Talking with Tanya

From letting go of comforts and dealing with unexpected food poisoning, this trip turned into a humbling experience of self-discovery. I’m incredibly grateful to have met the extended family on my mother’s side and to return home carrying the insights, warmth, and perspective of such a beautiful culture.

In this episode, I open up about my past cannabis use — the highs, the lows, and the inner work that helped me reshape my relationship with it. From personal stories to neuroscience and emotional healing, I explore what it means to choose growth over comfort. This is not about preaching — it’s about being honest, reflective, and real. Healing is never linear, but change is possible. Always.

References

Hanley Foundation. “How Addiction Affects Children and Families.” Hanley Foundation, 17 Apr. 2025, hanleyfoundation.org/addiction-treatment/how-addiction-affects-children-and-families/?utm_term=addiction%20and%20family%20dynamics&utm_campaign=HF+-+Blog&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=7840443534&hsa_cam=21288565658&hsa_grp=161935735839&hsa_ad=700243871511&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=kwd-505955749192&hsa_kw=addiction%20and%20family%20dynamics&hsa_mt=b&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=21288565658&gbraid=0AAAAADngh9EyVK_KHJptkdZYfqr-IhcZ3&gclid=Cj0KCQjwgIXCBhDBARIsAELC9ZgDshEC4s1UvxU37Ta4O-96_OEiN6d1UP7dyi1MsAJHmReFgyzFMNIaAvT4EALw_wcB.

Konopka, Lukasz M. “Marijuana Use: Neuroscience Perspective.” Croatian Medical Journal, vol. 55, no. 3, June 2014, pp. 281–83. https://doi.org/10.3325/cmj.2014.55.281.

Voss, Patrice, et al. “Dynamic Brains and the Changing Rules of Neuroplasticity: Implications for Learning and Recovery.” Frontiers in Psychology, vol. 8, Oct. 2017, https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2017.01657.

From reducing anxiety and stress to encouraging better eating habits and creating a deeper connection with nature, gardening has become a safe space where I can slow down and grow — inside and out.I also talk about the simple things I've learned so far, my favorite easy-to-grow plant, and how gardening has helped me feel more independent and in tune with myself. Whether you’re curious about starting your own garden or just love stories of healing and self-discovery, this episode is for you.🌻 Let’s grow together — one seed at a time.

Andrew Millison Permaculture Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b5Xgw_DqmEw

References:

Bhardwaj, Raju Lal, et al. “An Alarming Decline in the Nutritional Quality of Foods: The Biggest Challenge for Future Generations’ Health.” Foods, vol. 13, no. 6, Mar. 2024, p. 877. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13060877.

DNP, Lisa Wimmer Aprn, C. N. P. ,. “Dig Into the Benefits of Gardening.” Mayo Clinic Health System, 12 July 2022, www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/dig-into-the-benefits-of-gardening.

Glantz, Maya. “‘Messy Gardening’ Is the Emerging Trend That Embraces the Chaos &Mdash; Here’s How to Design an Outdoor Space With It&Hellip;” Livingetc, 27 May 2025, www.livingetc.com/advice/messy-gardening.

Gouveia, Allie, and Allie Gouveia. “8 Surprising Health Benefits of Gardening | UNC Health Talk.” UNC Health Talk, 27 Aug. 2024, healthtalk.unchealthcare.org/health-benefits-of-gardening.

Thompson, Richard. “Gardening for Health: A Regular Dose of Gardening.” Clinical Medicine, vol. 18, no. 3, June 2018, pp. 201–05. https://doi.org/10.7861/clinmedicine.18-3-201.

In this episode, I’m opening up about the path that’s shaped me — the jobs I tried, the people I lost, and the versions of myself I let go of along the way.Your 20s can feel like a mix of chaos, clarity, confusion, and becoming — and I’m sharing the messy in-between that led me back to myself. From college shifts to career pivots, and unexpected changes to quiet realizations, I’m walking through the real-life detours that taught me the most.If you’ve ever felt behind, lost, or like you’re still figuring it all out — this one’s for you.

Episode 6 – Let’s Talk Electrolytes: What They Are, Why They Matter, and How to Replenish Them

Ever feel drained, dizzy, or like water just isn't hitting right? In this episode, we’re breaking down the basics of electrolytes — those tiny charged minerals your body needs to function, hydrate, and thrive. I’ll explain what they do, how you lose them, and how to get them back through food, DIY drinks, and yes... even Liquid I.V. (which I’ve been trying lately — tasty at first, but it gets weird real quick 😂).

I also talk about how things like avocado, bananas, salt, and lemon water play a role in keeping your energy and hydration on point — plus a simple homemade electrolyte drink you can whip up in seconds.

If you’ve ever wondered, "Do I need electrolytes if I’m not an athlete?" or "Can I just eat a balanced meal?" — this one's for you.

Disclaimer: I’m not a doctor, nutritionist, or healthcare professional — I’m just sharing my personal experience and research. Always check in with a licensed professional before making changes to your diet or supplement routine.

Have you ever heard of “cortisol face”? Because same—and it sent me down a rabbit hole of stress hormones, its damaging effects, and the ancient herb ashwagandha. In this episode of Talking with Tanya, I dive into the science and personal experience behind cortisol: what it is, how it affects our body and mind, and why it’s such a big deal when it gets out of balance.I also share how ashwagandha came into my routine, what I learned about its calming properties, and whether or not it’s worth the hype (and the price). Spoiler alert: I found a more affordable option and started taking it every morning.If you’re feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or just curious about adaptogens and natural ways to support your stress levels, this episode is for you.Disclaimer: I’m not a healthcare provider—just someone passionate about wellness and sharing what I’ve learned. Always consult with your doctor before starting new supplements or making changes to your health routine.

If the thought of burpees makes you want to cry a little inside, this episode is for you. In today’s Talking with Tanya, I’m shining a light on one of the most underrated forms of movement: walking. I’ll share how it became a key part of my daily routine and how it can support your physical, mental, and emotional well-being—no gym membership required. Whether you’re starting your health journey or just looking for a simple way to feel better, this episode is your invitation to take that first step.Disclaimer: I’m not a medical professional. Always consult with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

In this episode of Talking with Tanya, we’re diving deep into knee and joint health—because waiting until you’re in pain is not the move. I share a personal story about my stepdad’s knee surgery and the wake-up call it gave me about the importance of joint care.We’ll explore what osteoarthritis is, what causes joint deterioration, and how lifestyle choices like diet, movement, and posture can impact long-term joint health. I also talk about common knee injuries, how to strengthen cartilage, the role of inflammation, and even natural remedies that may help reduce joint pain.Whether you’re active, sedentary, or somewhere in between—this episode is packed with info to help you stay moving, feeling good, and protecting your knees for the long haul.✨ Let’s keep those joints happy. Tune in, take notes, and take care.

Resources & References:Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) Injuries - OrthoInfo - AAOS. orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/anterior-cruciate-ligament-acl-injuries.

Devil’s Claw: MedlinePlus Supplements. medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/984.html#:~:text=Taking%20devil's%20claw%20by%20mouth,%2Dinflammatory%20drugs%20(NSAIDs).\

Duffy, Eamon Y., et al. “Opportunities to Improve Cardiovascular Health in the New American Workplace.” American Journal of Preventive Cardiology, vol. 5, Dec. 2020, p. 100136. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajpc.2020.100136.

Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center. “Osteoarthritis : Pathophysiology.” Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center, 27 Mar. 2019, www.hopkinsarthritis.org/arthritis-info/osteoarthritis/oa-pathophysiology/#:~:text=trigger%20the%20disease.-,OA%20is%20primarily%20a%20disease%20of%20cartilage,attempt%20at%20repair%20is%20made.

Jones, Rosie. What Is the Prevalence of Osteoarthritis? 22 May 2023, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/prevalence-of-osteoarthritis#:~:text=What%20is%20the%20prevalence%20of%20osteoarthritis?&text=Osteoarthritis%20(OA)%20is%20the%20most,over%2032%20million%20have%20OA.

“Meniscus Tears and Sprains - Types of Meniscus Injuries | Massachusetts General Hospital.” Massachusetts General Hospital, www.massgeneral.org/orthopaedics/sports-medicine/conditions-and-treatments/meniscus-injuries.

Morales-Brown, Peter. 8 Natural Supplements to Help Fight Inflammation. 22 Aug. 2023, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326067#omega-3-fatty-acids.

National Library of Medicine. “Osteoarthritis.” OA | MedlinePlus, medlineplus.gov/osteoarthritis.html#:~:text=What%20is%20osteoarthritis?,do%20to%20manage%20the%20symptoms.

Konstantakos, Emmanuel, MD. “How Do Synovial Joints Work?” Arthritis-health, 13 May 2016, www.arthritis-health.com/types/joint-anatomy/how-do-synovial-joints-work#:~:text=Synovial%20fluid's%20primary%20job%20is,removes%20waste%20from%20the%20cartilage.&text=When%20a%20joint%20is%20at,synovial%20fluid%20throughout%20the%20joint.

“Stretches and Exercises to Strengthen Your Knees, From a PT.” Hospital for Special Surgery, www.hss.edu/article_exercises-strengthen-knees.asp#:~:text=So%20how%20does%20a%20lack,their%20full%20range%20of%20motion.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making changes to your health or wellness routine.

In this special episode, I sit down with someone very close to my heart—my big brother, Meyo. While visiting California (where I grew up and lived for over 20 years), I had the chance to reconnect and record this sweet, simple conversation with him.Meyo is 40 years old and lives with an intellectual disability. He’s also on the autism spectrum, but that’s never stopped him from living life with so much heart, independence, and faith. He’s one of my best friends—we’ve spent countless days together growing up, and I wanted to share a little bit of his world with you.

In this first episode of Talking with Tanya, I open up about my life after turning 18—navigating adulthood, dealing with anxiety, and trying to find my path through all the chaos. I share the ups and downs of starting over (more than once), juggling school and work, and living with the pressure of family struggles—like supporting a mentally disabled older brother and dealing with a younger brother battling addiction. This is just the beginning of my journey toward self-discovery, healing, and growth.