Talking Clean with Irene

Welcome to Talking Clean with Irene Episode #52.   In this episode, Irene talks about all things fertility with Aimee Raupp, a renowned women's health & wellness expert and a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist.   Aimee is referred to as the fertility detective because, for the past two decades, she has helped thousands of women overcome their health & fertility challenges figuring out what's in the way of women health & fertility. She works with her patients on every level: mentally, emotionally, physically & nutritionally.   In this episode, you'll learn: The connection between food and fertility The fertility diet and its benefits for different phases of your life The truth behind birth control pills and their side effects How to recover from damages caused by taking the pill How epigenetics can explain the differences that exist between women when it comes to fertility The key things to do and look at when you are trying to conceive After how long you can consider asking for help to fall pregnant The importance of combining Eastern and Western medicine techniques when it comes to fertility   Links and resources: Visit Nourished Life Visit aimeeraupp.com My Gene Food Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Irene talks about all things gut health with Rachel Larsson, a holistic gut health expert. As a qualified Naturopath and Nutritionist, Rachel facilitates meaningful change in others wellbeing through increasing an awareness of mind, body, and spirit. We hear so many different things everywhere on what we should and should not eat - so many different schools of thought and diets promoted everywhere. Let's get clear on why it is important to listen to your gut.   In this episode, you'll learn:  What is the microbiome and why we can't leave without it.  Where can we find genuine information today about gut health?  What are the most basic principles and small changes super easy to implement in your daily life (fibre, variety, herbs & spices) to feel better? What is wrong with gluten? What are the signs our gut is trying to tell us something is going wrong (skin issues, mood, nutritional deficiencies, abdominal pain, concentration)? What is the link between our gut and our brain? What is the link between our gut and our hormones? The difference between prebiotic and probiotic.  The truth behind fermented food (kombucha, sauerkraut…) and their benefits. What are the tests available to make sure our gut is at its optimal level? What are the simple tests we can easily do at home to see what may cause incomfort? How do sugar and alcohol impact our gut health? What can we have for dessert?  Is food combining really a thing?  A deep look into rice and the best ways to cook it What is best between juices and smoothies? The 4 key take overs from this episode   If you don't have time to listen to this whole episode, here are for you the 4 main advices Rachel shares with us, and bonus: super easy to implement! Get your 5/6 serves of veggies per day Managing the mind and gut connection is just as important as what you eat: being present and mindful while you are eating. Make eating time, eating time making sure you jump out of the stress mode. Ask for advice and support. Visit your GP, a naturopath or nutritionist. Be reassured that eastern and western medicine can work together. Come back to a whole food diet, cooking from home where possible leaving out refined sugar.   Links and resources: Visit Nourished Life Visit rachellarsson.com.au Rachel Larsson on Instagram Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today on the podcast, I talk to the beautiful Keira Rumble, the founder and CEO of Krumbled Foods. Keira established Krumbled Foods because she wanted to enjoy a healthy snack that was legitimately low in sugar, natural and bloody delicious, and that’s how Beauty Bites were born! Beyond being a successful entrepreneur, Keira is super passionate about nutrition and women’s health. She opens up about her journey with endometriosis and pregnancy loss (trigger warning), and we talk about the importance of listening to your body.   Key Takeaways:  What are Beauty Bites? Besides being the most delicious bite-size snacks, Beauty Bites are filled with amazing ingredients to nourish your body. Each Beauty Bite includes prebiotics & probiotics (good bacteria!) for gut health plus collagen to help with skin hydration, hair, skin and nail health. Keira discusses her experience with heterotopic pregnancy and the taboo around reproductive issues and women’s health. Keira encourages listeners to really trust your body, listen to your gut, visit the doctor and push to be seen. I love following Keira on social media because she is open about her experiences and is committed to showing her audience her life as it is. She tells me there’s a fine line between showing too much and too little and believes that if someone you follow doesn’t light you up, unfollow! Links and resources: Shop the Krumbled Foods range online now at Nourished Life. Visit Nourished Life   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grab a cup of a coffee and join me as I chat to Abigail Forsyth, the CEO of KeepCup. I own so many KeepCups, so I was very excited to hear about Abigail’s incredible business journey. KeepCup was founded in Australia back in 2009 as a way to minimise waste that is produced by disposable takeaway coffee cups. Now KeepCup is sold in 68 countries and has really made a difference in consumers behaviour towards single cup use.   Key Takeaways:  We discuss the impact of the changes to cafe culture due to Covid-19 and how Abigaile is navigating these changes. A lot of cafes refuse to use KeepCups to avoid contamination, meaning that consumers were forced to use disposable cups. KeepCup has just launched a stainless steel range, and the material is of such high quality that there’s no metallic taste! You can shop the new range and the glass cup range at Nourished Life. KeepCup is part of the 1% for the Planet initiative, with Abigail telling me that they donate 1% of their revenue (not their profit!) to environmental causes. Links and resources: Shop the KeepCup range online now at Nourished Life. Visit Nourished Life   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today I'm joined with Corbin Halliday, the founder of Three Warriors - a range of Australian made, certified organic tanning products. Corbin shares his heartfelt story on why he decided to launch a line of tanning products and what's behind the brand name. I'm so excited to speak to Corbin about how tanning makes you feel great and learn more about the Three Warriors range.   Key Takeaways:  Corbin had been working in the beauty industry for nine years when he was diagnosed with Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome. After his diagnosis, Corbin changed his lifestyle to limit the number of toxins in his diet and beauty products. He discovered many mainstream tanning products contain harmful ingredients, so he set out to develop a toxin-free, certified organic false tan. Tips for the perfect tan! Have a cold shower or wait until your skin is cool to ensure your pores are closed. Ensure your body is dried thoroughly before applying the tan. Wait at least 24 hours after shaving. Put your tan on in the bathroom where you have good lighting, not over the carpet like I did! Then throw on a robe or clothes while the tan develops (it won't stain your clothes!). Face Tanning 101 - Use the Three Warriors Tasmanian Sand Scrub 24-48 hours before applying. Avoid using cleansers, toners and moisturisers before tanning as these can interact with the tanning agents. Links and resources: Shop the Three Warriors range online now at Nourished Life. Visit Nourished Life   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on the podcast, I chat with Tammy Aronson, the general manager of Grants of Australia. Grants is a family business, founded by Tammy’s parents in 1984, producing natural alternatives to traditional dental care and health supplements.   Key Takeaways:  In the late 1970s, Melbourne’s water supply was fluoridated for the first time. Tammy’s parents owned a natural food store and were not too fond of the idea of their family drinking fluoride and brushing their teeth with fluoride. They opted for “herbal toothpaste” that the kids refused to use! This sparked the idea to create their own fluoride-free, natural toothpaste that the whole family would love. The burning question – do we, or do we not, need fluoride for healthy teeth? Grants are neither pro nor anti-fluoride. Tammy believes that consumers can decide what works best for them. Grants have recently launched their first toothpaste with fluoride to provide an option for everyone’s needs. Having young children and teaching them the importance of brushing teeth is always a challenge! Tammy suggests showing your children what happens to unbrushed teeth and make them aware it is their responsibility. Get involved with the cleaning routine and make it as fun as possible! Links and resources: Shop the Grants of Australia online now at Nourished Life. Visit Nourished Life   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week’s episode of the podcast, I spoke to the incredible Brenda Tootell, the founder of JuJu. JuJu is a range of healthy, ecologically friendly and cost-effective menstrual products, providing women with a reusable, sustainable, safe and effective alternative to disposable tampons and pads. We discuss why some people are still so reluctant to embrace menstrual cups and how we can all work together to break the period taboo.   Key Takeaways:  Brenda gives me some tips on how to use a menstrual cup to make the transition easier. We discuss how they work, the convenience and ease of reusing the cup and the positive environmental impact a cup has compared to disposable menstrual products. Finding the right cup can be the biggest challenge! Juju offers four models that differ in size and shape to suit women who have or haven’t given birth and sizes for those with higher or lower cervixes. Finding the right size is a bit of a trial and error process, but once you find the right one, you’ll never look back! Links and resources: Shop the JuJu range online now at Nourished Life. Visit Nourished Life   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Today on the podcast, I'm chatting with Chantelle Otten, a Melbourne based psycho-sexologist who is passionate about empowering people to feel great about their sexual health, self-esteem, communication and education. Chantelle feels strongly about normalising sexuality and has helped everybody through her practice, no matter their persuasion.   Key Takeaways:  Chantelle describes a sexologist as a therapist or psychologist who works specifically to change and normalise the conversation around sex. The practice of sexology isn’t well regulated in Australia and she advises looking at a person's qualifications and certifications before choosing a sexologist.  Make sure they don't just call themselves a sexologist because they have a keen interest in sex. We discuss common concerns that Chantelle assists patients with like sexual pain (technically called vaginismus, something that affects 1 in 5 women), low libido and sexual self-esteem. I ask Chantelle about the "honeymoon period" and how to bring back more sexual imagination and creativity into your life when kids, work and stress get in the way. Chantelle advises letting go of expectations, being present and most importantly look after our own needs first. Links and resources: Visit Chantelle’s website for details on her Sexual Self Esteem course and private consultations. Visit Nourished Life   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Today on the podcast, I'm talking with Claire Mitchell, the founder and CEO of ECO. Modern Essentials. This brand delivers 100% pure essential oils and blends at an affordable price, aiming to enhance health and wellbeing beyond the appearance of the skin.   Key Takeaways:  Learn more about the benefits of essential oils and how to choose the right oil for your needs from Sleep, Immunity, to Women's health; there's an oil for everything! It's no secret I'm a devoted user and lover of Magnesium. Magnesium has a proven ability to relax muscles and is fantastic for aches and pains. ECO. Modern Essentials developed a Recovery Magnesium Spray that is blended with essential oils like Black Pepper Oil to help soothe muscle cramps and even help ease children's growing pains. We bust some common myths about essential oils such as are they okay to use around pets? Is the Instagram fad of adding essential oils to your drinking water safe? Should you use essential oils topically on your skin? Listen in to find out which myths are busted! Links and resources: Shop the ECO. Modern Essentials range online now. Products Mentioned: Recovery Magnesium Spray Visit Nourished Life   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Today on the podcast, I’m talking with Sarah Wilson - author, activist and champion of the I Quit Sugar movement. Sarah is a passionate environmentalist and is currently in the final editing phase of her new book, This One Wild and Precious Life, due for release at the end of this month. Sarah and I go way back and I’m so happy we could reconnect and discuss all the amazing things she’s working on at the moment.   Key Takeaways:  Sarah is about to release her new book The One Wild and Precious Life, which she wrote to help us make sense of complexities and bring us all together. We discuss the impact COVID-19 has had on the environment and how it has forced us to change our behaviours. Changes she recommends we implement or continue doing include, driving less, waste less food, don’t go to the shops as much and listen to and read independently funded news sources to feel empowered to make positive change. During the Black Lives Matter movement, Sarah interviewed a number of black activists and was given the same advice repeatedly to “catch up”, to rethink what we’ve been taught, make no assumptions and get to know what we’re fighting for. Sarah recommends checking out the #passthemic hashtag on Instagram to find the profiles of people of colour who we can all learn from. Links and resources: Shop Sarah’s I Quit Sugar books on Nourished Life Beauty Pack on Nourished Life Travel Pack on Nourished Life Sleep Pack on Nourished Life I Quit Sugar: Smoothies, Bowls & Drinks by Sarah Wilson Sarah Wilson’s reading and listening list to beat climate crisis overwhelm Ibram X. Kendi’s, “How to Be an Antiracist” “Stamped From the Beginning”and “Stamped” Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor “From #BlackLivesMatter to Black Liberation” Ava Duvernay’s film 13th Andrea Ritchie Invisible No More: Police Violence Against Black Women and Women of Color” Paul Butler Chokehold Documentary Whose Streets Visit Nourished Life   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Listen to my chat with Elizabeth Barbalich, the founder of Antipodes. Antipodes brings the best of New Zealand to the rest of the world through clean, certified organic facial and body skincare. So many of you asked me why I wasn't stocking Antipodes given how popular it is, and after I did some research, I asked myself "Why wasn't I stocking this brand sooner?!" The consumer demand wasn't in vain either - the range sold out straight away!   Key Takeaways:  Elizabeth has an MBA in Natural Therapies and uses her education and passion for science to ensure every formula is "Scientifically Validated". Antipodes tests every product with In Vitro investigation and human clinical trials to ensure efficacy. Antipodes has been sustainable from day one and has taken into consideration that beyond being sustainable, packaging needs to be both "functional and beautiful". They use lined aluminium tubes and recyclable glass jars, with vegetable ink cardboard packaging that is biodegradable. Antipodes collection is divided into four key categories to simplify the way we shop - Daily Cleanse, Daily Ultra Care, Daily Moisturise and Daily Body Care. Elizabeth tells me that she has treated every single product like a baby through the development stages - a lot of love and care has gone into every product. Links and resources: Antipodes on Nourished Life Visit Nourished Life   Products mentioned: Antipodes Avocado Pear Nourishing Night Cream Halo Skin Brightening Mask   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram See omnystudio.com/policies/listener for privacy information.

Join me as I stroll down memory lane with a good friend of mine, Mukti, the founder of Mukti Organic Skincare. Mukti has been a part of the Nourished Life journey from day dot as one of the first brands I ever stocked! It is an absolute pleasure to have Mukti come and chat to me today about how she has pioneered the clean and organic beauty space in Australia. Mukti is a beautiful, strong Australian and I'm so excited for you guys to hear her story. I loved this chat so much, that I actually added a Mukti product to my cart DURING the interview - but you'll have to listen to find out which product it was! Key Takeaways: Mukti wrote a book called ‘Truth in Beauty’ to help demystify cosmetic labels, the certification process and which ingredients to avoid. A beautiful coffee table book if you ever did need one! Ever thought about getting Botox? Well, listen in to hear about Mukti's natural alternative to Botox. The Mukti Age Defiance Collection consists of three amazing products that can help reduce the appearance of sunspots, wrinkles and even out skin texture. With Mukti's latest research, she has found more and more people are suffering from allergies and sensitivities due to environmental factors. Because of this, Mukti has in the pipeline a range of products that are entirely free from nut oils and fragrances. Ideal for those who are or close to someone that is anaphylactic. One of the latest Mukti products stocked on Nourished Life is the Bioactive Collagen powder. Mukti's thorough research found that marine collagen best resembles human collagen and has the most scientific research behind it with proven results.   Links and resources: Mukti on Nourished Life https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/ Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

Today I chat with Katey from Dry July to find out more about this amazing charity and how you can raise money to support people living with cancer. Back in October 2019, I went plant-based and gave up alcohol. Since then, I have noticed a huge change in how I feel inside and out. My skin is feeling smoother, I have a healthy glow and I have more energy than ever! Katey fills me in on the wonderful health benefits of giving up alcohol and how going dry for just one month can completely change your mindset on alcohol consumption. July is just around the corner, be quick and sign up for Dry July today! Key Takeaways: Dry July came to life when three mates challenged themselves to give up alcohol for a month to raise money for a local charity. Their initial goal was to raise $3,000 but word soon got around and they managed to raise an astonishing $250,000! 13 years later, Dry July has raised $49 million and has over 40,000 people registering every year.   One month of no drinking can benefit your health in many ways such as, improved sleep, increased productivity, weight loss and best of all, no hangovers on a Sunday!   78% of participants say they will drink less after participating and 74% change their outlook on alcohol consumption.  Participating is easier now more than ever. With so many amazing and delicious alcohol-free drink options on the market, you don't have to worry about feeling awkward without a drink in your hand at social gatherings.   Links and resources: https://www.dryjuly.com/ Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

Listen in on my open conversation with Bec Park, the Co-founder of the female-owned condom brand, Jonny. Jonny is a vegan-friendly condom that comes with a 100% biodegradable, disposable bag to make practising safe sex fun, easy and good for the environment. Bec and I discuss why there is still so much stigma around discussing safe sex openly and why too many women fear rejection when asking for a condom from their sexual partners.   Key Takeaways: Jonny was founded by three friends, Bec Park, Bec Villanti and Samantha Eades after discussing the stigma around sex and the rise in STIs. 60% of women prefer to go to the doctor and undergo an STI test rather asking for a condom during sex out of fear of rejection.  Because of this, Jonny is on a mission to promote the importance of safe, consensual and respectful sex to help minimise STIs.  Did you know that traditional condoms often have milk derivative "casing" that is used to lubricate the condom? Jonny uses a silicone oil, making it 100% vegan - better for the planet and our body! Don't throw condoms down the toilet! Too often, condoms end up in our waterways rather than being disposed of safely. Jonny has developed a disposable, biodegradable bag that you can place your used condom in before throwing it in the bin.   Links and resources: Jonny on Nourished Life https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/ Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

Today I speak with Scott Morton, the Director at BioBag to discuss the nitty-gritty about garbage bags, doggy bags and compost bins! BioBags create sustainable, 100% compostable alternatives to plastic bags that break down without any toxic residue. BioBag products are a friendly alternative to the standard mainstream polyethylene plastic shopping bags, bin liners, food storage and even dog waste bags! Learn more about what is required for a product to be compostable and the common greenwashing tactics used to sell eco-friendly options to consumers.   Key Takeaways: For compostable and recyclable materials to erode in landfill, it requires microorganisms and oxygen to break down and eat the materials. Biobag is designed to break down quickly within six months in a home compost system.  Using a breathable compost caddy for your "wet waste" will save you from throwing food scraps and other compostable materials into your regular rubbish bin, resulting in a dry bin and limiting your plastic bag usage.  Be mindful of greenwashing when choosing bin liners from supermarkets. Often alternative liners are made from sugar cane, which sounds great, but they can still take thousands of years to breakdown because they contain polyethylene.  To avoid greenwashing, check the packaging for certifications such as Australasian Bioplastics Association and the Home Compostable symbol. Avoid jargon such as Biodegradable as there is no real definition in Australia or guarantee for how long it takes for a product to break down.    Links and resources:   https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/search.html?qs=biobag Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

Tom Szaky is the founder and CEO of Terracycle, an innovative waste management company on a mission to make a difference in the world by improving our global waste problem. With Tom's entrepreneurial mindset, he developed innovative programs to help consumers and businesses recycle (and upcycle) difficult to recycle products such as coffee capsules and toothbrushes.   Key Takeaways: Tom provides insight on how most items are recyclable, but it often comes down to economics. Big businesses could potentially lose money from recycling and it is cheaper for them to forgo recycling altogether. TerraCycle works to secure funding from brands, manufacturers and retailers in order to develop free recycling programs for the public. TerraCycle work to integrate waste back into new products, for example creating new packaging for products out of plastic found in our oceans and waterways. TerraCycle is working with local brands in Australia to get them to recycle their own packaging through a model called Loop. Woolworths will be one of the first companies to participate in the program. Not all glass and plastic are made equal. When choosing a product, try to choose glass that isn’t coloured (easier to recycle) and rigid plastics over soft plastics. When recycling a coloured product (like a coloured plastic shampoo bottle or a dark amber glass beer bottle), these materials can ONLY be recycled into a new item of the same or a darker colour. Nourished Life has partnered with TerraCycle to provide the option for customers to return their used product packaging to be recycled. Send your empty products to Nourished Life such as toothpaste tubes and we will send to TerraCycle to be recycled.   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/terracycle.html https://www.terracycle.com/en-AU Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

Today on the podcast, I’m talking with Niki Ford, the CEO of Australian Organic. This is a not-for-profit member-owned organization. It has become more and more relevant today as so many consumers are demanding information about the differences between organic and Certified Organic. Australia Organic works to make sure organic standards remain strong and in line with global export markets. Consumer awareness about organic food has increased these past few years and more than ever consumers need to be able to trust labels and logos while they are shopping. There is such a lot of information and disinformation around the topic with a bunch of non-certified products in the market purporting to be organic when they’re not. Let's try with Niki to put some light over that topic and to establish the truth behind this word: organic. What does this really mean? What are the Australians standards and what makes this label different from others? Key Takeaways: Australian Organic previously owned ACO but demerged from this 2 years ago and is now the industry peak body. The Bud Logo is still owned and operated by Australian Organic, allowing more brands and products to utilise the logo, as long as they adhere to all standards associated with this logo. To be Certified Organic, you need to comply to the organic standard and be certified by an approved certification body. There is a strict set of rules and guidelines around what you can and can’t do. Some examples of the guidelines are no GMO allowed, no synthetic pesticides or herbicides, and needs to have a high level of animal welfare. Cosmetics and personal care is far more complicated to certify than food goods. COSMOS which is the world’s largest organic standards has a very complicated process by which every ingredient is reviewed including the way it is extracted or derived. When something is Certified Organic, you know it has been proven to be safe. If something isn’t Certified Organic, it’s not that it’s harmful, it’s just that it’s not proven – therefore it takes the risk away for people and is the safest insurance policy that you are doing the best thing for your body. You can have a level of trust and comfort associated with the certification. Under the Australian Federal Law, anyone that is claiming Organic on their packaging that is getting exported to another country is required to be Certified Organic by law. Therefore, a consumer in an international market that is buying an Australia Certified product, that has been exported to their country, has more safety and certainty in knowing that the product is definitely organic than an Australian walking into a local store.  In Australia there is currently the ability to label something Organic without it being Certified. When transitioning to Organic, choose the things that are most important to you. Make sure you shop food by season as it is much cheaper that way. Transition slowly for your skincare and makeup, and be mindful of the process of detoxing your skin and body.   Links and resources: https://austorganic.com/ https://www.cosmos-standard.org/ https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/products/certified-organic.html https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/products/australian-certified-organic.html Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

Melissa Ambrosini is a wellness guru, author, speaker, and entrepreneur. She is the bestselling author of the books Mastering Your Mean Girl and Open Wide, she hosts one of the top-rated podcasts, The Melissa Ambrosini Show. Her Mission is to inspire others to unlock their full potential and create the business and life of their dreams. I met Melissa about 10 years ago in a café in Bondi when we both started our business and I have been absolutely inspired by Melissa ever since. I think she is a wealth of knowledge and I am so happy to be sharing it with you all!   Key takeaways: Melissa’s shares her tips on how to keep your energy up and feeling healthy and thriving, including her daily practices and self-care rituals. Concentrating on your mindset, what you tell yourself is what is going to manifest in your life. Women have between 60,000-80,000 thoughts a day which could primarily be negative, telling us we are flawed - we are responsible for reprogramming our beliefs and keeping our mindset in check. Using Melissa’s 3-step process can help with this (covered in her book & Ted Talk). When people are negative towards Melissa on social media, she considers whether there is any truth to what they are saying. However, she tries very hard not to care about what people think of her. She has zero tolerance towards bullying online or in person. Melissa and her husband had both done a lot of internal work and healing on themselves before they got together. In a relationship, there are three entities, the two partners and the “us”. While their relationship is in the spotlight on social media, Melissa is selective on what she shares, Nick overshares a little more. They concentrate on ensuring they both can shine within their relationship, whilst sharing their gifts with the world. Melissa has been plant based and alcohol free for many years, makes her feel amazing. Even had an alcohol-free wedding! Irene has also been feeling great without drinking alcohol and eating a more plant-based diet.    Links and resources: https://melissaambrosini.com https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/healthy-living-books/3088479/mastering-your-mean-girl-melissa-ambrosini.html https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/healthy-living-books/3088435/open-wide-melissa-ambrosini.html https://www.ted.com/talks/melissa_ambrosini_how_your_inner_critic_is_holding_you_back https://www.nourishedlife.com.au   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

I was absolutely blown away when I recently went plant-based! So naturally, I was very excited to talk to today's guest Robyn Chuter — naturopath, health counsellor and recipient of ‘Vegan Professional of the Year’ award. Robyn runs Empower Total Health, and her nutritional knowledge knows no bounds! I know the word ‘vegan’ is polarising, so I actually prefer the term ‘plant-based’. In today’s episode, we tackle the trendiness of veganism, the detrimental effects of meat-eating and the paranoia many ‘vegan-curious’ people have about iron and calcium deficiencies. Robyn also explains why we need vitamin B12 and how the vast majority of people with B12 deficiencies aren't actually eating a strictly plant-based diet! We talk about the rise of vegan food too, and how food manufacturers are capitalising on that buzzword — which means I might need to rethink all those ‘vegan’ chocolate-covered ice creams I’ve just popped in the fridge at Nourished Life HQ!   Key takeaways: Robyn believes that most people don't need protein powders. She recommends that you spend your money on more fruits and vegetables so that you can get your protein from them instead. On a calorie-for-calorie basis, humans get far more absorbable calcium from vegetables such as kale, bok choy or broccoli than from drinking milk. Robyn states that most women notice that their period becomes lighter after going plant-based. Hate veggies? Robyn maintains that you’ll be surprised at how your taste preferences change once you switch to a diet rich in various fruits and vegetables. In just a few days of eating a plant-based diet, you can expect some significant shifts in your gut microbiome.   Links and resources: https://empowertotalhealth.com.au/   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

So, you guys know all about my journey with adrenal fatigue. But did you know that I have global supermodel and business sensation Elle Macpherson to thank for my renewed vitality? This inspirational wellness industry powerhouse and her supergreens have literally changed my life! And today, I get to ask Elle all about the magic formula that’s given me back my spark! Like me, Elle used to feel exhausted all the time, so she saw Nutritional Doctor Simone Laubscher who got her onto supergreens and a plant-based diet. Elle was so blown away by the results that she set about creating her now-famous WelleCo products that you guys love so much! You’ll hear it all from Elle herself (we’re now besties), so join us as we talk woman to woman about all the different ways you can use WelleCo powders as well as how she ensures her kids are getting enough vitamins and minerals. She also talks about how to use WelleCo Boosters and shares one of her secrets to looking and feeling great that I wasn’t expecting — lymphatic drainage! Something really important we discuss is supporting the immune system, so listen for Elle’s tips and tricks for keeping yourself and your family as protected as possible.   Key takeaways: WelleCo The Super Elixir Alkalising Greens works on the mitochondria of the cells (Elle calls them the heartbeat of the cells) and when they’re functioning correctly, the body’s systems function properly. WelleCo The Super Elixir Alkalising Greens is a custom blend of ingredients that work together like an orchestra — the ingredients amplify the benefits of one another. Inside WelleCo products you can find ingredients like botanical herbs, probiotics, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and adaptogens — all of the highest quality. To support your lymphatic system and get your lymph going, Elle recommends lying on your back and moving your legs as if you are cycling. The popular WelleCo glass caddy is gorgeous for a reason! Not only were these reusable containers developed before sustainability was popular (the glass protects the nutrients from heat and light), but they were also designed to be beautiful enough to sit on your counter, so you are reminded to use them daily.   Links and resources: WelleCo on Nourished Life Elle’s chocolate mousse recipe Lymphatic Drainage practitioner in Australia trained by Elle’s practitioner   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

I know how long you’ve all been waiting for this episode. And today, I’m delighted to be sharing my enlightening chat with the gorgeous Carla Oates, founder of The Beauty Chef. Today, Carla explains exactly what makes her products stand out from all the other powders out there. Especially her hero product, the GLOW ADVANCED Inner Beauty Powder. Join us as we discuss all things gut and skin health, as well as the importance of inner beauty, lifestyle balance and wholefoods. Carla explains the origins of her products and the links between our microbiome and our mental and physical health. I finally get the low down on collagen and post-biotics. And ... Carla stresses the importance of gut health — your gut and microbiome regulate everything from brain health to metabolic and skin health. This is just such a fascinating chat with a dear friend, and I can’t wait to hear what you guys think!   Key takeaways: When you eat fermented foods, the nutrients become more bioavailable, as the bacteria has broken down the hard-to-digest proteins in the food. A leaky gut is a cause of inflammation in the body and is linked to lots of diseases. The Beauty Chef GUT PRIMER Inner Beauty Support is a great option for this tackling this. Carla firmly believes that a healthy and balanced lifestyle is the best thing we can do to nourish our microbiome. Gut health is connected to everything. 70% of your immune system is in your gut and 90% of your serotonin is made in your gut. Studies have shown that consumption of unfermented dairy is linked to acne, however fermented dairy is not.   Links and resources: The Beauty Chef on Nourished Life   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

Supermodel, author, mum of three and founder of KORA Organics. Miranda Kerr was doing organic beauty before it was cool! This Aussie icon got into the organic beauty game well before I dreamed of Nourished Life. KORA Organics launched over a decade ago, and this week the one and only Miranda Kerr is calling me from her home in the USA to talk about all things “Mum Life” and organic beauty. No big deal! Tune in for Miranda’s tips for juggling 3 kids and a business, as well as her daily skincare routine. We couldn’t decide on 3 top KORA products to use, so we settled on 5! Listen out for Miranda’s advice for layering skincare and how to get the most out of these gorgeous certified organic products.   Key takeaways:  The KORA Organics Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask is excellent for hormonal acne, especially on your arms. Miranda tells me that KORA Organics are the only certified organic brand in Sephora right now. A firm Nourished Life favourite, Noni Glow Face Oil, contains Sea Buckthorn Oil (which has omega 7 fatty acids) as well as Vitamin C and A … and Pomegranate Oil (for cell rejuvenation). Every aspect of KORA Organics is overseen by Miranda — she even writes the copy for the packaging! Miranda swears by the newly launched Noni Night AHA Resurfacing Serum. She says that if you use it every night for 2 weeks you’ll see significant improvements in your skin.   Links and resources: KORA Organics on Nourished Life   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

I thought I had a handle on green cleaning, but today’s chat with Nicole Bijlsma has really opened my eyes. The author of Healthy Home Healthy Family, Nicole is also a building biologist, owner of Abode natural cleaning products and an expert on everything non-toxic cleaning, including mould! I love Nicole’s no-nonsense approach — she tells it like it is as we discuss greenwashing in the natural cleaning industry as well as just how dangerous mould can be in our homes. She also talks me through her very popular range of products. I had no idea that to clean your kitchen you need a formula that breaks down grease and to clean your bathroom you need a formula that is acidic to break down E. coli and bacteria! Nicole is an absolute wealth of knowledge and in this episode, she is so generous with her tips and tricks to help us use fewer toxins in daily life. I was so surprised when she mentioned how crucial a good vacuum cleaner is! She’s so knowledgeable in fact, that she has created a “Building Biology” course to train people to identify hazards in interior environments. Open a window, get some fresh air and enjoy our amazing chat!   Key takeaways: Most supermarket laundry powders have binders and fillers that make them cheaper, but you need to use more to achieve the desired results. Many cattle stations across Australia use Abode cleaning products as their food grade cleaner, which means that they are safe for the animals and the environment. Abode are bringing out a body range featuring hand wash, shampoo and conditioners formulated for people with skin sensitivities, allergies and asthma. To combat bathroom mould, you should wipe down wet surfaces with a microfibre cloth to eradicate mould-creating moisture. Nicole recommends turning off all phones and routers at night to ensure you’re not exposed to electromagnetic frequencies.   Links and resources: Abode on Nourished Life Building Biology   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

If Rachael Finch is doing it, I wanna know about it! In this episode, I had the great pleasure of asking Rachael all about her wellness journey, her FOUR businesses and how she goes about planning and organising her busy life. Since being crowned Miss Universe Australia in 2009 she has gone on to be a TV host, a model, a brand and health ambassador as well as a very successful businesswoman AND a mum! Nourished Life is so very excited to be launching Kynd Scent, Rachael’s beautiful line of all-natural perfumes. Join us as Rachael and I talk all about clean living, role models in the wellness space, and how she loves learning to be the best version of herself. We talk about her diet, her supplements range, her fitness apparel range and how important it is to take a balanced approach to life for us to flourish. I’m so thrilled to be stocking all 4 of Rachael’s very unique scents so make sure you check them out. The best thing is that they also come in a gorgeous sample kit so you can try them all!   Key takeaways: Through her perfume business Kynd Scent, Rachael aims to minimise the toxic load on the body. Rachael shares the mind-blowing statistic that before a woman leaves the house, she will put about 168 chemicals on her body! “Body by Finch” is Rachael’s online health and fitness platform — check out their app! Rachael practices Vedic Meditation (meditation with a mantra). Rachael has designed a pair of blue light glasses with Baxter Blue (available on Nourished Life).   Links and resources: Kynd Scent on Nourished Life   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

Acai — tricky to pronounce on the first go, but keep practising because I’m here to tell you that this incredible superfood is here to stay! No doubt you’ve seen the acai flags outside cafes about town. Well, I’ve got the man behind them on today’s show and he’s a wealth of knowledge on all things nutrition and supplements. Dwayne Martens is the founder of Australian-owned, certified organic company ‘Amazonia’. Their products include supplements, nutritional powders and proteins. Dwayne personally discovered the incredible health properties of the acai berry back in 2008 and in the beginning, he sold freeze-dried acai powder at the Fremantle Markets. Fast forward to today, and his company is not only going the extra lengths to make sure their protein is the cleanest on the market but also helping to preserve habitats in the Amazon where their acai berries are grown. In this chat, Dwayne tells me all about pre-fermentation, how Amazonia’s products are heavy metal tested, and just how acai berries travel from the tree to their processing facility. I’m obsessed with their ‘Sugar Crave Release Spray’ and Dwayne explains the science behind the product that’s helping me combat my chocolate cravings!   Key takeaways: Protein isolate is the most concentrated protein available. Acai is pronounced “Ah-Sigh-Ee”. To ensure their protein powders are easily digestible, Amazonia has sprouted and fermented their protein. That means it’s pre-digested and easy to process. Amazonia acai berries are hand-harvested on swamplands in the Amazon. Amazonia vitamins come from a wholefood source (like sea buckthorn juice) and contain no synthetic vitamins.   Links and resources: Amazonia on Nourished Life   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

I’m so excited about this episode! We put the call out to you on our Instagram for questions about all things health and our in-house naturopath at Nourished Life joins me today to get stuck into them. Melanie Ruckley has been with me at Nourished Life long enough for me to know that she’s a wealth of knowledge regarding gut health, skin health, women’s health and so much more. Today we have our very own health Agony Aunt answering your questions; from how to deal with cystic acne to supporting your gut microbiome. (It’s important to remember that this information is general and that your own healthcare professional should always be your go-to for more personal health issues and direct advice.) Mel and I chat about the best ways to combat hormonal acne, including which supplements are useful, and I share my experiences with adrenal fatigue. We also discuss hormone imbalance and how stress is often the cause. We also discuss fertility, toxins in our environment and just how important our oral health is to our overall health. Make sure you listen out for Mel’s favourite breakfast and lunch ideas for busy mums with kids!   Key takeaways: To improve acne prone skin, Mel recommends getting to the root cause such as identifying stress, hormonal imbalance or dairy intolerance. If the body is producing too much of a hormone and the liver isn’t clearing excess hormones properly, you may find you get hormonal acne. If your lymphatic system is sluggish, Mel suggests helping to clear it with herbal teas such as calendula, burdock and nettle. Mel’s tips for optimum fertility are addressing adrenal fatigue and detoxing before you start trying to conceive. Mel’s tips for dealing with adrenal fatigue are using mindfulness apps (being present in each moment), simplifying your life, getting to bed earlier, choosing healthy food and spending time in nature.   Links and resources: naturopath@nourishedlife.com.au https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

Some of you may know that I’ve had difficulties with adrenal fatigue for a while now. I’ve always suspected that my gut health might have something to do with it, especially my penchant for sugar! What I didn’t realise is that gut health is virtually connected to everything. I’m talking stress, fertility, hormones, weight and so much more. In this episode, I’m joined by naturopath, nutritionist and author Katherine Maslen, who enlightens me about all things gut health — it’s truly fascinating! Join Katherine and me as she talks about what a healthy digestive system should look like, how sugar feeds the yeast in your gut and how fixing our gut health first can have a huge impact on so many areas of your health. She also explains the ketogenic diet, the difference between pre- and probiotics, and how veggies should be the cornerstone of your weekly meal plan.   Key takeaways: Your gut is a very complex system that starts with your mouth and is followed by your stomach, small intestine, pancreas and liver. If you have a problem in one area it can easily impact another area. If you have a lot of bloating, Katherine recommends eliminating wheat and dairy for two weeks. If you don’t see any change, it might be time to see a naturopath. Your gut microbiome is made up of 2–3 kilos of bacteria, yeast, viruses and archaea organisms, all operating in a delicate balance. Katherine’s podcast “The Shift” is a video documentary series featuring interviews with gut health experts. Katherine recommends eating 2 types of probiotic food daily, such as kimchi, sauerkraut, miso or yoghurt with live cultures.   Links and resources: The Shift with Katherine Maslen (podcast) https://www.theshiftclinic.com/ https://theshiftclinic.mykajabi.com/gut-shift https://www.theshiftclinic.com/shift-anywhere/   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

We all know about raw food, but did you know there’s such a thing as raw skincare? Back in the ‘90s when no one was really thinking about natural products, Dr. Saul Alkaitis — a chemist, research scientist and molecular biologist — was creating his eponymous brand. Dr. Alkaitis looks at the skin as a complete living organism. With his products he strives to bring the skin into balance and to maintain that balance. In today’s fascinating episode he talks me through his skincare line, explains the science behind his brand and tells me how he keeps his unique raw formulations alive.   Key takeaways: Dr. Alkaitis uses the whole plant in his formulations, not just extracts. What you put on your skin absorbs and spreads throughout your body via your bloodstream. In his line, Dr. Alkaitis says that there will sometimes be slight differences in each formulation as the plants used change from season to season. Dr. Alkaitis believes that a soap made from whole plant oils (cold pressed) is the best cleansing agent. The Dr. Alkaitis Nourishing Treatment Oil is a universally applicable oil which can be used as a serum and a treatment oil.   Links and resources: Dr Alkaitis Skin Care on Nourished Life   Connect: Listen to other episodes of Talking Clean with Irene Join my private podcast Facebook Group Follow Nourished Life on Facebook Follow Nourished Life on Instagram

OK, it has to be said ... the famous Pai Rosehip Oil is hands down my favourite rosehip oil ever! There is no comparison to this superior oil with its extraordinary regenerative properties. When Sarah Brown created Pai Skincare she had a clear vision of what she wanted to achieve. And if you have sensitive skin, you won’t be disappointed. Sarah has created potent and luxurious certified organic skincare specifically for sensitive skin types! Today we chat about how she started by mixing organic creams in her garage, to now making their new cleansing oil that has been flying off the shelves! We talk all things green-washing, serums for sensitive skins, alcohol in products, the possibility of keeping alcohol out of serums and about how the term “anti-ageing” is banned at Pai HQ. Sarah tells me that everyone can get something from using rosehip oil — it can be so beneficial for people with all sorts of skin needs. You don’t have to have sensitive skin to use these products, but for those of you who have it, you’re in good hands with Pai. And listen out for the name of the famous actress who put this brand on the map!   Key takeaways: One of the worst causes of skin ageing is inflammation. Sarah’s night time routine is: Camellia and Rose Hydrating Cleanser, a double cleanse using their Rosehip Cleansing Oil, a spritz with the Rice Plant Tonic, then 3 drops of Rosehip Oil, and finishing with Gentle Eye Cream.  When making rosehip oil, Pai use the whole plant. Most rosehip producers just make oil from the seeds inside the hip, but Pai use the hip and all the flesh for maximum potency. When choosing rosehip oil, look for colour and aroma; it should be vivid orange and should smell herbaceous and peppery. “Sensitive” isn’t actually one single skin type – it refers to so many different types of skin with different needs and issues.   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/pai-skincare.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

I can’t even begin to articulate how different my teenage years would have been if period undies had been invented. Luckily for the next generation, Aussie-owned brand Modibodi is smashing the stigma around all things menstruation. And let me tell you, these are no ordinary undies. Whilst Modibodi undies are designed specifically for periods and light bladder leaks, they are also helping the planet. In this episode I’m chatting to Kristy Chong, the creator of Modibodi period underwear. And today we get really honest about our own experiences relating to menstruation. Join Kristy and me for a heartfelt chat about reusable period undies that actually last the distance, exactly how they work, and Modibodi’s “Give A Pair” program. According to Kristy, 1 in 5 women have heavy periods – if that’s you, this episode could just be a gamechanger.   Key takeaways: Period undies work by absorbing liquid through the top layer straight through to the middle layer, with a waterproof layer that protects your clothing. If you use period underwear in conjunction with a menstrual cup (if needed), you can truly have a zero-waste period! A big part of Modibodi’s mission is to educate, break down taboos and open up conversations about periods so that menstruation is no longer shameful. Kristy recommends that teens have at least 7 pairs of period undies; one pair for day and one for night, washed on day three. For minimal fuss cleaning, Kristy is a fan of just throwing the underwear in the washing machine when it’s time to wash.   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/modibodi.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

No one has to convince me that technology is GREAT and that our devices allow life and business to be more efficient, engaging and (of course) fun! But we all know there’s a downside. Technology is so captivating because it’s designed that way. So what happens when our eyes get too much screen time? Today’s guest is Dr Kristy Goodwin, a digital health and wellbeing expert, university lecturer and author of “Raising Your Child In A Digital World”. In this episode, Kristy tells me all about blue light (the light that’s emitted from our technology devices) and blue light glasses (glasses which combat blue light damage). In today’s world, we’re constantly exposed to blue light, which can actually have potentially negative impacts on our eye health and sleep habits. In this episode listen out for some great advice like ‘Why you shouldn’t email your boss late at night’, Kristy’s top 3 tips to promote eye health and a really helpful tip that we can all use: the 20-20-20-20 rule!   Key takeaways: Being exposed to blue light during the day can actually be helpful as it resets our circadian rhythm. Making your sleep environment as dark as physically possible will help to improve the quality of your sleep. Great news for those with glasses: prescription glasses can have a blue light filter applied to the lens. According to Kristy, switching on “night shift mode” on your device isn’t enough to protect you from blue light damage – it doesn’t necessarily block all blue light. The research on the impact of blue light is still emerging, but over prolonged periods of time, exposure to blue light may increase macular degeneration (irreversible eye damage.)   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/baxter-blue.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

I am SO proud that I bought this brand to Australia! Today’s guest is the amazing Susie Wang — the brains behind 100% Pure, an almost entirely vegan brand of certified natural skin care, organic makeup, hair care and body products. There are hundreds of products in the range, including their world-famous Coffee Bean Eye Cream (which was once responsible for crashing my website after I spoke about it on TV!). In this episode, Susie tells me about how she first realised the importance of safe and clean ingredients in skincare. Years ago she was formulating for a cosmetics company, and in the lab she knocked over a chemical she was putting into a skincare formula. She watched in horror as it warped the lab table! This experience changed her approach completely, and now, she’s famous for developing her own ways to use fruit pigments and 100% clean ingredients in everything from makeup to hair care. You’ll also find out why I think she’s the absolute Queen of Vitamin C!   Key takeaways: For their cosmetics, 100% Pure uses fruit pigments instead of mineral pigments to create their colours. Madonna is a huge fan of 100% Pure — she once went into one of their flagship stores and bought almost everything on the shelf! When you use caffeine around the eye area, it can help to stimulate blood flow and de-puff the area. When you want an increase in circulation in the skin, you can use topical caffeine or massage the area. The 100% Pure Green Tea SPF30 is a mineral sunscreen with superstar ingredients like zinc oxide and antioxidant-rich green tea – it combines the best of skin care and sun protection!   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/100%25-pure-cosmetics.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

For anyone who might be overwhelmed by the world of nutrition, let’s get back to basics! This week I’m talking to fully qualified nutritionist Steph Lowe about the simple steps we can take to help improve our daily eating habits. Steph is the resident nutritionist at Melrose Health (known for their range of health foods and supplements since 1979) and she shares just how easy it is to make the switch to healthier eating ... often it’s in the dressing! In this episode, Steph explains how nutrition affects our everyday lives, including the food/mood connection. She also talks about how we’re living in a society that defaults to carbs, and how these options don’t always include proteins and healthy fats, which are what we need to feel satisfied and full. We talk ‘healthy fats’ and how to use them, and Steph even shares her ‘get-up-and-go’ smoothie recipe!   Key takeaways: Olive oil is a great source of essential Omega 3 fat but is best used as a dressing — it can be heated to about 160 degrees and no higher. When it comes to gut health, it’s important to focus on food diversity. To make a frozen banana substitute for your smoothies, freeze an unpeeled zucchini! Saturated fat means that the integrity of the oil isn’t impacted by high temperatures. Steph’s ideal lunch is plants (1-2 cups of veggies), a palm sized piece of protein and some healthy fats (2 tablespoons in total).   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/melrose.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

According to a recent study, a single fleece jacket can release up to 250,000 microfibres in just one single load of washing. Those fibres are going straight into our waters and into our food chain, which means that we could actually be eating our own clothes! Rachael Z. Miller has found a way to fight the microfibre nightmare, one laundry wash at a time. Creator of the Cora Ball, a device that helps to catch the micro-plastics from your laundry water, Rachael is big on little acts of sustainability. In today’s episode we talk all things ‘global plastics crisis’, zeroing in on micro-plastics. We chat about her incredible invention and how it’s designed to help anyone who wears and washes clothes to reduce microfibre pollution.   Key takeaways: Throw the Cora Ball into your washing machine and it will catch the microfibres, stopping them going down the drain and ending up in our waterways. The device's design was modelled on coral! Coral feeds by catching little objects as water washes through and past it. The Cora Ball can catch up to 26% of the fibres that would otherwise wash down your drain! If you have a big washing machine Rachael recommends using 2 or 3 balls. Any textile (clothing, bedding, curtains, etc), even natural fibres, is vulnerable to breaking down in the wash.   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/cora-ball.html http://rozaliaproject.org/stop-microfiber-pollution/   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

Would you believe me if I said that you could clean your home by adding bacteria instead of killing it? Welcome to the world of probiotic cleaning. In a nutshell, it’s the process of spraying good bacteria onto your household surfaces and allowing the army of good bacteria to scare off the bad bacteria. No gloves required! On this episode, Michelle Perkins, the creator of Counter Culture, tells me about her innovative range of probiotic cleaning products. We chat about the growing opposition in the medical field to harsh cleaning agents and she explains how we can kick the household cleaning toxins simply by adding good bacteria. Michelle also shares insights about the growing body of research proving the vital role bacteria play in our overall health and wellbeing.   Key takeaways: Counter Culture products are brewed in the same way that you would make kombucha. Triclosan (a main ingredient in many household cleaners) may have a negative effect on the endocrine system, especially the thyroid. Our everyday overuse of antimicrobials has created a resistance to a range of bad bacteria. Counter Culture products aim to improve the environment of a surface, rather than trying to change it or kill off all the bacteria. Michelle says the Counter Culture Air and Fabric Freshener is ideal for pet stains.   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/counter-culture.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

If you’re going to change once thing in your routine to make it toxin free, change your deodorant! This week I’m talking to Chey Birch, the founder of Black Chicken Remedies, one of the very first brands I ever stocked. Chey’s Aussie-made pure natural skincare, body care, and essential oil products are preservative free, and don’t contain any kind of ‘fillers’. We chat about her wonder product that sparked a revolution — the famous Axilla deodorant paste — the first deodorant paste made in Australia. Whilst Black Chicken are known best for their deodorant, Chey shares some of her other best-selling products, including an essential oil blend for procrastinators! She explains the story behind her company’s unique name and how what started as a hobby quickly grew into a brand that our Nourished Life community absolutely adores.   Key takeaways: The ingredients in Black Chicken’s exfoliator are crushed argan seeds, rice powder and clay. This means no harsh walnut seed extract like other brands. Their famous Axilla deodorant is used under 850,000 armpits all over the country. To use the Axilla deodorant: just place a pea sized amount under each armpit and rub it in like you would a cream. Axilla deodorant gets its name from the place it treats — your armpits! That area is where your axillary glands are. Chey’s recommendation for detoxing your armpits is to use their “Cacao Revelation’ face mask as an armpit mask to draw out impurities.   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/black-chicken-remedies.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

In this episode we’re talking medicinal mushrooms (or as I like to call them, magic mushies!). I’m joined by medicinal mushroom expert and Founder of SuperFeast, Mason Taylor. Mason is a tonic herbalist and a passionate health educator. After suffering from exhaustion, he was blown away by the power these mushrooms had on his energy and made it his purpose to help others discover their benefits. Get ready to learn about out how medicinal mushrooms can clear up your skin, give your more energy and even boost your libido - all of this whilst still being able to have your morning coffee!   Key takeaways: Coffee can throw you out of whack but the good news is that you don’t have to give it up. Herbs like Jing can be added to coffee as an elixir to help balance it out whilst giving you energy and more. We’re all born with a different amount of ‘constitutional Jing.’ You need to respect the constitution you have by adapting your lifestyle to use an appropriate amount of energy for your Jing. Reishi mushrooms are great for aiding sleep. They work with the nervous system and can be added to chamomile tea before bed to help calm the mind. Herbs can only do as much as your lifestyle allows. By adapting your lifestyle, you can help herbs work more effectively.   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/superfeast.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

Here’s a story: I was once banned from an online forum for talking about natural deodorants. Can you believe how far we’ve come in recent years? Mainstream deodorants are some of the worst offenders when it comes to potential toxins as they can be full of synthetics, aluminium and parabens. Making the switch to a natural deodorant is such an important part of cutting the toxins out of your everyday life.  In this very highly requested episode, I get all the goss on natural deodorants from Melanie McVean and Chris Caley, the creators of Australian-made ‘No Pong’. We talk about how natural deodorants differ from mainstream antiperspirant products and they talk me through the different formulas they’ve created and how you can get started with using them. Chris and Melanie also share their top tips for re-using their deodorant tins as well as what it’s like to run a business with your partner. For all the vegans: I’ll keep you posted about the launch of their vegan version coming up soon!   Key takeaways: No Pong does exactly what it says on the tin (hence the name)! Antiperspirants and deodorants are classified as different products.  Chris estimates that someone transitioning from mainstream deodorants to No Pong might need a few weeks to alter how their sweat glands behave and therefore see a difference. No Pong has a bi-carb free deodorant product for anyone with sensitivities. Using a rub on cream deodorant is a great way of keeping an eye on your health by checking for lumps in that area regularly.   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/no-pong.html https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/natural-deodorant/411166/earths-purities-detox-pit.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

We all know that sustainability is best when it’s fun and social. What if I told you there was an easy way to declutter, shop for bargains, connect with your community AND participate in the war on waste? Would you believe that you don’t even need to leave your street to participate? Introducing: Garage Sale Trail — a weekend of garage sales on one weekend right across Australia. Last year alone over 3 million kilos of secondhand items were sold. This week on the podcast, I talk to Andrew Valder (Co-founder of Garage Sale Trail) about this incredibly successful event. Garage Sale Trail is a not for profit social enterprise which organises a yearly weekend of garage sales right across the country, with total support from local councils. Shining a spotlight on how important it is to reuse things and think about the waste that we create, this event also sounds like a heap of fun and a great way to get involved in your local community. What started as a community event in Bondi Beach with the tag-line “Don’t Dump It, Sell It”, Andrew tells me his team realised what was needed was people coming together in their local area to declutter, to buy, to swap, to sell and to reduce waste. In this episode I asked Andrew NOT to get me started on fast fashion, but we DID have a little chat about it (oops!). But I’m pleased to report that the rate of growth of secondhand fashion is outstripping the growth of fast fashion! We also talk about the concept of a circular economy versus a linear economy. You can get involved by registering a garage sale on their website. And shoppers can find out what’s going on in their local area by searching the site. If you put your postcode or suburb in, the site will show you all the Garage Sales that are happening nearby. It’s free to register, and this year it’s taking place on October 19 and 20.  (P.S. If you’re in Sydney and have some vinyl to sell, get in touch and let me know!)   Key takeaways: Vinyl, homewares, clothes and textiles are the biggest sellers on Garage Sale Trail. An easy rule when thinking about giving away goods to an Op Shop is: ‘If you wouldn’t give it to a mate, don’t donate’. Every time we produce something it is either depleting the world’s resources or it’s creating carbon emissions, and the philosophy of “make, take and dispose” is adding to landfill.  Andrew and his team have just launched a new initiative called “Grow it Local” to encourage people to grow food locally. It’s for anyone from windowsill gardeners to people with a plot full of greens. Yay! The strangest things that Andrew has seen for sale are a yacht that was used in ‘The Great Gatsby’ and tanks from war museums. Some people even list their houses!   Links and resources: https://www.garagesaletrail.com.au http://www.growitlocal.com https://www.facebook.com/GarageSaleTrail/ https://www.instagram.com/garagesaletrail/ https://twitter.com/garagesaletrail   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

What if I told you that I have found a simple way that we can stop over 80 billion plastic bottles from ending up in landfill and in the ocean every single year? What if I also told you that I’ve figured out how to replace five 350ml bottles of regular conditioner with just one product? Join me as I chat to qualified scientist Brianne West, the founder and creator of Ethique, a range of completely zero waste solid beauty bars. They might look like soap, but trust me, they are anything but! Back in 2012, whilst searching for a solution to our global plastic crisis in her science lab, Brianne wanted to find a way to create an entire beauty range without using one single bottle. And you know what? She went ahead and did it. In this episode, Brianne tells us exactly why and how she created the most sustainable cosmetics company in the world, as well as how we can get the most out of these game-changing bars. Brianne actually reminds us that we used to use bars for everything – before plastic and liquid products took over. Brianne teaches us how to properly use and store solid bars to get the longest possible use out of them, and also helps clear up the confusion surrounding the difference between biodegradable and compostable products. Make sure you listen closely because she even drops some serious hints about brand new Ethique products coming very soon!   Key takeaways: Most liquid shampoo and body wash products are made from up to 95% water, whereas Ethique bars are concentrated with only active ingredients – no water at all. Biodegradable vs Compostable? Biodegradable means that something will break down over time; compostable means it will break down completely and be of use for another organism’s growth within a certain time period. Just one Ethique conditioner bar can actually replace up to five 350ml bottles of regular liquid conditioner. Ethique is a carbon neutral company, they are living wage certified and also they participate in a 20% donation scheme (donating 2% of revenue or 20% of profit, whichever is highest, to charity). For anyone new to solid beauty bars, start with a face cleansing bar for a gentle introduction.   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/ethique.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

If there’s one iconic natural beauty brand, trust me, the subject of this episode is it! I’m talking about Weleda, around for over 90 years and recognised all over the globe with its classic and colourful packaging. In this week’s show I speak to Jayn Sterland, Managing Director of Weleda in the UK. Jayn absolutely lives and breathes everything natural beauty, and as someone who’s been named the winner of “Who’s Who in Natural Beauty” for three years in a row, she definitely knows what she’s talking about! Weleda is THE original natural skin care company and the epitome of clean beauty, but they like to do things differently – they’re farmers as well as pharmacists! Jayn and I chat about how Weleda products are centred around health, the body and the environment right from the very beginning of the production process – seriously, right down to the time of day that their plant ingredients are harvested. We also delve deep into the issue of greenwashing, which Jayn tells us has unfortunately become rampant in the mainstream beauty industry. An absolute expert on this topic, Jayn shares exactly what greenwashing actually is, why it’s a problem for consumers and how we can stay informed. Join Jayn and I as we tackle these tricky topics but also get optimistic about the future of natural health and beauty.   Key takeaways: Weleda has been 100% natural and organic for over 90 years – since 1921! The formula for their bestselling Skin Food has not changed at all since 1926. Skin Food is a staple in Victoria Beckham’s skin care (as well as countless other celebs and public figures worldwide!) According to Jayn, “greenwashing” may trick consumers into thinking a product is natural or organic when it’s not – to avoid it, we should read the labels and do our own research. Don’t trust the fact that the product has a green leaf on it. Weleda’s plant ingredients are grown on their own biodynamic farms around the world and are harvested at just the right moment, when the key properties are their most potent.   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/weleda.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

This might be a controversial opinion, but I think that skin care is the most important investment you can make! In this episode, you’ll find out how you can rejuvenate your skin and experience the magic of natural spa treatments without even needing to leave the house. This week I’m talking to Megan Larsen, the founder of Sodashi, one of Australia’s most luxurious organic skin care brands – and one of the pioneers of Australian natural beauty! Since its creation in the '90s, Sodashi has become a globally recognised brand that is now used by organic beauty therapists and facialists in exclusive, high-end spas around the world. Megan tells us the story of how Sodashi came about after she discovered a massive gap in the market and decided to combine the best of essential oils and skin care in her kitchen. An expert in essential oils and aromatherapy, Megan gives invaluable tips and advice on how to make the most of your skin care routine. She talks us through the Sodashi range, why it’s a bit more expensive than other brands and why we don’t necessarily need to conform to one “skin type”. Megan even addresses the controversy surrounding whether essential oils should be used in skin care, and also guides us through the basics of her book, Startups and Self Care (available from Booktopia, Sodashi, Amazon and Kindle).   Key takeaways: The Sodashi range combines the benefits of essential oils and skin care The Rejuvenating Face and Neck Moisturizer was the very first product Megan made and is still her best-selling product today. Megan says essential oils are some of the best anti-ageing ingredients in skin care but must be used correctly. Sodashi skin care products can be mixed and matched together, without needing to stick to just one skin type. If you’re not sure where to start, try a Sodashi cleanser, skin drops (or face polish) and a moisturiser.   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/sodashi.html https://www.booktopia.com.au/startups-self-care-megan-larsen/book/9780648425007.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

When I started my low tox journey, I had absolutely no idea where to begin. It was incredibly hard to wade through all that research. Thankfully, nowadays, if you’re trying to live a low tox life but don’t know where to start, this week’s episode might change your life forever! Alexx Stuart, author of the bestselling book, Low Tox Life, joins me to share her expert tips and advice on how to kick the toxins from your life. Alexx started living her own low tox life through her blog, which turned into ebooks and online courses, and now her amazing book! We talk about what living a low tox life actually means, which products to replace first as well as Alexx’s favourite toxin-free goodies. We also cover why castile soaps are so amazing and versatile, why you need to look out for triclosan in the ingredients list of mainstream cleaning products, and even how to deal with mould in your house. And finally, Alexx really will blow your mind on the topic of food waste. We are often so caught up in what we choose to eat, but I had no idea about the extent of global issues caused by food waste.   Key takeaways: The key pillars of living a low tox life are food, body, home & mind. Triclosan (an ingredient used in some mainstream cleaning products) has been banned in hand wash and hand sanitisers across the U.S. – in a study, it could not be proven to be more effective than soap and water. There’s no need to rush or panic – it can take a while to transform your home into a completely low-tox environment. Focus on the quick wins! Three small life changes are changing the water you drink, swapping your soap and replacing your pillow. If we all reduced our food waste to nothing, it would be equivalent to removing half a billion cars off the roads per year.   Products and resources mentioned:  Low Tox Life: A Handbook for a Healthy You and A Happy Planet – available at Nourished Life Dr Bronner's Pure-Castile Liquid Soaps – available at Nourished Life Search “organic latex pillow” or “organic cotton pillow” on Google for local low tox pillow options Waters Co water filters, jugs and drink bottles – available at Nourished Life Queen B Beeswax Candles Low Tox Life podcast – Show #75: Cate Burton cracks open the candle industry   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/low-tox-life-with-alexx-stuart.html https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/products/low-tox-life-recommends.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

Until recently, I had a terrible addiction to having a pick-me-up coffee at 4:00 pm, every day. That was until I discovered these natural superfood lattes and swapped that addiction for a much healthier one, which gets me through my day without ANY caffeine! On this episode, Lisa Morrison, the nutritionist at Nutra Organics, talks us through the amazing benefits of these delicious and healthy lattes, which are all made by an Aussie, family-run business. Lisa talks us through all the different flavours and what time of day we should have them, including the Velvet Latte, Golden Latte, Mermaid Latte and my favourite — the Lunar Latte!  But that’s not all… Lisa also takes us through the incredible range of Nutra Organics collagen powders, protein powders, vegan broths & bone broths and how we can incorporate them into our daily lives for a nutritious boost of goodness.   Key takeaways: Nutra Organics lattes are supposed to be addictive – in a good way!  Velvet Latte = detox, Golden Latte = anti-inflammatory, Mermaid Latte = energising, Lunar Latte = sleep. All the lattes are caffeine-free, with no added sugar or artificial sweeteners! They can be enjoyed by the whole family, including kids. The Collagen Beauty powder uses a specific type of collagen designed to target hair, skin and nails, while the Collagen Body powder is designed to support our bones. Both vegan broths and bone broths are great for adding a boost of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients into our daily diets.   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/nutra-organics.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

Some of the worst headaches I’ve ever had have been from walking through the perfume section of a department store, and in this episode, we’re investigating why! My guest is Vanessa Megan Gray, the founder and formulator of Vanessa Megan Advanced Organic Skincare and Perfumes. Vanessa is the queen of natural perfume – in fact, hers are truly the best natural perfumes I have ever smelled, and she’s here to tell us how she does it. In this episode, Vanessa reveals some of the toxic secrets contained in many mainstream perfumes, including phthalates and parabens. She uncovers the potential side effects of synthetic fragrances and their connection to our health, and also provides much needed insight into why we need to start choosing healthier alternatives. Vanessa’s goal is to create healthy alternatives to synthetic products and her all-natural perfumes are all that and more – they’re luxuriously bottled, smell just as good as our old mainstream favourites but don’t contain any of those nasties. Let Vanessa explain exactly how to get the most out of your natural perfume!   Key takeaways: Synthetic perfumes may potentially be as bad as passive smoking Mainstream perfumes may not disclose all ingredients – up to hundreds of synthetic ingredients can be hidden If you have to wear a synthetic fragrance, only spray it on your clothes, not your skin For a long lasting natural perfume, apply to ‘warmer’ areas of the body to activate the scent, e.g. the base of the neck Essential oil-based natural perfumes provide aromatherapy benefits too   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/vanessa-megan.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

Absolutely no one loves breakouts or hormonal acne, and in this episode, Dr Vivian Tam is here to help us get rid of them for good. Vivian is a doctor of Chinese medicine, cosmetic acupuncturist and the creator of the all natural Zilch Acne Formula. She initially created Zilch to treat her patients, but after achieving a 90% success rate in her clinic, she decided to make it available for us all! In this episode, Vivian talks us through how Zilch, a Chinese medicine based formula, can help to target different types of acne naturally. She talks us through exactly what makes Zilch different to other acne products on the market, and also opens our eyes to the importance of skin care and the lifestyle changes that are just as essential in keeping adult acne at bay. If you or your teenager are suffering from any type of acne, you won’t want to miss this invaluable advice from Dr Tam. Enjoy!   Key takeaways: Zilch works from the inside out and doesn’t have to be taken long-term Zilch can help with adult hormonal acne as well as teenage acne Your skin care and lifestyle also play a huge role in maintaining long-term results Zilch can be used by men and teenage boys too The tablets can be crushed into powder if you can’t take them   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/zilch.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

This week’s episode gets a little bit dirty — we’re talking about sex toys! I’m joined by Alexandra Fine, who is a sexologist and the co-founder of Dame Products. Alexandra holds a masters in clinical psychology focused on sex therapy and actually made the prestigious Forbes ‘30 Under 30’ list in 2018, so she knows everything there is to know about making sex toys that women actually want to buy! Dame Products is a collaboration between Alexandra and mechanical engineer Janet Liberman. Together, their focus has been on closing the ‘pleasure gap’ (listen to find out what it is!) with a line of vibrators designed by women for women. In this episode, Alexandra talks us through how Dame sex toys were created, how to use them and what makes them totally gamechanging. While talking about sex can be a little uncomfortable for some of us, Alexandra looks forward to a future where sexual experiences can be shared to create more positive interactions in the bedroom. Trust me, you do not want to miss this episode!   Key takeaways: Dame Products were specifically designed for women by women to help close the pleasure gap Dame aims to remove the taboo around talking about sexual pleasure Advertising sex toys on social media is very challenging Alexandra believes good sex is not just a physical act but is also related to mindfulness Waterproof sex toys can help meet the demand of busy mums!   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/dame.html https://www.facebook.com/groups/damelabs/ https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_on_vulnerability https://www.ted.com/talks/esther_perel_the_secret_to_desire_in_a_long_term_relationship https://www.booktopia.com.au/mating-in-captivity-esther-perel/book/9780340943755.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

Love your guts! Your gut health, I mean. My guest in this gut health special is Lee Holmes, the founder of Supercharged Food and creator of the amazing Love Your Gut Powder. In this episode, Lee explains how diatomaceous earth can help to cultivate a healthy microbiome in your gut, and how it’s different to the stuff we use in the swimming pool! Lee talks us through the many benefits and properties of diatomaceous earth, including the science behind how it removes bad bacteria from our bodies, the minerals it contains and all the ways we can use it in cooking and baking. An experienced wholefoods chef, health & nutrition coach and published author, Lee brings a wealth of knowledge on all things gut health, while still keeping it simple for those of us who need a bit of a helping hand when it comes to nutrition.   Key takeaways: Food-grade diatomaceous earth is the fossilised remains of algae – it’s vegan and full of minerals The negative charge in the powder is what captures and transports the bad bacteria out of your body Kids may also benefit from taking diatomaceous earth – just half a teaspoon hidden in their food! You can take the powder to prep the gut before travelling to countries without the best water supply Regarding inhalation, it’s totally fine for everyday use in the kitchen. You don’t want to purposely inhale it though, just like any fine particle   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/supercharged-food.html https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/healthy-living-books/165043/lee-holmes-heal-your-gut-week.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

Learn about exactly why you need to change your undies… change to bamboo undies, I mean! I’m talking about why we should all be wearing bamboo undies (as well as how often we should be replacing them.) My guest is Shaun Greenblo, the CEO of Boody Eco Wear, an Australian, family-owned brand which makes the softest and comfiest bamboo underwear and clothing you’ll ever wear. An expert on all things eco clothing, Shaun dispels myths and misconceptions about bamboo, telling us why we should choose bamboo over cotton and all the ways we can make sure it’s sustainable and eco-friendly. Shaun also talks us through the importance of producing only the bare essentials, rather than making a tonne of clothes that will eventually end up in a landfill somewhere. He reminds us why we should choose clothes which are not only designed to last a long time but are also manufactured with ethics in mind. There is a lot of controversy surrounding bamboo and its sustainability, so let Shaun help clear up some of the misinformation as well as provide insights into what makes bamboo such an easy choice when it comes to buying a fresh pair of undies.   Key takeaways: Boody’s bamboo fabric is environmentally sustainable and ethically made Boody bamboo clothing is slow fashion, rather than fast fashion. A pair of bamboo undies can last years and can be disposed of thoughtfully Bamboo is both a cooling and warming fabric – it is breathable but also insulating. Boody has received a wide range of official certifications surrounding manufacturing, production and safety.   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/boody-bamboo-eco-wear.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/

Lisa Bronner is proudly carrying the family flag with her grandfather’s world-famous Dr Bronner’s soap business, which started way back in 1948. In this episode, she shares the history of these “magic” soaps and how they’ve actually become more relevant in the 21st Century than ever before. Famous across the globe, the classic Dr Bronner’s castile soap is incredibly versatile and can be used for more than 18 different uses on ourselves and around the home. Lisa explains exactly what sets these soaps apart from the rest, how to make the most of them, and why it’s possible to use the same soap for dishwashing and cleaning your face! Lisa also dispels the myths surrounding palm oil in Dr Bronner’s, once and for all, explaining that the family business is completely transparent about only using sustainably sourced, fair trade palm oil. She clears up these grey areas, talking us through Dr Bronner’s initiatives to educate on sustainability, ethically sourced ingredients and the importance of fair trade. Made from nothing but plant-based, natural ingredients, Lisa bursts the bubble myth and explains how the Dr Bronner’s soaps perform even better than their mainstream synthetic counterparts. She also sheds light on the history of ingredients in personal care products and why we should start shopping smarter. Lisa also has her own blog called ‘Going Green with a Bronner Mom’ which focuses on helping us live clean and eco-friendly lives.   Key takeaways: Dr Bronner’s castile soaps are completely natural, with no synthetic or animal-based ingredients These multipurpose soaps have a whopping 18 uses – everything from cleaning to washing our faces! Dr Bronner’s was the first company in the USA to use 100% post consumer recycled plastic bottles and paper There is such a thing as sustainable and ethical palm oil – no animals or habitats are harmed in the production of Dr Bronner’s soaps Bubbles ≠ clean!   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/dr-bronners.html https://www.drbronner.com/about/our-suppliers/projects-and-partnerships/ http://www.lisabronner.com/   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife

What if you could replace your entire skin care routine with just one single product? Well, Ross Macdougald has found a way to do exactly that, and it can actually transform your skin for the better. Ross is a highly experienced chemist and the founder of Biologi, a unique and innovative range of single-ingredient serums made from Australian native fruit. Biologi’s secret lies in an innovative extraction method, which actually allows them to take the liquid matrix which flows inside plants and bottle it up for the most potent and powerful skin care possible. In this episode, it’s revealed that most other skincare products may only contain 2% active ingredients, while Biologi delivers pure, natural and stable nutrients, such as vitamin C, direct from the plant to our skin. A true expert on all things chemistry, Ross discusses the benefits of each serum in the Biologi range, exactly how to use them, and how to choose correctly based on your skin type.   Key takeaways: Biologi is the world’s first single-ingredient serum which delivers stable, natural Vitamin C – directly from a plant Your current skincare might not be anywhere near as powerful and active as you think The nutrients found in Biologi are vastly different to man-made ingredients Make sure you choose your serum based on your skin type If you experience sticky skin after using Biologi, it means it’s working!   Links and resources: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/brand/biologi.html   Join my podcast Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/411413173057787   Connect: https://www.nourishedlife.com.au/podcast https://www.facebook.com/nourishedlife/ https://www.instagram.com/nourishedlife/