Made to be Whole

In this episode of Made to Be Whole, host Krista Michener delves deep into the complex world of autoimmune encephalitis, including PANS/PANDAS (pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome/disorder associated with strep). Unpacking the signs, symptoms, and challenges in diagnosing this misunderstood condition, Krista highlights the importance of timely and accurate testing—such as the Autoimmune Brain Panel from Moleculara—and discusses both medical and practical interventions. With compassion and firsthand experience, she offers practical advice for patients and families, empowering listeners to advocate for themselves and their loved ones on the journey to wholeness.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• What is autoimmune encephalitis and how does it relate to PANS/PANDAS?
• Why adults can be affected and why many cases are missed using current nomenclature
• The role and cost of the Moleculara Autoimmune Brain Panel in diagnosis
• Common symptoms and red flags for autoimmune brain disorders
• When to consider autoimmune testing for persistent neuropsychiatric symptoms
• Interpreting antibody results and tailoring interventions
• Medical treatments, insurance roadblocks, and finding advocacy solutions
• Managing flares at home: building your practical toolkit
• Supporting loved ones with neuropsychiatric symptoms: boundaries and self-care
• The importance of hope and agency in chronic illness recovery

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Moleculara Labs Autoimmune Brain Panel
• Five Love Languages book
• LDN (Low Dose Naltrexone)
• 
  

Consider testing early! If you or a loved one struggles with persistent neuropsychiatric symptoms, ask your provider about the Autoimmune Brain Panel—a key step to clarity and healing.

Advocate for better coverage! If your state or insurance doesn’t cover necessary autoimmune treatments like IVIG or plasmapheresis, reach out to your legislators and share your story.

Build your toolkit. Prepare calming and anti-inflammatory tools at home for flares --- so you’re ready when needed.

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 illuminating episode of Made To Be Whole, host Krista Michener dives deep into the surprising connections between tuberculosis (TB) and Lyme disease, pulling from insights in John Green’s “Everything Is Tuberculosis.” With an integrative approach, Krista explores the medical, historical, and social parallels between these two persistent infections. Drawing on personal experience and research, she discusses stigma, misdiagnosis, the dangers of chronic illness gaslighting, and why early detection is critical for healing. If you or a loved one are navigating the complexities of Lyme disease, TB, or another chronic or vector-borne illness, this episode offers education, empowerment, and encouragement for your journey toward wholeness.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Historic and modern stigma: How TB and Lyme patients became “othered”
• How chronic illnesses affect both individuals and healthcare systems
• The parallels in disease progression and treatment resistance between TB and Lyme disease
• Why early detection and adaptable treatment protocols matter
• The societal and systemic barriers to care for chronic and infectious diseases
• The impact of immunosuppression, stress, and malnutrition on disease manifestation
• Rethinking “compliance” and patient-centered care
• How health inequities and profit motives shape drug development and access
• Real-world advice for finding supportive providers when healing from chronic illness
• The importance of grassroots advocacy and hope for systemic change

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Everything Is Tuberculosis by John Green
• Paul Farmer’s work on healthcare and control in chronic illness

Share your story or a moment of hope in your chronic illness journey using #MadeToBeWhole on social media—and inspire others!

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 and sleep apnea interventions

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 Made to Be Whole, host Krista Michener dives deep into Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), exploring its symptoms, triggers, diagnostic complexities, and the critical connection between environment and chronic illness. With a compassionate and evidence-based approach, Krista Michener clarifies why addressing MCAS means more than managing symptoms—it’s about uncovering and treating root causes like mold, infections, and environmental toxins. This episode will reveal useful options for anyone experiencing chronic fatigue, brain fog, or allergic symptoms and seeking holistic, actionable steps toward true wellness.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• What is Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and why has it become a hot topic?
• Key symptoms of MCAS and their overlaps with other chronic conditions
• The critical importance of not stopping at a syndrome diagnosis—finding and treating root causes
• Environmental triggers: the hidden role of mold, toxins, and even your car
• Diagnostic approaches: from lab tests to genetic panels and why guessing is costly
• Real-life case study highlighting the transformative power of addressing your environment
• Personalized interventions: how functional genomics can tailor MCAS treatment
• Hope and empowerment on the road to wholeness

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Chemical Exposures: Low Levels and High Stakes by Nicholas Ashford and Claudia Miller
• IntellxxDNA Functional Genomics Testing- https://intellxxdna.com/
• Shop | RealTime Labs
• Our Tests - MosaicDX
• ILADS (International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society) - https://www.ilads.org/

Additional Resources:

• Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) - Dr. Tania Dempsey

Ready to take control of your environment and health? Start by testing for mold and toxins to discover how your surroundings may be affecting your wellness.

Curious if your genes are impacting your chronic symptoms? Ask your provider about functional genomics testing for a personalized plan 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.

In this insightful episode of Made to Be Whole, host Krista Michener dives deep into the complexities of Long Covid—also known as Long Haulers or PASC (Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19). This episode offers an integrative look at what drives lingering multi-system symptoms after COVID-19, practical tips for identification, and cutting-edge research and resources to aid recovery. If you’re seeking clarity on Long Covid symptoms, causes, and healing pathways, this episode is for you.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• What is Long Covid? Understanding symptoms, terminology, and definitions
• The root causes: Inflammation, autoimmunity, immune system suppression, and viral reactivation
• How Long Covid affects different body systems (nervous, digestive, vascular, etc.)
• The role of genetics and genomic testing in persistent inflammation
• New research and specialized testing for Long Covid (Dr. Vojdani and Dr. Patterson’s work)
• The challenge of mono-causal thinking—why healing is rarely just about “one thing”
• The importance of immune system support and foundational wellness practices
• Discussion of promising interventions: antiviral therapies, supplements, micronutrient testing, and more
• Taking a holistic approach—addressing mind, body, and spirit for true healing
• Empowering listeners to focus on what they can control in their healing journey

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Research by Dr. Vojdani:
• Persistent SARS-CoV-2 Infection, EBV, HHV-6 and Other Factors May Contribute to Inflammation and Autoimmunity in Long COVID - PubMed
• Radiance Diagnostics: InCellDx Cytokine Panel & Long Covid Testing
• Health Bio: Dr. Patterson’s Long Covid Research
• ILADS Conference & Dr. Aristo Vojdani’s Research
• IntellxxDNA Genomic Testing
• AHB Integrative Health
• Immune system support supplements - Advanced Humeomics

Investigate your unique healing journey—consider testing to identify what’s driving your symptoms!

Don’t give up hope—nourish your immune system and focus on core health foundations every day!

Connect with experienced practitioners and explore emerging treatments shared in today’s episode!

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 is joined by pharmacist and psychopharmacology expert Kerry Earlywine from Infuserve America. Together, they dive deep into integrative mental health care, moving beyond the conventional "pill mill" approach to discuss root causes, comprehensive testing, and the power of compounding pharmacy solutions. Discover actionable advice on supporting mental well-being by assessing the gut-brain connection, toxins, hormones, and lifestyle—all key parts of embracing a whole-person philosophy. The conversation puts a spotlight on innovative testing (from urine and saliva to hair analysis), collaborative care, and strategies to empower patients on their journey to wholeness.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Integrative mental health: Moving beyond "one-size-fits-all" medication models
• The importance of innovative testing: urine, saliva, stool, hair, and their roles in mental health
• The gut-brain connection: How gut health, toxins, and food sensitivities impact the mind
• The hidden dangers of fillers and inactive ingredients in pharmaceuticals
• Navigating environmental exposures: heavy metals, mold, and mycotoxins
• Advantages of compounding pharmacies for sensitive patients
• Hormones and mental health: The roles of cortisol, estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone
• Epigenetics and how life’s stresses (and sun exposure!) impact genetic expression
• Strategies for reducing brain inflammation: nasal sprays, topical solutions, and natural anti-inflammatories
• The power of collaborative, non-extreme care teams—building a healthcare “village”
• Patient empowerment, information overload, and the need for trusted practitioners

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Infuserve America Compounding Pharmacy: https://infuserveamerica.com/
• ILADS (International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society): https://www.ilads.org/

Feeling stuck with conventional mental health care? Explore integrative testing and compounding options—reach out and begin your journey toward wholeness!

Curious about how your gut, genes, or environment may be impacting your mental health? Schedule comprehensive lab work for a more complete picture.

Don’t go it alone—assemble your healthcare village and find practitioners who listen and collaborate across specialties!

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 tackles the immense influence of body image and how it can become a “false idol” in our lives. Drawing from personal experience and spiritual insights, Krista confronts the toxic beliefs that keep us preoccupied with appearance instead of embracing the gift and identity of our bodies. Tune in to learn nourishing strategies to replace body dissatisfaction with gratitude, reframe the narrative around chronic illness and pain, and cultivate a more authentic, joyful relationship with yourself. This heartfelt discussion is essential listening for anyone struggling with body image, chronic illness, or the challenges of self-acceptance.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• What does it mean to “worship the false idol” of body image?
• The complexities of “post-traumatic eating disorder” thinking
• How health challenges affect self-perception and identity
• The difference between pursuing health and idolizing “the perfect body”
• The cost of envying others’ bodies and health, and how to reframe your mindset
• How online communities and social media can distort body acceptance
• Practical ways to choose nourishing information and relationships
• Building your identity outside of illness or physical limitations
• Steps to focus on wholeness over brokenness in everyday life

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• David A. Bednar’s BYU-Idaho Address, May 2009: https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/david-a-bednar/things-really/ 
• Article on virtual relationships: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/1997/08/25/virtual-love 

Take a media “diet”: Unfollow social media or entertainment that leaves you feeling less than whole. Curate what empowers and nourishes you!

Reach out: Talk to someone you trust about how your environment or relationships affect your self-image. Open conversations can bring unexpected healing.

Expand your definition of self: Try serving or connecting with people outside your usual circles, especially if you’re coping with chronic illness. Broaden your world to see your value beyond your struggles.

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 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.