The Art of Living Well Podcast®

📬 Get your free favorite products guide and stay connected by signing up  for our Substack newsletter here: https://theartoflivingwell.substack.com/ 

_______________________________ In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast®, hosts Marnie Dachis Marmet and Stephanie May Potter sit down with veteran journalist, author, and professional bodybuilder Anne Marie Chaker, whose book Lift: How Women Can Reclaim Their Physical Power and Transform Their Lives explores how women can reclaim their physical power and transform their lives. Anne Marie opens up about her journey through postpartum depression, loss, and addiction, and how strength training became the anchor that helped her rebuild her confidence, career, and health.

This inspiring conversation dives deep into body image, women’s strength, cultural ideals, and the mental resilience that comes with lifting heavy, both in the gym and in life.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Anne Marie’s personal story of overcoming grief, depression, and addiction through strength training.

• Why women should embrace muscle and strength rather than chasing “thinness.”

• The cultural history of women’s body ideals, and why the skinny-muscular look is unrealistic.

• How lifting weights transforms confidence, productivity, and mental health.

• The importance of community, mindset, and rest days in building lasting strength.

• How to raise daughters with positive body image in today’s social media landscape.

Noteworthy Quotes from the Episode:

• “I stopped wanting to be less and started wanting to be more.” – Anne Marie Chaker

• “Strength training, eating well, those are the things that will power us. It is not to be feared.” – Anne Marie Chaker

• “You never know who you’re going to inspire. We women have to look out for each other.” – Anne Marie Chaker

• “Perfect is overrated. I’d so much rather be strong than super thin.” – Anne Marie Chaker

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [00:00] Anne Marie’s vulnerable story: postpartum depression, her father’s sudden passing, divorce, and struggles with alcohol. [04:29] The turning point: meeting a hockey mom bodybuilder and discovering coaching. [09:29] How weightlifting flipped the switch from “zero to eleven” in her life and career. [19:00] Reconciling bodybuilding aesthetics with her empowering message. [23:30] Why strength training is crucial for women in perimenopause and menopause. [26:12] Historical and cultural roots of the “skinny ideal” and how it limits women. [36:00] Handling judgment, confidence, and the mental strength gained from lifting. [45:22] The importance of rest days and recovery for muscle growth and well-being.

_______________________________

Sign up for your 15-minute Health Transformation Audit: https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/sign-up-landing-page _______________________________

Join the Minneapolis Hiking Collective: https://web.facebook.com/groups/1368978181038556/ _______________________________ Follow Annie Marie Chaker: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-marie-chaker-62119317/ Website: https://annemariechaker.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annemariechaker/ Buy the book Lift: How Women Can Reclaim Their Physical Power and Transform Their Lives: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/709922/lift-by-anne-marie-chaker/

Follow The Art of Living Well Podcast: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartoflivingwel/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartoflivingwellpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/theartoflivingwellpodcast/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jOPdSHwrpM1BmxyJz?si=6E16CJZEQ5OIwpFzs2Ocaw Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/id1482050468 Connect with your Hosts here:

https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/about-us 

📬 Get your free favorite products guide and stay connected by signing up  for our Substack newsletter here: https://theartoflivingwell.substack.com/

_______________________________ In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast®, hosts Marnie Dachis Marmet and Stephanie May Potter sit down with veteran journalist, author, and professional bodybuilder Anne Marie Chaker, whose book Lift: How Women Can Reclaim Their Physical Power and Transform Their Lives explores how women can reclaim their physical power and transform their lives. Anne Marie opens up about her journey through postpartum depression, loss, and addiction, and how strength training became the anchor that helped her rebuild her confidence, career, and health.

This inspiring conversation dives deep into body image, women’s strength, cultural ideals, and the mental resilience that comes with lifting heavy, both in the gym and in life.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Anne Marie’s personal story of overcoming grief, depression, and addiction through strength training.

• Why women should embrace muscle and strength rather than chasing “thinness.”

• The cultural history of women’s body ideals, and why the skinny-muscular look is unrealistic.

• How lifting weights transforms confidence, productivity, and mental health.

• The importance of community, mindset, and rest days in building lasting strength.

• How to raise daughters with positive body image in today’s social media landscape.

Noteworthy Quotes from the Episode:

• “I stopped wanting to be less and started wanting to be more.” – Anne Marie Chaker

• “Strength training, eating well, those are the things that will power us. It is not to be feared.” – Anne Marie Chaker

• “You never know who you’re going to inspire. We women have to look out for each other.” – Anne Marie Chaker

• “Perfect is overrated. I’d so much rather be strong than super thin.” – Anne Marie Chaker

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [00:00] Anne Marie’s vulnerable story: postpartum depression, her father’s sudden passing, divorce, and struggles with alcohol. [04:29] The turning point: meeting a hockey mom bodybuilder and discovering coaching. [09:29] How weightlifting flipped the switch from “zero to eleven” in her life and career. [19:00] Reconciling bodybuilding aesthetics with her empowering message. [23:30] Why strength training is crucial for women in perimenopause and menopause. [26:12] Historical and cultural roots of the “skinny ideal” and how it limits women. [36:00] Handling judgment, confidence, and the mental strength gained from lifting. [45:22] The importance of rest days and recovery for muscle growth and well-being.

_______________________________

Sign up for your 15-minute Health Transformation Audit: https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/sign-up-landing-page _______________________________

Join the Minneapolis Hiking Collective: https://web.facebook.com/groups/1368978181038556/ _______________________________ Follow Annie Marie Chaker: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-marie-chaker-62119317/ Website: https://annemariechaker.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annemariechaker/ Buy the book Lift: How Women Can Reclaim Their Physical Power and Transform Their Lives: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/709922/lift-by-anne-marie-chaker/

Follow The Art of Living Well Podcast: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartoflivingwel/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartoflivingwellpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/theartoflivingwellpodcast/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jOPdSHwrpM1BmxyJz?si=6E16CJZEQ5OIwpFzs2Ocaw Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/id1482050468 Connect with your Hosts here:

https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/about-us

Marnie Dachis Marmet and Stephanie May Potter, co-hosts of The Art of Living Well Podcast® and certified Integrative Health Practitioners trained under Dr. Stephen Cabral, share their favorite wellness, fitness, beauty, and recovery products of 2025. From weighted vests and slant boards to red light masks, clean beauty swaps, and sprouting kits, Marnie and Stephanie reveal the tools they actually use daily to nurture longevity, energy, and overall well-being.

They dive into why recovery tools are trending, how certain products transformed their training for major hikes and endurance events, and which clean beauty brands and supplements are worth investing in. This fun, practical conversation is packed with recommendations you can easily integrate into your lifestyle to boost performance, sleep better, and feel more energized.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why recovery tools like weighted vests, slant boards, and hydration packs are game-changers.

• Favorite supplements and electrolytes that support longevity and energy.

• Clean beauty and skincare brands that meet their high standards.

• The importance of sleep tools, from masks and mouth tape to cozy bamboo sheets.

• Kitchen swaps like sprouting kits, basil seeds, and cooking oils that promote better health.

• Longevity-focused products like red light therapy, peptides, and daily gut support.

• Their must-have lifestyle upgrades for stress relief, sleep, and gut health.

Noteworthy Quotes from the Episode:

• "Recovery was never part of my vocabulary until training for 29029, now it's essential." – Stephanie May Potter

• "Sometimes the simplest tools, like a $30 slant board, make the biggest difference." – Marnie Dachis Marmet

• "The products we share are truly things we use and love every single day." – Stephanie May Potter

• "Clean beauty is still evolving, but finding nontoxic makeup and fragrance has been a game-changer." – Marnie Dachis Marmet

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:00] Introducing favorite wellness, fitness, and recovery products of 2025

[04:13] Fitness & recovery tools: weighted vests and training for endurance hikes

[13:15] The CBD pain relief stick: a natural solution for sore feet and calves

[29:57] Kitchen upgrades: sprouting kits, zero acre oil, and basil seeds

[36:15] Electrolytes done right: Redmond's relight (and their seasoned salts)

[48:36] OneSkin peptides for cellular-level anti-aging

[50:10] The Art of Living Well hats, style meets function

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Links & Resources from this Episode:

• Robbie Besner's Episode on Saunas, Red light, and PEMF mats: https://youtu.be/miHA8siD1uI?feature=shared

• Todd Anderson's episode on Dream Recovery sleep masks & mouth tape: https://youtu.be/CzKXaJs0LmQ?feature=shared

• The Episode on Cooking Oils: https://youtu.be/gOdflbCPPvQ?feature=shared

• Doug Evans Episode on Sprouting: https://youtu.be/BlIwVRDec70?feature=shared

• Buy The Art of Living Well® hats here: https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/new-products-1/p/the-art-of-living-well-podcast-hat

Discount Codes for Products:

• CBD Clinic pain relief stick: code THANKS10 Website: https://www.mycbdsolution.com/

• Bio optimizers Magnesium Breakthrough: code THEART10 Website: https://bioptimizers.com/

• Redmond Re-lyte electrolytes & salts: code livingwell15 Website: https://redmond.life/

• The Sprouting Company: sprouting kit: code livingwell Website: https://www.thesproutingcompany.com/

• OneSkin peptides: Use this link: https://oneskin.pxf.io/c/2510162/2885132/31050

• Organifi: code LIVINGWELL Website: https://www.organifishop.com/

• Dream Recovery: code THEARTOFLIVING_WELL Website: https://dreamrecovery.io/

• Fusionary Formulas: code LIVINGWELL Website: https://fusionaryformulas.com/

• Zbiotics: code AOLW Website: https://zbiotics.com/

• Zero Acre: code LIVINGWELL Website: https://www.zeroacre.com/

_______________________________

📬 Stay connected and get more wellness tips, exclusive content, and behind-the-scenes updates by signing up for our Substack newsletter here: https://theartoflivingwell.substack.com/

_______________________________

Sign up for your 15-minute Health Transformation Audit: https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/sign-up-landing-page _______________________________

Join the Minneapolis Hiking Collective: https://web.facebook.com/groups/1368978181038556/ _______________________________

Follow The Art of Living Well Podcast: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartoflivingwel/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartoflivingwellpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/theartoflivingwellpodcast/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jOPdSHwrpM1BmxyJz?si=6E16CJZEQ5OIwpFzs2Ocaw Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/id1482050468 Connect with your Hosts here:

https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/about-us

Imagine waking up feeling clear, light, and full of energy in just one week. That's exactly what our Fall Vitality 7-Day Reboot delivers.

Daily support & accountability

Clean, nourishing meals (that taste good!)

Live group coaching & guidance

A supportive sisterhood to do it with you

🔗 Sign up now through this link: https://l.bttr.to/SS7UF

_______________________________

In this empowering solo episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast, hosts Marnie Dachis Marmet, a Certified Holistic Health Coach and Longevity expert, Author, Entrepreneur, Yoga Instructor, and Board Certified Integrative Health Practitioner (IHP 1, 2); and Stephanie May Potter, a Board Certified Integrative Health Practitioner (IHP 1, 2) and Holistic Health Coach, a National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBHWC), and a certified Yoga Instructor, dive deep into the often overlooked topic of bone health and muscle preservation: the two essential pillars for aging with strength and vitality.

They share their personal journeys, shocking stats on osteoporosis, and how hormonal changes, especially during and after menopause, affect bone density. From their love of strength training to the surprising benefits of weighted vests, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to extend their healthspan, not just lifespan.

Whether you're in your 30s trying to build strength or in your 70s looking to stay active and independent, this episode provides science-backed advice, practical tools, and heartfelt encouragement to take action now. What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why bone health should be on your radar before menopause.

• How low estrogen, even in your 20s and 30s, can harm bone density.

• The truth about osteoporosis, even in muscular and active individuals.

• Why weighted vests are more than just a fitness trend.

• How to build strong bones and muscles without a gym membership.

• Why strength training is non-negotiable as you age.

Noteworthy Quotes from the Episode: "Bone loss is silent. We don't even know what's happening to us." – Stephanie May Potter

"You're never too old to get strong." – Marnie Dachis Marmet

"Strength training is non-negotiable as we age." – Stephanie May Potter

"Don't worry about looking bulky, what you're really doing is protecting your future self." – Marnie Dachis Marmet

"You don't want to live a long life and then be frail." – Stephanie May Potter

"Just because you look fit on the outside doesn't mean your bones are strong on the inside." – Marnie Dachis Marmet

[00:00] Why you may not know your bones are weakening.

[05:35] Let's Talk Bone Health: Why you need to care, sooner than you think.

[07:10] The rapid bone loss women face post-menopause.

[12:15] Muscle & Metabolism: Why muscle loss increases insulin resistance.

[25:06] Research-backed benefits for bone density.

[33:05] How Dexa scans empower your next steps. _______________________________

📬 Sign up for our Substack newsletter to enjoy wellness tips, exclusive content, and special updates here: https://theartoflivingwell.substack.com/ _______________________________

Sign up for your 15-minute Health Transformation Audit _______________________________

Join the Minneapolis Hiking Collective: https://web.facebook.com/groups/1368978181038556/ _______________________________ Buy the Adjustable Weighted Vest here: https://hyperwear.com/products/hyper-vest-tactical-weight-vest Get the Weighted vest Stephanie has: https://amzn.to/44HJpIV _______________________________

Follow The Art of Living Well Podcast:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartoflivingwel/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartoflivingwellpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/theartoflivingwellpodcast/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jOPdSHwrpM1BmxyJz?si=6E16CJZEQ5OIwpFzs2Ocaw Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/id1482050468 Connect with your Hosts here: https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/about-us

Imagine waking up feeling clear, light, and full of energy in just one week. That's exactly what our Fall Vitality 7-Day Reboot delivers.

Daily support & accountability

Clean, nourishing meals (that taste good!)

Live group coaching & guidance

A supportive sisterhood to do it with you

🔗 Sign up now through this link: https://l.bttr.to/SS7UF

_______________________________ What's really hiding in your home, and how can you protect your family without falling into fear or perfectionism? In this thought-provoking episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast®, hosts Marnie Dachis Marmet and Stephanie May Potter welcome back Lindsay Dahl, Chief Impact Officer at Ritual, author of Cleaning House: The Fight to Rid Our Homes of Toxic Chemicals, Co-founder of Hilde, and Board Member at Toxic-Free Future and Chamber of Mothers.

Lindsay shares her 20-year journey in environmental health, consumer safety, and clean living advocacy. She explains why she wrote Cleaning House, the rise of what she calls the "digital wellness wars," and how social media has polarized conversations about toxic chemicals. Together, they break down the most important exposures to address in your home, supplements, cookware, furniture, and personal care, while reminding listeners to avoid all-or-nothing thinking.

This episode is both inspiring and practical: you'll learn how small shifts at home can protect your family, why collective advocacy is essential for lasting change, and how to bring more balance (and less fear) to your wellness journey. _____________________________ 📬 Sign up for our Substack newsletter to enjoy wellness tips, exclusive content, and special updates, and be entered into a drawing to win Lindsay's book: https://theartoflivingwell.substack.com/

_____________________________

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why toxic chemical pollution is both a public health and environmental crisis.

• The origins of the "digital wellness wars" and how social media fuels division.

• The four product categories to prioritize for reducing toxic exposure at home.

• How to shop smarter: certifications like Clean Label Project, EWG Verified, and Made Safe.

• Why cookware choices matter and how "forever chemicals" affect health.

Noteworthy Quotes from the Episode:

• "The most toxic thing in our homes is black-and-white thinking." – Lindsay Dahl

• "We shouldn't have to tell our children, 'No, you can't have that because it's poisonous.' The burden should be on companies, not us." – Lindsay Dahl

• "It's not about being perfect. It's about making the biggest changes where they matter most, and saving your energy for the fight." – Lindsay Dahl

• "We want clean air and water for everyone, no matter your politics." – Stephanie May Potter

• "Even small steps, like replacing a couch or swapping cookware, can make a big difference over time." – Marnie Dachis Marmet

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:01] Welcoming Lindsay back: from BeautyCounter to Ritual and publishing Cleaning House

[08:00] The science of toxic chemical exposure and gaps in U.S. laws

[12:22] Flame retardants and how chemicals migrate into our homes

[17:56] Top 4 exposure categories: supplements, cookware, furniture, personal care

[28:38] Easy ways to take action, nonprofits, policy engagement, and awareness

[42:47] "Cleaning House" as both a literal and metaphorical message

[47:58] Lindsay's definition of the art of living well today

_______________________________

Sign up for your 15-minute Health Transformation Audit: https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/sign-up-landing-page _______________________________

Join the Minneapolis Hiking Collective: https://web.facebook.com/groups/1368978181038556/ _______________________________

Follow Lindsay Dahl:

LinkedIn: https://lindsaydahl.com/about-lindsay-dahl/

Website: https://lindsaydahl.com/about-lindsay-dahl/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindsay_dahl/

Cleaning House: The Fight to Rid Our Homes of Toxic Chemicals Book: https://www.amazon.com/Cleaning-House-Fight-Homes-Chemicals/dp/0063375591

Ritual: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ritual-vitamins/

Hilde: https://www.linkedin.com/company/heyhilde/

Toxic-Free Future: https://www.linkedin.com/company/toxicfreefuture/

Chamber of Mothers: https://www.linkedin.com/company/chamber-of-mothers/ Follow The Art of Living Well Podcast:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartoflivingwel/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartoflivingwellpodcast

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/theartoflivingwellpodcast/

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jOPdSHwrpM1BmxyJz?si=6E16CJZEQ5OIwpFzs2Ocaw

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/id1482050468 Connect with your Hosts here:

https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/about-us

Imagine waking up feeling clear, light, and full of energy in just one week. That's exactly what our Fall Vitality 7-Day Reboot delivers.

Daily support & accountability

Clean, nourishing meals (that taste good!)

Live group coaching & guidance

A supportive sisterhood to do it with you

🔗 Sign up now through this link: https://l.bttr.to/SS7UF

_______________________________ In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast®, hosts Marnie Dachis Marmet and Stephanie May Potter, certified Integrative Health Practitioners, sit down with Danny King, Director of Performance and Recovery at Life Time Inc., to dive into the science of VO₂ max and zone training, and why they are among the strongest predictors of longevity and overall health.

Danny breaks down what VO₂ max really means, how it impacts cardiovascular health and mortality, and why women in midlife should pay attention. Together, they discuss the balance between high-intensity training and zone 2 training, the truth about cortisol and exercise, and practical ways to calibrate your fitness zones. The conversation also covers the rise of hybrid racing trends like Hyrox, fueling strategies for workouts, and the often-overlooked importance of recovery.

Whether you're an endurance athlete, a weekend warrior, or simply focused on living a longer, healthier life, this episode will give you tangible takeaways to optimize your training and longevity.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• What VO₂ max is and why it's one of the best predictors of cardiovascular health and longevity.

• The difference between zone training levels (zone 2, zone 3, etc.) and how to find your correct training zone.

• The role of cortisol in exercise and why it's often overstated.

• Fueling strategies before and during workouts to prevent "bonking."

• The rise of hybrid fitness competitions like HYROX and why they're especially beneficial for women.

• Why recovery, sleep, nutrition, and stress management are just as important as performance.

Noteworthy Quotes from the Episode:

• "VO₂ max is one of the best predictors of all-cause mortality. The higher your VO₂ max, the less likely you are to die early." – Danny King

• "Most people only need 1 to 2 high-intensity workouts per week to see improvement." – Danny King

• "Vary your intensity, do some easy workouts, some hard ones, and resist the pendulum swing of extremes." – Danny King

• "Zone 3 training is often where people get stuck, it feels hard but doesn't bring the real benefits of either low or high intensity." – Marnie Dachis Marmet

• "Walking, yoga, and pilates are wonderful, but without some intensity we're missing the balance our bodies need." – Stephanie May Potter

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:00] Danny King introduces VO₂ max and why it's key for longevity

[03:32] Defining VO₂ max and why it matters for longevity and health

[09:23] High-intensity training, VO₂ max, and longevity

[16:38] Common mistakes with zone training (zone 3 trap)

[23:06] How VO₂ max testing works and where to get it done

[35:28] Breaking down training zones (zone 1–5) in simple terms

[48:56] Recovery: sleep, stress management, and nutrition for performance

[53:37] Danny's top tips: calibrate zones, vary intensity, balance your workouts

_______________________________

📬 Stay connected and get more wellness tips, exclusive content, and behind-the-scenes updates by signing up for our Substack newsletter here: https://theartoflivingwell.substack.com/

_______________________________

Sign up for your 15-minute Health Transformation Audit: https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/sign-up-landing-page _______________________________

Join the Minneapolis Hiking Collective: https://web.facebook.com/groups/1368978181038556/ _______________________________

Follow Danny King: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-king-15342162/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dtraining/ Life Time Inc.: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifetimeinc/ Life Time Trainers: https://www.instagram.com/lifetime.trainers/ Follow The Art of Living Well Podcast: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartoflivingwel/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartoflivingwellpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/theartoflivingwellpodcast/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jOPdSHwrpM1BmxyJz?si=6E16CJZEQ5OIwpFzs2Ocaw Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/id1482050468 Connect with your Hosts here:

https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/about-us

Imagine waking up feeling clear, light, and full of energy, in just one week. That's exactly what our Fall Vitality 7-Day Reboot delivers.

Daily support & accountability

Clean, nourishing meals (that taste good!)

Live group coaching & guidance

A supportive sisterhood to do it with you

We start Sept 14. Sign up today and get 10% off if you join by August 31st. Use code: AOLW10

🔗 Sign up now through this link: https://l.bttr.to/SS7UF

_______________________________

Marnie Dachis Marmet and Stephanie May Potter, co-hosts of The Art of Living Well Podcast® and certified Integrative Health Practitioners trained under Dr. Stephen Cabral, explore the concept of doing nothing and its surprising benefits. In a society that often equates busyness with productivity and self-worth, Marnie and Stephanie dive deep into how embracing downtime can spark creativity, improve mental clarity, and promote overall well-being.

They discuss how difficult it is to truly do nothing and share their personal struggles with constant productivity. From unplugging to scheduling intentional breaks, they explore practical steps to integrate periods of rest into daily life. This episode challenges listeners to rethink their relationship with busyness and offers strategies to break free from the guilt that often accompanies downtime.

_______________________________

Get the book Niksen: Embracing the Dutch Art of Doing Nothing mentioned in today's episode here: https://www.amazon.com/Niksen-Way-Embracing-Dutch-Nothing/dp/0358395313

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The importance of doing nothing for creativity and problem-solving skills.

• How taking breaks from screens and external stimuli can improve mental clarity and focus.

• The Art of Niksen (doing nothing) and its cultural relevance, particularly in the Netherlands.

• Simple ways to incorporate intentional rest into your busy life, even with just 5-10 minutes of downtime.

• Why doing nothing doesn't equate to being lazy, and how it can actually improve productivity.

Noteworthy Quotes from the Episode:

• "If we're always busy, we think we're important, and if we don't have plans, we feel unworthy." – Marnie Dachis Marmet

• "Niksen means doing nothing, but it's not just about being idle; it's about letting your mind wander freely." – Stephanie May Potter

• "The trick is learning how to do nothing, even for just five minutes. It's about letting your brain reset." – Marnie Dachis Marmet

• "It's so important to take time for yourself, to do nothing, to pause, and just listen to your own thoughts." – Stephanie May Potter

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:00] How we struggle to do nothing in daily life and our reliance on phones

[06:54] Struggles with slowing down and why this conversation is so needed

[09:16] Japanese "forest bathing" as another cultural practice of mindful rest

[12:00] Why meditation and mindfulness are not the same as doing nothing

[18:41] Rest improves creativity, decision-making, and energy

[22:26] The difficulty of modeling "doing nothing" for kids in a screen-driven culture

[25:52] Upcoming Fall Vitality Reboot as a time to practice doing nothing

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_______________________________

Sign up for your 15-minute Health Transformation Audit: https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/sign-up-landing-page _______________________________

Join the Minneapolis Hiking Collective: https://web.facebook.com/groups/1368978181038556/ _______________________________

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Imagine waking up feeling clear, light, and full of energy—in just one week. That's exactly what our Fall Vitality 7-Day Reboot delivers.

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Live group coaching & guidance

A supportive sisterhood to do it with you

We start Sept 14, and you don't want to miss this reset before the holidays.

🔗 Sign up now through this link: https://l.bttr.to/SS7UF

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In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast, hosts Marnie Dachis Marmet, a Certified Holistic Health Coach and Longevity Expert, Author, Entrepreneur, Yoga Instructor, and Board Certified Integrative Health Practitioner (IHP 1, 2); and Stephanie May Potter, a Board Certified Integrative Health Practitioner (IHP 1, 2), Holistic Health Coach, National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBHWC), and certified Yoga Instructor, uncover the misunderstood world of cortisol: the body's primary stress hormone.They share personal stories, explain how cortisol works, and reveal how chronic stress affects weight, sleep, immunity, and overall health.

With practical tips and science-backed insights, they show how to identify unhealthy cortisol patterns and adopt simple strategies to restore balance. This is a must-listen for anyone looking to better manage stress, boost energy, and improve well-being. Whether you're dealing with daily life pressures, navigating midlife hormonal changes, or simply curious about optimizing your energy and well-being, this episode offers both the science and the actionable tools to balance cortisol for better health. What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• What cortisol is and why it's essential for survival.

• The difference between healthy cortisol patterns and chronic elevation.

• How high cortisol impacts sleep, digestion, immunity, and weight.

• Simple lifestyle shifts to regulate cortisol naturally.

• The role of breathwork, nutrition, and movement in stress management.

• Why self-awareness is the first step to controlling your stress response.

Noteworthy Quotes from the Episode:

• "Cortisol isn't bad; it's chronic, unmanaged stress that causes problems." – Stephanie May Potter

• "Your body can't heal when it's constantly in fight-or-flight mode." – Marnie Dachis Marmet

• "Managing stress is about small, consistent habits, not drastic overhauls." – Stephanie May Potter

• "Awareness is your superpower when it comes to cortisol." – Marnie Dachis Marmet

• "Sleep is the ultimate cortisol regulator." – Stephanie May Potter

Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:

[00:00] Understanding cortisol: the good, the bad, and the misunderstood.

[05:04] What triggers cortisol and how it works in the body.

[09:15] Signs your cortisol is out of balance.

[14:08] How chronic stress impacts weight, digestion, and immunity.

[19:17] The connection between cortisol and sleep quality.

[23:47] Practical, everyday strategies for regulating stress.

[28:51] Why you need to continuously monitor your cortisol levels.

[35:53] How like-minded people boost your health goals.

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Access a guided demonstration of the 4-7-8 breathwork technique here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Egr8iGBg8Oc

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Thanks to our sponsor, ZBiotics!

ZBiotics Pre-Alcohol Probiotic is the first genetically engineered probiotic to help you feel better after drinking. Take it before alcohol, drink responsibly, and get a good night's sleep. With a 100% money-back guarantee, you can't go wrong.

Visit ZBiotics: https://zbiotics.com/pages/am-aolw and use code AOLW for 15% off your first order.

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Schedule your at-home lab testing consultation here: https://appt.link/meet-with-the-art-of-living-well-podcast-marnie-stephanie/15-minute-lab-testing-consult _______________________________

Join the Minneapolis Hiking Collective: https://web.facebook.com/groups/1368978181038556/

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Follow The Art of Living Well Podcast: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartoflivingwel/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartoflivingwellpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/theartoflivingwellpodcast/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jOPdSHwrpM1BmxyJz?si=6E16CJZEQ5OIwpFzs2Ocaw Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/id1482050468 Connect with your Hosts here:

https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/about-us

Imagine waking up feeling clear, light, and full of energy—in just one week. That's exactly what our 7-Day Fall Vitality Reboot delivers.

Daily support & accountability

Clean, nourishing meals (that taste good!)

Live group coaching & guidance

A supportive sisterhood to do it with you and so much more.

We start Sept 14, and you don't want to miss this reset..

🔗 Sign up now through this link: https://l.bttr.to/SS7UF

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In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast, hosts Marnie Dachis Marmet and Stephanie May Potter sit down with Dr. Kay Linker, a Neuroscientist specializing in cognitive longevity and a Computational Biologist at RefinedScience, who shares expert insights on how lifestyle habits and scientifically-backed supplements can boost brain health and extend vitality.

In this episode, Dr. Linker discusses how regular exercise, omega-3s, and creatine support cognitive function, especially for women in midlife. From her personal experiences to practical advice, Dr. Linker offers actionable strategies to optimize brain health and prevent cognitive decline. We also dive into hormone health, the impact of menopause on cognition, and why sauna therapy is an essential tool for longevity.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How to improve cognitive longevity with exercise, supplements, and a balanced diet.

• The role of creatine in enhancing cognitive performance for women.

• Why omega-3s are crucial for brain health and reducing inflammation.

• Understanding the brain health challenges during perimenopause and menopause.

• The powerful benefits of sauna therapy for brain health and overall well-being.

Noteworthy Quotes from the Episode:

"Exercise is a non-negotiable for me. I work out 6 to 7 times a week. That's something I'm always 100% on." – Dr. Kay Linker

"There's a lot of things I do to support cognitive health, but I would say creatine is the one that I would suggest for women in midlife to stay sharp and vibrant." – Dr. Kay Linker

"If you can get a walking pad and you can take calls or do work while you're walking, that alone is really going to improve your health." – Dr. Kay Linker

"Sauna has incredible benefits for cognitive longevity. Reduces dementia risk by 66%, decreases mortality risk anywhere from 40 to 50%." – Dr. Kay Linker

"Most of your mitochondria within your muscles are in your lower body because those muscle groups are larger." – Dr. Kay Linker

[00:00] Introduction: Dr. Kay Linker talks about the importance of Hormones for Overall Health

[04:38] How Dr. Linker got into Neuroscience

[09:38] The Importance of Omega-3s for Cognitive Health

[16:45] Brain Fog and Cognitive Shifts during Perimenopause and Menopause

[31:31] Hyperbaric Oxygen Chambers: The Next Big Thing

[36:50] Dr. Linker's Non-Negotiables for Longevity and Brain Health

[42:10] Why Creatine is even more Essential for Women than Men

[50:58] Where to find Dr. Kay Linker

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Thanks to our sponsor, ZBiotics!

ZBiotics Pre-Alcohol Probiotic is the first genetically engineered probiotic to help you feel better after drinking. Take it before alcohol, drink responsibly, and get a good night's sleep. With a 100% money-back guarantee, you can't go wrong.

Visit ZBiotics: https://zbiotics.com/pages/am-aolw and use code AOLW for 15% off your first order.

_______________________________

Sign up for your 15-minute Health Transformation Audit: https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/sign-up-landing-page _______________________________

Join the Minneapolis Hiking Collective: https://web.facebook.com/groups/1368978181038556/

_______________________________

Follow Dr. Kay Linker: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kay-linker-629311138/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.kaylinker/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.kaylinker X: https://x.com/kaylinker RefinedScience: https://www.linkedin.com/company/refinedscience/

Follow The Art of Living Well Podcast: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartoflivingwel/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartoflivingwellpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/theartoflivingwellpodcast/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jOPdSHwrpM1BmxyJz?si=6E16CJZEQ5OIwpFzs2Ocaw Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/id1482050468 Connect with your Hosts here:https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/about-us

Get our FREE guide today and start supporting your digestion, metabolism, and overall vitality - one fiber-rich bite at a time. https://bit.ly/aolw-fiber-tracker

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In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast, hosts Marnie Dachis Marmet and Stephanie May Potter sit down with Jamie Martin, Editor-in-Chief of Experience Life magazine, Vice President of Content Strategy at Life Time Inc., and co-host of the Lifetime Talks podcast. With over 20 years in the health and wellness space, Jamie shares her journey from intern to leadership, and how she's stayed rooted in authenticity while building a career around helping others live well.

The conversation explores foundational wellness habits, the myth of doing it all, and the power of reassessing your needs throughout life. Jamie gets candid about sleep struggles, setting boundaries, letting go of perfection, and raising teens in a hyper-connected world. Whether you're navigating motherhood, burnout, or simply want to feel more aligned, this episode offers grounded wisdom, tactical tools, and powerful reminders to give yourself grace. Check out the referenced episodes with Jill Palmquist and Pilar Gerasimo.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The five foundational pillars of well-being you should return to again and again.

• Why "doing nothing" might be the hardest but most necessary habit.

• Ways to protect your family's mental health by creating device-free rituals.

• How women can release the pressure of doing it all.

• Tips to manage guilt and ask for support without shame.

• Jamie's practical routine for carving out "me-time" in a full life.

Noteworthy Quotes from the Episode:

"Quick fixes don't work. It's the repeated habits - movement, sleep, nutrition, community - that move the needle." – Jamie Martin

"I realized I can't do it all, and I don't have to." – Jamie Martin

"Just be human, embrace your humanness. Most of us are doing the best we can each day." – Jamie Martin

"You can still be striving to thrive, while doing it imperfectly." – Jamie Martin

"What do I need today? That question changes everything." – Stephanie May Potter

"You're never too late to find your next thing, even in the empty nest phase." – Marnie Dachis Marmet

[00:00] Why women often hesitate to ask for help

[6:30] Jamie's personal story and passion for wellness media

[13:15] Returning to wellness foundations: movement, food, and rest, without burning out

[19:19] Parenting teens, protecting energy, and setting tech boundaries

[28:38] Finding balance between work and family

[31:25] How to deal with mom guilt

[48:34] Where to find Jamie

A big thank you to our incredible sponsor, Good Health Saunas!

Good Health Saunas offers premium infrared saunas designed to provide exceptional health and wellness benefits. For more details and to receive an exclusive discount, visit www.goodhealthsaunas.com and mention The Art of Living Well Podcast®.

_______________________________

Thanks to our sponsor, ZBiotics!

ZBiotics Pre-Alcohol Probiotic is the first genetically engineered probiotic to help you feel better after drinking. Take it before alcohol, drink responsibly, and get a good night's sleep. With a 100% money-back guarantee, you can't go wrong.

Visit ZBiotics and use code AOLW for 15% off your first order.

_______________________________

Sign up for your 15-minute Health Transformation Audit. _______________________________

Join the Minneapolis Hiking Collective: https://web.facebook.com/groups/1368978181038556/

_______________________________

Follow Jamie Martin:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-martin-89464112/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamiemartinel/

Experience Life Magazine: https://experiencelife.lifetime.life/

Lifetime Inc.: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lifetimeinc/

Lifetime Talks Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@LifeTime_Life/podcasts

Follow The Art of Living Well Podcast:

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