Made to be Whole

In this episode of Made to Be Whole, Krista Michener offers a deep dive into comprehensive urine testing for mycotoxins, heavy metals, and environmental toxins. Drawing from personal experience and expert insight, Krista Michener unpacks why these advanced urine screenings are included in the Foundation’s package, how they reveal crucial health clues, and what steps listeners can take based on their results. She explores nuances like test selection, mold exposure sources, toxins in foods and the home, and the relevance of organic acid testing in understanding chronic symptoms. If you’re searching for answers about persistent health issues or want an actionable approach to chronic illness and toxic exposures, this episode is a must-listen.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• How urine testing for mycotoxins, heavy metals, and toxins supports chronic illness recovery
• The difference between Mosaic Diagnostics and Real-Time Labs urine tests—and why the comparison matters
• Understanding sources of mold exposure in the home, food, and environment
• Identifying symptoms and risks associated with mold, heavy metal, and pesticide exposure
• The role of organic acid testing in uncovering microbial imbalances, nutrient deficits, and toxin burdens
• What to do if you suspect environmental exposure: from moving to remediation and reducing risks
• Practical tips for minimizing exposure to parabens, plastics, glyphosates, and phthalates in daily life
• How to approach test results without overwhelm and use them to take concrete next steps towards health

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Mosaic Diagnostics (formerly Great Plains Labs)
• Real-Time Labs
• The Dirty Dozen produce list

📝 Feeling overwhelmed by test results? Start with the summary page and prioritize changes one step at a time!

🏡 Suspect mold or toxins at home? Consider a thorough inspection—ideally by companies who also check for asbestos—to protect your healing space.

🥕 Try swapping out your top foods from the Dirty Dozen list to reduce pesticide and glyphosate exposure in your diet.

Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.

All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/

Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Made to Be Whole, host Krista Michener dives into the challenges and emotional complexities of navigating the healthcare system, especially when facing chronic illness or lengthy medical journeys. Krista, drawing on both her professional experience and personal insights as a patient, shares practical tips and compassionate guidance on how to focus on healing, foster peaceful interactions, and resist letting illness define your identity. This episode emphasizes kindness, realistic expectations, and spiritual resilience, providing listeners with strategies to find hope and community even in the midst of medical adversity.

• Setting Realistic Expectations for Your Healthcare Providers
• Moving from Victimhood to Empowerment: Focusing on What You Can Control
• The Power of Kindness: Why Compassion in the Healthcare System Matters
• Responding to Systemic Dysfunction Without Anger or Bitterness
• Building a Community and Not Letting Illness Define Your Identity
• Minimizing Social Media Negativity and Protecting Your Mental Health
• Shifting Your Hope: Finding Spiritual and Emotional Anchors
• The Unique Gifts of Suffering: Connecting Through Shared Experiences
• The Benefits of Choosing Smaller/Rural Hospitals for Care
• How Genuine Gratitude Can Transform Your Healthcare Experience

• AHP Integrative Health Plasmapheresis Information & Scheduling
• For appointments or questions about plasmapheresis: 330-804-7000 or [email protected]

Reflect on your own healthcare journey and identify one way you can extend kindness or gratitude to a provider or fellow patient this week.

Ready to reclaim your mindset? Challenge yourself to avoid illness-based labels and instead focus on your core values and relationships.

Looking for hope and community? Visit AHP Integrative Health to access resources and connect with compassionate care.

Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.

All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/

Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode of Made to Be Whole dives into actionable patient advocacy tips and real-life experiences on navigating complex healthcare situations. The conversation focused on practical self-advocacy strategies for patients, including organizing appointments, handling specialist visits, effectively communicating with healthcare teams, and keeping expectations realistic. Listeners will gain insight into maximizing care, maintaining kindness and flexibility, and ensuring better health outcomes through empowered, informed participation in their own care journey.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• How to advocate for yourself in scheduling procedures and appointments
• The importance of flexibility and willingness to travel for timely healthcare
• Why kindness and creativity matter when working with healthcare staff
• Realistic expectations for providers’ time and roles during appointments
• Strategies for organizing your health information for efficient care
• The significance of bringing a support person or utilizing a coach
• Tips for effective communication and planning ahead with your provider
• The importance of not seeking emotional validation from medical specialists
• Practice policies on billing and how to make the most of time-based appointments

Take charge of your appointments: Start organizing your health information and reach out directly to schedule crucial procedures!

Show appreciation: Practice kindness and flexibility with healthcare staff to open doors and expedite care.

Prep for your next appointment: Write down your key concerns and bring a support person or coach to maximize each visit.

Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.

All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/

Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Made to Be Whole, Krista outlined some of the profound ways hormones influence energy, mood, and cognitive well-being. Unpacking foundational hormone education, the discussion explored why hormone imbalances can be at the root of chronic fatigue, mental health symptoms, and more. Listeners will learn about the interconnectedness of the endocrine system, reasons for hormone testing, and practical steps for seeking root causes rather than quick fixes. The episode emphasizes how understanding hormones can advance personal healing and wholeness.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• What Are Hormones? Understanding the Basics of the Endocrine System
• Why Energy, Mood, and Cognition Are Tied to Hormonal Health
• Key Hormones to Test First When Experiencing Fatigue or Mood Changes
• The Pitfalls of Focusing on Only One Hormone (like Thyroid or Adrenal Function)
• How Hormone Receptors and Genetics Affect Symptoms
• The Role of Sex Hormones in Men and Women’s Cognitive and Physical Health
• The Surprising Influence of Fat Tissue, the Gut, and Other Organs on Hormone Production
• How Specialized Testing Brings Clarity—Saliva, Blood, and DNA-Based Approaches
• Risks of Quick Medication Fixes for Mental Health Without Hormonal Assessment
• Personalized Approaches and the Importance of Compounding Pharmacies
• Practical Steps for Getting to the Root Cause of Hormonal Imbalance
• How to Advocate for Yourself When Seeking Answers to Energy and Mood Issues

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Compounding pharmacies and their role in custom hormone therapy
• GoodRx for affordable medication options: https://www.goodrx.com/
• Past episode on thyroid health

Have a question about hormones? Text or call the show’s info line at 330-439-0686 to get answers on a future episode!

Ready to uncover your root cause? Explore hormone and genetic testing options at https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/

Share your journey or episode suggestions—your question could inspire our next discussion!

Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.

All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/

Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Made To Be Whole, host Krista Michener dives deep into the multifaceted world of gut health, exploring what it really means to heal your gut—beyond just food choices and testing. Discover the pivotal role of micronutrient deficiencies, environmental exposures like mycotoxins, and the complexities of gluten sensitivity. Krista Michener walks you through how the “Foundations of Healing” package uncovers root causes, and shares insights on diet, hormone balance, mold, and why true wellness is always individualized. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating digestive issues, chronic gut symptoms, food sensitivities, or looking to understand holistic approaches in functional medicine.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• What gut health really means: looking beyond diet and traditional stool testing
• The essential role of micronutrients (B-vitamins, glutamine, zinc, and more) in digestive healing
• Understanding leaky gut: Causes, consequences, and why it’s not the root problem
• The power of advanced testing for uncovering hidden drivers of gut dysfunction
• How mold and mycotoxins impact the gut microbiome and overall health
• Separating fact from fiction around gluten, dairy, and “trigger foods”
• The importance of hormone balance in gut health and healing
• Personal stories of transformation: Navigating dietary changes and chronic symptoms
• Taking a practical, personalized approach to gut healing strategies

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• SpectraCell micronutrient testing (SpectraCell Labs Research Library)
• Orthomolecular Products: GlutaShield and InflammaCORE Vanilla Chai
• Immune Function Testing | Food Sensitivity+
• Environmental Toxins & Mycotoxin Testing (see Mosaic Diagnostics | Revealing the Complete Picture and RealTime Laboratories: Mycotoxin Mold Testing Kits for testing options)
• MicroGen and MicrobiologyDx nasal swab testing
• ACS Colloidal Silver Nasal Spray - https://www.resultsrna.com/acs-nasal-2/ 
• Journal references: Toxins 2020 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/toxins/issues & Microbiology Spectrum 2023 -https://journals.asm.org/loi/spectrum/group/d2020.y2023 

Curious about what's driving your gut symptoms? Explore our "Foundations of Healing" package and take the first step to get personalized answers and a holistic healing plan!

1. Not sure if gluten or dairy are right for you? Try a mindful elimination for a few weeks and tune in to how your body responds—then share your discoveries with our community!
2. Want to dig deeper into your own health story? Download our free resources and explore transformative testing options at AHPI Integrative Health.

Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.

All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/

Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Made to Be Whole, host Krista Michener dives deep into rare, often misdiagnosed causes of headaches, including compression syndromes, empty sella syndrome, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks. Krista shares her personal journey through challenging, persistent symptoms and offers crucial guidance on decoding your own lab results, effectively leveraging online resources, and finding the right healthcare providers. This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with complex, chronic headaches, positional symptoms, or elusive diagnoses. Krista reveals the pitfalls of relying solely on standard imaging, underscores the importance of patient advocacy, and delivers hope for those on the path to healing.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• How rare headache causes like compression syndromes and CSF leaks can be overlooked by standard medical protocols
• The importance of precise imaging orders and how qualitative vs. quantitative radiology reports affect diagnosis
• Recognizing and advocating through underdiagnosed conditions such as empty sella syndrome and intracranial hypotension
• Navigating patient-driven resources vs. traditional healthcare advice
• Tips for finding experienced specialists and avoiding the internet algorithm trap
• Why patient-driven foundations and support networks are vital for rare and chronic conditions
• The seven “medical sins” affecting diagnosis and care, according to Dr. Richard Asher’s classic framework
• Compassionate advice for self-advocacy and supporting chronically ill loved ones

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Spinal CSF Leak Foundation
• Empty Sella Syndrome Overview
• Compression Syndromes Episode with Michelle

Feeling stuck with unresolved headaches? Share your story or topic suggestions by texting or calling our info line at 330-439-0686!

Advocate for your own healing: Review your lab results and seek multiple opinions if your symptoms don’t improve.

Connect with a community—join patient forums or reach out to foundations for the support and wisdom you need on your journey.

Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.

All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/

Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Made To Be Whole, host Krista Michener dives deep into the world of sleep, focusing on insomnia and its wide-ranging impact on physical, mental, social, vocational, and financial health. Learn why sleep matters, explore various subtypes of insomnia, and discover practical, holistic strategies addressing root causes—from environmental factors and hormones, to trauma, inflammation, and nutrient deficiencies. This episode is packed with actionable tips and in-depth insights for optimizing your sleep and overall wellness. 

Topics discussed in this episode:

• What is insomnia? Exploring different types and root causes
• How sleep impacts every dimension of health: physical, emotional, social, vocational, and financial
• Environmental, dietary, and routine factors contributing to insomnia
• The role of hormones (progesterone, cortisol, melatonin) and neurotransmitters in sleep disruption
• Trauma, PTSD, and the importance of safety for achieving restorative sleep
• Nutrient deficiencies, inflammation, and their influence on sleep quality
• Practical intervention strategies: environmental changes, supplements, routines, prescription medications, and sleep studies
• Root cause medicine: why personalized testing is key to lasting solutions
• Tips for balancing accommodation and boundaries within your household
• Hope for healing: You were made to be whole

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• The Body Keeps the Score by Dr. Bessel van der Kolk
• Ultra Adapt supplement
• Home sleep studies

Ready to improve your sleep? Explore our Foundations Package for personalized testing and interventions!

Curious about your root causes? Book a consultation and discover actionable steps to holistic healing.

Share this episode or leave a review—help others find hope and practical solutions for insomnia!

Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.

All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/

Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Made To Be Whole podcast, host Krista Michener explores the parable of the blind men and the elephant, examining its profound relevance to chronic illness, especially conditions like Bartonella, POTS, EDS, and Lyme disease. Using her own health journey as a touchpoint, Krista discusses the complexities of diagnosis and healing, the importance of a supportive care team, and the vital role each person plays in their own recovery. This episode is filled with practical advice for chronically ill patients and their families, focusing on wholeness, hope, and holistic approaches to health.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• The Parable of the Elephant: How perception shapes experiences with chronic illness and healing
• Navigating chronic conditions: Why no single solution or diagnosis tells the whole story
• What to do when your main provider is unavailable: Exploring resources, building a strong support system, and personal accountability
• The importance of kindness, collaboration, and resilience in your journey to being whole
• Encouragement and strategies for self-advocacy and proactive healing

Call or text the podcast info line at 330-439-0686 with your questions or suggestions for future episodes!

Explore new avenues of support—reach out to a counselor, nutritionist, or provider to broaden your healing journey.

Reflect on your own healing process: Are you taking an active role in your journey to wholeness?

Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.

All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/

Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this special 100th episode of the Made to Be Whole podcast, we celebrate a hundred candid conversations about chronic illness, chronic infection, and the ongoing journey toward wholeness. Eric returns to reflect on essential lessons learned, the shifting landscape of medical understanding, and the surprising realities of parenting and partnership in the context of long-term health challenges. This powerful milestone episode dives into what it truly means to be “made to be whole,” even when facing persistent medical mystery and adversity.

• The Limits of Medical Certainty and Our Relentless Search for Answers
• Parenting and Family Dynamics Amidst Chronic Illness
• Living with Autoimmune Encephalitis: Experiences from Both Sides
• How to Support Loved Ones Through Mental and Physical Health Flares
• Redefining Success, Flexibility, and Self-Compassion in Chronic Health Journeys
• The Interplay Between Body and Mind, and Why It Matters
• Practical Coping Tools for Patients and Caregivers alike
• Family Lessons Learned: Expectations, Advocacy, and Support Systems

• AHPI: Integrative Health and Family Resources
• Ultra Adapt (ashwagandha supplement)
• AIM (anti-inflammatory supplement)- https://aimstore.net/collections/inflammation-1

Celebrate with us! Be one of the first 100 listeners to contact the podcast for exclusive Made to Be Whole pens, stickers, ball caps, and bags.

Have a story or question about your own chronic illness journey? Text or call the podcast line featured at the end of the episode to share and connect.

Missed past episodes? Catch up on all 100 enlightening conversations at AHPI Integrative Health.

Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.

All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/

Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Made to Be Whole, Krista Michener dives into the science of epigenetics, explaining how our genes interact with the environment to influence the rising epidemic of chronic diseases. She unpacks real-world examples of gene-environment interactions, such as EMF and benzene exposure, and highlights the powerful role of genomic testing for personal health. If you’re curious how cutting-edge research in epigenetics can help you make empowered choices for yourself and your family, this episode has some good insights. 

Topics discussed in this episode:

• What is epigenetics and how does it affect chronic disease risk?
• Why chronic disease rates have escalated—genes vs. environmental triggers
• Real-life examples: EMF sensitivity, benzene detox, and vaccine exposure
• The impact of genetic testing on prevention and targeted wellness
• How understanding your genetic vulnerabilities can inform diet, environment, and healthcare choices
• Debunking the “it’s just better diagnosis” argument in modern chronic disease
• The role of environmental toxins in the epidemic of allergies and autoimmunity
• Strategies for prioritizing health in a toxic world: where to start and what to change
• How personalized genetic insights support better outcomes for yourself and your family

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Intellxx DNA Testing: https://intellxxdna.com/

Curious about your own genetic blueprint? Schedule a consultation at AHP Integrative Health to learn how genomic testing can empower your wellness journey!

Share this episode with a friend who would benefit from understanding the hidden side of chronic disease.

Subscribe to the podcast and never miss practical tips for becoming Whole—starting from your DNA out!

Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.

All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/

Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.