Crunchy Stewardship

Send us a Message!

Ever heard the term "crunchy" and wondered what it actually means? Join cousins Chrissy and Katie on this episode of Crunchy Stewardship as they pull back the curtain on the world of natural, holistic living. We're defining what "crunchy" means to us – a lifestyle focused on stewarding our spiritual, mental, emotional, financial, and physical health to honor God – and why it's more of a spectrum than a strict label.

From birthing choices and organic eating to homemade cleaning products and natural remedies, we share our personal journeys and reveal just how "crunchy" we actually are. Plus, get ready to play along as we take a fun personality quiz to help you discover where you land on the crunchy spectrum!

Episode Takeaway: 

Embracing a more natural, non-toxic lifestyle isn't about rigid adherence or perfection; it's a personalized journey of making intentional choices that align with your values for health and well-being.

Chapters: 

00:00 Welcome to Crunchy Stewardship

00:44 The 'Crunchy' Spectrum

03:27 Chrissy's Crunchy Journey

05:26 Defining 'Crunchy'

06:45 Katie's Crunchy Journey

11:10 How Crunchy Are You? Quiz

12:23 Ideal Birthing Scenario

15:25 Organic Choices

17:11 Breastfeeding Plans

19:29 Baby Carrying Methods

22:03 Produce

24:22 Drinking Water

25:37 Fermentation

25:49 Finding Clean Products

26:28 Essential Oils

27:19 Acupuncture

28:40 Bone Broth

29:33 Compost

30:00 Dream Homes

30:23 Coffee Additions

31:21 Farmer's Market Finds

33:22 Crunchy Checklist

35:34 Education

36:42 Crunchy Practices

38:46 Final Thoughts

Links & Things Mentioned in This Episode:

• Bobby Approved App: This app helps you scan product barcodes to see if ingredients are "Bobby Approved" based on common health criteria. https://www.flavcity.com/bobbyapproved/ 
• EWG (Environmental Working Group) Apps: We love their apps (like Healthy Living) for checking ingredients in personal care products, cleaning supplies, and food, giving them a "cleanliness" score. https://www.ewg.org/apps/ 
• Dirty Dozen & Clean Fifteen Lists (by EWG): These annual guides help you prioritize which produce to buy organic (Dirty Dozen) and which are generally safe to buy conventional (Clean Fifteen). https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/dirty-dozen.php 
• Brita Water Filter Chrissy Uses: https://amzn.to/4lU6C11 
• Brita Faucet Filter: https://amzn.to/4jEdazm 
• Berkey Water Filters: https://amzn.to/4cWaIll 
• US Raw Milk Laws by State: As promised, here's a helpful resource to understand the legality and accessibility of raw milk in your state: https://www.realmilk.com/real-milk-legal-map/ 

Connect With Us:

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

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

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!

This podcast episode of Crunchy Stewardship features cousins Katie and Chrissy diving into the significant monetary and intangible costs associated with unhealthy lifestyles, drawing on research and personal experiences. They explore how chronic diseases burden individuals and the healthcare system financially, while also highlighting the impact on mental, emotional, and social well-being. The conversation then shifts to the cost benefits of embracing a healthier, more natural way of living, grounded in biblical principles, and offers practical, budget-friendly strategies like reducing alcohol and tobacco, incorporating free physical activity, and prioritizing whole, nutritious foods. Katie and Chrissy also share personal anecdotes and cost-saving tips such as making homemade laundry detergent and bread, and opting for reusable alternatives like cloth diapers, emphasizing that small, consistent changes can lead to significant long-term health and financial advantages.

Episode Takeaway: 

Consider the things in your life that could be costing you your health. Find small, simple steps that you can implement today to begin taking those baby steps to benefit your health in the years to come. 

Chapters: 

00:00 Welcome to Crunchy Stewardship

00:44 The Cost of an Unhealthy Lifestyle

01:54 Monetary Costs of Chronic Illnesses

10:04 Intangible Costs of Poor Health

14:01 Preventing Chronic Diseases

16:30 Healthy Lifestyle Tips

29:00 Cost-Effective Healthy Living

45:23 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Links mentioned: 

• CDC website that shares health expenses https://www.cdc.gov/chronic-disease/data-research/facts-stats/index.html
• CDC Chronic disease burden https://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2015/14_0388.htm#:~:text=Among%20adults%20with%20chronic%20conditions,annual%20total%20expenditures%20(%247%2C116).
• NIH Article https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10830426/

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

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 of Crunchy Stewardship, cousins Katie Fiola Jones and Chrissy Rombach discuss their journey into bread making and its surprising health benefits. Chrissy shares her experience with grinding wheat berries and how transitioning to homemade bread has significantly improved her gut health. The conversation expands to the broader topic of whole foods versus processed foods, touching on synthetic vitamins, food intolerances, and the pitfalls of manufactured nutrition. They offer practical tips for listeners to start making their food from scratch and emphasize the importance of intentionality in holistic living. Join their Facebook group, 'Crunchy Christian Mamas on a Budget,' to share recipes and continue the discussion.

Episode Takeaway:

Consider the ingredients in the bread and other processed foods you consume. Could making your own bread with freshly ground, quality wheat be a beneficial step towards better gut health and overall well-being?

Chapters: 

00:00 Welcome to Crunchy Stewardship

00:58 Our Passion For Bread

02:22 Chrissy's Bread Journey

04:04 The Benefits of Freshly Milled Wheat

08:07 Understanding Wheat & Flour

14:43 Exploring Gluten Free Diets

22:41 Homemade Ice Cream Adventures

25:15 Financial Decisions with Healthy Choices

33:50 Encouragement and Takeaways

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Countertop Wheat Grinder: Countertop Wheat Grinder
• Wheat Berries: Wheat Link 
• Wheatland Seed Website
• Whole Wheat Recipe Book: Whole Wheat Recipe Book

Connect With Us:

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

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

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 enlightening episode of Crunchy Stewardship, cousins Chrissy Rombach and Katie Jones explore the vital topic of food quality and its impact on our health from a biblical perspective. 

The discussion focuses on food cultivation, the dangers of pesticides, and the benefits of organic eating. They highlight the Environmental Working Group's (EWG) Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 lists, explaining the hazards of pesticide-laden produce and offering practical tips for buying healthier food without breaking the bank. 

The episode also dives into the concept of regenerative farming and God's design for farming outlined in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of allowing the soil to rest. Chrissy and Katie invite listeners to join their Facebook group for further discussion and community support in the journey toward better health.

Key Takeaway

Considering your current food consumption habits and the information shared in this episode, what is one small, manageable step you feel inspired to take this week to better steward the food you and your family eat?

Chapters: 

00:00 Welcome to Crunchy Stewardship

00:46  Introduction to Food Cultivation

04:54 The Dirty Dozen: Foods to Avoid

07:43 The Dangers of Pesticides

09:26 Glyphosate and Chronic Diseases

15:42 The Importance of Nutrient-Dense Soil

18:31 Regenerative Farming and Biblical Principles

25:58 Big Agriculture vs Natural Farming

30:40 Tips for Buying Quality Food on a Budget

38:19 Join Our Community

Mentioned in this episode:

• EWG's Dirty Dozen List: https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/dirty-dozen.php
• EWG's Clean 15 List: https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/clean-fifteen.php
• Documentary "The Biggest Little Farm": https://amzn.to/42MxHvE

Connect with us: 

• Join our Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama 
• FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living
• Podcast Newsletter: https://crunchystewardship.com/crunchy-stewardship-podcast

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 thought-provoking episode of Crunchy Stewardship, cousins Chrissy Rombach and Katie Jones turn their attention to a vital element of our health: water. Building on their commitment to holistic well-being rooted in biblical principles, they explore the unseen world of our drinking water and the potential toxins lurking within. 

Chrissy and Katie share their growing awareness of water quality issues and delve into the processes designed to purify our water, questioning whether these methods come with hidden costs to our long-term health. They discuss the addition of fluoride, its intended benefits for dental health, and the emerging research linking it to neurodevelopmental concerns. The conversation broadens to include other common contaminants like heavy metals, pharmaceutical residues, and the pervasive issue of microplastics. 

Throughout the episode, they emphasize the importance of being informed consumers and offer practical, budget-friendly solutions for improving the water we consume daily. They also invite listeners to join their Facebook group, 'Crunchy Christian Mamas on a Budget,' for continued discussion and shared learning.

Episode Takeaway:

Considering your current water consumption habits and the information shared in this episode, what is one small, manageable step you feel inspired to take this week to better steward the water you and your family drink?

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Water as a Health Cornerstone

01:00 Understanding Water Filtration & Disinfection

06:40 The Role and Controversy of Fluoride in Water

09:27 Unseen Contaminants In Your Water

14:33 The Pervasive Problem of Microplastics in Water

23:38 Choosing the Right Water Filter

32:15 Practical Steps for Safer Water on a Budget

35:00 Conclusion and Community Support

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Landmark Study on Fluoride and IQ: https://www.thenewlede.org/2025/01/study-fluoride-linked-to-lower-iq-debate/
• Environmental Working Group (EWG) Water Quality Resources:
• What’s In Your Water:  https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/ 
• Water Filter Guide: https://www.ewg.org/research/getting-forever-chemicals-out-drinking-water-ewgs-guide-pfas-water-filters 
• Brita Water Filter Chrissy Uses: https://amzn.to/4lU6C11 
• Brita Faucet Filter: https://amzn.to/4jEdazm 
• Berkey Water Filters: https://amzn.to/4cWaIll 
• Dr. Brown's Glass Baby Bottles: https://amzn.to/44iPSdx 
• Mason Bottle: https://amzn.to/3RHGlFn 

*Links may provide affiliate commission. We thank you for your support of our show! 

Connect With Us:

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

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

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!

The Basics of Holistic Food and Nutrition: A Return to God-Intended Eating

In this first episode of Crunchy Stewardship, cousins Chrissy Rombach and Katie Jones introduce their podcast, aimed at equipping listeners to steward their health in a holistic manner rooted in biblical principles. They underscore the importance of prioritizing spiritual, mental, emotional, financial, and physical health to honor God. They begin the series by discussing food and nutrition as crucial starting points, sharing their personal experiences and transition to a more natural and organic diet. Topics covered include the benefits of homemade bread, understanding the difference between organic and non-organic food, and the detrimental impact of processed food on health. They also touch on the pharmaceutical industry's role in healthcare and offer practical tips for making healthier food choices on a budget. The episode promotes their Facebook group, 'Crunchy Christian Mamas on a Budget,' as a platform for continuing the conversation.

Episode Takeaway: 

Reflecting on your current eating habits and the information shared in this episode, what is one small, manageable change you feel inspired to make in the way you shop for or prepare your food this week in order to better steward your physical health?

Chapters:

00:00 Welcome

00:52 Diving Into Food and Nutrition

02:59 Chrissy's Journey to a Healthier Diet

10:24 Katie's Food Journey and Family Influence

19:14 The Organic vs. Non-Organic Debate

22:28 Budgeting for Organic Foods

25:10 Misconceptions About Organic Costs

27:14 Nutrient-Dense Meals and Reduced Snacking

30:24 Economic Implications of Healthy Eating

33:30 Lack of Nutrition Education in Healthcare

36:47 Resources and Tips for Healthy Eating

41:41 Book Recommendations and Final Thoughts

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Feeding You Lies by Vani Hari https://amzn.to/441LhfE 
• Eat Dirt by Dr. Josh Axe https://amzn.to/441LhfE 

Connect With Us:

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

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

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!

Introduction to Crunchy Stewardship: A Holistic Approach to Health and Finances

In this introductory episode of Crunchy Stewardship, cousins Katie Jones and Chrissy Rombach share their passion for holistic living rooted in a biblical foundation. They discuss their personal journeys towards embracing a 'crunchy' lifestyle, covering topics like natural pregnancy, non-toxic living, and financial stewardship in alignment with Christian values. Katie and Chrissy also introduce their motivations for starting the podcast, aiming to inspire and equip listeners to steward their health and finances in a way that honors God. They encourage listeners to join their new Facebook group, 'Crunchy Christian Mamas on a Budget,' as a space for sharing knowledge and fostering community.

00:00 Welcome to Crunchy Stewardship
01:07 Katie's Journey to Crunchiness
03:42 Chrissy's Path to a Holistic Lifestyle
07:33 The Financial Side of Crunchy Living
09:38 Meet Your Hosts: Katie and Chrissy
17:17 Join Our Community

LINKS

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

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

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