Connect the Dots with Christina Jax

Are you wondering what all the pin pricks are about? Does acupuncture really work for wellness?  This episode features Nikki Vancek, a holistic health practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine and owner of EastWest Acupuncture. She was also skeptical, and just like many people gave it a shot as a "last ditch effort" to resolve chronic pain. What is really behind eastern medicine modalities and how can it be combined with western medicine as part of both healing and wellness? Take a listen and learn.  Nikki is passionate about how it changed her life, transforms her patients, and how it is a key component of wellness realignment. Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at questions@optivnetwork.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

Join Christina and Andy as we co-host a two-part series that breaks down some nutrition BS and points towards a better direction in 2023.  We asked listeners and followers what they wanted to learn more about and we got some goodies! We went right into hot button topics: the impact of marketing on nutrition, glyphosate and health, vitamin D and sunlight, plant-based meal alternatives, collagen, and how our gaining gut health is pivotal to our overall physical and mental health. Listen in to Connect the Dots together for what it really means for a healthy new year.Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at questions@optivnetwork.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

Join Christina and Andy as we co-host a two-part series that breaks down some nutrition BS and points towards a better direction in 2023.  We asked listeners and followers what they wanted to learn more about and we got some goodies! We went right into hot button topics: the impact of marketing on nutrition, glyphosate and health, vitamin D and sunlight, plant-based meal alternatives, collagen, and how our gaining gut health is pivotal to our overall physical and mental health. Listen in to Connect the Dots together for what it really means for a healthy new year.Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at questions@optivnetwork.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

This episode dives into the “why” of discomfort and pain avoidance, but how they are actually useful tools in physical growth, healing and recovery.  Game changing Jake Salaba, Doctor of Physical Therapy and CrossFit coach, joins us with a unique perspective on how he partners with clients to get them in and out of pain cycles. Jake leads us on a journey of the latest science on where pain really comes from, and how our mindset is the powerful force to change. Whether you are a person with chronic pain, an athlete, recovering from injury, or pursuing your best self this podcast will reshape your relationship with pain.Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at questions@optivnetwork.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL) 

The week's episode connects the data dots with online fitness coach, model, athlete, wellness innovator and entrepreneur Julian Diasa who uses a unique personalized approach for results that last. Our conversation breaks down fitness myths and social media influencers' confusing impact on what really works for fitness. How to cut through excuses, love yourself more and get to know your why for wellness. Julian is Miami-based but works with thousands of people to transform their health as the owner of Connexions, which is a methodology that consists of 4 pillars: Nutrition, Movement, Epigenetic, and Mental Health. This transformative conversation is ready for you! Take a listen! Guest IG: @juliandiasa Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at questions@optivnetwork.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

This week's episode challenges what self-care really is vs. what the world of social media sounds bites wants us to believe. What holds us back from feeling worthy for this beautiful and intentional life we are supposed to have? I am joined by the high-energy Latina entrepreneur Glory Alcantara who came to the US over 20 years ago with a passion for discovery and pressing her comfort zones. She has been and continues to be on an intentional journey of introspective personal growth while navigating building businesses, being a single mom, and supporting other women on the path of entrepreneurship. Join in and listen as we discuss how imperfect action and true self-care leads to success.Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at questions@optivnetwork.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

This episode explores the delicate balance of beauty and wellness. The Silvie Salon and Academy team is bright light of authentic business women who challenge the conventional and take on the controversies around the beauty industry. What defines real beauty and its role in self-care? How can it enhance your wellness? And what it takes to walk through the uncertain doors of entrepreneurship. Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at optivnetwork@gmail.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

This episode features the eight times CrossFit Games athlete, champion, and Timberwolf Fitness owner Andrea Nisler. We take on breaking down excuses to wellness, what it takes to be a pioneer in sport and business, and her passions outside of the gym. The road to greatness is found in winding paths of messiness, but to be successful it comes down being a “doer”. Take a listen and learn from a legend and powerful women in sports and business. Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at optivnetwork@gmail.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

In this episode Christina is joined by Kevin Rail, an internationally known superstar Fitness and Nutrition Specialist! He has not missed a consecutive day of exercise since Sept 30, 2007 and people often lose weight and get into better shape just by hearing him talk (so is it double weight loss if listening while exercising?) He has been featured in the documentary films Fasting and The Motivation Factor, and he walks the walk of wellness as well as talks the talk.  Kevin will challenge perceptions on intermittent fasting and barefoot fitness, as well how to take ego out of reaching your health goals. After the podcast check out Kevin's website Fasting for Fitness! Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at optivnetwork@gmail.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

This episode features writer, musician, and founder of I AM HER Julie Harper, where we explore how being a human is both BEAUTIFUL and BS intertwined. Julie has an authentic voice that is a superpower of truth and wisdom. None of us came into this world knowing anything.  There is no roadmap that defines how to return to yourself, to return to your story, or how to own your own experiences in this life. We cannot, as Julie says, be fully human while marching to the same marching orders we were given at birth. We cannot do all that it takes to bring ourselves to life, to know what we're made of, to create and to lead, if we are expected to stay in the same place.  We can not continue to live in the boxes of how we are conditioned to anymore and be our best selves.  Listen as we connect the dots...something has to give and it can't be us this time.  Everyone needs to start being uncomfortable. No one gets a free pass anymore. Julies Instagram: @iamherstagramWant to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at optivnetwork@gmail.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

This episode continues the radical discussion on misconceptions around health habits including:-Should we drink water-Are greens and whole grains overrated-Is sunscreen more harmful than good-The trap of people pleasing-Standing up for and protecting your health As always the power and wisdom of Freya is not to be missed!  Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at optivnetwork@gmail.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

This episode dives right into deep dot connecting with one of the most dynamic and wise women out there, Freya Inanna. So much ground to cover, we made it a two part series that explores topics that will challenge you and question how open you are to long held narratives.  Freya is an aspiring wild human and seeker who brings us on a journey of self-discovery.  Is discipline a form of self-care? Will kale kill you? Why should we stop drinking water? How radical responsibility is the rocket fuel for optimized living.  And how 1993 deodorant got this crossfitter yogi to start questioning everything. Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at optivnetwork@gmail.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

This week Christina is joined by the always in motion Emmy award winning journalist and author Tom Hauser. In this fast and dynamic episode Tom shares what it's like to cover the never dull political landscape of Minnesota and National politics for KSTP news and WCCO radio, who his favorite interviews have been, and his "Why" in running over 30 marathons.  While "fun" may not be his actual middle name, it should be! Take a listen to learn the secrets to balancing politics, journalism, athletic pursuits, never giving up on your best life, and how to celebrate other people's best stories.Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at optivnetwork@gmail.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

This week's episode explores the phenomenon of Nutrition Tribalism and the mechanisms that drive fad diets and eating styles.  Christina with 25 years in nutrition and wellness has seen the evolution from Atkins, Keto, Carnivore, Cabbage Soup Diets, Paleo, Plant-Based, Vegan, Whole 30 and every niche in between. How does science back up these diets? What are the societal forces that elevate eating patterns? What are the costs to individual health? What diet is best for you? Take a listen to learn how to connect the dots for yourself! Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at optivnetwork@gmail.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL) 

This episode gets right into the meat and dairy of it, so to speak.  Christina is joined by food systems and nutrition AGvocate (see what we did there) Kennedy Youngren who is a registered dietitian and married into a farm family. We dive into deconstructing the connection of modern farming and health as well as getting right into the salty bites of: conventional vs organic, gmos, plant-based vs. animal foods, food sensitivities and digestive health.  We push some edges on this one, including can you really milk an almond and does drinking it really help human and planetary health. Take a listen and let us know what part 2 of this discussion should be! Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at optivnetwork@gmail.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

This week's episode explores how to find that ideal balance of work hard and play harder. Christina is joined by one of her favorite fitness motivators Kristin Weinzierl who dishes out weekly butt kicking workouts and inspirations that fuel your best self! She is a former collegiate runner, marathon winner, Lifetime Fitness instructor, high school X-country coach, fitness industry professional, and busy wife/mom.  Take a listen to learn how to connect your fitness dots from one of the best! Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at optivnetwork@gmail.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

What does it take to fuel athletes in the NBA and NHL?  What's the path to wellness look like in the world of professional sports? Christina is joined this week by her A4 Health co-founder Jenna Stangland who also serves as the Director of Performance Nutrition for the Minnesota Timberwolves and Team Dietitian for the Minnesota Wild. Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at optivnetwork@gmail.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

This podcast will connect the dots on what elements are needed for youth athletes to thrive. We can cover what were key influences on Matt's journey to the NFL and how he stayed successful in pro life.Christina, Matt, and Andy will discuss common questions and observations that we see in youth sports and how to keep kids and families healthy in this often overwhelming and competitive space.Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at optivnetwork@gmail.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

Christina and Andy discuss what the Connect the Dots Podcast is going to be all about! We're excited to bring you this brand new show, thanks for listening!Who is Christina Jax?Christina Jax MS, RDN, LDN is a nutrition nerd, wellness warrior, and excited educator who's consistently on the hunt for discovery related to health and human behavior.  A nationally recognized nutrition expert, Christina is the Founder of A4 Health whose mission is fueling fun lives and supporting individuals and organizations to achieve optimized health.  Combining 20+ years in behavioral and nutrition science Christina's approach is to make healthy easy and activate mechanisms that support wellness. Want to learn more? Check out: LinkedIn Profile or www.A4.healthCheck out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comCheck out A4Health: https://www.a4.health/Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkEmail us at optivnetwork@gmail.com with your questions!Music: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)

Connect the Dots podcast explores unique pathways that lead to optimized lives and authentic personal truths.  Wellness and nutrition expert Christina Jax is an adventure seeker with curiosity on what fires up individuals to choose their version of wellbeing. She will guide conversations that challenge us to gain clarity to our “Why” and the experiences that connect us there. Each episode will leave us with salty bites to chew on and motivate us to question deeper. Weaving research and relationships to connect the dots that connect us all. Check out our new website: www.optivnetwork.comFollow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/optivnetworkFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/OptivNetworkMusic: "Extra Fresh" by Birocratic (http://birocratic.lnk.to/allYL)