Wake Up and Read the Labels!

In this episode of Wake Up and Read the Labels, host Jen Smiley welcomes Raina Kumra, founder of Spicewell, to discuss how rethinking essential pantry staples like salt and pepper can transform our health. Raina shares her personal journey of creating nutrient-dense salt and pepper blends following a family health crisis, rooted in ancient Ayurvedic principles and modern nutritional science. Together, they dive into the hidden additives in traditional salts, the importance of clean sourcing, and how these "new" salts and peppers are designed to enhance wellness while maintaining great taste.

Get 20% off your order at Spicewell.com using the code “WAKEUP”

Disclaimer:

The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. 

Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.

 

Key Takeaways:

 

• Transforming Pantry Staples for Health: Raina Kumra, founder of Spicewell, shared how she transformed essential pantry staples like salt and pepper to not only season food but also provide functional health benefits through nutrient-dense blends.
• Personal Motivation for Change: Raina’s journey to creating Spicewell was sparked by a family health crisis, where she relied on Ayurvedic knowledge and natural remedies to promote healing and reduce inflammation.
  
   
• Hidden Additives in Traditional Salt: Many traditional table salts contain additives like anti-caking agents and chemically iodized components that can negatively impact health. Spicewell's salts are free of these harmful additives and are lab-tested for heavy metals and contaminants.
  
   
• The Role of Ayurvedic Principles: The new pepper blend combines turmeric and black pepper, utilizing a traditional Ayurvedic principle that enhances curcumin absorption, making it a powerful anti-inflammatory ingredient.
  
   
• Clean Sourcing and Transparency: Spicewell emphasizes sourcing clean, responsibly mined pink Himalayan salt and lab-testing products for purity. Consumers are encouraged to investigate and understand the origin of their pantry staples.
  
   
• Nutrient-Rich Natural Blends: Spicewell’s new salt contains 21 vitamins from vegetables, providing a daily nutritional boost while maintaining a flavor profile similar to traditional salt.
  
   
• Raising Awareness on Food and Health: Both Raina and Jen discussed the need for greater consumer awareness around food labeling and additives. They stressed the impact of food on chronic conditions and the importance of clean eating.
  
   
• Creating a Movement for Change: Raina is working to build a coalition of clean-label brands advocating for policy changes in the food industry to ensure healthier, cleaner options for consumers.
  
   
• Practical Usage Tips:
  The new salt and pepper can replace traditional products in everyday cooking, providing a 1:1 swap without compromising flavor, while adding functional benefits like stress relief and inflammation reduction.

Shakira Niazi’s Links:

Website: https://spicewell.com/   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rainakumra/, https://www.linkedin.com/company/spicewell/  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kumratronic/?hl=en, https://www.instagram.com/spicewell/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thespicewell/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@spicewell 
X: https://x.com/TheSpiceWell

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUzZig0BbM8pzXKJ-VNMlnw

Jen’s Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels

The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribe
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX

In this episode of Wake Up and Read the Labels, host Jen Smiley sits down with Shakira Niazi, founder of Zen Basil, to discuss the transformative power of basil seeds for anti-inflammatory health and overall wellness. Shakira shares her personal journey from Afghanistan to the United States, her struggles with her son's chronic health conditions, and how it led her to discover the unique health benefits of basil seeds. Together, Jen and Shakira explore the importance of clean, whole foods, nutrient-rich diets, and why incorporating basil seeds can improve gut health, hydration, and metabolic health.

Get 10% off your order at ZenBasil.com using the code “Zen10”

Disclaimer:

The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. 

Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.
 

Key Takeaways:

• Basil Seeds' Nutritional Benefits: Basil seeds contain nearly twice the fiber, calcium, iron, and potassium as chia seeds, making them a potent nutrient source for gut health, hydration, and more.
• Family-Driven Mission: Shakira’s journey to create Zen Basil was inspired by her son's battle with asthma and nutrient deficiencies, leading her to focus on clean and whole-food-based solutions.
• Hydration Done Right: Zen Basil offers a natural alternative to conventional electrolyte drinks with whole-food-based nutrients and real ingredients.
• Breaking Down Misleading Marketing: Shakira discusses the tactics big food and supplement companies use to push processed products, emphasizing the need to rely on clean, whole foods for genuine health benefits.
• Simple Ways to Consume Basil Seeds: Adding two tablespoons of basil seeds to milk, water, or yogurt can create a nutritious, fiber-rich meal in just a few minutes.

Shakira Niazi’s Links:

Website: https://zenbasil.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shakira-niazi-b848725/

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

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ZenBasil1/

Jen’s Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels 
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels

The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribe
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569 
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX

In this episode of Wake Up and Read the Labels, host Jen Smiley welcomes Jennifer Robins, the innovative creator behind Legit Bread Company. Known for her passion to bring clean, allergen-friendly baking mixes to the masses, Jennifer shares her journey of developing bread and baking mixes that meet the needs of those with gluten intolerance, autoimmune concerns, and various food allergies. Together, Jen and Jennifer delve into the importance of real ingredients and the story behind Legit Bread Company’s rise in the clean-eating space.

Get 10% off your order at LegitBreadCompany.com using the code “WAKEUP”


Disclaimer:
The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. 

Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.

Key Takeaways:

• Clean Ingredients for Healthier Living: Legit Bread Company’s products are crafted to provide clean, accessible alternatives for those with dietary restrictions or who seek to avoid common allergens.
   
• Balancing Life and Business: Jennifer shares a personal glimpse into her life as a business owner, mother, and creative, all while keeping her passion for clean eating alive.
   
• Bread with a Purpose: From sandwich bread to frosting, each Legit Bread mix is designed to bring favorite foods back into the lives of those who thought they’d have to give them up.

Jennifer Robins’s Links:
Website: https://legitbreadcompany.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-robins-6a8a5292/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legitbreadcompany/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legitbread

Jen’s Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels

The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribe
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX

In this episode of Wake Up and Read the Labels, Jen Smiley welcomes Laurel Orley, co-founder and CEO of Daily Crunch, to discuss the evolution of their sprouted nut snacks and the benefits of clean eating. Laurel shares the inspiring story of how her aunt Diane's sprouting technique from India became the foundation for the brand and how Daily Crunch has been transforming the nut snack category with their innovative, clean products. They dive deep into the importance of avoiding seed oils, the process of sprouting nuts, and how Daily Crunch differentiates itself from traditional nut brands. Laurel also gives insights into the challenges of scaling an emerging brand and staying true to their mission of promoting brain health and clean eating.

Get 20% off your order at DailyCrunchSnacks.com using the code “WAKEUP”


Disclaimer:
The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. 

Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.


Key Takeaways:

• The story behind Daily Crunch’s clean snacks, inspired by ancient practices from India.
• Why sprouted nuts are lighter, crunchier, and easier to digest than raw nuts.
• The harmful effects of seed oils and why Daily Crunch is committed to being seed oil-free.
• Laurel’s background at Unilever and how it influenced her desire to create a clean, mission-driven brand.
• Daily Crunch’s partnership with the Almond Project, promoting sustainable almond farming.
• Exciting new flavor launches, including the exclusive Sweet and Spicy Szechuan flavor now available at Whole Foods.
   

Laurel Orley’s Links:
Website: https://www.dailycrunchsnacks.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-orley/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dailycrunch_snacks/p/CnhpV56uwvl/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DailyCrunchSnacks/

Jen’s Links:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels
The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribe
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX

Finding food that is both delicious and beneficial to our well-being is a challenge. Grocery stores are filled with processed snacks and food options that lack nutritional value. However, shopping for nutritious, sustainable food doesn't have to be difficult, and eating healthy doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or convenience. With PACHA, you can enjoy delicious and satisfying bread without compromising your health goals. 

In this episode, Jen talks with Madeleine Hamann and Will Buttner, Co-Founders of PACHA, a simple, organic, and gluten-free bread made with sprouted buckwheat. They discuss the challenges of finding clean, healthy bread in grocery stores, the benefits of regenerative farming, and how PACHA is a bread that is good for the body and the planet.

In this episode:

Quotes

[15:47] - "One of the biggest things about regenerative agriculture is it conserves water. You don't have to use as much water, and it also prevents flooding." ~ Madeleine Hamann

[17:32] - "We're creating food that will regenerate your gut and lead you to the healthy life you want, get you away from prescriptions, and get you away from all the pain and inflammation in your body. That's what we are about." ~ Will Buttner

[37:31] - "I have a lot of hope for what can happen with our food system, and it's going to be driven by consumers. It's not going to be easy, so people have to keep doing that work of trying to understand what's good for their bodies." ~ Madeleine Hamann

[40:03] - "We vote with our dollar. So, support brands that are clean and support people who are pushing that agenda. That's how we reclaim our health in this society." ~ Will Buttner

Links 

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Use the code "wakeup" at https://livepacha.com/?ref=wakeupandreadthelabels for a discount.

In this episode, Jen talks with Hilary Phelps, a wellness coach, addiction recovery advocate, speaker, and facilitator who has transformed personal trials into a platform of empowerment and inspiration. Hilary is also the founder of The Right Room, a platform that empowers women to navigate significant life transitions like divorce, sobriety, and career changes, encouraging them to live authentically and pursue their passions.

Hilary shares her story of alcohol addiction and her recovery journey. She talks about her life and relationships, the turning point at which she decided to quit drinking, and how she is now an advocate for women's empowerment.

In this episode:

Quotes

[18:13] - "That label of an alcoholic is so tough because only you can really diagnose yourself." ~ Hilary Phelp 

[23:10] - "I didn't know how to feel feelings because anytime I felt a feeling, I would drink over it." ~ Hilary Phelp

[26:03] - As women, we continuously say yes to things and put things on our plates. We start to lose who we are and the purpose of why we think we're here. So, if we keep saying yes to certain things, we say no to ourselves." ~ Hilary Phelp

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A mindful eating lifestyle often begins with understanding where our food comes from and how it is grown. The path from seed to table can be influenced by practices affecting our health and the environment. Beyond cultivating crops, regenerative farming is a way of growing food that seeks to revitalize the health of the soil. This ethical approach creates more sustainable food and nutrient-rich produce and helps maintain a healthy earth for future generations.

In this episode, Jen talks with Benina Montes, Owner and Managing Partner of Burroughs Family Farms. Benina started farming almonds with her father in 2002. In 2006, she started transitioning the first almond blocks to organic, and by 2015, the whole farm was certified.

Jen and Benina talk about regenerative farming principles, the challenges and benefits of maintaining high-quality produce, and how Burroughs Family Farms produces almonds, olive oil, and organic meats using sustainable farming practices.

In this episode:

Quotes

[07:14] - "Sustaining is not necessarily making anything better. It's just not making it worse. And we want to leave things better than we found them." ~ Benina Montes

[09:02] - "It's all about having healthy soil. Healthy soil, healthy plants. Healthy products, healthy people. That's what our goal on our farm is." ~ Benina Montes

[10:58] - "We're big advocates of having more and more people try regenerative farming. It's not just good for the farmers. It's good for the consumers as well." ~ Benina Montes

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Use the code “wakeup” to get a 20% discount on Burroughs Family Farms' products.

Cortisol, often called the stress hormone, plays an important role in our bodies' response to stress. While a certain amount of stress is necessary for survival, prolonged exposure to high cortisol levels can negatively impact our health and well-being. Fortunately, there are simple, actionable steps for managing cortisol levels and reducing stress, leading to not just a fine life but an optimal one.

In this episode, Jen talks with Dana Lewis. Dana is a mother, a widow, a nutrition expert, and the host of the Stop Faking Fine podcast. After tragically losing the love of her life and the father of her three boys to cancer in 2013, Dana shifted from traditional engineering to being solely focused on understanding the effects stress has on the body. She is committed to inspiring others to stop settling and step into living with more energy, focus, and mental clarity. Dana teaches simple, sustainable habits to help manage your stress and show up as your best every day.

Jen and Dana discuss actionable strategies for reducing inflammation, managing stress hormones, and enhancing dietary and lifestyle habits for better health and well-being.

In this episode:

Quotes

[07:29] - "Stress creates inflammation. And inflammation is the root of all evil." ~ Dana Lewis

 [08:33] - "Your cortisol hormone is your stress hormone. It sets the stage for the rest of your hormone, either harmony or disruption." ~ Dana Lewis 

[13:51] - "Look at food not as a diet but more as a solution to your problem." ~ Dana Lewis 

[29:53] - "Recognize how you feel. Empower yourself to step into living your absolute best." ~ Dana Lewis 

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In this episode, Jen talks with Doug Wolkon, founder of Kauai Farmacy in Hawaii. They discuss the importance of consuming real foods and avoiding processed ingredients to achieve optimal health and reduce inflammation. Doug shares his personal journey from private equity in New York to establishing a permaculture oasis in Kauai, highlighting the benefits of plants like turmeric and tulsi. Jen and Doug also share practical advice on integrating herbal medicine and nutrient-rich foods into daily life, the importance of local and regenerative farming, and advocating for greater awareness and responsibility in dietary choices. Learn more at WakeUpLife.com.

Use the code “WAKEUP” at https://kauaifarmacy.com and get 20% off your order.

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Cup Board Pro is deeply connected to the Young family's heartfelt story of loss and resilience. Following the passing of their mother to breast cancer and their father to a 9/11-related illness, Kaley and Keira Young found strength in carrying on their parent's legacy. By continuing the product their father started, they have created more than just a cutting board – they have crafted a legacy that honors their parents' memory and supports those in need.

In this episode, Jen talks with Kaley and Kiera about their journey of living out their parents' legacy. They share their story of loss, resilience, and determination, reflecting on their parents' love of cooking and commitment to family. The sisters also talk about making history on Shark Tank, the unique features of Cup Board Pro, and how they give back to families impacted by 9/11-related illnesses.

In this episode:

Quotes

[06:05] - "My dad always used to say that there's a distance between you and your countertop while you're prepping. So that's where the cup fits perfectly between you and your countertop." ~ Kaley Young

[11:11] - "We hear people all the time telling us how much they love the Cup Board Pro, and they think of our dad every time they use it. That aspect is special for us, just to be able to carry on how amazing our dad was." ~ Kaley Young 

[12:09] - "Twenty percent of our piece of the cutting board goes to the FDNY Foundation, a charity that's close to our hearts. Being able to give back to that is really important to us." ~ Kaley Young

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