Quirky Cooking Chats

Episode 41 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2): Addictive Doing Patterns, Stress, Body Burnout & Gut Health - with Filipa Belette (Clinical Nutritionist & Functional Medicine Practitioner) Join me in this thought-provoking episode as I interview Filipe Belette about her inspiring journey of self-discovery and healing. Filly's story is a journey through addictive doing patterns, perfectionism, and high-achieving tendencies which led to many stress-related health issues. From her early struggles with regulating blood pressure during stress-induced episodes, to her late blooming and hormonal challenges, Filly's path was marked by unique challenges. She navigated a difficult childbirth, constant exhaustion, chronic pain, and immune deficiencies, leading her on a quest to rejuvenate her health. Discover how her encounter with the philosophy of "Deep Nutrition" based on the principles of Weston A. Price ignited her health awakening. With the birth of her second child came new opportunities, but old doing patterns crept in and overexertion and burnout resulted, leading her to explore functional medicine. Filly's journey took an unexpected turn as she realised the profound link between low dopamine levels and addictive patterns. We learn about the relationship between overexertion, stress and perfectionism, and the depletion of joy, creativity and motivation. Her battle with heartburn, histamine intolerance, parasites, and more led her to unveil the intricate connections between physical ailments and metaphysical triggers. We also discuss sleep, cortisol, and melatonin, the profound impact of sleep on health and well-being, the complexities of stress-induced burnout, as well as practical insights on breaking the cycle and restoring balance. Tune in to this episode and hear the remarkable journey of a woman who found her way back to vitality by addressing not only the physical but also the metaphysical aspects of health. Filly has generously offered a free mini course to help my listeners “Break Free from Body Burnout”! Request access here: https://www.chrisandfilly.fm/minicourse-page/ Learn more: - The Body Burnout Show with Filipa and her husband Chris: https://www.chrisandfilly.fm/podcasts/ending-body-burnout-show - Chris and Filly's Website: https://www.chrisandfilly.fm/ - Listen in to a podcast with Jo & Filly about Jo's story of body burnout and healing: https://www.chrisandfilly.fm/podcasts/ending-body-burnout-show/episodes/2147931009

Welcome to Episode 40 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2) Softening Your Approach to Healing - The Gut Health Formula Interview #3 Once more, Jo and Elyse interview a member of their online program, The Gut Health Formula, to share a beautiful and hope-filled story of healing. Jo and Elyse have been running their gut health program for the past five years and have seen the program impact positively on thousands of people's lives. Find out more about The Gut Health Formula here: https://quirkycooking.com.au/gut-health-programs-cooking-classes/ In this episode, Briony shares her story of learning to approach health and healing with a softer, gentler mindset. Adding in healing foods, reducing the stress load, and changing her focus from an 'all or nothing' approach to a 'step by step' approach made all the difference in her healing journey. Briony struggled with chronic diarrohea, digestive issues, exhaustion and confusion over which direction to turn. She felt embarrassed about her health struggles - as a natural health coach, she felt she should know what to do! Learning to lean into what her body was trying to teach her, letting go of the need to do everything perfectly, being kind to herself and enjoying a softer, gentler journey of healing has been life-changing for Briony. Listen in as Briony shares her story in this wonderfully inspiring interview. I f you need encouragement, guidance and support to heal and nourish yourself and your family, we invite you to join us for The Gut Health Formula - the 8 week program that made such a huge difference for Caitlin and thousands of others. THE GUT HEALTH FORMULA STARTS THIS WEEK. Find out more here: https://quirkycooking.com.au/gut-health-programs/ (We accept new members for the first week of the program as we believe in a soft start and allow members to work at their own pace.)

Welcome to Episode 39 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2) Clearing Up the Confusion: Hormones, Candida, Constipation, Bloating... Learning to be Healthy! Over the next few weeks Jo will be joined by Elyse Comerford, Integrative Nutritionist, GAPS Practitioner, and owner of Well Belly Clinic, and they will be interviewing past members of their online program, The Gut Health Formula. Jo and Elyse have been running this program for the past five years, three or four times a year, and have seen the program impact positively on thousands of people's lives. They started to think they really should share some of the stories of the people who have worked through the program, because they know how powerful it can be to hear of someone else's healing experience. Hearing the story of someone who has healed health issues similar to yours can give you the hope and encouragement you need to begin changing your life. And Jo and Elyse are passionate about providing the practical 'how-tos' and support for those who are ready to make a change. Listen in as Jo and Elyse chat to Caitlin about her health journey. Caitlin struggled with infertility and period problems, hormonal issues, digestive disorders, food intolerances, struggles to gain weight, and confusion over how to eat a nourishing diet that would help her to heal. After 11 years of having no period, Caitlin learnt to heal with food and it has changed her life. The bloating is gone for the first time in 20 years, she has energy and feels like she has a new lease on life. Learn about the changes Caitlin made in 7 months that completely turned her health around!! If you need encouragement, guidance and support to heal and nourish yourself and your family, we invite you to join us for The Gut Health Formula - the 8 week program that made such a huge difference for Caitlin and thousands of others. Find out more here: https://quirkycooking.com.au/gut-health-programs/

Welcome to Episode 38 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2): Healing JIA (Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis). Over the next few weeks Jo will be joined by Elyse Comerford, Integrative Nutritionist, GAPS Practitioner, and owner of Well Belly Clinic, and they will be interviewing past members of their online program, The Gut Health Formula. Jo and Elyse have been running this program for the past five years, three or four times a year, and have seen the program impact positively on thousands of people's lives. They started to think they really should share some of the stories of the people who have worked through the program, because they know how powerful it can be to hear of someone else's healing experience. Hearing the story of someone who has healed health issues similar to yours can give you the hope and encouragement you need to begin changing your life. And Jo and Elyse are passionate about providing the practical 'how-tos' and support for those who are ready to make a change. Listen in as Jo and Elyse chat to Steph about her three-year-old daughter's story of healing from juvenile idiopathic arthritis. It's not the end of the story, but the beginning is already so beautiful and hopeful, it will bring tears to your eyes. If you know someone with an autoimmune disease, or autoimmune arthritis, we hope you will share this video with them and help them to find hope also. You can find out more about The Gut Health Formula 8 week program here: https://bit.ly/theguthealthformulaQC Visit Jo's Quirky Cooking website here: https://quirkycooking.com.au/

Welcome to Episode 37 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: Preconception & Breastfeeding Nutrition, & Baby's First Foods - with Kasey Willson Kasey Willson is a Naturopath & Nutritionist with over 15 years' experience working with women to feel balanced and nourished heading into and throughout motherhood. Kasey has a special passion for preconception and pregnancy health as well as supporting babies gut health, to give little ones' the best start to life. In this podcast, Kasey shares her advice on: preconception health (important diet and lifestyle tips for healthy eggs/sperm and for those who struggle to get pregnant) the optimal, nutrient-dense diet during pregnancy for a healthy mother and baby how nutritional needs change for mums while breastfeeding foods that support a strong milk supply how to make sure your baby has a healthy microbiome (during preconception, breastfeeding and weaning) first foods for a great start in life Kasey's Blog (with health support & recipes): https://www.glowingmumma.com Kasey is the author of the book, "Path to Conscious Conception": https://www.glowingmumma.com/PTCC If you'd love a copy of this book, use the code 'quirky' at checkout for a discount! Glowing Mumma, Thriving Bubba Podcast: https://www.glowingmumma.com/the-podcast-1 Instagram: @kaseywillsonnaturopath & @glowingmumma.thrivingbubba Facebook: @KaseyWillsonNaturopath Visit the Quirky Cooking website: https://quirkycooking.com.au/

Welcome to Episode 36 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: Lucie McCullough (Interior Designer, Building Biologist) on GAPS, Mould Illness, Life in an Italian Village & Our Gut Health Retreat in the Italian Alps Join Jo for an inspiring conversation with Lucie McCullough - building biologist, interior designer and culinary medicine enthusiast. After a career in fashion that took her to Rome, Paris, Milan and London, with stints at Valentino, Ralph Lauren and Vogue, as well as a successful interior design business in Hong Kong, Lucie McCullough's personal health journey took her in an unexpected direction… Lucie shares her incredible story of healing from mould illness and infertility, and how that led to a passion for food as medicine, building healthy homes, and creating a school environment where children learn in nature with a focus on health and community connection. IN THIS PODCAST: Mould illness, EMFS, neurological inflammation, infertility, anxiety, panic attacks, hormone issues, period pain… and healing with GAPS (Gut and Psychology/Physiology Syndrome protocol) Lucie's reaction to the wastefulness and the toxic building materials in the interior design world, and how it led her to study sustainable design and building biology Why Lucie and her family moved from the USA to a small Italian village during the height of the COVID pandemic, where she co-founded the Waldorf-inspired ‘Village Forest School' Renovating a 326 year old chalet in the Italian alps with totally natural materials (now luxury ski lodge, Baita 1697, where we will be holding our gut health retreat in June - see below!) Life in a small village, and the importance of community and connection The importance of food as medicine, teaching children to cook and eat well, and why nutrient-dense meals are served at Lucie's school, cooked by chefs who follow the principles of Weston A. Price The benefits of ‘learning by doing' and about our gut health retreat at Lucie's luxury chalet in the Italian alps Tune in to this episode to hear Lucie's inspiring story of natural healing and learn about her work at the Village Forest School and our upcoming gut health retreat! LUXURY HEALTH RETREAT IN THE ITALIAN ALPS: https://bit.ly/italyretreat23 Where: Lucie's luxury chalet, Baita 1697, in Pragelato - a rustic village 1600 metres above sea level on the French-Italian border near Turin, on the edge of a beautiful national park When: 31 May - 4 June, 2023 Food: a GAPS / Weston A. Price style menu - gut-healing meals using local, traditional, biodynamic foods including locally-made cheeses, wild boar, venison, seafood, a wide variety of seasonal produce, hazelnuts (which the area is famous for) and foraged, medicinal herbs. (Meals are adjusted to include specific dietary needs of attendees.) Learning: daily cooking classes (GAPS/healing foods, cheese making, gluten-free sourdough, fermenting and traditional Italian dishes), ‘learning by doing', and teaching about gut-healing topics by Jo, Lucie and Naomi Miller (naturopath, nutritionist, herbal medicine, Chinese medicine, healing diets and whole-food chef); ask your questions and get expert advice on cooking for gut health and healing naturally Activities: foraging, walking, natural movement, cooking, exploring the local villages, visiting local producers/artisans, relaxing outdoors, fireside chats at night, hot tub on the roof under the stars, magnesium baths, relationship-building, community and connection Included: transport to and from Milan or Turin, luxury accommodation, all meals from arrival to departure (catered to your specific needs), all workshops/classes and activities, personalised advice to help you begin implementing gut-healing diet and lifestyle changes that suit your unique family and situation, a ‘goodie bag' with local gifts and a cookbook by Jo, resources to help you continue your health journey at home LINKS & RESOURCES: Gut-Health Retreat in Italy: https://bit.ly/italyretreat23 The Village Forest School: https://www.villageforestschool.com/values.php Visit Baita 1697: http://www.baita1697.com/ Lucie McCullough Interiors: https://www.luciemccullough.com/

Welcome to Episode 35 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: My Best Thought of the Day + Q&A Jo popped into the Quirky Cooking Chat Group this morning for a live video chat, to share some inspiration and answer questions from listeners. Listen in as she talks about: the concept of having a 'best thought of the day' and sharing it with your family and friends (a great idea shared by her sister, Joye, with a quote from ‘I Guess I Haven't Learnt That Yet' by Shauna Niequist) social media: finding the balance being intentional about what you see online and who you let into your feed breaking the habit of mindless scrolling quiet your world, slow down your busy brain, curate your day Q&A: how to make no-nasties taco mince food dehydrators how to freeze leafy greens where to source ethical, pasture-raised meat my favourite cooking pots and pans fermenting crocks Aussie pepper, organic spices, freeze-dried fruit how to freeze leafy greens how to make a grain-free peach clafoutis (base recipe used: Fat Bomb Muffins in Life-Changing Food) all about fats and cholesterol (listen to this podcast: https://youtu.be/QW6Sx8PvWKM) where to find Jo if you're visiting Far North Queensland ...and more! Join Jo's FB chat group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/quirkycooking Visit Jo's website for recipes, videos, workshops and events: www.quirkycooking.com.au

Welcome to Episode 34 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: A Healthy Perspective on Fats and Cholesterol, with Dr Damian Kristof Dr Damian Kristof of Vida Lifestyles (chiropractor, naturopath and nutritionist) answers common questions about fats and cholesterol in this game-changing podcast! Listen in to understand more about the role of cholesterol in the body, why we need it, how it's made, and how we can help our bodies to create the GOOD cholesterol that feeds our brain, hormones, and every cell in our body. Should saturated fats be a part of a healthy diet? Do they cause high cholesterol and/or heart disease? What is the 'cholesterol myth' and how did it become so ingrained in our modern society? What DOES cause high cholesterol? How can we reduce our LDL and triglyceride levels? What traditional diets are 'heart healthy'? Is a vegetarian diet the answer? What fats and oils should we use and how? What's the link between high cholesterol and diabetes? What are the basic principles to keep in mind around the healthy consumption of fats? What's some examples of daily meals for a heart-healthy diet? Damian's Links: About Damian Kristof: http://vidalifestyles.com/about/dr-damian-kristof/ Damo and Marcus' Podcast, 100 Not Out: https://thewellnesscouch.com/shows/100-not-out Visit a 'blue zone' with Damo and Marcus! Ikaria Trip: https://100notout.com/ikaria/ Previous podcast with Damian, "The Philosophy of Health & Wellness": https://youtu.be/24G7ke-9aCo Jo's Links: Quirky Cooking website: https://quirkycooking.com.au/ The Gut Health Formula program: https://quirkycooking.com.au/gut-health-programs-cooking-classes/ Jo & Lucie's Luxury Health Retreat in the Italian Alps: https://quirkycooking.com.au/2023/01/luxury-health-retreat-in-the-italian-alps-2023/ Sign up to Jo's newsletter: https://quirkycooking.mykajabi.com/newsletter-sign-up

Welcome to Episode 33 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: Healthy Habits I'm Working on This Year Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/MPVUIsGU8y8 This episode follows on from "Healthy Habits for the New Year: Journaling": https://youtu.be/PFn1AuJhF1k Jo shares some more habits she's personally working on this year, and gives some tips for working into a healthier diet and lifestyle in a doable way. Helpful Links: * COMING UP! FREE "Gut-Healing Basics" live webinar and cooking class with Jo Whitton & Elyse Comerford - watch the REPLAY (https://bit.ly/guthealingbasics) 10th February: "The Gut Health Formula" 8 week program, with Jo Whitton & Elyse Comerford (https://www.wellbellyhealth.com.au/the-gut-health-formula) 30th May - 4th June: Gut Health Retreat in the Italian Alps! https://quirkycooking.com.au/2023/01/luxury-health-retreat-in-the-italian-alps-2023/ Coming soon (date TBA): "Healthy Snacks Cooking Workshop" with Jo Whitton (workshops will be posted here: https://quirkycooking.com.au/live-cooking-workshops/) Visit www.quirkycooking.com.au for healthy recipes and resources.

Welcome to Episode 32 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: Healthy Habits for the New Year - Journaling [Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/PFn1AuJhF1k] For the next few weeks Jo will be sharing “Healthy Habits” she's working on this year and her best tips to gradually build good habits into your everyday life. In this episode, Jo chats about easing into the new year gently, without stressing yourself out with huge expectations and unsustainable goals... just small steps towards good habits that will last a lifetime. JOURNALING: "A fresh, new year and a fresh, new journal - what a great feeling! But do you feel a bit hesitant to start writing in your lovely, blank notebook because you don't want to mess it up? It's kind of the same as the feeling of starting a new year… it's so new and unblemished and we don't want to ruin it. But hey, that's life - messy and beautiful and never quite to plan - right? So let's just embrace it and jump in!

Welcome to Episode 31 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: Wild Vanilla - Australian vanilla, grown in the rainforest in FNQ Watch the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TyzsFmBZjbY Nestled into the rainforest on the picturesque southern end of the Atherton Tablelands, Far North Queensland, is a very special farm. As you walk down the track from the house, sunlight flickers through the trees and the sound of rainforest birds and cicadas grows louder until it feels like you are immersed in tropical 'surround sound'. There under the rainforest canopy are row after row of lush vanilla vines, propped up by poles and trellises so that the flowers (or beans, depending on the time of year) are easy to access. As you wander along the rows you may see birds and butterflies flitting about, small spiders dangling from fine threads, busy insects... and a cute puppy bouncing along after the owners and their children. This is an organic, family-owned vanilla plantation, so insects, butterflies, puppies and children are all welcome! Join Jo as she visits the beautiful Wild Vanilla plantation, owned by her friend Bek and Bek's dad, brother, and their families. Jo's daughter India works as farm manager and enjoys the peace and quiet of spending her mornings amongst the vines and flowers in the rainforest. And Jo loves Wild Vanilla powder and beans so much she now sells them in her online store! (quirkycooking.com.au/shop) In this episode, you'll learn about: the intricate process needed to produce vanilla that is of a consistently high standard the process of hand-pollinating the vanilla flowers how premium-quality vanilla powder is produced the time, effort and love that goes into farming vanilla organically and some tips from Bek on how to use vanilla in your cooking - both sweet and savoury! Bek has promised to share the recipe for Vanilla Coconut Panna Cotta with Berry Coulis (seen in this video), so keep an eye on Jo's blog (www.quirkycooking.com.au) and social media (@jowhitton on Instagram and @quirkycooking on Facebook)! You can find Wild Vanilla on Facebook and Instagram (@wildvanillafnq) and their website will be up soon. Bek is also well-known as the founder of Once A Term Cooking - a community where you can learn to meal plan and meal prep for 3 months at a time! (Bek is a teacher as well as a busy mum and business owner, so school-holiday meal prep has been a game changer for her.) Find Once A Term Cooking on Facebook and Instagram, and listen in to a past podcast where Jo interviewed Bek about this fascinating way of preparing ahead for a busy term: https://youtu.be/B3g9Z6vXntQ You will find lots of recipe ideas and tips at www.quirkycooking.com.au.

Welcome to Episode 30 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: Healthy Travel Food Ideas, with Nutritional Therapist Tori Collins Thinking of doing some travelling over the holidays? Wondering how you'll manage to eat healthy meals while you're on the road? In this podcast Jo chats with her young friend from the UK, Tori, who is backpacking in Australia for a few months. Tori is a nutritional therapist with a passion for good food (and good coffee!) and she shares her tips for eating well, on a budget, while travelling. Jo also shares her advice for healthy eating while travelling, gleaned from years of travelling around Australia and overseas for her health and cooking workshops. Jo and Tori understand the struggle for those travelling with special diet needs. They both eat mostly gluten free (apart from the occasional good quality sourdough!) and Jo has also travelled extensively (and eaten well!) while on the Intro GAPS diet (think no gluten, grains, dairy or starches) - without a kitchen to cook in! Both Jo and Tori have some great tips to help simplify your travel food and keep it healthy. Topics covered: backpacking: travelling light, must-haves for your 'food bag', filtered water bottles, food storage ideas cooking in hostel, hotel and BNB kitchens: what to use instead of the teflon pans, tips and tricks for cooking in communal kitchens, food storage, one-pot meals buying ingredients in small amounts for 1-2 meals so you don't waste food reducing plastic waste: reusable food wraps, snack bags, travel cups, containers and utensils to take with you tips for keeping blood sugar levels balanced while travelling to keep energy up and avoid snacking on junk food what to buy when you're in the middle of nowhere and can only find truck stops or a small store with few healthy options how to order when eating out with special dietary needs camping food: ideas for camping without refrigeration food to take on flights and coach trips keeping it simple and travel food on a budget spice it up: seasonings to take with you that will jazz up your meals! and so much more!! Give Tori a follow on her new nutrition page on Instagram, @toricollinsnutrition, and keep updated with her travel and food adventures as she explores Australia! Helpful Resources: Listen to a podcast from Jo's archives about travelling in Spain and her tips for travelling and eating out when gluten-free: https://youtu.be/Nr1aqE1RKWA Healthy, grain-free granola & breads that are perfect for the road: https://primalalternative.com/ A delicious nut milk base that doesn't need refrigeration, just whisk into water as needed: https://florafoods.love/pages/mlk The filtered water bottle Tori uses: https://www.aussieberkeyshop.com.au/sport-berkey-water-filter-bottle For recipe ideas for travel snacks, check out Jo's cookbooks here: https://quirkycooking.com.au/shop/brands/quirky-cooking/life-changing-food-simple-healing-food-quirky-cooking-cookbook-bundle/ Visit Jo's blog for hundreds of free recipes and tips: https://quirkycooking.com.au/

Welcome to Episode 29 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: Coffee Farming, Fermenting & Flavour - a Visit to Crater Mountain Coffee Come visit Crater Mountain Coffee on the Atherton Tablelands in Far North Queensland! In this episode, Jo chats with Lucy Stocker and James Masterman, owners of Australia's highest altitude coffee farm and producers of unique, specialty coffees. Lucy and James are working with food scientists from Christian Hansen to test various yeasts and cultures for coffee fermentation, and they give us a glimpse into the careful research and science that goes into a good cup of coffee. Australian (and International) barista champion and coffee trainer at ONA Coffee, Hugh Kelly, is also visiting to share his expertise in producing coffee with optimal quality and unique flavour profiles. More about Crater Mountain Coffee: https://www.cratermountain.com.au/ More about Christian Hansen and their food cultures and probiotics: https://www.chr-hansen.com/en/ More about Hugh Kelly: https://www.instagram.com/hugh_t_kelly/ Visit Jo's website: https://quirkycooking.com.au/

Welcome to Episode 28 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: Local Food, Coffee & The Bush Beef Project - Oliver James. {Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/26q3KZarJzs} Jo interviews Far North Queensland hospitality creative, Oliver James, about his experience in the Australian food and coffee scene and his involvement in the "Bush Beef" project with the indigenous owners of Normanby Station in Cape York. Oliver (Olly) James is a World Barista Competition Judge (and founder of the Tattooed Sailor Coffee Roasters) and is a keen supporter of local, indigenous produce and direct farm-sourced ingredients. Recently he was invited to help showcase the *Bush Beef from Normanby Station and help to get this uniquely flavoursome, sustainable meat out to the market. Jo and Olly discuss subjects ranging from the amazing variety of produce grown in Far North Queensland, locally-grown coffee and wild 'bush beef', to vanilla, seasonal cooking and how a trip to Ethiopia opened Olly's eyes to a wider definition of local food. Olly started making coffee at 9 years old in his Father's NSW countryside, garden-to-plate restaurant. In 2009 he opened his first cafe, Caffiend in Cairns CBD. Since then, Olly has opened several cafe venues, and currently operates Caffiend, Guyala Cafe, Newell Street Cafe, Tattooed Sailor Coffee Roasters, Cairns Coffee School and his hospitality consulting business. You can find out more about Olly's work, his cafes and the Bush Beef project below: Guyala cafe (https://www.guyalacafe.com.au/) and Caffiend cafe (https://www.caffiend.com.au/). Food inspired by indigenous ingredients and an international culinary influence. With a World Barista Competition Judge at the helm, the coffee is a focus at both cafes! Tattooed Sailor Coffee Roasters & Coffee School + Newell St Cafe (https://www.tattooedsailor.com.au/). Specialty coffee roasters sourcing delicious coffee from Far North Queensland and all over the world. Tattooed Sailor coffee is made from sustainable and ethical green beans wherever possible, keeping in mind the impact that purchasing decisions have on coffee growing communities. Bush Beef (https://www.normanbybushbeef.com/) originates from some of the cleanest and most remote paddocks in the world and is an ethical choice since herds aren't confined; they live freely, roam freely and eat freely. This produces sustainable clean meat, free of preservatives, chemicals and hormones from any commercial process. (Jo will be sharing more about this project on the podcast soon!) ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- Jo Whitton is the founder of Quirky Cooking (https://quirkycooking.com.au/) and the author of three best-selling cookbooks. She lives on the Atherton Tablelands in Far North Queensland, where she runs her online business, develops recipes that often feature local ingredients (including produce from her backyard garden) and teaches whole-food cooking classes (online, and throughout Australia and overseas). Her recipes reflect her passion for food that nourishes and heals, with plenty of flavour and fun!

Welcome to Episode 27 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: The Meat Question - Dr Pran Yoganathan {Watch this podcast video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7d9Qo8E2rVk} To eat meat, or not to eat meat? This seems to be THE question right now. In this episode, Jo invites Dr Pran Yoganathan onto the show to share his thoughts on the meat question. Dr Pran is a gastroenterologist and founder of The Centre for Gastroenterology in Sydney. His aim is to empower his patients to embark on a journey of self-healing using the philosophy of “let food be thy medicine”. Dr Pran has a strong interest in the field of human nutrition. He practices an approach to healthcare that assesses the lifestyle of the patient to see how it impacts on their gastrointestinal and metabolic health. He believes that the current nutritional guidelines may not be based on perfect evidence and he passionately strives to provide the most up to date literature in healthcare and science to provide “Evidence-Based Medicine”. Dr Pran has a special interest in conditions such as Gastro-oesophageal Reflux (GORD), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and abdominal bloating. He takes a very thorough approach to resolve these issues using dietary manipulation in conjunction with an accredited, highly qualified dietician, rather than resorting to long-term medications. Dr Pran and Jo discuss: the root causes of poor intestinal health healing with food is meat good for your health? how much meat should we eat? does red meat cause cancer? should we be eating animal fats? do ruminant animals cause climate change? regenerative farming vs monocropping and ‘factory farming' how glyphosate is damaging our gut health how to support the health of the environment while eating a traditional diet that includes animal products how to support healthy farms & food systems in your area An important takeaway from this interview is to be curious, educate yourself, dig deeper and know where your food is coming from and how it is produced - whether it's animal-based or plant-based. Dr Pran's website: https://centreforgastrointestinalhealth.com.au/ Past podcasts you may find helpful: Be Curious! The importance of having a curious mindset https://youtu.be/JRBLxDa6Lm8 Gut Health 101 https://youtu.be/pe2GV8IIWo0 Meat Stocks & Bone Broths - How & Why https://youtu.be/bo4KLoiKTv4 How to Save Money on Your Health Journey https://youtu.be/qyRmpOQ4kp0 Find healthy recipes and tips at www.quirkycooking.com.au

Welcome to Episode 26 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: Arepas, Empanadas & GF Venezuelan Cooking, with Elena Rangel. {Watch this video on the Quirky Cooking YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/xvc2jsceVSI} Join Jo as she visits a small cafe in Yungaburra, Far North Queensland, to learn how to make arepas, empanadas and patacon maracucho (plantain sandwiches). Jo's friend Elena (owner of Coffee & Clay cafe) loves to share the dishes she learnt to make growing up in Venezuela and explains that traditional Venezuelan breads and baking are naturally gluten free, made from cassava, cornmeal and plantain. Watch and learn how to make these simple and delicious recipes, and if you need detailed instructions you can find similar recipes linked below. Visit Elena's "Coffee & Clay" cafe in Yungaburra, FNQ https://www.facebook.com/CoffeeAndClayYungaburra/ Recipes: Arepas: https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/how-to-make-arepas/ (use olive oil rather than vegetable oil) Empanadas: https://www.thewhiteiguana.com/en/post/empanadas-good-and-crispy-venezuelan-fried-corn-pies Patacon Maracucho (Venezuelan Plantain Sandwich): https://cookgem.com/patacon-maracucho/ Annatto Oil (or Achiote oil - annatto seed is also known as ‘poor man's saffron): https://www.food.com/recipe/annatto-oil-109238 Guasacaca (creamy avocado Sauce): https://www.seriouseats.com/guasacaca-recipe Pica de Gallo (fresh salsa): https://hispanicfoodnetwork.com/pico-de-gallo/ Visit Jo's website: https://quirkycooking.com.au/

Welcome to Episode 25 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: Cooking with Joy & Deliciousness (+ 'Sweetness' is Not a Dirty Word!) - Jude Blereau Food is about nourishing the body AND soul! We often look at all the nutrients needed for the physical body to survive, but forget that the soul needs nutrients too. Wholefood chef Jude Blereau is a big believer that joy and deliciousness are nutrients in their own right. Jude says that the idea that wholesome sugars and fats are "bad" has done nobody any favours. "I've worked many years doing food coaching, and my average client was women in their 40's that had followed this [low fat, low sugar diet] to the letter and their bones were shot, they were deeply unhappy in their life and [they'd followed] this harsh kind of, restrictive diet. Being constantly worried about ‘good and bad foods' is a very stressful way to look at food... [and] arises from the loss of food culture." In the "health food" world, there's been a huge shift against sugars, even wholefood sugars. In this episode, Jude discusses why 'sweetness' is not a dirty word and why a little bit of wholesome sweetness in your life is actually a good thing. She also gives a clear argument against fake sweeteners, including the 'natural' ones made in laboratories. When you base your food decisions on foundational, whole-food principles, everything falls into place and decisions over what to eat and what not eat become much clearer. Jo and Jude also chat about: building the foundations (and making the headspace) for a wholesome diet the trap of ‘nutritionalism' and how modern 'food science' (funded by corporations) has altered our views on traditional foods how our society's beliefs around food are massively impacted by marketing and media the loss of food culture, and how to bring back real food in our homes eating with the core, whole-food principles in mind whole-food ingredients and how to use them in your cooking breaking down the science for successful wholefood baking whole-food sweeteners vs sugar substitutes and fake sweeteners how food made with love satiates you on a very different level to food created in a factory Visit Jude's website for information on her cookbooks, cooking classes and programs and recipes: https://wholefoodcooking.com.au/ You will be able to download Jude's "Wholefood Manifesto" (the core principles of wholefood eating) when you subscribe to her newsletter. Visit Jo's website to read her wholefood philosophy here: https://quirkycooking.com.au/food-philosophy Find Jo's wholefood recipes and tips here: www.quirkycooking.com.au

Welcome to Episode 24 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "Building a Business with Heart" - Helen Marshall of Primal Alternative Helen Marshall is the brains (and heart!) behind the successful grain-free baking business, Primal Alternative. Jo and H have been 'business besties' for years and love to chat about all things business, food, health, working from home, family, gardening and life in general, and in this episode they let us in on one of their chats. Listen in as Jo and H talk about: H's story of transitioning to a healthier work-life balance time management when working from home an important lesson H learnt through her work (which everyone needs to know!) her favourite productivity hack three podcasts she loves on the subjects of business, health and life Jo's trainee, Bea, joins in with a few questions of her own about the Primal Alternative baking business, such as: what's a ‘Primalista' and what do they do? what does a usual baking day look like for a Primalista? what products do Primalistas make and how many hours a week do they need to work to make a good profit? what kind of training and support do they get when they buy a Primal Alternative licence? There's lots more info and fun topics covered in this podcast - if you have an interest in home-based businesses and doing what you love, listen in! You can find out more about Primal Alternative and starting your own healthy baking business at home by downloading an Info Pack here https://primalalternative.com/info-pack Or visit the Primal Alternative website here: https://primalalternative.com/

Welcome to Episode 23 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "Healing Veggie Soup". Watch this episode on the Quirky Cooking YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/xfM4gFDKVdU This week Jo cooks one of her favourite soups - a nourishing, hearty soup based on homemade chicken stock and chock-a-block full of veggies, herbs and deliciousness! Use what you have, get creative and enjoy. Why use meat stock as the base? Jo explains in this video: https://youtu.be/bo4KLoiKTv4 You can find the recipe for Healing Veggie Soup in Jo's latest cookbook, Simple, Healing Food: quirkycooking.com.au/simplehealingfood Or visit Jo's recipe blog for a version that includes chicken (and some tips for warding off the winter colds and flus!): https://bit.ly/QChealingchickensoup Find more recipes and tips at www.quirkycooking.com.au, and in Jo's cookbooks: Simple, Healing Food: quirkycooking.com.au/simplehealingfood Life-Changing Food: bit.ly/lifechangingfoodcookbook Quirky Cooking: bit.ly/QCcookbook

Welcome to Episode 22 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "Ask Me a Question" (Backyard gardening, gut health, hormones, natural skin and hair care, healthy eating & more!) This week Jo answers questions from her listeners, including: “Why is your garden a spiral shape?” “Soil preparation for gardens?” “What's better for the gut, a short-cooked meat stock or a long-cooked broth on low heat?” “What's your highest completed level of education?” “Is it possible to improve gut health for a coeliac so they're not affected by wheat?” “Gut healing while healing from having gall bladder removed” “Foods that stabilise hormones; my oestrogen levels are high” “Will there be another book?” “The best veg to ferment and different combos of ingredients you use?” “What's your favourite meal to make?” People, resources & websites mentioned by Jo in this video: Elyse Comerford, Integrative Nutritionist & GAPS practitioner (gut health, hormones, fat digestion, healing food): https://www.wellbellyhealth.com.au/about and https://www.instagram.com/elysenutritionist/ The Gut Health Formula online program (run by Jo & Elyse): https://www.wellbellyhealth.com.au/the-gut-health-formula Meat Stocks vs Bone Broths video: https://youtu.be/bo4KLoiKTv4 Jo's daughter (Cassia Whitton)'s artwork: https://www.instagram.com/cassiawhitton_art/ Nat Kringoudis, hormones specialist: https://www.natkringoudis.com/ Find Jo's cookbooks here: https://quirkycooking.com.au/product-category/books/ Quirky Cooking Chat Group on Facebook (ask cooking and fermenting questions here!): https://www.facebook.com/groups/quirkycooking If not on Facebook, join the Quirky Cooking Telegram Chat Group: https://t.me/+WK46JrreRO0th-VY For plenty of free recipes, cooking videos and health and lifestyle tips, visit the Quirky Cooking website: www.quirkycooking.com.au

Welcome to Episode 21 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "Cultured Ice Cream, with Wal Foster of Natural ice Cream Australia" From his iconic, blue, ice-cream van in Brunswick Heads, chef Wal Foster of Natural Ice Cream Australia creates unique, small-batch cultured ice creams that incorporate native Australian flavours like wattleseed, mountain pepper, tamarind, rosella, strawberry gum, smoked paperbark, pandanus, finger lime and aniseed myrtle. In this episode, Jo and the Quirky Cooking team stop by to visit Wal while on an events trip, and Jo chats to Wal about the story behind Natural Ice Cream Australia. Wal shares his interest in probiotic and prebiotic foods and "food as medicine" and talks about how his focus has changed over the last few years from creating sugar-laden French classics and working long hours, to creating one-of-a-kind, gut-healthy ice creams (with indigenous ingredients that he often forages himself), while living a slower, healthier life that includes time to surf and spend time with friends. When you stop by Natural Ice Cream Australia for a treat, expect it to also be a learning experience. Wal takes the time to share the fascinating stories behind each ice cream as he serves them, including the ingredients (which may include native fruits you've never heard of before!), where they're sourced, how the ice cream is made and why it's good for you. Wal's amazing creations always bring a lot of joy and delight to his customers, many who may have never really thought about the health of their microbiome before visiting his little blue van! Wal generously shared a recipe for honey-sweetened, cultured ice cream with mountain pepper and roasted apricots in Jo's latest cookbook, Simple, Healing Food (quirkycooking.com.au/simplehealingfood), so it was a fun idea to have a cookbook signing and ice cream party at Wal's van in Brunswick Heads. If you have this cookbook, this recipe is a must try! And if you're ever in Wal's neighbourhood, make sure you look him up and enjoy one of his mind-blowingly delicious treats. You'll be glad you did. Find Wal online and follow his journey: website: https://www.naturalicecreamaustralia.com.au/ instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturalicecreamaustralia/ Read more about Wal's story: Gourmet Traveller: https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/news/food-and-culture/chefs-new-beginnings-19388 Visit the Quirky Cooking website for real-food recipes and cookbooks: www.quirkycooking.com.au

Welcome to Episode 20 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "Preparing Ahead for Breakfasts 'On-the-Go'" (Part 2) Visit the Quirky Cooking website: www.quirkycooking.com.au Continuing on from the last podcast... How to boost your breakfast when your busy routine doesn't allow time for a sit-down breakfast in the morning! Toast and cereal may be the easiest option, but they often cause bloating or blood sugar crashes later on. A "quick carbs" breakfast also means you'll generally be hungry again in a couple of hours, whereas a nutrient-dense breakfast will set you up for hours and will reduce the desire for snacking later on! In this episode: Delicious, simple egg-based breakfasts Egg-free, grain-free, dairy-free breakfast ideas Soup for breakfast! A meal in a thermos, to go Smoothies-on-the-go Nourishing hot drinks My go-to quick breakfasts Cooking demos of a few of these ideas Find recipes and tips at www.quirkycooking.com.au, and in Jo's cookbooks: Simple, Healing Food: quirkycooking.com.au/simplehealingfood Life-Changing Food: bit.ly/lifechangingfoodcookbook Quirky Cooking: bit.ly/QCcookbook

Welcome to Episode 19 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "Preparing Ahead for Breakfasts 'On-the-Go'" (Part 1) Visit the Quirky Cooking website: www.quirkycooking.com.au We've all heard that “breakfast is the most important meal of the day", and it's true that nourishing your body with a wholesome meal each morning really does make a difference to the rest of your day! But what do you do when your busy routine doesn't allow time for a cooked breakfast every morning? Toast and cereal may be the easiest option, but they often cause bloating or blood sugar crashes later on. A "quick carbs" breakfast also means you'll generally be hungry again in a couple of hours, whereas a nutrient-dense breakfast will set you up for hours and will reduce the desire for snacking later on! If you find you're just grabbing snacks as you rush out the door (or you don't manage to eat at all), this episode has plenty of breakfast suggestions for you. If you have kids that reject your attempts to wean them off toast and cereal and onto more wholesome choices, there are lots of tips for you! And for those who have a little more time in the mornings but just feel uninspired by breakfast, there are plenty of ideas to help you get your breakfast mojo back!! In this episode: why your breakfast should always include quality proteins & fats how to avoid the mid-morning blood sugar crash how to get off the 'fast carbs' roller coaster tips for transitioning to a nutrient-dense breakfast prepare-ahead and 'grab n go' breakfast ideas to replace 'toast & cereal' breakfasts, including gluten free, grain free, starch free, egg free, nut free and dairy free options Watch to the end to see Jo preparing some of her favourite 'prepare ahead' breakfasts! This episode is part 1 in the breakfast series, don't miss part 2 for plenty more breakfast ideas (and cooking videos), including both egg-based and egg-free breakfasts, mini meal breakfasts and 'meals in a glass' that you can blend and take with you. Find recipes and tips at www.quirkycooking.com.au, and in Jo's cookbooks: Simple, Healing Food: quirkycooking.com.au/simplehealingfood Life-Changing Food: bit.ly/lifechangingfoodcookbook Quirky Cooking: bit.ly/QCcookbook

Welcome to Episode 18 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "The Importance of Community & Friendships" In this episode, Jo interviews Marcus Pearce, author of the book "Your Exceptional Life". Marcus has an interesting story of living the smoking-drinking-partying life while being a TV sports commentator, then turning to strict veganism and no alcohol in his search for health, longevity and quality of life. He soon realised that there was a lot more to health than just having a super strict diet, and for the past 15 years he's researched the fascinating subject of what makes for a healthy, happy life. What Marcus noticed about the happiest, healthiest cultures around the world is that community and friendships play a huge part in not only our health and longevity, but in our quality of life as we age. Listen in and be inspired to reach out and build stronger friendships and be an active part of your local community. Find Marcus Pearce here: https://marcuspearce.com.au/ Find Marcus's new book here: https://your-exceptional-life.myshopify.com/ Listen in to Marcus and Damo's podcast "100 Not Out" here: https://thewellnesscouch.com/shows/100-not-out Visit Quirky Cooking for healthy food and lifestyle tips: https://www.quirkycooking.com.au/

Welcome to Episode 17 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "Seasonal Cooking: Ruby Red Grapefruit Pie" {WATCH THIS VIDEO ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/kX1IuqTUAOA} Citrus is in abundance right now, so if you're like me and have ruby red grapefruit piled up on your bench top, you should definitely try this pie! It's arguably my favourite recipe in our Life-Changing Food cookbook* and I will shout its praises every citrus season til my dying day!! (I've included the recipe for you below.) Grapefruit pie is a local favourite in South Texas (USA) and in ruby red grapefruit season you'll find it served at little roadside barbecue joints where they guard the recipe closely. I only know about it because my parents are Texan and lived in South Texas for years… but this recipe is way too good to hide away. The pie's crunchy crust holds big, juicy sections of ruby red grapefruit set in a sweet citrus jelly, and it's not bitter, because the grapefruit pith (the skin between each segment) is removed. Some versions have a layer of cream cheese spread over the pastry under the grapefruit and jelly, to protect the crust from getting soggy, and this also acts as a creamy foil to the tangy fruit and crunchy crust. I love it best this way - I use cream cheese or labne, or I make cashew cream cheese for a dairy-free version. The traditional accompaniment is a big dollop of fresh whipped cream (which is always sweetened in Texas, but I prefer it unsweetened), or you can use coconut cream if you're avoiding dairy. And don't panic about filleting the grapefruit - watch my demonstration and give it a go! Once you get the hang of it, it's quite easy. And if your pieces turn out a little mangled and messy, don't worry, it will taste just as amazing. *Note: You can buy the digital format of the Life-Changing Food cookbook from the Apple or Android app stores - search for “Life-Changing Food"! RECIPE (makes 2 pies) Almond Meal Pastry300g blanched almond meal 2 eggs¼ tsp fine sea salt60g soft unsalted butter or 30g coconut oil, plus extra for greasing dish Pie250g cream cheese, labne, quark or cashew 'cream cheese' (see below)5-6 firm, medium-sized ruby red grapefruitjuice of 1 large orange90g honey or pure maple syrup (or to taste)1/2 tsp vanilla extract or 1/4 tsp vanilla powder1 Tbsp gelatine powder Cashew 'Cream Cheese' (for DF variation)200g raw cashews70-80g lemon juice1 tsp vanilla extract or 1/4 tsp vanilla powder80g filtered water Method Preheat oven to 180⁰C. Grease 2 x 20-22cm pie dishes with butter or coconut oil. Mix all pastry ingredients together until a dough is formed (20 sec/speed 4 in Thermomix). If dough is too sticky, flatten into a disc and wrap in baking paper, then chill in fridge for 20 mins. Roll out half the pastry between two sheets of baking paper, remove top sheet, turn over into pie dish and press down gently. Remove remaining shee of paper. Press edges of pastry with fingers to make it even all the way around the top of the pie dish, then flute edges or crimp with a fork, if desired. Repeat with remaining pastry and second pie dish. Bake pastry bases in oven for 12-15 minutes at 180⁰C, or until golden brown on edges. Set aside to cool. Juice one grapefruit to get ½ a cup (125ml) of juice, and set aside for jelly. Peel and filet remaining grapefruit carefully. This is an important step, as the pith is bitter and will ruin the taste of the pie if you leave it on. (See video how-to.) Pour the grapefruit juice and 1/2 cup of the orange juice into a saucepan or Thermomix. Add honey and gelatine, and melt together over medium heat until gelatine is dissolved, stirring constantly. (Approx. 5 mins/100C/speed 3 in Thermomix.) Set aside to cool while you prepare pie. Whisk together cream cheese/labne/quark with vanilla extract or powder, until smooth. (Or use the cashew 'cream cheese' instead for a dairy-free option.) Spread the base of the pie crusts with preferred cheese mixture. Arrange the peeled (filleted) grapefruit sections on top of the cream cheese in a single layer (see photo in cookbook) or arrange however you like. Place pies into the freezer to chill for 20 mins so that the cream cheese is firm before adding the jelly. Once jelly is at room temperature (no cooler, or it will start to set and won't pour smoothly), drizzle onto the back of a spoon over the grapefruit in the pie crust (see video), so that the jelly reaches just to the top of the pastry edge. Carefully place pies into freezer to set for approximately 1/2 hour. (Mix together any leftover jelly and grapefruit pieces in a bowl and refrigerate, adding some other fruit if you like, to make a yummy jelly snack for another day!) Store finished pies in the fridge for up to 1 week, or freeze (well wrapped) for up to 3 months. Serve pie cold, with whipped cream or coconut ice cream if desired. Variations Nut-free: swap almond meal for pepita and/or sunflower seed meal in the pastry, and use a nut-free cream cheese option. Egg free: replace eggs in pastry with a mixture of 2 Tbsp chia seeds + 4 Tbsp water. Dairy free: use coconut oil in pastry and cashew 'cream cheese' in pie. Visit Quirky Cooking for more healthy eating and healthy lifestyle tips here: https://www.quirkycooking.com.au/ [Cover photo by Cook Republic for Life-Changing Food]

Welcome to Episode 16 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "Cooking With Seasonal Produce - 2 Winter Meals You'll Love!" {Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/28q5Qqor1qg} Last week, Jo showed how to do a 'fridge audit' before planning meals for the week, to make sure you use up what you have on hand before going out and shopping for more! (See "Meal Planning to Use What You Have (& Save Money)": https://youtu.be/DARsGKLZ-rk) After doing her produce shop this week, Jo did a live video to show a couple of meals she made with what's currently in season - Gypsy Stew and Cabbage & Beef Soup with Pumpkin & Cauliflower Mash, as well as chicken stock and roast chicken. (You can find these recipes in Jo's cookbooks - Simple, Healing Food and Life-Changing Food: https://www.quirkycooking.com.au/product-category/books/) Tune in and see how Jo uses the following: dead ripe tomatoes zucchinis & squash leafy greens like chicory, bok choy & silverbeet cauliflower & broccoli pumpkin & carrots leek, onions & garlic cabbage red chillies lemons or limes parsley & other herbs Visit Quirky Cooking for more healthy eating and healthy lifestyle tips here: https://www.quirkycooking.com.au/

Welcome to Episode 15 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "Meal Planning to Use What You Have (& Save Money)". {Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/DARsGKLZ-rk} Get a peek into the veggie drawer in Jo's fridge, and find out how she plans her meals from the fresh produce she has on hand each week! Did you know that Australia is one of the worst countries in the world for food waste? Foodbank Australia says Australians waste 7.6 million tonnes of food each year, and 70% of that food was still edible!! Jo says, "I think it's really important to learn how to meal plan so that you're using what you have, rather than meal planning to recipes that you want to make. Otherwise you plan a great week of meals, go and buy all those ingredients and bring them home - you've got the best of intentions -you pop them all in the fridge and you're like, “I'm going to be so organised this week!!” Then by about Tuesday you kinda lose motivation, you're tired after work, you need a quick meal so you say “well I'm not making that one tonight, we'll just have something easy”, or you get takeaway, and little by little you sort of lose the plot, and then by the end of the week you've got a crisper full of soggy veggies and you give up, chuck them out and start again!" Sound familiar? It's really common to make the mistake of buying more than we need. Jo's trick is to check what she has on hand first, do a “fridge audit” before doing her meal planning, then she plans her meals for the week around that. Learn to ‘make do', use what you have, and reduce food waste in your home! Visit Quirky Cooking for more healthy eating and healthy lifestyle tips here: https://www.quirkycooking.com.au/

Welcome to Episode 14 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "Gut Health Red Flags" with Elyse Comerford. Learn about The Gut Health Formula 8 Week Program here: https://www.wellbellyhealth.com.au/the-gut-health-formula The first step towards healing is to work out the root causes of your symptoms. In this episode, nutritionist and gut health practitioner, Elyse Comerford, shares her insights into understanding how poor gut health results in a wide variety of illnesses, creating symptoms that are often not immediately associated with gut health! Elyse also answers listeners questions relating to gut health, diet, stress, hormones, allergies, intolerances, testing and more, and gives practical advice on first steps towards better health. In this episode Jo and Elyse also answer questions about their online program, The Gut Health Formula. This is an 8 week program (with 12 months access) that focuses on to supporting members as they learn to introduce nourishing and healing principles into their lives. Learn more about the program here: https://www.wellbellyhealth.com.au/the-gut-health-formula (Next intake begins 10th June!) Need practitioner support? Visit www.wellbellyhealth.com.au and book in with Elyse and her team of naturopaths and nutritionists. Watch Elyse's live videos at @wellbellyhealthclinic on Instagram. Visit Quirky Cooking for healthy food and lifestyle tips: https://www.quirkycooking.com.au/

Welcome to Episode 13 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "The Philosophy of Health & Wellness" with Damian Kristof. Visit the website: https://www.quirkycooking.com.au/ The philosophy of health and wellness may sound like a complicated topic, but this episode is full of practical advice and is absolute GOLD! Nutritionist, Naturopath and Chiropractor, Dr Damian Kristof (or "Damo" as his friends know him), has 20 years of experience, an in-depth knowledge of the body, nervous system, food functions and responses, and a special gift for making health and nutrition topics accessible for everyone. (Plus he's funny and an absolute gem of a human being, so you're sure to love listening to this one)! "The ceremony around the meal is as good for you as the meal is, from a health perspective." - Dr Damian Kristof Damian talks about: the philosophy of food, and the importance of ceremony around food... it's not just 'what' you eat, it's the way you eat, who you eat with, and how relaxed you are while eating that affects your health! what drives disease in the body the stressors our bodies face on a daily basis how these stressors affect our overall health obstacles to healing avoiding the "food by numbers" trap the problem with eliminating any whole food group over the long term why huge amounts of supplements may not be a good idea avoiding a "black and white" approach to food stress less, enjoy food with family and friends, do the best you can, and be kind to yourself! You can learn more about Damian and the work he does here: https://damiankristof.com/ and http://www.vidalifestyles.com Listen in to the podcast Damian co-hosts with Marcus Pearce here: http://www.100notout.com Visit Quirky Cooking for healthy food and lifestyle tips: https://www.quirkycooking.com.au/

Welcome to Episode 12 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "Working Through Anxiety - Part 3 (with Jules Galloway)" Visit the website: https://www.quirkycooking.com.au/ Naturopath and functional health practitioner, Jules Galloway, joins Jo in this episode to talk about ways to work through anxiety from a practitioner perspective. Jules talks about: the increase in anxiety and depression over the past couple of years due to pandemic stress and isolation how stress affects gut health, and gut health affects stress levels - it can be a downward spiral! gut health as a part of the picture, plus other root causes low nutrient levels that can affect anxiety blood tests and supplements that may be helpful the importance of balancing the bacteria in the gut looking at your health history, and the many variables that contribute to health issues the importance of keeping blood sugar levels stable to reduce anxiety the importance of balanced meals: protein + slow-burning carbs + fats what it means if you're craving snacks and how to reduce cravings “But I don't want to go off my favourite foods!” “What about caffeine?” “What about intermittent fasting?” action steps to help you stabilise mental health keeping the ‘big picture' in mind! If you want to contact Jules through her clinic, you can find her at https://www.julesgalloway.com/ Visit Quirky Cooking for healing-food recipes and healthy lifestyle tips that are simple, doable and won't add to your stress levels! https://www.quirkycooking.com.au/

Welcome to Episode 11 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "Working Through Anxiety - Part 2" {VOTE for Quirky Cooking in the ORIAS Awards: https://bit.ly/QCvoteforme} Anxiety is a normal part of life - we all go through it at one time or another and usually it hangs around for a while then moves on... But sometimes anxiety really digs its' heels in and refuses to leave, causing a chronic state of stress, low energy, lack of motivation and a feeling of helplessness. This is a time to get some professional help and support so that it doesn't take you down the rabbit hole towards depression. In this episode, Jo talks about: How the practice of gratitude reduces anxiety Taking time out to just 'breathe' (and let your soul catch up to your body!) Mindfulness and contemplation Journaling and the magical “brain dump” Writing for release and creativity Planning: your day, your week, your meals, your goals What lights you up? Do what you love! Resting without resentment How to get a good night's sleep Blocking out the online noise Stop comparing your real life to others' highlights! Learning to switch off Knowing this won't be forever - be gentle with yourself and take the time you need to heal [This topic will be continued next week with an interview with naturopath Jules Galloway on the medical/nutritional advice for anxiety. If you have any questions you'd like to ask Jules, please email help@quirkycooking.com.au.] Visit Quirky Cooking for healthy recipes and healthy lifestyle tips that are doable and won't add to your stress levels!

Welcome to Episode 10 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "Working Through Anxiety - Part 1" {VOTE for Quirky Cooking in the ORIAS Awards: https://bit.ly/QCvoteforme} Anxiety is a normal part of life - we all go through it at one time or another and usually it hangs around for a while then moves on... But sometimes anxiety really digs its' heels in and refuses to leave, causing a chronic state of stress, low energy, lack of motivation and a feeling of helplessness. This is a time to get some professional help and support so that it doesn't take you down the rabbit hole towards depression. In this episode, Jo talks about her experience with anxiety, stress, burnout and chronic illness (in her own life and in her family), and what she has found most helpful for working through anxiety and learning to respond in a healthy way to the stresses of everyday life. Jo recommends talking to a health practitioner for medical advice (supplements, diet, counselling, support, etc), and will have a practitioner sharing her advice on Part 3 of this episode. In Parts 1 and 2, Jo shares her own simple mindset and lifestyle tips that can help you to begin heading in the right direction. She shares her thoughts on: what anxiety looks like (and red flags to help you know if you're starting down this track!) when anxiety is helpful, and when it becomes a problem - the effect of chronic, low-grade stress and anxiety on physical health the mind-body connection, and how you can use that to your advantage to reduce anxiety the importance of gut health (listen to the podcast "Gut Health 101 with Elyse Comerford" for simple steps to improve gut health) reducing toxins in the home (listen to the podcast "Low Tox Life with Alexx Stuart") the importance of clean water (listen to the podcast "Answering Your Water Filter Questions") getting out into nature, and the benefits of sunshine (there are many articles & studies online about the importance of nature and sunlight for reducing anxiety and improving health and wellbeing) - knowing your life has purpose and meaning learning to let go of things you can't change learning to ask for help the importance of 'talking it out' working through anxiety rather than practising 'avoidance' don't believe everything you think! slowing down and creating space to work through anxious thoughts (plus some useful questions to journal about, from the book "Be Calm: Proven Techniques to Stop Anxiety Now" by Jill Weber) the need of connection and community for wellbeing and mental health ... [This podcast will be continued next week, so stay tuned for Part 2. If you have any questions you'd like to ask Jo or the practitioner who will be speaking on Part 3, please email help@quirkycooking.com.au.] Visit Quirky Cooking for healthy recipes and healthy lifestyle tips that are doable and won't add to your stress levels!

Welcome to Episode 9 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "Fish Tacos with Spinach Wraps - Simple, Healing Food" Visit website: quirkycooking.com.au/simplehealingfood Watch this cooking video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/eoFldeVeQhE LET'S COOK! This week Jo demonstrates one of her favourite recipes from her new cookbook - Simple, Healing Food. Marinated fish, crispy slaw, creamy chilli mayo and avocado, all wrapped up in a spinach wrap and drizzled with lime... YUM! Jo uses the Thermomix method in this video - see the cookbook for conventional method. Follow along and try it out, or find the recipes in Simple, Healing Food: quirkycooking.com.au/simplehealingfood ABOUT SIMPLE, HEALING FOOD: Simple, Healing Food is an invaluable guide that will provide you with the information you need to transform the way you look at food. Packed with easy-to-follow and nutritious recipes by Jo Whitton (Quirky Cooking), with practical advice from integrative nutritionist and GAPS™ practitioner Elyse Comerford, the gentle, step-by-step approach used in this book will have you cooking fresh, delicious and easily digested whole foods you and your whole family will love. - Over 140 gut-loving recipes that are all grain free, gluten free and refined sugar free - 288 pages of recipes, photographs, health information and practical cooking tips - Recipes suitable for a wide variety of dietary challenges including dairy free, egg free, nut free, nightshade free, GAPS™ and Low FODMAPS - Easy to follow recipe layout, with dietary categories, ingredient variations, serving suggestions and storage tips - Conventional methods with Thermomix® cooking notes - Ingredients that are easily accessible from the grocery store - Tips for prepare-ahead meals, bulk food prep and healthy eating on a budget - Practical tips to help you discover the joy and simplicity of cooking with whole foods Whether you're interested in improving your gut health or are just looking for some fuss-free, whole-food recipes to add to your weekly menu, you're sure to love the simplicity and wholesome deliciousness of Simple, Healing Food. quirkycooking.com.au/simplehealingfood Got questions? Email Jo at help@quirkycooking.com.au

Welcome to Episode 8 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: "Ask Me a Question" (GAPS Mistakes, Cooking, Skincare, Gardening & More!) Visit website: https://www.quirkycooking.com.au/ Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1naCcaD_NCc {HEALTH SUMMIT FOR FLOOD RELIEF: Please join us - 100% of sales go to charities supporting families recovering from the floods in Northern Rivers, NSW: https://www.wellbellyhealth.com.au/wellness-renewed} This week Jo answers questions from listeners, such as: - Is there anything you would do differently on your GAPS journey knowing what you know now? (Spoiler alert: YES!!) - When do you feel it's time to do GAPS again? (Or is it a one off?) - Did you take onion and garlic out of your diet when healing the gut? - What skincare products do you use? - What do you feed your dog? - How's your garden going? ... and more questions relating to cooking, gardening and life! Podcasts mentioned: - Meat Stocks VS Bone Broths: https://youtu.be/bo4KLoiKTv4 - GAPS 101: https://youtu.be/pe2GV8IIWo0 - Whole Foods for Dogs: https://youtu.be/9SPLoo_0x2Y Got questions? Email Jo at help@quirkycooking.com.au

Welcome to Episode 7 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton: Healthy Weight Loss (& Weight Gain) Visit website: https://www.quirkycooking.com.au/ Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/HgqJJ5EBs20 {HEALTH SUMMIT FOR FLOOD RELIEF: Please join us - 100% of sales go to charities supporting families recovering from the floods in Northern Rivers, NSW: https://www.wellbellyhealth.com.au/wellness-renewed} ABOUT THIS PODCAST: Losing weight is at the top of the 'health goals' list for many people, but achieving a healthy weight often feels like an uphill battle. We are bombarded with conflicting advice, advertising, diets and protocols, and most of the advice is unhelpful, and can even be harmful. Integrative nutritionist, Elyse Comerford, says healthy weight loss (or gain, if that is what is needed) is a natural side effect of good health. There are many factors that can be affecting your weight - it's never as simple as 'calorie restriction and exercise' for weight loss. (If only it were!) Weight issues are usually a symptom of deeper health issues. We need to take our focus off the symptoms and instead look at root cause, if we are to make long-term changes. In this podcast, Elyse talks about three main areas that need to be considered to achieve a healthy weight: stress, nutrition and detox pathways. Learn how to work through these root causes rather than just dealing with the symptoms, and you'll be on your way to reaching your health and weight goals! Learn more about the work that Elyse does here, and how you can work with her and her team: https://www.wellbellyhealth.com.au/ Watch Elyse's health chats and Q&A videos here: https://www.wellbellyhealth.com.au/videosandpodcasts Join our Gut Health Formula program here: https://www.wellbellyhealth.com.au/the-gut-health-formula Follow Elyse on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/wellbellyhealthclinic/ Got questions? Email help@quirkycooking.com.au

Welcome to Episode 6 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton! Visit website: https://www.quirkycooking.com.au/ Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Rgg0cbfyJX4 {HEALTH SUMMIT FOR FLOOD RELIEF} Please join us - 100% of sales go to charities supporting families recovering from the floods in Northern Rivers, NSW: https://www.wellbellyhealth.com.au/wellness-renewed ABOUT THIS PODCAST: Fiona Proven of Zazen Water Australia joins Jo to answer listeners' water filter questions, such as: What's the difference between the different water filters out there? Are they worth the hype? Is a cheap water filter better than nothing (eg Brita)? Do they require much to maintain? What do you do when your ceramic filter goes a bit green? Shower/bath filter recommendations BPA-free plastic or glass? Can filters strip too many good minerals out of water? Is it ok to drink bought filtered water in plastic bottles? ...And lots more. Fiona shares lots of information about water filters in general and the Zazen filter in particular; as well as the science behind filtering water in a way that mimics nature. Learn more about the Zazen Water Filter here: https://bit.ly/zazenbrochure Filters available here: https://bit.ly/QCzazenfilters Got questions? Email help@quirkycooking.com.au

Welcome to Episode 5 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton! Visit website: https://www.quirkycooking.com.au/ Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/mPISp34WJXs Thinking about homeschooling, but not sure if you'll cope? Wondering how other homeschooling parents organise their day and how to get started? Get a glimpse of what homeschooling ‘really' looks like in this fun and encouraging chat with Jo Whitton and Joanne Bennet of Aussie Homeschool Adventures. Jo and Joanne are keeping it real in this podcast, so join them for a chat about: - why they chose to homeschool - raising socially well-adjusted kids - how to do it all (hint: they don't!) - what a usual school day looks like, and how it changes as the kids grow older - homeschooling options - private or government schools and Home Education Units - how to choose curriculums, what they have used, and good resources for school books - what to do when the kids won't listen or are having a bad day - transitioning from school to homeschooling (‘de-schooling') - preparing your homeschooled children for university - teaching kids a love of learning - the importance of relationship building for a successful homeschool journey - teaching kids to be of service in their community - what Jo's adult kids are doing now Wondering what the kids think of homeschooling? Watch this interview with Joanne's girls on homeschooling: https://youtu.be/BYWSLTk3QmA Follow Joanne on Instagram @aussiehomeschooladventures and YouTube - Aussie Home School Adventures https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHZxnzDNaMZT1tG73olbbgg Watch “A day in the life of an Aussie homeschooling mum!” by Joanne: https://youtu.be/19_iOCTi0Xs Joanne recommends “Hassle-Free Curriculum” for Australian curriculum: https://unboundhomeschooling.com.au/sign-up-hassle-free-australian-homeschool-curriculum/?v=13b249c5dfa9 The audio version of "Quirky Cooking Chats" is also available via Spotify, Google Podcasts and Apple Podcasts.

Welcome to Episode 4 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton! Visit website: https://www.quirkycooking.com.au/ Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/QVrvqsHM2xg {Urgent! Help with flood relief in Qld and NSW: visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/flood-relief-cook-up or https://www.gofundme.com/en-au/discover/flood-fundraiser} About this podcast: Endometriosis: Creating Awareness, with Donna Ciccia More than 830,000 (more than 11%) of Australian women suffer from endometriosis at some point in their life, with the disease often starting in teenagers. Symptoms are variable and this may contribute to the 6.5 year delay in diagnosis. Donna Ciccia, herself an 'endo warrior', has made it her mission in life to raise awareness of this common, but often misunderstood, disease. Endometriosis Australia, co-founded by Donna, is a nationally accredited charity that endeavours to increase recognition of endometriosis, provide endometriosis education programs, and provide funding for endometriosis research. Listen in as Jo chats with Donna about her own story, what it's like to live with endo, the symptoms, red flags and possible treatments, and how to support friends and family living with this inflammatory disease. Visit the Endometriosis Australia website here for information and support: https://www.endometriosisaustralia.org/ Listen to the Living with Endo Podcast: https://www.endometriosisaustralia.org/podcast Learn about ways to reduce inflammation and improve gut and liver health (essential for balancing hormones) from Integrative Nutritionist Elyse Comerford of wellbellyhealth.com.au here: https://www.instagram.com/stories/highlights/17926298365552916/ The video version of "Quirky Cooking Chats" is available on the Quirky Cooking YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/QCchatsyoutube Got questions? Email Jo at help@quirkycooking.com.au

Welcome to Episode 3 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton! Visit the Quirky Cooking website: www.quirkycooking.com.au Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KCWe8c98JJM About this podcast: In our frantically busy society, it's easy to get caught up in the "busyness equals success" trap. In this podcast, David Westbrook shares his insights on how to stop glorifying "busy" and transition to working in a way that aligns with your values, working smarter not harder! Listen in for plenty of down-to-earth, practical advice that will benefit your daily life, whether you're a farmer, a business person, a busy mum trying to keep up with all the cooking and organising for the family, or a teenager working on keeping up with school assignments. We chat about: how a health crisis in David's family led him to regenerative farming how he changed the way he worked so he could focus more on health and family life top tips for time management slowing down to speed up making a 'stop doing' list the 'brick theory' (also known as the 'brain dump') the 'traffic light theory' for prioritising tasks setting goals & creating your ideal week making a 'default diary' the power of your thoughts harnessing your dreams to change your life David is a business coach with a difference - he coaches farmers for the Farm Owners Academy, helping them to create a "Freedom Farm" - a farm that makes good money and is profitable; that is aligned with the owners values; and that gives the owner time for the important things in life. Time, money and happiness is what freedom farming is all about! David says, "We're not teaching how to farm, we're teaching how to run a business! How to work smarter not harder, and how to slow down to make more money." David recommends reading these two books: Getting Things Done, by David Allen Eat That Frog, by Brian Tracy Listen to the podcast "Be Curious! The Importance of Having a Curious Mindset" where I talk about David & Becky's story and how being curious changed their lives! https://youtu.be/JRBLxDa6Lm8 Visit the Farm Owners Academy website here: https://www.farmownersacademy.com/ Follow David on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dave_westbrook_/

Welcome to Episode 2 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton! Visit the website: https://www.quirkycooking.com.au/ Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/GWSZdNPimOg About this podcast: "Awareness and knowing ‘the reason why' is the first step to behaviour change!" In this podcast, Jo talks about how you can reach your health goals by building skills and knowledge into your life, one tiny habit at a time. [This podcast is excerpted from one of the lessons in The Gut Health Formula Program, run by Elyse Comerford and Jo Whitton] Jo says, "You may be feeling motivated and eager to make some big health changes as soon as possible, but be careful about changing too many things too quickly! (I know, that's not usually what you hear when you do a program or cleanse or some kind of protocol for health!!) We recommend that BEFORE you jump in and start making any changes, first observe where you are at right now, and think about the direction you want to go and your goals for your health. Motivation alone will not create lasting changes in your everyday habits - you're not going to feel motivated every day. Building good habits by consistently working on small steps is a much more sustainable approach." "Quirky Cooking Chats" is available on popular podcast apps, and each episode can also be watched on the Quirky Cooking YouTube channel. Got questions? Email Jo at help@quirkycooking.com.au

Welcome to Episode 1 of Quirky Cooking Chats (Season 2), with Jo Whitton - founder of the popular health and recipe platform, Quirky Cooking. Watch this video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pe2GV8IIWo0 Jo loves sharing her down-to-earth approach to healthy eating and living using, stories and practical examples to demonstrate how to apply principles of good health in simple, practical ways. Listen in as Jo chats with friends and guests about everything from culinary medicine and nutrition to family food stories, healthy homes, regenerative farming, reducing stress, balancing work-family-life, running a thriving online business, saving time and money while eating well, and much more! Absorb Jo's knowledge of “food as medicine”, watch her informative cooking videos (via the Quirky Cooking YouTube channel) and develop a healthy mindset towards nourishing your family with real food. Be inspired to make simple changes that will maximise your health and wellbeing without the stress and overwhelm. Episode 1: Gut Health 101, with Elyse Comerford In this episode, Jo chats with Elyse Comerford, Integrative Nutritionist and GAPS practitioner, about healing the gut without getting bogged down or burnt out while implementing health changes. You'll also learn about Jo and Elyse's 8 week gut health coaching program, "The Gut Health Formula". (The first intake of "The Gut Health Formula" coaching program for 2022 is in mid-February; next intake will be June 2022. Learn more and book in here.) Subjects covered in this podcast: what are the symptoms of poor gut health? should I get testing done to see if I have leaky gut? what are the first steps for healing the gut? what impact does stress have on gut health, and how can I better respond to stress that I can't control? how do I begin to change my diet without feeling overwhelmed? what resources can I access to help me learn more about healing naturally? This show is available on popular podcast apps, and the episode can also be watched here on the Quirky Cooking YouTube channel.