By Kasia Stiggelbout
Hello and welcome to The Other Way, a lifestyle podcast for women exploring uncommon, unconventional, or alternative approaches in life, health, spirituality, and work. Here, you can expect real, r
... more
4.8
3434 ratings
The podcast currently has 86 episodes available.
Send us a text
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Sarah Villafranco, a former ER physician turned founder of Osmia, a non-toxic skincare brand. Sarah opens up about her incredible journey from the intense world of emergency medicine to creating products that promote natural beauty and health. She shares what it was like to shift her identity and purpose, offering a truly inspiring perspective for anyone considering a big career change.
We dive into the harmful chemicals hiding in everyday skincare products—think parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances—and the impact they can have on hormonal health and fertility. Sarah breaks it all down and gives us practical tips on how to detoxify your routine without the overwhelm.
We also touch on some of the larger issues, like the risks these chemicals pose to pregnant women and cancer patients. It’s all about empowering you to make safer, healthier choices without feeling alarmed. Towards the end, Sarah and I get real about aging. We push back against the anti-aging narrative, exploring how Osmia takes a refreshing stance by not promoting anti-aging products. Instead, we celebrate natural beauty, embracing imperfections, and encourage a more positive outlook on aging. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who wants to nourish their skin and soul, while living in harmony with their body at every stage of life.
About Sarah:
Dr. Sarah Villafranco attended Georgetown University Medical School, and went on to complete a four-year residency in emergency medicine at George Washington University. She moved to Colorado, where practiced as a board-certified emergency medicine physician at Aspen Valley Hospital, Snowmass Clinic, and Valley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs, CO. She stepped away from the emergency room to launch Osmia Skincare in April of 2012. She remains a licensed physician in Colorado, and helps people find skin health as CEO of her brand.
Connect with Sarah:
IG: osmiaskincare
Support the show
To connect with Kasia
Send us a text
I am so excited to welcome our next guest - a very special mentor of mine, Susan Griffin-Black, co-founder of EO Products. Today we're joining Susan as she shares her journey across fashion, Founding EO products, her Zen practice, and motherhood.
Susan talks about balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with mindfulness while raising a family and staying true to her values. Her story is filled with incredible moments from her early days at Esprit to discovering the wellness industry at Neal’s Yard in London.
We also dive into the challenges of growing EO Products from her garage and the balance between work and life. Plus, hear her insights on ethical business, funding, and building a company that aligns with family values.
This episode is perfect for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to create sustainable, values-driven businesses!
About Susan:
Susan is a proud mama of two wildly creative artists and is now a joyful grandma, too! She’s also the heart and co-founder/co-CEO of EO Products, a personal care brand that started in her garage in 1995. Alongside her partner Brad, Susan set out to make the magic of pure essential oils something everyone could experience. Since 1997, they’ve been crafting their products right in Marin, staying true to their roots. It all began with a simple stockpot of shower gel in their garage, and now it’s become a journey they never could have imagined—one led purely by passion and a whole lot of heart.
Connect with Susan:
IG: sgriffinblack & eoproducts
Support the show
To connect with Kasia
Send us a text
What can Zen philosophy teach us about navigating the unpredictability of entrepreneurship and life? Tune into The Other Way as we chat with Leo Babauta, bestselling author and founder of Zen Habits, to explore how we can embrace joy and opportunity, even in the face of chaos. Leo shares his personal journey with a warmth and authenticity that will resonate with anyone who’s going through tough times.
From overcoming imposter syndrome to practicing mindfulness, Leo’s wisdom shines as we discuss practical ways to live fully in each moment. We also dive into the power of compassion and curiosity for personal and professional growth. You won’t want to miss this heart-to-heart episode filled with insightful lessons from one of the most genuine voices in simplicity and mindfulness. Let Leo’s mission to help others thrive through uncertainty inspire you.
About Leo:
Leo Babauta is a simplicity blogger & author. He created Zen Habits, a Top 25 blog with a million readers. He’s also a best-selling author, a husband, father of six children, and a vegan. In 2010 moved from Guam to California, where he leads a simple life.
He’s also a Zen student, and is on a mission to help the world open through uncertainty training.
Connect with Leo:
IG: officialzenhabits
LinkedIn: leo-babauta-zenhabits
zenhabits.net
Support the show
To connect with Kasia
Send us a text
This episode takes us on a beautiful journey exploring the deep connections between Buddhism, Reiki, Daoism, and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
We dive into Lara’s inspiring path—from her beginnings in Europe to working as a designer in NYC, and eventually immersing herself in the study of Chinese Medicine and Reiki, while embracing the practice of Buddhism.
Together, we explore the essence of Yin and Yang and how energy is at the heart of our experiences, health, and balance.
Tune in to hear how we can live in harmony with Qi, the life force energy that flows through our bodies, relationships, and minds
About Lara:
Lara is a dedicated Zen Buddhist practitioner who blends Eastern and Western healing modalities, including Reiki, Breathwork, CranioSacral therapy, Herbology, and Holistic Health Coaching. With over a decade of experience, she helps clients achieve balance and well-being by addressing physical and emotional challenges.
Since 2011, Lara has pursued Chinese Medicine in NYC, earning two Master’s degrees to become a licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist. As a Reiki Master for seven years, she has trained students worldwide, offering in-person sessions in Southern California and online.
Connect with Lara:
IG: laraelliott1
Support the show
To connect with Kasia
Send us a text
What if the key to transforming your career and personal life lies in embracing discomfort and letting go of numbing habits? In this episode of "The Other Way," we sit down with Cecily Mak, a mother, writer, podcast host, Founder of the ClearLife movement, and co-founder of Wisdom Ventures, who shares her journey from a high-powered career in law to leading a movement focused on intentional living.
Today we cover:
About Cecily:
Cecily Mak is a mother to two sons, writer, podcast host, co-founder of Wisdom Ventures, and the visionary behind ClearLife. ClearLife is a journey toward an undimmed life, where intention and presence flourish, unencumbered by the stigmas of addiction.
Cecily's ClearLife journey, influenced by her triumph over breast cancer in 2022 and her late mother's battle with alcoholism, fuels her mission of transformation and healing. Through her work, she extends a compassionate hand to those navigating similar paths, guiding them toward a life defined by connection, clarity, and well-being.
With over 20 years of diverse experience as an attorney, revenue leader, and COO, Cecily has spearheaded the growth of startups across various industries, including music, publishing, mindfulness, well-being, and crypto. As co-founder of Wisdom Ventures and co-founding limited partner of How Women Invest, Cecily is a champion for greater human connection and well-being. Her board memberships and support for various organizations, notably at SIY Global, and The U.S. Alcohol Policy Alliance, underscore her commitment to ethical leadership and social responsibility.
Whether parenting her two sons, supporting impact-driven entrepreneurs, or engaging with a global community, Cecily embodies the principles of ClearLife, inspiring others to embrace authenticity and heart-centered living. Her dedication to fostering presence, healthier relationships, and intentional living resonates deeply with individuals seeking a path of alignment and fulfillment.
Connect with Cecily:
Support the show
To connect with Kasia
Send us a text
🌱 BONUS TREAT: Marysia's School of the Sacred Wild Apprenticeship program starts 9/7; we have a special 15% off code for The Other Way listeners:
https://apprentice.schoolofthesacredwild.com/plans/1442208?bundle_token=dcd7a347476a35c8b05bba5b42147e80&utm_source=manual
(Valued at $525!)
What if you could transform personal trauma into a thriving career? Our latest conversation with Marysia Miernowska, a celebrated herbalist, teacher, and earth activist, promises to reveal exactly how she did it. From the brink of homelessness after a traumatic divorce, Marysia built a successful herbalism school, authored insightful books, and launched an award-winning skincare line. Discover the profound wisdom she gained along the way and her practical tips for using herbal remedies to find peace amidst life's chaos. Her Eastern European heritage, especially the wisdom passed down from her great-grandmother, adds a rich cultural layer to her journey.
Marysia’s story is not just about professional success; it's a heartfelt exploration of motherhood and personal resilience. We examine the emotional tides of becoming a (single) mother, from the grief over lost freedoms to the deep reservoirs of love and empathy motherhood uncovers. Through personal anecdotes, Marysia shares how she navigated family illness and found beauty even amid hardship. Her experiences offer insightful reflections on accepting life’s cycles of death and rebirth, ultimately fostering greater personal growth and resilience.
Finally, our conversation turns to the incredible healing power of nature and herbalism. Marysia recounts her early memories of foraging in Poland and her transformative experiences in Northern Vermont. Hear how she overcame a difficult breakup and near-homelessness, which deepened her commitment to herbalism and community support. Learn about the practical benefits of connecting with nature, from managing acute stress to syncing daily rhythms with natural cycles. Marysia also shares tips on functional freeze, balancing calm and warrior practices, and the importance of morning rituals. Join us for an enriching discussion that might just inspire you to explore the natural world for emotional and spiritual nourishment.
To connect with Marysia:
Support the show
To connect with Kasia
Send us a text
Welcome back to The Other Way! I'm Kasia, your host, and I'm thrilled to reconnect with you all after our season break. As many of you know, I wrapped up last season during a challenging time. My mom was diagnosed with cancer just days before our last episode, and I've been in NYC since mid-July, supporting her, navigating this uncertainty, and celebrating the moments that matter—like my brother’s beautiful wedding, which we brought to New York so my mom could be a part of it.
While I have many personal updates to share in a solo episode soon, we’re celebrating the start of a new season today. We’re transitioning into fall, or as Chinese Medicine calls it, “Late Summer.” This Earth element season is a time of transition, marking the shift from the active Yang energy of spring and summer to the Yin introspection of fall and winter. I can feel the change in the air here in NYC, with cooler mornings and the subtle natural shift. We’re only here until Sunday before returning to California, so I’m soaking up every moment with family and the last hints of East Coast summer.
In this new season, we’re diving deep into the paths less traveled, all through a feminine lens. We’ll explore themes that resonate with my life journey—women’s health, fertility, career, spirituality, and more. This year has brought about significant shifts for me, both personally and professionally, and I’m leaning into surrender and presence in ways I never imagined.
Here’s a sneak peek at some of the themes we’ll be exploring this season:
And that’s just the beginning! We have an incredible lineup of guests whose wisdom I can’t wait to share.
Thank you so much for tuning in and being a part of this beautiful community. I’m beyond excited to embark on this journey with you in the Fall 2024 season of The Other Way. Let’s dive in!
Support the show
To connect with Kasia
Send us a text
Hi everyone, welcome back to the show. Today’s episode is a season wrap-up and life update. It isn’t something I had been expecting to share, but it’s a profoundly significant update and season of life for me. My initial plans were to share a bit about my recent reiki training in Ojai, a bit about my trip to Spirit Weavers in June, and chat about some business items that have come up along with my Zen practice but life has a funny way of redirecting things. My mom was diagnosed with cancer and frankly, a lot has changed in the last two weeks.
This experience has been painful and also in the strangest ways, openhearted and beautiful. I would never have wished for this experience, but I accept it and have found something to be grateful for throughout it. I deeply credit my Zen and mindfulness practice for this open-hearted perspective.
Sending out love to those who need it - and thanking every one of you for tuning into this season of the other way. Join us in the fall for more conversations about paths less traveled, spirituality, wellness, women’s health, and more.
XX
-Kasia
Support the show
To connect with Kasia
Send us a text
Today we have another hormonal health deep dive for you all: we’re covering female life stages of fertility into perimenopause with Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Maddy Pollack. Maddy’s story is kind of wild: After surviving cancer at 25 years old, she became passionate about nutrition, movement and mindfulness in order to get more control over her own health and to help others do the same. Maddy dove into the world of female hormones a few years later when she realized her stress levels were causing her own hormones to be out of balance.
We cover so much today - in really what feels like a conversation not just an interview. Some topics:
- Maddy’s journey with cancer at a young age: not just the experience but navigating the mental aspect of such a harrowing diagnosis
- The power of food, movement, and mindfulness for health
- Debunking misconceptions about food and hormonal health: teaser, protein isn’t all you think it is babes
- How the workouts you’re doing might be messing up your hormones
- Why mindfulness is so important for hormonal regulation + non meditation ways to practice mindfulness
- Maddy’s own wellness routine
+ so much more!
About Maddy:
Maddy Pollack is an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, specializing in Women's Hormone Health & Balance. After surviving cancer at 25 years old, she became passionate about nutrition, movement and mindfulness in order to get more control over her own health and to help others do the same. Maddy dove into the world of female hormones a few years later when she realized her stress levels were causing her own hormones to be out of balance. She now guides clients in learning more about their own specific menstrual cycle, syncing foods & movement with their cycle, reducing stress levels through mindfulness and improving their overall wellbeing through a sustainable nutrition approach.
To connect with Maddy:
IG: maddypollack_health
Support the show
To connect with Kasia
Send us a text
Hello everyone, and welcome back to The Other Way! My goal with this podcast is to feature inspiring guests who are forging unconventional paths in work, life, and health. From experts on women's fertility and menopause to spiritual teachers exploring Zen philosophy in today's world, we dive into multifaceted topics that intrigue me because, well, we're all multifaceted.
Today, I'm thrilled to introduce our next guest, the very multidimensional Carley DeMarco, writer, yoga teacher, and founder of Clayton Yoga Studio and The Retreat, a blue light-free haven for physical wellness. Our conversation spans a range of topics:
And much more!
About Carley:
Carley is a writer, yoga teacher, and founder of The Retreat: a monthly print wellness and spirituality newspaper helping you disconnect to reconnect and in-person getaways.
To connect with Carley:
IG: theretreat.bycarley
www.theretreatbycarley.com
Support the show
To connect with Kasia
The podcast currently has 86 episodes available.
783 Listeners
1,336 Listeners
1,926 Listeners
3,866 Listeners
2,664 Listeners
1,221 Listeners
6,614 Listeners
3,244 Listeners
3,947 Listeners
1,371 Listeners
2,070 Listeners
79 Listeners
1,225 Listeners
1,225 Listeners
2,717 Listeners