions.

Connect With Us: 

Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama

Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship 

FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

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Not all teas are created equal! In this episode, Chrissy and Katie dive deep into the world of tea, exploring why quality matters when it comes to what you're steeping in your cup. From the hidden dangers of microplastics and bleached tea bags to the deceptive marketing of "natural flavors," they break down what to look for (and what to avoid) when shopping for tea.

Discover the incredible health benefits of various teas including elderberry, chamomile, dandelion, and turmeric, plus in this week’s Random Revelation, learn why the wise men's gifts of myrrh and frankincense were far from random - they were actually powerful postpartum healing aids! The cousins share their favorite tea brands, homemade tea recipes (including Chrissy’s famous pineapple ginger cinnamon tea), and practical tips for choosing organic, unbleached options.

Whether you're a tea newbie or a seasoned sipper, this episode will change how you think about your daily cup and equip you with the knowledge to make healthier choices for you and your family.

Helpful Links & Products Mentioned

Tea Brands & Products:

• Clipper Organic Sleep Easy Tea - https://amzn.to/4mZsjwT
• Traditional Medicinals - https://amzn.to/4682eEs

Health Products:

• Active Skin Repair - https://amzn.to/3IiUNCx
• Frankincense Essential Oil - https://amzn.to/4m8SZtX

Educational Resources:

• Food Babe Kitchen Cookbook - Recipe source for golden milk latte - https://amzn.to/42mcTKD
• Josh Axe - Health practitioner mentioned for dandelion tea benefits

Tea Types & Benefits Discussed:

• Elderberry Tea - Immune system support, use within 48 hours of cold/flu onset
• Chamomile Tea - Promotes relaxation, reduces inflammation and blood sugar
• Green Tea - Antioxidant properties, reduces inflammation and cholesterol
• Dandelion Tea - Multi-benefit herb for immunity, cardiovascular health, and cognition
• Golden Milk Latte - Anti-inflammatory, immune boosting
• Peppermint Tea - Headache relief, sinus drainage
• Reishi Mushroom Tea - Potential cancer-reducing properties
• Ginger Tea - Digestive aid, nausea relief, immune support

What to Look For:

• Organic certification (avoids glyphosate and pesticides)
• Unbleached tea bags
• No microplastics in packaging
• Avoid "natural flavors" in ingredient lists
• Loose leaf teas when possible

Recipe Mentioned:

Homemade Pineapple Ginger Cinnamon Tea:

• Organic pineapple rinds
• 1-2 inches fresh ginger
• 1-2 cinnamon sticks
• Simmer 6-8 hours or use crockpot
• Good hot or cold

Remember: This podcast is for educational purposes. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice.

Connect With Us: 

Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama

Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship 

FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

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Join Katie and Chrissy as they dive deep into America's second-most consumed beverage - coffee! In this candid conversation, the cousins share their personal coffee origin stories, from Chrissy's desperate seventh-grade all-nighter to Katie's college social awakening with "fufu drinks."

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How coffee actually works in your brain (hint: it's not giving you energy the way you think)
• The surprising connection between mouth breathing and cavities in this week's "Random Revelations"
• Why coffee releases dopamine and creates those cozy social moments we crave
• The hidden toxins in conventional coffee and how to choose better brands
• The fascinating world of mushroom coffee alternatives
• How stress impacts your health more than most dietary choices

BRANDS/PRODUCTS MENTIONED:

• Mount Comfort Coffee: https://amzn.to/3VyaJnt
• Larry's Organic Coffee: https://amzn.to/4m3xfPU
• Counter Culture Coffee: https://amzn.to/45SVyeN
• Mud Water: https://amzn.to/427XT32
• Life Boost mushroom coffee: https://amzn.to/3JMOxn8
• Rise Coffee mushroom blend: https://amzn.to/4gemUPZ

PEOPLE/RESOURCES REFERENCED:

• Josh Axe (podcast episode on coffee): https://open.spotify.com/episode/54uVL6udNmD65bzGLNWL5N?si=xiWd1xHoThS_lAM8SlwkJQ 
• Weston A. Price Foundation

From French presses to Keurigs, organic beans to mycotoxin concerns, and the social ritual that connects cultures worldwide - this episode explores both the science and soul of our morning cup. Plus, Katie contemplates ditching coffee altogether while Chrissy advocates for the mental health benefits of that perfect morning moment on the patio.

Connect With Us: 

Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama

Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship 

FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

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Think drinking lots of water means you're well-hydrated? Think again. In this eye-opening episode, we dive into why you might actually be dehydrated despite chugging water all day long, and reveal what your body really needs to stay properly hydrated. Plus, tune in to our two new segments that we have added to the beginning and end of the podcast! Chrissy’s very first Random Revelation might send your head spinning! 

In This Episode:

• Our Daily Drink Routine: From morning lemon water with cayenne pepper to electrolyte strategies
• The Hydration Truth Bomb: Why water alone doesn't hydrate you (it's all about the minerals!)
• Beyond Gatorade: The problems with conventional sports drinks and better alternatives
• DIY vs. Store-Bought: When to invest in quality electrolytes and when to make your own
• The Spiritual-Physical Connection: How caring for our bodies honors God

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome to Crunchy Stewardship
00:43 Introducing Random Revelations
01:24 Chrissy's Revelation on Digestion
02:29 Favorite Podcasts and Books
06:05 Spiritual and Physical Health Connection
11:39 Today's Topic: Beverages and Drinks
24:59 Choosing the Right Salt for Hydration
26:55 Making Your Own Electrolytes
28:24 Cost and Strategy of Electrolytes
30:04 The Importance of Minerals in Hydration
37:33 Electrolytes and Processed Foods
42:13 Natural vs. Processed Foods
46:56 Homemade Electrolyte Alternatives
48:47 Upcoming Episode Sneak Peek
50:14 Community Conversations
53:39 Final Thoughts and Sign Off

Links & Resources Mentioned:

Podcasts We Love:

• Culture Apothecary with Alex Clark
• The Dr. Josh Axe Show 
• Modern Ancestral Mamas

Books Recommended:

• "Eat Dirt" by Josh Axe https://amzn.to/4my8RHj
• "Feeding You Lies" by Vani Hari (Food Babe) https://amzn.to/3VmaDzd

Quality Electrolytes:

• Just Ingredients https://amzn.to/41vugIN
• Taylor Duke's Wellness
• Flav City https://amzn.to/4oXoTfv
• DIY electrolyte recipe available in our Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=10165647787084692&set=gm.1313240456983171&idorvanity=1169400228033862 

Mineral-Rich Salts:

• Baja Gold Mineral Salt https://amzn.to/4oZgsA6
• Redmond Real Salt https://amzn.to/3HVYXjG

Where to Shop:

• Azure Standard (organic bulk foods) https://www.azurestandard.com/?a_aid=50bb0fcd9b 

Connect With Us:

• Leave us a review and rating
• Email us your crunchy discoveries
• Share your hydration wins in our Facebook group

Remember: Your body is the temple God gave you to glorify Him. Let's steward it well, one sip at a time.

Connect With Us: 

Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama

Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship 

FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

Send us a Message!

Ready to ditch the toxic chemicals and create a healthier home environment? In this episode, Katie and Chrissy dive deep into the world of cleaning products - from the hidden dangers lurking in conventional cleaners to simple, affordable alternatives that actually work.

We cover everything you need to know about transitioning to non-toxic cleaning, including why it's often the second step people take after switching to healthier food choices. You'll learn about the balance between staying clean and not over-sanitizing (spoiler: your immune system needs some exposure to build strength!), plus discover why that dust in your home contains way more than you might think.

Chapters: 

00:00 Welcome to Crunchy Stewardship

01:04 Introduction to Today's Topic: Cleaning Products

01:22 The Risks of Conventional Cleaning Products

01:38 Homemade and Natural Cleaning Solutions

05:17 The Importance of Multipurpose Cleaners

07:37 The Role of Bacteria in Building Immunity

13:45 Dust and Indoor Pollutants

21:38 Floor Cleaning Tips and Tricks

30:26 Kitchen and Bathroom Cleaning Essentials

31:18 Finding the Right Toilet Bowl Cleaner

32:17 Toilet Hygiene Tips

33:27 The Importance of Gloves in Cleaning

35:12 Exploring Non-Toxic Cleaning Products

42:45 Homemade Laundry Detergent

48:17 DIY Dishwasher Tablets

51:56 The Downside of Dryer Sheets

55:42 Challenges with Cloth Diapers

57:05 Starting Your Non-Toxic Journey

59:03 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

59:48 Listener Engagement and Feedback

Key Takeaways:

Whether you're just starting your crunchy journey or looking to make the switch from conventional cleaners, this episode gives you practical, budget-friendly solutions to create a healthier home environment for your family. It doesn't have to be expensive, in fact it could actually save you money while also keeping your family healthier! 

Links We Mentioned

Recommended Brands:

• Grove Collaborative Multipurpose cleaner  - https://amzn.to/4fLeyPo 
• Branch Basics Concentrate cleaner for all purposes - https://amzn.to/3HP3zIa
• Molly Suds Dish and laundry detergent - https://amzn.to/3UCHqjn
• ECOS Toilet bowl cleaner - https://ecos.com
• Nature's Promise - Toilet bowl cleaner (available at various retailers)
• Seventh Generation Various cleaning products - https://amzn.to/45sS56q
• Puracy Dish detergent pods - https://amzn.to/4oNqh4h 
• Aleva Naturals Laundry bars for DIY detergent - https://alevanaturals.com
• Dr. Bronner's Pure Castile Soap Multi-purpose soap bars - https://amzn.to/45Nq3Bt

Helpful Apps:

• Switch Naturals App -  https://www.switchnatural.com/switch-natural-app
• EWG Healthy Living App - https://www.ewg.org/apps/
• Bobby Approved App - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bobby-approved-food-scanner/id1571725006 

Connect With Us: 

Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama

Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship 

FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

Send us a Message!

In this episode, we're switching things up and sharing how we're actually living out all the crunchy things we talk about! Katie's on a mission to find local goat cheese (spoiler: it's harder than finding goat milk), Chrissy discovers why cold plunges aren't for every body type (hello, exhaustion hangover), and we dive into some shocking truths about what's really in your tea bags. From quail eggs to red light therapy price tags, we're giving you the real, unfiltered update on our non-toxic journey - including all the wins, fails, and "wait, THAT'S what natural flavoring is made from?!" moments. Join us for our most candid conversation yet as we share what's actually working (and spectacularly failing) in our real-life crunchy journeys. Warning: contains shocking facts about beaver anatomy and mascara ingredients.

Chapters:
00:00 Welcome to Crunchy Stewardship
01:07 Reflecting on Past Episodes
01:40 The Hunt for Local Goat Cheese
03:49 Switching to Organic Foods
06:37 Exploring Local Farms and Produce
15:05 The Impact of Pesticides and Fertilizers
18:45 The Importance of Organic Foods for Children
20:27 Preparing for a Healthy Pregnancy
21:45 The Benefits of Dandelion
23:14 The Truth About Tea Bags
27:51 The Shocking Truth About Makeup Ingredients
29:03 Family Makeup Preferences and Recommendations
30:57 Exploring Biohacking: Cold Plunges and Red Light Therapy
36:22 The Benefits and Costs of Red Light Therapy
42:20 Affordable Non-Toxic Lifestyle Changes

Links mentioned in this episode:

Nourishing Traditions cookbook by Sally Fallon: https://amzn.to/3J6nuD2 
The Feel Good Way cookbook: https://amzn.to/417Hhbd
Weston A Price Foundation: https://www.westonaprice.org/
Joovv red light therapy panels: https://joovv.com/
EMR Tech red light panels: https://emr-tek.com/
Primarily Pure skincare: https://primallypure.com/
A'DEL Natural Cosmetics: https://adelnaturalcosmetics.com/

Connect With Us: 

Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama

Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship 

FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living