In this powerful episode of Made To Be Whole, host Krista Michener sits down with Michelle McAdoo, mom of Carson, to discuss the long, complex journey of parenting a child through chronic illnesses—specifically PANS/PANDAS, Bartonella, and recently-diagnosed compression syndromes. Michelle opens up about the medical maze, heartbreaking setbacks, and hard-won breakthroughs, highlighting the importance of whole-person medicine, determined advocacy, and hope. If you are navigating a chronic health diagnosis for your child, this episode is for you.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Recognizing Early Signs: How Carson’s health struggles began—from NICU stay, allergies, GI struggles, to developmental red flags.
• Breaking the Mold: Going beyond “it’s psychological”—the journey to getting a PANS/PANDAS diagnosis amid skepticism and misunderstanding.
• Treating the Whole Child: Integrative approaches to chronic illness, including functional medicine, antibiotic protocols, neurofeedback, IVIG, plasmapheresis, and dietary interventions.
• Bartonella, Lyme & More: The critical role of looking for co-infections and tackling the “layers” of chronic illness.
• The Hidden Challenge of Compression Syndromes: Understanding abdominal and vascular compression syndromes and their profound impact on nutrition, pain, and healing.
• The Cost of Healing: Real talk about financial, emotional, and systemic barriers to care—and why perseverance matters.
• Advocacy That Heals: Tips for other parents on fighting for answers, building the right team, and never giving up on your child.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Home | PANDAS Network
• https://www.facebook.com/NationalMALSFoundation- 
• Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome Research and Awareness
• Vascular Compression Syndromes | The EDS Clinic
• Dr Alvear explains the Alvear-Fowlkes Procedure for SMA Syndrome (Vascular Compression).
• SMA Syndrome Surgery Los Angeles | Danny Shouhed, MD
• Functional Medicine for Chronic Illness

If you’re a parent facing a complex health journey with your child, trust your instincts and advocate fiercely—you’re not alone.

Join a support group to connect with others who truly understand what you’re going through.

Subscribe to Made To Be Whole for more hope-filled, practical conversations about integrative health and healing!

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.

Welcome back to Made To Be Whole with Krista Michener as host and special guest Aicila. In this inspiring episode, we dive deep into Aicila’s personal health journey and discover the transformative impact of micronutrient testing, B12, hormone balance, and self-advocacy—especially for women in midlife. Join us as we discuss how listening to your body, pushing for better information, and embracing integrative solutions can help you reclaim joy, energy, and connection in every stage of life. 

Topics Discussed in This Episode:

• How persistent health advocacy can change your life—
• Aicila's journey from brain fog to joy spiral
• Why micronutrient and hormone testing matter (especially for women 40+)
• The impact of B12 deficiency and absorption issues—signs, symptoms, and solutions
• Hormone replacement therapy: breakthroughs, gradual improvements, and regaining motivation
• Intermittent fasting and mood: How lifestyle changes can support mental and physical well-being
• The ripple effect: How taking control of your own health can model and foster wellness for family members
• Lessons in listening: The power of noticing subtle symptoms before they become major issues
• Integrative health philosophies and building systems that support the whole person
• Time, energy, and self-worth—why investing in your health is the foundation for everything else

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• Foundations of Health Programs on the AHP Website 
• BiCurean Consulting (for more on BiCurean's philosophy and production)

Prioritize your health—consider getting tested for vitamin and hormone levels, and take the first step toward feeling whole again!

Share this episode with a friend who might need encouragement to advocate for their well-being.

Visit AHPI Integrative Health for more resources and to learn about personalized care options.

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

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 the Season Three kickoff episode of Made to Be Whole, host Krista Michener revisits and expands on the foundational Pillars of Healing framework—demonstrating how these guiding principles apply to the complex treatment of autoimmune encephalitis (including PANS/PANDAS) and chronic infections. Krista shares new insights drawn from her own family’s recent experiences, emphasizing the importance of identifying the root causes, holistic testing, and individualizing care to support healing from persistent neurological and immune challenges. Listeners gain expert advice on combining medical innovation, personal introspection, and resourceful investment in the journey toward wellness.

Topics Discussed in This Episode:

• What Are the Pillars of Healing and How Do They Apply to Autoimmune Conditions?
• The Critical Role of Comprehensive Testing: Why “Guessing Is Expensive Too”
• Balancing Infection, Inflammation, Immune Function, and Integrity as Core Healing Domains
• Genomic Testing and Its Impact on Individualized Care Plans
• Navigating Financial, Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Investments in Healing
• The Importance of Community, Support, and Introspection in the Recovery Process

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• Cunningham Panel / Autoimmune Brain Panel: https://www.moleculera.com/
• IntellxxDNA Genomic Testing: https://intellxxdna.com/
• CareCredit healthcare financing: https://www.carecredit.com/
• AHP Integrative Health: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/

Ready to invest in your own healing journey? Explore recommended labs and genomic testing resources mentioned in the episode.

Share your story—join our online community and connect with others walking a similar healing path!

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 special year-end episode of Made To Be Whole, host Krista Michener delivers her renowned annual countdown of the Michener family’s top health hacks from 2025. Drawing from personal experiences, family insights, and patient observations, Krista Michener unpacks a variety of practical tools and therapies—ranging from ionic foot baths to nutrient infusions, craniosacral therapy, intermittent fasting, and more. Listeners receive an uplifting, data-driven look at holistic ways to tackle brain fog, pain, fatigue, inflammation, and overall health, crafted around the core message: you were made to be whole.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• The Michener Family’s Top 10 Health Hacks of 2025
• Ionic Foot Baths and Their Impact on Brain Fog, Pain, and Anxiety
• The Role of Nutrient Injections and Infusions, Including Glutathione Shots
• Harnessing the Power of Intermittent Fasting for Energy and Weight Loss
• Personalizing Exercise Routines Despite Chronic Illness or Pain
• Craniosacral Therapy and Lymphatic Health for Head, Neck, and Back Relief
• Compression Devices for Improved Circulation and Mental Clarity
• Understanding Plasmalogens and Their Role in Cognitive Healing
• Autoimmune Brain Panel Testing (Cunningham Panel) and the Path to Answers
• The Surprising Benefits of Procaine and Repurposed Medications
• The Importance of Repeat Testing for Ongoing Health Optimization

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Find a Craniosacral Therapy Practitioner
• Information about The Autoimmune Brain Panel/Cunningham Panel
• What are plasmalogens?

Ready to take charge of your wellness? Schedule your own micronutrient testing or consult with our team to personalize your health plan!

Know someone struggling with fatigue, brain fog, or chronic illness? Share this episode and inspire hope in their healing journey.

Want to try a new health hack? Explore one of the top 10 hacks from this episode and let us know your experience on our website or social channels!

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 holiday special of Made to Be Whole, host Krista Michener explores six transformative gifts you can give yourself—each designed to support your healing, health, and happiness. Drawing from personal experiences and evidence-based insights, Krista Michener shares practical strategies to cultivate routine, anticipation, expression, connection, letting go, and gratitude. Tune in to discover how these simple, cost-free gifts can make a lasting impact on your journey to feeling whole and well—no matter your circumstances or challenges.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• The Gift of Routine: Why daily habits can elevate your physical and mental well-being
• The Power of Anticipation: How looking forward to positive experiences boosts joy and dopamine
• Express Yourself: Creative ways to release emotions and heal through journaling, art, and music
• Making Real Connections: The importance of authentic, interpersonal relationships (beyond social media)
• Letting Go for Healing: Freeing yourself from grudges, unrealistic expectations, and the illusion of control
• The Transformative Power of Gratitude: How cultivating thankfulness supports happiness and healing

Reflect on which of the six gifts you can start cultivating—routine, anticipation, expression, connection, letting go, or gratitude—and take one small step today!

Try journaling or a creative activity for yourself this week, just for your own expression and healing.

Connect with someone in real life—send a text, have a conversation, or schedule a coffee date outside of social media.

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 welcomes 16-year-old guest Emma to share her inspiring recovery story from severe illness caused by PANS/PANDAS, and Bartonella. Emma details her sudden onset of symptoms, the emotional toll on her family, her journey through different treatments, and practical advice for others navigating similar chronic health challenges. This case study spotlights hope, perseverance, and holistic healing, making it a must-listen for families and anyone interested in autoimmune encephalitis, tick-borne illness, and the importance of community support.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• What is PANS/PANDAS and Bartonella, and how do they affect young people?
• Unique symptoms and sudden onset: Emma’s personal experience and struggles
• The impact of chronic illness on family dynamics and mental health
• Treatment journey: What worked, what didn’t, and how Emma found lasting improvement
• Neurofeedback, medications, and biofilm protocols explained
• The role of perseverance and hope in recovery
• Emma’s new life: Working, school, hobbies, and future dreams
• Advice for parents and families supporting children with PANS/PANDAS
• The healing power of animals: How Emma’s dog Ernie played a role in her recovery

If you or your loved one is struggling with PANS, PANDAS, or chronic illness, don’t give up—healing is possible!

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

Any references to 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 concept of Spoon Theory and how it can help you set realistic holiday expectations, especially if you live with chronic illness or simply want to avoid holiday overwhelm. Krista shares practical strategies for managing your energy, prioritizing what matters most, and letting go of unnecessary obligations, so you can savor more joy and less stress this festive season. If you’re searching for advice on energy budgeting, self-care during the holidays, or coping with invisible illnesses, this episode offers supportive insights.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• What is Spoon Theory and how does it apply to holiday planning?
• Learning to set and communicate holiday expectations with yourself and others
• Practical ways to conserve energy (spoons) during demanding seasons
• Letting go of self-imposed obligations that drain joy
• The importance of maintaining core self-care habits during the holidays
• How to prioritize meaningful traditions and relationships over perfectionism

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Spoon Theory original essay by Christine Miserandino: https://lymphoma-action.org.uk/sites/default/files/media/documents/2020-05/Spoon%20theory%20by%20Christine%20Miserandino.pdf

Take 15 minutes today to list your holiday traditions and mark the ones that matter most!

Talk with your loved ones about your energy limits, and ask for help or flexibility where you need it.

Prioritize your self-care routines—the holidays are not the time to let go of your healthy habits!

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 explores the scientifically-backed healing power of gratitude and its influence on our health, relationships, and emotional resilience. Drawing from personal experiences, scientific studies, and practical tips, Krista illuminates how intentional gratitude practices can help individuals cope with illness, foster closer bonds, and develop lasting resilience—even during challenging times. Whether you’re navigating chronic health conditions or simply seeking greater well-being, this episode highlights how gratitude can be a transformative force in your life.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• How gratitude impacts physical and mental health—including neurological and hormonal effects
• The role of expressed gratitude in strengthening relationships and social bonds
• Practical strategies for incorporating gratitude into daily life, even in the midst of trials or illness
• The connection between gratitude, resilience, and authentic compassion for others
• How comparison can rob joy and stifle gratitude, and ways to shift perspective back to appreciation
• Creative and accessible gratitude practices for introverts, families, and those facing health challenges

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Evidence for a role of the oxytocin system, indexed by genetic variation in CD38, in the social bonding effects of expressed gratitude
• PositivePsychology.com: The Neuroscience of Gratitude and Its Effects on the Brain 
• Exploring neural mechanisms of the health benefits of gratitude in women: A randomized controlled trial
• The The Plain Simple Life: 10 Reasons Why Comparison is the Thief of Joy 
• An excerpt from an epistle from the prophet Joseph Smith to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was written while he was a prisoner in Liberty, Missouri around March 22, 1839.

Start a gratitude journal today—even noting one thing you’re thankful for can shift your mindset and support healing.

Take a moment to verbally express appreciation to someone close to you and see how relationships deepen.

Challenge yourself to look for growth and learning in your struggles; reflect on how difficulties may increase your compassion and resilience.

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 wraps up her three-part series on the ILADS 2025 conference by diving deep into evidenced-based and holistic treatment strategies for Lyme disease, mold exposure, chronic infections, and associated conditions such as sleep disorders, cellular inflammation, and autoimmune encephalitis. Krista shares candid insights from her personal healing journey and discusses cutting-edge research, emphasizing individualized care and the importance of addressing the root causes of chronic illness. If you've been searching for effective ways to support your healing, manage vector-borne infections, or understand integrative health approaches to mold and chronic illness, this episode is for you.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• The Myth of Shortcuts to Healing: Why real recovery takes time and persistence
• Krista's Year-by-Year Progress: Personal healing journey through four ILADS conferences
• Key Treatments for Sleep, Lymphatic Drainage, and Brain Inflammation
• Alternative and Compounded Approaches for Mold, Epstein Barr Virus, and Mast Cell Activation
• The Value of Individualized Protocols: Why what works for one might not work for all

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Dr. Dale Renlund on repetition and growth: Lifelong Conversion | Dale G. Renlund | BYU Speeches
• Cranial Academy for finding craniosacral osteopaths:https://cranialacademy.org/
• Dr. Neil Nathan’s book on mold protocols: Toxic
• Labs for identifying specific pathogens in nasal infections: 
• MicroGenDX
• MicrobiologyDx
• Flospresso System for lymphatic drainage (episode coming soon!)

Curious about what a personalized treatment plan looks like for YOU? Visit our website for resources and expert support!

Did this episode inspire you to rethink your healing journey? Share your progress or questions in our community forum!

Ready to find hope and community? Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode about healing and 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.