In today’s episode we get to hear stories and insights from Abigail Levie, a young entrepreneur in the health and baking sector. Abigail tells the story of founding Abigail's Oven Sourdough Bakery, a business she started at the age of 10. Thanks to her sourdough preparation methods and the way she chooses her flour suppliers her bread is much friendlier for gluten-sensitive individuals, including her father and so many of us.. Abigail went on to learn about agriculture and soil science, and she now seeks to connect farmers to resources that can aid in sustainable farming. This episode emphasizes the importance of the origin and processing methods of our food, and champions a hopeful future in which more people join movements to act sustainably.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:05 Introducing the Guest: Abigail Levi

01:36 Abigail's Journey into Entrepreneurship

02:00 The Health Benefits of Sourdough Bread

02:12 Abigail's Education and Career in Sustainable Agriculture

02:55 Conversation with Abigail Levi

04:57 The Story Behind Abigail's Oven Sourdough Bakery

05:34 The Role of Family in Abigail's Business

11:25 The Health Benefits of Sourdough Bread Revisited

19:56 The Growth and Mission of Abigail's Oven

20:39 Abigail's Religious Mission and the Impact of Natural Foods

22:24 Experience with Bread in Different Countries

22:40 The Impact of Fermentation and Harvesting Styles on Bread

23:23 The Trade-off Between Convenience and Nutrition in Bread Production

24:02 The Quality of Flour and Its Impact on Bread

25:27 Choosing the Right Flour for Baking

25:59 Understanding the Difference Between Wheat Flour and White Flour

26:51 The Importance of Freshly Ground Grains

27:22 The Role of Fermentation in Unlocking Nutrients

28:56 The Impact of Pesticides on Wheat and Flour

30:27 Choosing the Right Flour for Your Needs

34:40 The Journey from London to Studying Small Business Management

36:05 Exploring Agriculture and Soil Health

37:18 The Connection Between Soil Health and Healthy Bodies

37:38 The Role of Farming in Society and the Environment

38:59 The Future of Farming and Soil Regeneration

41:53 The Importance of Connecting Farmers with Information and Resources

44:25 A Message of Hope for the Future of Farming and Nutrition

Wondering what is actually in , on, or missing from your food? How can we get what we need for health when healthy food seems expensive, soils are depleted, and so much food (especially in the US) is sprayed with chemicals we know are bad for us, or animals are raised in unhealthy environments and pumped with chemicals themselves? YOU ARE FAR FROM ALONE in asking these questions, and William Demille is on the show today to share insights related to all of it. 

He is a master regenerative gardener and the creator of the Georgic Schoolroom and the Georgic Revolution, which offers courses and boot camps for regenerative gardening and agriculture no matter what environment you are trying to grow food in. He is the author of “Worry Free Eating”, a book chock-full of information for restoring the soil, growing, and harvesting food, whether you are growing in a pot on the porch or hundreds of acres of land. 

In this fascinating episode we cover: 

*what changes the taste and nutritional content of our food

*why tilling up the land may be one of the WORST things you can do for your garden, and how it creates MORE weeds and ultimately MORE compacted soil

*what the microbes in the soil need and how we can feed them with the least hassle.

*how some very common traditional gardening and agriculture methods may be CREATING our biggest problems in the garden

*a different take on humans and the ecosystem, and why William thinks we are magnificent at RESTORING ecosystems, not just destroying them. Also, shout out to Beavers…and what makes them amazing.

*can humans help it rain more in our areas and help the soil hold the water? Let’s talk about bringing in the RAINFALL and limiting flood risk!

*using types of bread as a visual aide for how our soil can hold more water on its own (limiting waste and cost of water!)

*what happens downstream if a soil DOESN’T retain water or nutrients

*bringing back grasslands that have turned into deserts, and what made them turn into deserts in the first place

*How do cattle and sheep really impact the land? Should we remove them if a land is struggling or put them back on? 

*When raising livestock on your land how can you move them to help both the animals and the land thrive?

*A snapshot of schools of thought in regenerative agriculture and permaculture, who does what best and how William combined their views into a georgic view of the whole

*How when we care for the land it cares for us back, not just in food, but in community and character. 

This is the first of 2 episodes with William, the next will cover usable measures for soil rehabilitation before and during spring planting. Tune in then as well!

You can access all of William’s links, courses, patreon, socials, and you tube resources here:
https://linkfly.to/williamdemille
Worry Free Eating book link:  https://a.co/d/funSlTZ

Meditation, Mindfulness, and Powerful Emotions, Less Suffering Required with Yael Shy

Enjoy a deep dive into mindfulness and emotional processing with Yael Shy, exploring how meditation can help us create more peace in our internal lives and to live more fully in the present moment. As the founder of Mindful NYU, the largest campus-based mindfulness initiative in the country, an author, speaker, and coach in the realm of meditation and mindfulness, she is more than equipped to teach and does so with a lot of understanding and perspective. 

She walks us through what learning meditation can REALLY look like, and the real work it takes and benefits we receive when we train our minds to pay attention. Her advice may be different than you think, and we relate false notions about meditation and mindfulness in general with some soulful insights into her favorite practices.

We discuss feeling our emotions without tumbling into them, the relationship between fear and desire, anger and patience, unpack a mindful relationship with technology and with each other as well. We discuss personal journeys of self-forgiveness and life in general. A fantastic conversation to guide you towards processing emotion, promoting self-forgiveness, and deepening understanding in relationships.

Yael’s mindfulness consulting website: https://www.mindfulnessconsulting.net/

Yeal’s book “What Now: Meditation for Your 20’s and Beyond” (great read.)

https://a.co/d/0Oc4xlO (amazon link)

Stolen Focus book, for more info on retaining or rebuilding your focus ability, even in a world full of tech  https://stolenfocusbook.com/

00:00 Introduction and Gratitude

00:16 The Impact of Reading and Learning

00:54 Personal Connections and Shared Experiences

02:15 The Power of Books and Personal Growth

03:40 Understanding the Challenges of Young People

08:42 The Role of Meditation in Personal Development

10:53 The Influence of Technology on Mindfulness

16:09 The Importance of Self-Love and Acceptance

20:51 The Struggle with Comparing Ourselves to Others

25:38 The Role of Mindfulness in Technology Use

29:42 The Power of Authenticity and Self-Understanding

43:38 Discussing Emotions and Their Impact

44:16 Understanding the Process of Emotional Repression

45:00 Exploring the Concept of Emotional Awareness

45:08 The Journey of Accepting and Understanding Anger

45:59 The Power of Recognizing and Addressing Emotions

46:16 The Role of Emotions in Decision Making

49:25 The Importance of Body Awareness in Emotional Processing

51:09 The Interplay of Fear and Desire

58:50 The Significance of Forgiveness in Emotional Healing

01:03:03 The Role of Patience in Dealing with Emotions

01:06:08 Understanding the Link Between Fear and Desire

01:07:59 The Power of Self-Love and Acceptance

01:09:47 The Impact of Emotions on Relationships

01:26:34 The Role of Mindfulness in Emotional Wellbeing

In this comprehensive discussion, acclaimed biomechanics expert Dr. Tom Michaud underscores the crucial role of foot strength in health and well-being. As a chiropractor that has worked with multiple Olympians, he knows his stuff, but it doesn’t only apply to Olympians. You and me, those exercising or wishing they could do it more safely, and for ages teen to elderly can all find something engaging in this conversation.  He outlines the significance of foot, leg, lower back and diaphragmatic strengthening in enhancing balance, averting falls, and its links with conditions such as plantar fasciitis and low back pain. The discourse explores a variety of topics including the influence of footwear, the personalized use of orthotics, and the benefits of minimalist shoes, along with recommended stretching techniques and exercise to improve foot strength. Additionally, Michaud shares his life philosophy promoting enjoyment, consistent sleep and exercise routines, and a low-inflammatory diet. 

Dr Tom’s website for a great collaboration on research and protocols: https://www.humanlocomotion.com/

Link to the Toe Pro Platform for foot and ankle strengthening: https://www.humanlocomotion.com/product/toepro-foot-ankle-exercise-platform/

*Use the code DRBECCA for a 10% discount!

Diaphragm strengthening device:

Amazon.com: Breather Pink │ Natural Breathing Exerciser Trainer for Drug-Free Respiratory Therapy │ Breathe Easier with Stronger Lungs │ Guided Mobile Training App Included : Health & Household

Dr Tom’s 5 exercises to help with aging (or getting back into exercise): The Sarcopenia Workout: 5 Simple Exercises to Prevent Age-Related Muscle Loss

00:00 Introduction and Gratitude

01:06 Introducing the Guest: Dr. Tom Michaux

01:49 The Importance of Research in Health and Movement

02:36 Discussion on Various Health Topics

03:05 Appreciation for Dr. Tom's Contributions

03:49 Beginning of the Interview with Dr. Tom

04:10 Dr. Tom's Transition from Clinical Practice to Research

06:02 Discussion on Exercise and Health

06:35 The Role of Walking and Running in Health

07:01 The Impact of Exercise on Longevity

10:04 The Importance of Strengthening Exercises

20:10 Discussion on Balance and Coordination

34:43 The Role of Toe Strength in Balance

38:58 The Power of Muscle Exercise in Lengthened Positions

39:44 Understanding the Role of Resistance Bands in Exercise

40:21 The Golden Rule in Sports Medicine

40:52 The Importance of Peronial Muscles in Running

42:39 The Connection Between Peroneal Muscles and Plantar Fasciitis

43:26 The Prevalence and Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis

47:43 The Role of the Medial Gastroc in Plantar Fasciitis

53:10 The Debate on Footwear and Orthotics

01:04:36 The Importance of Diaphragm Strength in Low Back Pain

01:10:47 Final Thoughts on Vitality and Wellness

Dr. Koby Taylor, a pharmacist from Southern Utah, shares insights into his health approach that puts emphasis on nutrient deficiencies and how they impact mental health. He talks about the effects of these deficiencies on the body's chemistry, shedding light on how they influence the need for medications. Dr. Koby stresses the importance of amino acids derived from proteins, which are essential components of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, and their significance in how we feel in a day...or in a life. He also shares insights on how we take in and absorb nutrients, or how we block their absorption and miss them entirely.  We discuss some interesting insights into how pharmaceuticals  can affect the process of absorption, and it is one episode you will definitely want to catch!
In the same vein, an exploration of the power of perspective and challenging traditional beliefs is discussed, shedding light on how experimenting with various modalities like magnesium soaking, breath-work, sound therapy, yoga, and Qigong can aid in healing and wellbeing. This episode is another conversation emphasizing the correlation between diet, mindset, and mental health.

Link for Perfect Amino by Body Health:  https://bodyhealth.com/products/perfectamino

00:01 Introduction and Meeting Dr. Koby Taylor

00:14 Dr. Koby's Unique Approach to Pharmacology

01:27 Dr. Koby's Personal Health Journey

02:12 Understanding Nutrient Deficiencies

03:14 The Importance of Potassium

05:15 The Impact of Medications on Nutrient Levels

05:39 The Role of Nutrition in Health

06:53 The Importance of Digestion

07:47 The Connection Between Medications and Mineral Deficiencies

09:48 The Impact of Stress on Digestion and Nutrient Absorption

11:27 The Role of Nutrients in Disease Prevention

13:21 The Importance of Amino Acids

14:49 The Impact of Processed Foods on Health

18:03 The Role of the Nervous System in Digestion

20:16 The Connection Between Food and Mood

22:51 The Importance of Regular Bowel Movements

25:17 The Role of Amino Acids in Neurotransmitter Production

27:28 Understanding the Impact of Diet on Health

30:09 The Importance of Eating Real Food

33:05 The Role of Amino Acids in Serotonin Production

38:34 Childhood Memories and Dark Chocolate

39:13 Understanding the Role of Magnesium

40:02 The Importance of Proper Digestion

41:08 The Impact of Folic Acid and Folate

42:06 The Connection Between Diet and Neurotransmitters

42:41 The Role of Amino Acids in Mental Health

43:53 The Risks of Unbalanced Diets and Supplements

44:29 The Importance of Eating Protein and Nutrient-Rich Foods

45:04 Understanding Serotonin Deficiencies

46:28 The Benefits of a Balanced Diet

48:22 The Impact of Technology and Diet on Mental Health

50:11 The Role of Amino Acids in Addiction and Mental Health

55:06 Understanding the Effects of Alcohol on Neurotransmitters

01:11:40 The Importance of Seeking Truth and Personal Growth

In this interview we connect with  Dr. Liz Letchford, an expert in biomechanics, kinesiology, and athletic training, as she talks about her unique approach to guiding people to reconnect with their bodies and heal from trauma. She unpacks the concept of proprioceptive awareness, or body's ability to sense itself (the sixth sense), and shares how an increased awareness of the body can lead to many benefits like less injury, greater control, and stronger emotional resilience. From her personal experience and training as a dominatrix as well, she has developed techniques for taking individuals on a journey of exploring their emotions and pushing their physical boundaries. She stresses on the importance of learning to feel, surrendering control, and understanding the role society plays in suppressing these important aspects of our health and humanity. She teaches in her weekly sessions, called Body Church, to guide people to truly understand their physical selves and ultimately become more sovereign in their bodies.

For more info about Body Church, or to join an on-line session, click here: https://www.bodychurch.com

*Listeners get their first session FREE with code DRLIZ at checkout!
To work with Dr Liz: https://www.lizletchford.com

Find her on socials @lizletchford  for interesting and empowering wisdom in your day

00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Dr. Liz Letchford

00:20 Discovering the Power of Listening to the Body

01:30 Dr. Liz's Journey into Body Research and Understanding

04:18 Exploring the Impact of Emotional Forces on the Body

07:30 Understanding the Role of the Pelvic Floor in Body Mechanics

14:33 The Influence of Cultural and Societal Expectations on Women's Bodies

16:37 The Connection Between Emotional Trauma and Physical Manifestations

29:50 The Importance of Slowing Down and Breathing for Body Awareness

36:13 The Discovery and Practice of Spiral Kinetic Breathing

40:42 Discovering the Power of Emotion and Movement

41:16 Creating a Journey for Emotional Healing

42:03 The Power of Breath and Body Awareness

42:21 Personal Transformation through Body Church

42:38 The Intersection of Clinical Knowledge and Personal Experience

43:57 The Power of Deep Listening and Unwinding Trauma

44:28 The Impact of Past Trauma on the Body

45:25 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Healing

45:54 The Power of Breath and Embodying Fear

47:24 Confronting Past Trauma and Embracing Courage

48:54 The Power of Saying No and Embodying Your Truth

50:12 The Journey of Embodying Different Archetypes (in this case the bitch and the  dragon)

53:15 The Power of Dominance and Surrender in Healing

55:39 Understanding Why we may Freeze in Trauma situations

57:42 The Power of Surrender in Body Church

58:59 The Journey of Reconnecting with the Body

01:00:39 The Power of Role Play and Archetypes in Healing, finding our inner Dragon and Developing It

01:03:31 The Power of Sensation and Emotion in Healing

01:07:34 The Journey of Reclaiming Sovereignty and Free Will

01:10:08 The Power of Courage in the Healing Journey

01:16:41 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

The Powerful Tool of Nervous System Regulation with guest Amanda Nova

In this episode we get to collaborate with Amanda Nova as she shares ways to regulate the nervous system, as well as WHY that is a good idea in the first place, and what can easily landslide in our health if we get out of balance.  Amanda is an expert in nervous system regulation and a holistic health practitioner, sharing practical tools and wisdom on health vitality, stress management, hormone balance, and gut health. We also discuss how chronic stress can lead to physical and emotional conditions, the role of the vagus nerve in nervous system regulation, the importance of gut health in overall well-being, and methods for detoxing the body for optimal health. We can’t really over-emphasize the value of self-care in maintaining health, but that may mean something different than the commonly used references to “just taking a bath.” Let’s break it down to it’s roots and begin healing from there in powerful, yet bite-sized ways throughout the day. 

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

02:02 Guest Introduction: Amanda Nova

05:07 Amanda's Journey from Illness to Healing

13:56 The Role of the Nervous System in Health

18:00 Understanding the Lymphatic System

27:34 The Importance of Nervous System Regulation

36:15 Understanding Chronic Stress and Its Impact

36:32 The Importance of Nervous System Regulation

36:47 Dealing with Job Stress and Personal Challenges

37:13 Building Resistance to Stress through Self-Care

38:34 The Struggles of Balancing Multiple Roles

39:03 Rediscovering Self in the Midst of Life's Demands

39:18 The Reality of Self-Care Amidst Life's Responsibilities

39:45 The Impact of Self-Care on Personal and Professional Life

47:16 The Importance of Boundaries in Self-Care

55:04 The Role of Hormones in Stress and Health

59:43 The Connection Between Gut Health and Overall Well-being

01:01:48 The Importance of Detox in Maintaining Health

01:03:11 Conclusion: The Interconnectedness of Stress, Hormones, and Gut Health

Amanda’s website: https://www.nebulasoul.com

   ( for her free e-book, titled  Even My Adrenals Are Tired, or to check out her courses on the vagus nerve, gut and hormone health or nervous system regulation, go to the menu tab and click shop.)

Ryan Gosling was right! (No surprise there…) Let’s talk about getting IN THE WATER as a serious help in feeling more vitality and health in our bodies. 

Today Dr. Becca explains how moving in water can make a big difference in reducing chronic pain and more. Admittedly, there are lots of valid reasons why we don’t…so let’s talk about those, too!

Then we move, as always, to the WHY of what things make a difference. Travel with us through the lymphatic system, sensation, attention, and neurology, and how they relate to the pain dial as well as how to gauge your exercise level. 

Dr. Becca guides you through stretching in the water,  how to use hot tub jets to aide your muscles, fascia, and lymphatic systems, and…if you read this far and listened to the pod…you know a story about flirting dolphins and elderly ladies that will always make her burst out laughing. 

Let’s do it! Enjoy the pool! (And chat with a senior citizen if you get the chance while you are there. 🙂)

What really makes a difference in weight loss? And is healthy weight loss really about the weight or the dress size.. or is it about much more than that? Some of these answers you know or can guess. And…today’s show is guaranteed to give you a few things to think about no matter what size you are.  Julia Christine is a health and nutrition coach that has transitioned into complete wellness coaching. Her approach to weight loss is less about the dress size and more about the mental health involved.  

She couldn’t deny her need for help when she found herself falling apart in her living room, unable to do the simple yoga she was trying, weighing in at around 300 lbs, depressed, and having trouble concentrating. It was there on the floor that she made some crucial decisions for how she talked to herself and what she focused on, and in small steps lost over 130 lbs and became a health and nutrition coach herself, and started a podcast.

Follow today’s conversation through weight loss metrics that she no longer supports, and learn what she thinks really matters in body size, as well as her 5 pillars of health: Physical, mental, spiritual, sexual, and financial.

We unpack some misunderstandings around food or other addictions, discuss some indicators that your food habits may be increasing your pain, depression, or brain fog, and how the addictions, coping mechanisms, extra weight, poor health, and heavy mental states we can feel lost in aren’t even the real problems. The problems are  what each are running away from. 

We hear beautiful insights about the power in tears, breath, and awareness of our own emotions, and we take big topics and distill them down to some small steps that really make a difference.

For more with Julia, listen to her host the Life After Breath podcast  at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-after-breath/id1713661645

on IG @juliachristinehealth and on Facebook as Julia Christine.