The Wise Consumer

Bonjour! I wanted to share that I am taking a bit of time off from editing and sharing new podcast episodes for a few weeks while I finish working on my hormone healing cookbook (more info coming soon!). The good news is there are plenty of other episodes from previous seasons you can catch-up on (binge!) while I step away from the microphone. For instance, have you listened to my conversation with Tiila Abbit, founder of the eco-conscious and socially responsible makeup brand, ATHR Beauty? If you haven't yet, press play now because you're in for a treat! Happy listening! -------- ATHR Beauty's products are one-of-a-kind! The color palettes are playful, the mascara is voluminous, and the lip cremes are smooth and moisturizing! Not to mention that each product works as well, if not better, than your conventional makeup brands. And, the cherry on top? This makeup brand is 100% recyclable, free of child labor, vegan, cruelty-free, and "clean."  In this episode Tiila and I explore  the journey that led her here, how she became Sephora's Senior Director of Product Development working on their sustainability initiative, what inspired her to launch her own makeup brand, how she creates her products, the motivation behind creating packaging that is 100% recyclable, greenwashing in the beauty industry, the challenges around defining the term “clean beauty”, why not all synthetic ingredients are harmful, and so much more. I absolutely loved chatting with Tiila and learning about the inspiration behind ATHR Beauty and know you will too! Ready to get a sneak peek at what it takes to create a successful, “clean,” and environmentally-friendly make-up brand?  Press play now! The Wise Consumer Show Notes

Hi friend! I am taking a bit of time off from editing and sharing new podcast episodes for a few weeks while I finish working on a new project (more info coming soon!). The good news is there are plenty of other episodes from previous seasons you can catch-up on (binge!) while I step away from the microphone during these next few weeks. For instance, have you listened to my conversation with world-renowned bra expert and founder of Bravolution, Laura Tempesta? If you haven't yet, press play now because you're in for a treat! More soon!  :) ------ Did you know that 80% of women are most likely wearing the wrong bra size?! Crazy right? Weirdly enough, I never really gave much thought to bra sizing until I came across Laura Tempesta's TedTalk “You'll Never Look At Bras The Same Way Again!”  After watching her TedTalk and realizing that everything I thought I knew about bra sizing was wrong, I figured this was a topic we should unpack and explore on the podcast together. So, here to clear up some of the confusion around bra sizing and to share helpful solutions is the bra expert herself, Laura Tempesta. Laura is a world-renowned bra expert, apparel innovator, and an inventor of multiple patented products. In fact, she is the only American with a Master's degree in Lingerie Design, and the only person in the world with a custom-designed degree to study the engineering, design, performance and innovation of Sports Bras. Prior to founding Bravolution, a consumer advocacy group and resource providing bra reviews and education, Laura was Nike's Sports Bra Innovation Director where she helped guide and develop sports bra innovation. She has been featured as a bra expert in Vogue, Insider, and Better Homes & Gardens and is a TEDx speaker. In short: Laura is on a mission to change the world one poorly fitting sports bra at a time! If you're tired of continually wasting money on bras that don't fit and aren't comfortable and want to learn how to finally find a bra (or sports bra) that fits and properly supports your ‘girls' then tune-in because we chat about all this and more in today's episode! The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/does-your-bra-fit/ 

Quiz time! Can you name your four menstrual phases? Do you know when estrogen rises or how it impacts your brain? Do you know why you tend to eat more during the second half of your cycle as opposed to the first? Did you know you can sync your diet, lifestyle, and/or workouts to your menstrual cycle? To be honest, a few years ago I would have completely failed this "quiz."  I knew close to nothing about my hormones or the impact they had on my overall health. Most individuals who menstruate don't! For me, this all changed when I came across the practice of cycle syncing. Have you ever heard of this term? Cycle syncing was a game changer for me. Not only did it help me understand the hormonal changes that were taking place in my body each week throughout my menstrual cycle but it also gave me insight on how to use the constant ebbing and flowing of my hormones to my advantage, both on a personal and professional level. How? Well, here to walk us through the ins and outs of cycle syncing -- how it works, what the benefits are, where to start, and more!--is the woman behind the hormone cycle syncing movement herself, Gabrielle Lichterman. Gabrielle is a longtime women's health journalist who pioneered the cycle-syncing and hormone awareness movement in 2005 with her groundbreaking book, 28 Days: What Your Cycle Reveals About Your Moods, Health & Potential. She's also the creator of the popular website Hormonology, an online educational platform she founded, as a way to share hormone cycle education around the globe. Are you ready to learn how to live in sync with your menstrual cycle and make the most of your amazing hormones? Press play now!

Have you ever noticed that almost every single packaged food item sold at the grocery store contains some form of vegetable oil? I recently walked through the grocery store aisles flipping over packaged foods simply to read their ingredient labels because I was curious, how many products contained vegetable oils? To be honest, I guess I wasn't really shocked when I realized that almost every item I picked up contained some form of plant-based oil such as sunflower oil, canola oil, grapeseed oil,  peanut oil, safflower oil, soybean oil, or sesame oil. Even the “healthy” organic foods contained vegetable oil. Pizza? Vegetable oil. Trail mix? Vegetable oil. Ice Cream? Vegetable oil. Fruit Snacks? Pretzels? Protein bars? Vegetable oils! Now, I am not saying that all vegetable oils, which are high in omega-6 fatty acids, are bad. Nor am I saying that we should never eat them again. In fact, our bodies need omega-6s fatty acids as they're essential fatty acids. Meaning, our bodies can't produce them so we need to get them from an external source. So, what's the problem?  The problem is that we are consuming too many omega-6 fatty acids and not enough of their counterpart, omega-3 fatty acids. Which in the long run can become problematic to our health for a variety of reasons. But, as consumers, this is where things tend to get a bit confusing! I mean, aren't vegetable oils healthy? And, what's the difference between omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids? And, is there a balanced omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid ratio we should strive to achieve? Luckily for us, here to help simplify and unpack all of these questions (and more!) is the one and only Ayla Barmmer, MS, RDN, LDN. Ayla is a registered dietitian nutritionist, functional medicine practitioner and the founder, and CEO, of FullWell, a fertility wellness and education brand. Her entire career focus has been to advance the health and empowerment of practitioners, patients and families through nutritional science, functional medicine and evidence-based holistic solutions. In today's episode Ayla shares why women should consume more omega-3 fatty acids, especially women who are struggling with period pain, have a hormonal imbalance, or pregnant or breastfeeding, the differences between omega-6's and omega-3s, how to easily add more omega-3 rich foods to your diet, and why she developed FullWell's Fish Oil supplement. We also go off on a tangent and talk about her passion for herbal medicine and the differences between nervines and adaptogens. I absolutely loved chatting with Ayla and know this is a conversation that will inspire and encourage you along your own personal health journey! The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/omega-3-fatty-acids/ 

So, you just had a baby! Yay, congratulations! Hope you're taking such good care of yourself and baby is doing so well! Now, let me ask you a question -- are you itching to workout again? Are you anxiously awaiting that six weeks postpartum appointment, hoping against hope that your OB will give you the "all clear" to start exercising again? I know I was. Unfortunately, I didn't get the "all clear" to exercise again at my 6-weeks postpartum exam. Rather, my OB wrote me a referral to see a pelvic floor specialist and told me to "take it easy." Bummer. The reality is many of us aren't ready to get back to our pre-baby exercising regimes after our six weeks postpartum exam, or eight weeks if you had a c-section. Obviously this isn't the case for everyone but, generally speaking, most of us need to give our bodies a bit more time to heal and strengthen after delivery. But, how much time do most of us need before we can start exercising again? How do we know if our bodies are ready? Or, what if we're feeling discouraged by the lack of “progress” our bodies are making after pregnancy to “bounce back?” What then!? Here to help answer these questions and more is Dr. Amanda Olson, a pelvic floor specialist, founder of Intimate Rose, and a Certified Pilates Instructor & Running Coach. (Note: I spoke with Dr. Amanda in episode 88 “4 Ways you Can Benefit from Pelvic Floor Therapy.” Make sure to give that episode a listen if you haven't already! It's jam-packed with helpful tips and information on all things pelvic floor health.) In this episode Dr. Amanda shares what really happens to our bodies, anatomically speaking, when we're pregnant, how to get back to working out safely after pregnancy, whether or not running with urinary incontinence is a problem, why some women, especially women who've experienced c-sections, may take longer to get back into high intensity exercise, how to use vaginal weights, the importance of nutrition, and more! Press play now if you're ready embrace your amazing postpartum body and to get back out there feeling encouraged and stronger than you were before! 

Do you have difficulty falling or staying asleep? Are you looking for tips to help you improve your relationship with sleep? Are you a sleep deprived mama who is struggling to function throughout the day without drinking 50+ cups of coffee?  Well, fluff up your pillows and get cozy because Dr. Jade Wu, a licensed clinical psychologist and Behavioral Sleep Medicine Specialist, is here to help us unpack and explore the importance of sleep and to share simple tips to help us get more of it! Dr. Jade Wu is a licensed clinical psychologist and Behavioral Sleep Medicine Specialist. Her current scientific research focuses on treating sleep disorders in those with chronic illness. She is also a frequent guest on popular TV, radio, and podcast shows such as NPR and Huffington Post. In the clinic, Dr. Wu uses evidence-based non-medication treatments to help people improve their sleep (and waking life), and is especially passionate about helping women to navigate and improve their sleep during pregnancy, postpartum, and other major life transitions. In this conversation Dr. Wu explores the importance of sleep, the difference between sleepy and tired, practical tips to help sleep deprived mama's navigate the sleep challenges that accompany parenting, how hormones impact sleep, the importance of prioritizing your circadian rhythm, tips to help you overcome the dreaded afternoon lull, and so much more! Dr. Wu is a wealth of knowledge and it's an honor to have her on the podcast to share her wisdom and expertise with all of you! The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/the-importance-of-sleep/ 

Mini bonus episode! This is Part 2 of my conversation with feeding therapist and speech pathologist, Kayla Richardson, MS, CCC-SLP CLC. Now, if you haven't tuned into Part 1, Episode #93 '5 ways to identify an oral dysfunction & best ways to treat tongue-ties,' I highly recommend you start there! Kayla shares some really helpful tips and information regarding how best to manage and treat oral dysfunctions as well as how to identify tongue-ties if you suspect your child has one. In this bonus episode, Kayla explores the difference between picky eating and oral sensory issues in children, tips on how to properly support your child while they eat and why it matters, different types of feeding utensils and how to use them, and more! Happy listening!

Those first few weeks of a newborns life are so challenging, whether you're breastfeeding or bottle feeding! But when, on top of the “expected” challenges that accompany this newborn phase, you add difficulties with feeding and latching, i.e. tongue-ties, it just takes the stress and uncertainty of the infant phase to a whole new level! Or, at least, that's how it was for me and I imagine I am not alone! Which is why I reached out to Kayla Richardson, a pediatric Speech Language Pathologist and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant who specializes in Pediatric Feeding Disorders, Myofunctional Disorders, and early intervention. Kayla is the owner of Abeille Speech and Feeding Therapy, a therapy agency and pediatric feeding clinic in St. Louis, MO.  In today's conversation, Kayla shares why she believes every mother should see a lactation consultant both before and after birth, what symptoms to be on the lookout for if you suspect your child may have an oral dysfunction, why a tongue-tie release shouldn't be done in isolation from therapy, such as craniosacral therapy or feeding therapy, why she thinks labeling babies as “colicky” is often an inaccurate and unhelpful diagnosis for parents, and more! Honestly, I wish this conversation had existed before my son was born. I feel as though it would have alleviated so many of the stressors I faced during those early days. So, if your child is struggling with an oral dysfunction of some sort, press play now as Kayla is about to drop some major wisdom that will help YOU as you maneuver throughout your own parenting journey! The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/best-ways-to-treat-tongue-ties/ 

Did you know that women supported by a doula during childbirth are less likely to need pain medications or require a c-section? In fact, according to a study published by the Cochrane Review, Continuous Support for Women During Childbirth, women supported by a doula are also more likely to have a positive birth experience and endure shorter labors. While more research needs to be conducted the study concluded that "continuous doula support during labour may improve outcomes for women and infants!" This is especially comforting news when you consider the alarming fact that the United States has one of the highest rate of maternal deaths among high-income countries! A recent study published by the Commonwealth Fund, found that in 2020, the US maternal mortality rate was 23.8 deaths per 100,000, more than triple the rate of any other country studied!  Even more alarming is the fact that Black women in the United States are nearly three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than White women! This, shares The Century Foundation, is primarily due “to systemic racism and discrimination at the individual level, Black women and birthing people face unacceptable (and mostly preventable) risk during childbirth and throughout and after pregnancy.”⁠ ⁠This is unacceptable and, as my guest today, Mabel Bashorun, a certified doula (DONA), Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, and a certified lactation consultant (who also currently happens to be pursuing a career in nurse-midwifery), tells me, "it's a shame, it's a disgrace, and it's a huge stain on the American healthcare system!"⁠ In 2017, Mabel launched Within Her Birth Services with the mission to support and advocate for other women throughout their pregnancy and labor experience. As a Ghanian-American, Mabel takes great pride in serving fellow Black women during pregnancy, with the personal aim to ensure they do not succumb to the maternal mortality crisis that continues to  plague the Black community today. ⁠ ⁠In today's episode Mabel and I chat about the benefits of hiring a doula, the differences between a doula and a midwife, why she thinks all women should have access to a doula (regardless of budget), the importance of education, how to advocate for yourself and your birth preferences, the challenges facing Black mothers in the US today, my birth story and how she supported me (because yes, Mabel also happens to have been my doula! :)), and so much more!  Press play now! The Wise Consumer Shownotes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/benefits-of-a-doula/ 

Struggling with endometriosis? You're not alone. :( Unfortunately, about one in every ten women, if not more, is struggling with this complex and, at times, painfully debilitating inflammatory disease. Personally, I have had so many questions when it comes to this enigmatic disease. What is endometriosis? How is it diagnosed? Is there a specific diet you should follow? Are there options other than birth control to help manage it? If you're struggling with endometriosis and searching for answers you're in the right place! Today on the podcast, I have the pleasure of chatting with The Endometriosis Dietitian, Cindy Dabrowska, RD. Cindy is a registered dietitian, master of applied nutrition, and an endowarrior herself. Her mission is to support other women who, like herself, are looking to manage and improve their endometriosis symptoms. I invited Cindy onto the podcast to help us unpack some of the myths around endometriosis and to shed light on how dietary and lifestyle changes can benefit someone struggling with this disease. In this episode we talk about whether or not birth control is the best way to manage endometriosis, how diet and lifestyle can help to improve and manage endo symptoms, tips on how endowarriors can support their gut microbiome and why it matters, the importance of insulin, how to metabolize estrogen and why that matters, and so much more! If you or someone you know is struggling with endometriosis, I truly hope you find this conversation helpful and empowering!  The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/struggling-with-endometriosis/ 

As a first time mom and - let's be honest - an over thinker, I wanted a step-by-step guide to help me understand how to introduce solid foods to my baby. What foods should I start with, how many servings, could I add spices, what about allergens, should I spoon feed, etc.?  Anyone else?  Well, if you're raising your hand yes, you're in luck! Today on the podcast I have the honor of chatting with one of the nation's premier childhood nutrition experts, Jill Castle, MS, RDN, CDN.  Jill is the founder and CEO of The Nourished Child®, a parent nutrition education website and podcast. She also serves as an expert reviewer for Parents.com, and has been featured as a guest expert in CNN, The Washington Post, The New York Times, Forbes, Newsweek, Time, and many other outlets. She is also the author of numerous books, including, “The Smart Mom's Guide To starting Solids – How to introduce, advance, and nourish your baby with first foods (and avoid the most common mistakes)," amongst others.  In this episode we cover a lot of ground – best practices when it comes to introducing solids, baby led weaning vs spoon feeding, when and how to expose your child to allergens, the pros and cons of baby pouches, the importance of flavor, and so much more! If you're a parent, new or seasoned (no pun intended), this is a conversation you don't want to miss. The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/introduce-solid-foods-to-your-baby/ 

Ok, I know what you're thinking: "Ugh! Balance...Here we go again." Me too friend, me too! I've never believed in this idea of finding 'balance.' What does it even mean? The idea that we can and must "find balance" makes no sense to me. First of all, it implies that we ‘lost' balance and second, it sets us up for failure, especially as women. For many of us, this concept of "finding balance" amidst the chaos of motherhood, is often inconceivable. So, why are we talking about balance? Because, as parents, especially as mothers, I think it's about high time we reclaim the word 'balance,' redefine what balance actually means to us. Today I have the pleasure of chatting with Dr. Amber Thorton, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Motherhood Wellness Consultant and the Founder of Balanced Working Mama. Dr. Amber is on a mission to redefine balance in motherhood, to redefine this notion that burnout and overwhelm go hand in hand with motherhood. She's on a mission to change the narrative of what is possible for working mothers by helping them to better balance work, motherhood, and wellness. In this episode Dr. Amber shares why she initially hesitated to become a mother herself, why redefining balance in motherhood is so important to her, how she defines balance in her own mothering journey, the importance of setting boundaries (i.e. learning to say "No!") and how to set them, why self care isn't selfish, how to ask for help, and the power of community. Mama, if you are seeking to find more peace and less overwhelm in your life, then press play now!  The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/redefining-balance-in-motherhood/

Are you peeing your pants when you sneeze? Is intercourse painful? Do you suffer from constipation? If you've answered yes to any or all of these symptoms, you could be suffering from pelvic floor dysfunction. To be completely transparent, I knew close to nothing about my pelvic floor till after having a baby. Like most, I'd heard about kegels but...that was about it! I had no real concept of how our pelvic floor muscles functioned, the benefits of pelvic floor therapy, or how to strengthen or release muscles deep within the pelvic floor, let alone that you could strengthen or release tension in that part of your body.  If you're someone who struggles with pelvic floor issues or you're just looking to gain a better awareness of how your pelvic floor muscles function, you're in the right place! Today on the podcast I have the honor of chatting with Dr. Amanda Olson, a pelvic floor specialist and president and chief clinical officer of Intimate Rose. In this episode we talk about the importance of our pelvic floor muscles and how they function, how pelvic floor therapy can help with incontinence and constipation as well as improve your sex life, the difference between hypertonic and hypotonic pelvic floor muscles, what a dilator is and how to use it, how she went about designing the pelvic wand and how to use it, why going to the bathroom “just in case” can be problematic, and so much more! Trust me, this is a conversation you don't want to miss. Happy listening! The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/pelvic-floor-therapy/

How do you get a "picky" eater to try and explore new foods?  What is food neophobia? Why is structured eating so beneficial? And is it OK to use food as a parenting tool? Here to help explore and answer some of these questions with us today is Maryann Jacobsen, MS RD. Maryann is a registered dietician and family nutrition expert who empowers families to create a healthy relationship with food for optimal health and well being. She is the author of multiple books including, "How to Raise a Mindful Eater," "The Family Dinner Solution," and the co-author of "Fearless Feeding: how to raise healthy eaters from high chair to High School."  In this conversation we explore: The difference between picky eating and problem feeding What food neophobia is and how it can impact children The difference between grazing and structured eating How to introduce new foods to your toddler How to end meal time battles Why we shouldn't be using food as a parenting tool And so much more! Connect with Maryann online, Instagram, and Facebook. The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/tips-to-help-you-raise-a-healthy-eater/ 

After her mother and sister were both diagnosed with breast cancer, Gabriela Navejas, the co-founder of Madame Gabriela lipsticks, made the commitment to reduce her exposure to potentially harmful chemicals — including those that might be lurking in her cosmetic products. While she was able to relatively easily replace her skincare products, finding a “clean” luxury lipstick brand that effectively performed was, unfortunately, not as simple. Frustrated by the lack of options for "clean" luxury lip care that exceeded her standards of quality, efficacy, and sustainability, Gabriela, along with her co-founder Geoffrey Christiansen, decided to create her own brand of eco-friendly, luxury lipsticks. After two challenging years of trial and error the team's female chemist finally achieved a "clean" beauty coup d'etat: Mānuka honey rich goodness synthesized with a tsunami of non-toxic and sustainably-sourced ingredients. Today, Madame Gabriela is an award-winning, fully transparent, "clean" luxury lipstick brand that is both high performing and planet-friendly. In this episode, Gabriela and I chat about: The journey that led her to launching a low-waste, "clean" luxury lipstick brand Why using non-toxic ingredients was, and still is, so important to her The health benefits of Mānuka Honey, one of the key ingredients in Madame Gabriela's lipsticks The entrepreneurial challenges she faced while launching a new brand during a global pandemic How she defines beauty, and so much more! I am so eager for Gabriela to share her journey, mission, and story with you today. Press play to tune-in now! Connect with Madame Gabriela online, Instagram, and Facebook.  The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/madame-gabriela-luxury-lipstick/

Do you ever look at your trash at the end of the week and feel a bit guilty because of all the plastic packaging and food waste you created (if you do, please don't!)? Looking for simple tricks, tips, and ideas on how you might be able to reduce your food waste and single-use packaging without feeling overwhelmed or like a total failure? If you answered yes to any of these questions then you'll absolutely want to tune-in to my conversation with cookbook author, blogger, fermenter and sourdough baker Anne-Marie Bonneau, The Zero-Waste Chef. Anne-Marie went plastic-free in 2011 after learning about plastic's devastating impacts on our oceans and their inhabitants. But, as can be expected, this new lifestyle change wasn't an easy one and certainly didn't happen overnight. In fact, Anne-Marie shares, in the beginning, it felt nearly impossible! But, “step-by-step, swap-by-swap, we implemented the necessary changes to eliminate the plastic waste.”  I've been a fan of Anne-Marie's work since the beginning of my "zero-waste" journey. And, seeing that I am extremely passionate about all things nutrition and reducing food waste, I thought chatting with the Zero-Waste Chef would be a great way to explore new and alternative ways to help us all reduce food waste. In our conversation today, Anne-Marie and I chat about: The challenges she faced at the beginning of her “zero-waste” living journey  Why zero-waste living isn't an all or nothing proposition + how she defines the term “zero-waste” Simple tips on how reduce food waste in the kitchen (which believe it or not is not all about bulk food shopping) How to cook à la “zero-waste” The benefits of cutting down on food and packaging waste in the kitchen The importance of supporting your local farmers Her thoughts on the climate crisis and how we can all get involved to make a positive difference Her new cookbook And so much more! This is such a fun and insightful conversation packed with simple tips, tricks, and encouragement for anyone looking to reduce food waste from their lives and to live, as Anne-Marie puts it, “a little bit zero-waste.” Connect with Anne-Marie Bonneau on Instagram, Facebook, and online. The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/5-simple-ways-to-reduce-food-waste/

Here's a question for you -- How often do you stop to think about your brain? I mean really stop to think about it!? I know over the years I've, unfortunately, taken my brain for granted. Rarely, do I ever think about how amazing this 3lb organ actually is or how much I depend on it. But, your brain controls everything -- your thoughts, memories, emotions, touch, motor skills, vision, breathing, temperature, hunger…basically, every process that regulates your body and helps to keep you alive! If you're curious about how best to nourish, fuel, and support your brain and/or want to better understand why it really matters then you're absolutely going to love this conversation with Dr. Annie Fenn, the founder of The Brain Health Kitchen. Dr. Annie Fenn is a physician, chef, and founder of the Brain Health Kitchen, the only culinary school of its kind focused specifically on fending off age-related cognitive decline. Her mission? To help you take better care of your brain all whilst eating delicious food. In this conversation Annie and I explore: why brain health matters the importance and benefits of sleep and exercise for your brain how what we eat can help protect and delay our brains from developing Alzheimers which foods are most neuroprotective and why the pros and cons of drinking alcohol brain-friendly cooking techniques, and why it's never too early to start making lifestyle and nutrition changes to support our brains. It was such an honor and pleasure chatting with Annie and I am really eager for you to tune in as this is a conversation that I know you'll not only enjoy but also benefit from! Connect with Annie on Instagram, Facebook, and online. The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/brain-health-101/ 

According to a new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, the calories that children and adolescents consumed from ultra processed foods, i.e. foods the study defines as ready-to-eat or ready-to-heat dishes which often contain more sugar and salt, and less fiber than unprocessed and minimally processed foods, jumped from 61% to 67% of total caloric intake from 1999 to 2018. In other words, two-thirds of calories consumed by children and adolescents today are coming from ultra-processed foods! Why is this? As I started exploring this complex issue in more depth — because yes, this is a very complex, multi-layered issue with no simple solution — I came across a fascinating book by children's food advocate and nationally recognized writer, Bettina Siegel, called Kid Food: The Challenges of Feeding Children in a Highly Processed World. You guys…I was hooked! This book, for me, was a page turner and opened my eyes to just how broken and, I hate saying this, but manipulative the food industry is when it comes to advertising to our children. If you're a parent or soon-to-be parent looking for tools, insight, and tips on how to feed your kids more healthfully in this highly processed world or simply interested in food policy and nutrition, then you're going to love this conversation with Bettina Siegel. We're digging into the difference between highly processed vs. minimally processed foods and why this matters, the history of kid food, the complexities of the food advertising industry, how immersive and aggressive kid food marketing is impacting our children's nutritional choices (and, ultimately, their health), how brands depend on the “pester power” of children to wear down their parents, greenwashing, food insecurity, and so much more! I have been following Bettina's work for quite some time now and am so eager to dive into all of this with you today. Connect with Bettina on Instagram, Facebook, and online. The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/bettina-siegel-kid-food/ 

Jenn Harper woke up in the middle of the night in 2015 after having, as she shares, a “crazy dream.” A dream where Native girls were playing with lip gloss, making a mess but, above all else, filled with JOY! She jumped out of bed, reached for pen and paper and proceeded to write down everything she had witnessed throughout her dream. Little did she know that this vision, this dream, this calling, however you want to define it, would be the beginnings of a healing journey that would change not only Jenn's life but countless others as well.  Meet Jenn Harper, an Anishinaabe-Canadian and the founder of Cheekbone Beauty, a socially conscious cosmetic brand that empowers and brings hope to Indigenous youth.  In this episode Jenn and I chat about: Jenn's battle with alcoholism and how learning about her family's past helped her overcome her addiction Her grandmother's traumatic experience in the Residential School System and the impact this trauma has had on her family throughout generations The importance of healing and creating new pathways Jenn's mission to use Cheekbone Beauty as a tool to help empower and bring hope to the next generation of Indigenous youth How Jenn overcame the entrepreneurial challenges of launching a business with only $500 in her bank account Why creating an eco-friendly and socially conscious brand is so important to Jenn The importance of showing up and never giving up  Shannen's Dream + other organizations Cheekbone Beauty donates to in order to support Indigenous youth And more! I am honored to share Jenn's personal and entrepreneurial journey with all of you today. She truly is a beacon of light for so many and leading a movement that we can all fully support and get behind. Connect with Cheekbone Beauty on Instagram, Facebook, and online at www.cheekbonebeauy.com The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/cheekbone_beauty/   

My journey into conscious living began due to a misdiagnosed auto-immune condition that affected my skin. One, that if not resolved I was told, could lead to cancer—words no one ever wants to hear their doctor repeat! But, it was this diagnosis (which is primarily attributed to endocrine disrupting chemicals, etc.) that led me to explore, research, and want to gain a better understanding of the ingredients and chemicals being used in my products. One of the class of chemicals I kept coming across were per-and polyfluoro-alkyl substances, aka PFAS. I was curious: what are PFAS? Are they actually harmful? And, if so, how and what actions can we take to reduce our exposure to theses “forever” chemicals? Here to answer some of these questions is Mike Schade, the Campaign Director for Mind the Store. Mind the store, a program of Toxic-Free Future, challenges the nation's leading retailers to transform the marketplace away from hazardous chemicals, such as PFAS, toxic flame retardants, phthalates, and others, towards safer alternatives. In this episode we're also chatting about Mind The Store's “Retailer Report Card,” a report that recently evaluated more than fifty major companies on how well they were reducing toxic chemicals or plastics or improving their chemical policies. And, good news! It's not all doom and gloom! Curious to find out which brands are failing the ‘Retailer Report Card', how brands are evaluated, and how to reduce your exposure to PFAS? Click the play button now! Happy listening! Connect with Mind The Store on Instagram, Facebook, and online.  The Wise Consumer Shownotes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/what-are-pfas/ 

Over the last few years I've learned more about hormone health than I have in my entire life. Truth be told, I wish I knew then what I know now about my hormones and menstrual cycle! Many of the unpleasant hormonal symptoms I experienced, i.e. painful periods, mood swings, fatigue, etc. could have been avoided, or at least managed with more ease had I been more aware of how my hormones impacted my overall health. Here to help us break down a few things and to explore the ins and out of hormone health is The Period Guru herself, Jenna Longoria. Jenna is a board certified functional nutrition practitioner who specializes in women's hormones. Having herself experienced severe hormonal imbalances throughout most of her life, today Jenna is on a mission to help other women reclaim their hormone and digestive health. If you've ever wondered what your period blood color means or why it matters, how to cycle sync, the importance of ovulation, or struggle with hormonal imbalances such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), then this is an episode you don't want to miss. I should also share that while Jenna and I, of course, chat about all things hormones, we also take time to explore the winding journey that led her here and the unfortunate hardships she faced over the last year after the tragic passing of her husband. Jenna is truly an inspiration. It's an honor for me to share her work, story, and knowledge with you. Happy listening! Connect with Jenna Longoria on Instagram, Facebook, and online at www.jennalongoria.com The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/how-to-optimize-hormone-health-period-blood-color/

Kathryn Kellogg's career began on the stage. As a child she shares, she knew she wanted to be an actress. She loved storytelling, performing, singing, it was just a part of who she was. Today, although she's no longer performing full-time on the stage, her passion for storytelling and creativity are still at the forefront of everything she does. But, these days rather than performing Shakespeare, Kathryn uses her talents and passions in her work as an environmentalist and zero-waste activist. Kathryn is the founder of Going Zero-Waste, a lifestyle website dedicated to helping others live a healthier and more sustainable life. She's also a spokesperson for plastic-free living for National Geographic, the Chief Sustainability Officer at the One Movement, and author of the book 101 Ways to Go Zero Waste. She is a creative and inspiring voice in the zero-waste living movement who has not only influenced my life but countless others as well. I  am so excited and honored to share her story, mission, and work with you today. More importantly, I know you're going to walk away from this conversation feeling uplifted, inspired, and ready to make simple guilt-free zero-waste changes in your own life as well.  In this episode we explore: Kathryn's journey from acting to becoming an environmentalist How living an eco-friendly lifestyle benefits both the planet and our health Defining “zero-waste” + debunking zero-waste lifestyle myths The importance of reframing our mindset and attitude around zero-waste living + why striving for perfection isn't necessary Simple and practical zero-waste living tips from pet care to menstrual hygiene, and more! Connect with Kathryn on Instagram, Facebook, and online at www.goingzerowaste.com The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/zero-waste-living-tips-with-kathryn-kellogg/

Do you ever feel as though nutrition is confusing? I know I do. I feel like we're constantly being bombarded with new diets and trends -- keto, intermittent fasting, macro diet, paleo diet, carnivore diet...who can keep up?! Between that, and  everything else we've got going on in our lives, it's no surprise that most of us end up feeling a bit perplexed. How much daily protein do we actually need? Should we be avoiding carbs? Is there such a thing as "bad" carbs? Here to help clear up some of the confusion is Kathleen Robins, MS, RDN, CSSD, CSOWM.  Kathleen is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, board certified in overweight and obesity, and a certified specialist in Sports Dietetics with more than 11 years of experience. Prior to launching Kathleen Robins Nutrition, Kathleen worked for the US Army where she ran nutrition and medical administrative clinics and worked alongside fellow military dieticians to help heal wounded warriors returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. She's also helped patients lose weight, fight cancer, and heal from transplants or heart attacks and has published research on the caloric needs of wounded warriors.  So, needless to say, when it comes to breaking down nutrition in a simple and practical way, Kathleen is a pro! I absolutely loved chatting with Kathleen about all things protein and carbs and know you'll absolutely love this conversation. Press play to tune-in and learn why your body needs protein and carbs now. In this episode you'll learn: How protein impacts your body and why you need it The difference between essential and non-essential amino acids How much daily protein you should include in your diet What to eat pre and post workouts The importance of including carbs to your diet The difference between "good" and "bad" carbs And more!  The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/ The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/protein-and-carbs/ 

Creating an environmentally sustainable business can be really daunting! Oftentimes leading to questions such as: Can I afford to purchase sustainable materials? Do I need to get certified by third party organizations? What if I am just starting out, where do I start? And so on! To help answer some of these questions I invited Shannon Kenny, a Sustainable Business Consultant and founder of Mama Eco, a business dedicated to helping eco-conscious people make better decisions for the environment, onto the podcast to chat with us! Shannon's mission? To help businesses become environmentally sustainable without sacrificing profit. If you run a business, or are thinking of launching a business, this is an episode you don't want to miss!  In this episode you'll learn: How to make your website eco-friendly + why it matters How your business can reduce its carbon footprint  Low-waste packaging options for product-based brands  The benefits of implementing a sustainable business model Where to purchase eco-friendly office supplies  The importance of transparency over perfection And so much more! The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/ The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/make-your-business-sustainable/ 

I’ve been fascinated by gut health for a few years now. And, while still a relatively new field of research, the current findings on how the microorganisms found in our gut, also known as gut microbiota, can influence and affect our immune system, metabolism, digestion, mood, and even possibly our heart, just amazes me!  But, what I didn’t know until recently was just how important our gut health was when it came to supporting our hormones and fertility! My guess is, this isn’t something you're super familiar with either!  So, here to explore this topic in more detail with us is Brooke Boskovich, MS, RD, LD, a.k.a. The Fertility Dietician. Brooke is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Functional & Integrative Practitioner who is passionate about women's health & fertility and who over the years has helped dozens of women with irregular cycles, PCOS, unexplained infertility, endometriosis & other fertility struggles, regulate their cycles and take home healthy babies! In this episode we cover the journey that led Brooke to becoming an RDN and Functional & Integrative Practitioner, the importance of tracking your cervical mucus, the pros and cons of caffeine, and, of course how gut health is linked to hormones and fertility. Press play to listen now!  In this episode you'll learn: How gut health is linked to our hormones and impacts fertility How to support gut health through diet and lifestyle + how to test gut health Why women should track their cervical mucus Brooke's number one tip for improving cervical mucus The myth of the “detox” cleanse Her three favorite health tips And more! The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/ The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/gut-health-and-hormones/ 

Did you know that 80% of women are most likely wearing the wrong bra size?! Crazy right? Weirdly enough, I never really gave much thought to bra sizing until I came across Laura Tempesta’s TedTalk “You’ll Never Look At Bras The Same Way Again!” But, after watching her TedTalk and realizing that everything I thought I knew about bra sizing was wrong, I just knew we had to explore and unpack this topic in more detail on the podcast. So, here to help us clear up some of the confusion around bra sizing and to provide us with some helpful solutions is the bra expert herself, Laura Tempesta.  Laura is a world-renowned bra expert, apparel innovator, and an inventor of multiple patented products. In fact, she is the only American with a Master’s degree in Lingerie Design, and the only person in the world with a custom-designed degree to study the engineering, design, performance and innovation of Sports Bras. Prior to founding Bravolution, a consumer advocacy group and resource providing bra reviews and education, Laura was Nike’s Sports Bra Innovation Director where she helped guide and develop sports bra innovation. She has been featured as a bra expert in Vogue, Insider, and Better Homes & Gardens and is a TEDx speaker. In short: Laura is on a mission to change the world one poorly fitting sports bra at a time and I can not wait for you to hear from her! Truly, you will never look at bras the same way again! So, if you’re tired of continually wasting money on bras that don’t fit and aren’t comfortable and want to learn how to finally find a bra (or sports bra) that fits and properly supports your 'girls' then tune-in because we chat about all this and more in today’s episode! In this episode we cover: The myths and facts around everyday bras and underwire bras. Why so many women are wearing the wrong size bra How to find a bra that properly fits and supports + what to be on the lookout for The difference between stretch and non-stretch bras  How to extend the life cycle of your bra + the challenges around sustainability in the bra manufacturing industry The importance of wearing fitted and supportive sports bra Sister sizing, and more! The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/ The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/does-your-bra-fit/ 

Do you have a morning routine? Do you know what your chronotype is? Have you ever thought about syncing your morning routine to your menstrual cycle? For the longest time I believed that in order to have a “successful” morning routine I had to get up at 5am every morning, do an intense workout, take a cold shower, and mediate for 30 minutes. While there are definitely mornings where I still follow this structure, over the course of my hormone healing journey I’ve come to learn the importance of syncing my morning routine to my infradian and circadian rhythm, and honoring my chronotype. So, what are the benefits of syncing my morning routine to my internal biological clocks? Well, that’s exactly what we’ll be exploring in this episode.  In this episode you’ll learn the benefits of establishing a morning routine (regardless of the time you wake up -- shoutout to all my night owls!), what your chronotype is and why it matters, and how and why syncing your morning routine to your menstrual cycle can help support your hormones. I’ll also be sharing simple tips and strategies you can implement to help you establish a morning routine that will help you win the day, feel more energized, and in sync with your body. And, most importantly, that will work for you!  The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/ The Wise Consumer Show Notes:   https://thewiseconsumer.com/create-a-morning-routine/ 

Making time for yourself to rest and recharge is a must for your overall health and mental wellbeing, especially these days when we’re all juggling so much both professionally and personally. If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years it's that Flight Attendants may actually be onto something when they instruct us at the beginning of a flight to “put on our own oxygen masks before assisting others!” When you think about it, this is a lesson we should all be implementing in our day-to-day lives. And yet, for some reason, most of us really struggle with making rest and self-care a priority. As a result, many of us experience burnout -- something my guest today, Allison Callaway, the founder of Activist Skincare, an eco-friendly, natural, and socially conscious driven skincare line, is all too familiar with. In fact, avoiding burnout and making self-care a priority was one of the reasons why Allison launched Activist Skincare. She wanted to create a skincare line that would support all you change makers, activists, and beautiful humans as you continue making a difference in our world; a skincare line that would give you a guilt-free, indulgent self-care ritual to help you start and end your days by taking care of yourself so you can continue actively taking care our our world and its people. In this conversation Allison is not only super candid about her own personal experience with burnout and how it inspired her to launch Activist Skincare but she also shares how her struggles with acne over the years taught her to love and heal her skin from the inside out. We also explore how she went about creating a refillable packaging option to help reduce waste, tips to help you keep your skin healthy, and the importance of truly believing in yourself. This was such a great chat and one I know you're absolutely going to enjoy! Happy listening!  The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/ The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/the-importance-of-avoiding-burnout/ 

Question: Do you track your period? I am embarrassed to share this but I didn’t start tracking my period until just a few years ago. And truth be told, I wish I had started tracking my period ages ago. I’ve learned so much about my body simply by tracking Aunt Flo. In fact, it wasn’t until I started tracking my menstrual cycle that I started noticing irregularities in my period and began to suspect that I might actually have a hormonal imbalance. What I’ve come to learn throughout my health and hormone healing journey is that our menstrual cycle can tell us so much about our health. And who better to explore this topic with us than Valerie Agyeman, RD, LD!? Valerie is a Women's Health Dietitian and Founder of Flourish Heights -- an online platform dedicated to empowering women in their health and wellness journey through education. And educate she does in this episode! I loved chatting with Valerie and can’t wait for you to learn from her. In this conversation Valerie shares why so many of us struggle with poor body image and why we should be celebrating our bodies, how stress can impact your period, why you might get food cravings the week before your period, why you should track your menstrual cycle, the importance of self-care and listening to your body and so much more! Ok, friend are you ready? Press play now. The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/ The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/why-you-should-be-tracking-your-period/ 

What if I told you that spending less than 35 min a day in nature could help boost your immunity? Or, what if I told you that the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, also known as forest bathing, could help reduce stress and improve your overall health? Have I peaked your interest?! If so, then you’re going to want to tune-in to today’s podcast episode with Dr. Suzanne Bartlett Hackenmiller, an OB-Gyn, Integrative Medicine physician, certified forest therapy guide, and a medical advisor for AllTrails. Suzanne also happens to be the award-winning author of “The Outdoor Adventurer’s Guide to Forest Bathing” and “A Friend Like John, Understanding Autism” and speaks nationally and internationally about autism, integrative medicine, and nature therapy.  I’ve been wanting to learn more about the practice of forest therapy and its health benefits for quite some time now, so when I came across Suzanne’s work and book I just knew I had to invite her to share her expertise with us on the podcast.  In this conversation, Suzanne shares how the practice of forest bathing helped her cope with grief after the loss of her husband, what forest bathing is, how forest bathing can improve our immunity and overall health, how to 'forest bathe', and why children should spend more time in nature. If you’re struggling with stress, feeling overwhelmed, and/or looking for a budget-friendly way to add a bit of self-care to your daily routine, then press play because this episode is packed with practical tips and tricks to help you implement the practice of forest bathing into your own life.  The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/ The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/how-forest-bathing-can-improve-immunity/ 

What is wildcrafted skincare? What are the benefits of wildcrafted skincare? And, what is this new magical “natural” anti-aging alternative to retinol everyone’s been talking about?! (hint: it's Bakuchiol). If these are questions you want answers to then you’ll absolutely want to tune in to this podcast episode with Kendra Kolb Butler, the founder of Alpyn Beauty.  Kendra is a wild plant beauty enthusiast, former Manhattanite and 20-year beauty industry veteran who spent the majority of her career leading sales, marketing and public relations initiatives at leading luxury beauty companies from Givenchy and Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare to Clarins and Coty. But, in 2015, everything shifted in Kendra’s life when she swapped out her high-heels for hiking shoes and moved out west with her family in search of open spaces, fresh mountain air, and serenity. As you’ll hear in our conversation, this was a scary decision for Kendra, but one that opened so many new doors for her. In fact, it was this move that led Kendra to launching her own wildcrafted skincare line, Alpyn Beauty -- a sustainably sourced natural skin care line formulated with, wildcrafted and hand-cultivated alpine botanicals grown in the mountains surrounding Jackson Hole, WY.  In this conversation Kendra shares all about the journey that led her to launching Alpyn Beauty, how climate affects your skin, the environmental and skincare benefits of using sustainably sourced wildcrafted botanicals, what wildcrafted skincare is, the importance of ingredient transparency when it comes to skincare products, how she defines "clean beauty” in an industry where there is no FDA legal definition for such terms, and so much more! Hit play to tune-in now! The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/ The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/wildcrafted-skincare/

A few months ago I found myself once again parked in the middle of the supplement aisle at the grocery store reading the back labels of various prenatal supplements. I was pretty confused. What minerals and vitamins should my prenatal include? Should it include folic acid or folate? Is the brand third party certified and sustainably created? I had so many questions. So I went home and did what I do best...research.  A few hours later I came across Full Circle Prenatal, a comprehensive, evidence-based prenatal multivitamin designed to deliver optimal forms and amounts of nutrients for women before, during, and after pregnancy developed by Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and functional medicine practitioner, Ayla Barmmer, MS, RDN, LDN. I reached out to Ayla to chat with us to help clear up some of the confusion I know so many individuals face when it comes to selecting a prenatal and to help us better understand which nutrients we should be including in our diet when TTC and/or pregnant.  In this episode Ayla will walk us through the nutrients women should include in their diet before, during, and after pregnancy, the difference between folate and folic acid, why iron isn’t included in Full Circle Prenatal, why so many of us are Vitamin D deficient and how we can remedy that, the difference between plant-based prenatals and synthetic prenatals, the challenges she faced and overcame to develop Full Circle Prenatal, and so much more!  The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/ The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/nutrients-to-include-in-your-diet-during-pregnancy/ 

Today you’ll be hearing from Dr. Aly Cohen, a board certified rheumatologist and integrative medicine specialist, as well as an environmental health expert from Princeton, NJ. Over the years she has collaborated with the Environmental Working Group, Cancer Schmancer, and other disease- prevention or­ganizations. She is also the co-editor of the textbook, Integrative Environmental Medicine, part of the Oxford University Press/Weil Integrative Medicine, Academic Series as well as the co-author of the book "Non-Toxic: Guide to living in a chemical world.” I reached out to Dr. Cohen after coming across her book “Non-Toxic” because I was just blown away by the content, research, and resources she compiled to help consumers live healthier, more eco-friendly, and conscious lifestyles, which as you know, is something I am super passionate about! Now, while I absolutely love her book, and highly recommend it, I felt like there were a few topics from the book that I wanted to explore in further detail with her on the podcast. So, I invited Dr. Cohen to speak with us and friend, I am thrilled to share our conversation with you because it’s truly packed with so much useful, practical, budget-friendly, and actionable steps we can all implement to help us live healthier, less toxic lives today. In this episode you'll learn how to reduce your exposure to flame retardants and why it matters, how wifi technology might be impacting our health, what the precautionary principle in environmental science is, how to improve indoor air quality within your home, and how to live a less toxic life without feeling super overwhelmed. If you’re curious about any of these topics or simply looking for simpler ways to reduce your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals, then this is a conversation I know you’re going to appreciate. So, what are you waiting for? Press play and learn how you can live a healthier, less toxic life today. The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/ The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/how-to-improve-indoor-air-quality-live-a-healthier-less-toxic-life/ 

As a Franco-American woman there aren’t many things in this world that I love more than a glass of dark dry oaky red wine. I’ve been drinking wine since I was about 4 years old actually. My French grandfather, my Bon Papa, used to fill up my little glass at the lunch table with a mix of water and wine. And I remember feeling so grown up that he would include me in this ritual, because that’s what wine was, and still is, in my family today. Wine is part of our dining ritual. We spend hours at the dinner table eating cheese, drinking wine, talking, laughing...and these are some of my absolute favorite moments.  But, throughout my hormone healing and health journey, one of the things I couldn’t help but be curious about was the impact alcohol may be having on my hormones, and overall health. So, I did a bit of digging and came up with some pretty interesting findings all of which we’ll be talking about today. In this episode we’ll be exploring how alcohol impacts your hormones, why you should eat before you drink, whether or not red wine is actually healthy, the connection between alcohol and weight gain, and more! Note: Special thanks to registered dietician Kathleen Robins, the founder and CEO of Kathleen Robins Nutrition, for reviewing this episode for accuracy.  The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/ The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/how-alcohol-impacts-your-hormones/ 

Do you wear hair extensions? Do you suffer from rashes, acne, or severe discomfort because of your hair extensions? Are you tired of dealing with a painful itchy scalp? If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions then I know you’re going to become a fan of my guest today, Ciara Imani May. Ciara is the founder of Rebundle, a plant-based, biodegradable, itch-free, toxic free hair extensions brand. As the first beauty brand to address the health and environmental disparities in the hair extensions industry, Rebundle is not only creating non-toxic and eco-friendly hair extensions but is also taking action to help eliminate the waste created by conventional synthetic hair extensions.  So, if you’ve ever wondered what chemicals are found in your hair extensions, how these chemicals may impact your health, how to reduce synthetic hair waste, the challenges Ciara and her team have had to overcome to create the first US plant-based non-toxic and biodegradable hair extensions, then you’ll want to keep listening because Ciara answers all these questions and more in today’s episode! This is such a fun conversation and I know you’re going to learn so much! Happy listening!  The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/ The Wise ConsumerShow Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/rebundle-hair-extensions/ 

Being a consumer can sometimes be confusing, right? Sigh. Especially when it comes to selecting our skincare and cosmetic products. You’d think it’d be an easy decision but, to be honest, there’s a lot of contradictory information being thrown at us making it harder for us to know who to “trust.”  On one hand you have reputable organizations and reports citing that conventional cosmetic products are packed with harmful ingredients, ingredients that are often untested and unregulated by the FDA. Scientific research claiming that fragrance is just another word for “hidden toxic ingredients.” Yet, on the other hand, you’ll also find organizations and research citing that the “clean” beauty industry is a hoax, a bunch of anti-science bullsh** based on fear mongering! And that the FDA does regulate cosmetic products!  So which is it? Does the FDA regulate cosmetics? Is fragrance something to be concerned about? Is clean-beauty “anti-science”? Are you confused yet? I am. So, to help clear up some of the confusion and to answer some of these questions, I invited cosmetic chemist and marketing expert Melissa Christenson to speak with us on the podcast.  Trust me, if you’re confused, you’ll want to listen to today’s episode as Melissa answers all these questions and more. I learned so much from Melissa and I know you will too!  The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/

If you’re an individual who menstruates today, count your blessings. Seriously. Do you have any idea what women went through before the invention of disposable feminine hygiene products?! Most likely this isn't a topic you've thought about a lot. Neither did I, to be honest. But, as I started exploring zero-waste period alternatives and plastic pollution, it got me thinking...how did women cope with their periods back in the day?  In today's episode I'll guide you through my favorite zero-waste period options, share my personal struggles with the menstrual cup (let’s just say things didn’t go as planned), explore the history of menstruation (will make you grateful to be a menstruating individual in the 21st Century!), the environmental impact of disposable period products, and more!  The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/ The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/how-to-have-a-zero-waste-period/ 

Over the past year I have been researching, taking courses, and reading as much as I can about women’s hormone health. My husband thinks I am obsessed. And, you know what!? He is right. I am learning more about my body and how it functions today than ever before. Uncovering information about my period that I wish I’d learned ages ago. I had no idea for instance that my hormones were outta whack until I started understanding the science behind my menstrual cycle. Turns out symptoms that I thought were normal....actually weren’t.   Which is why I am so excited to introduce you to today’s guest, Krista King, MS, RDN, LDN-- a holistic health expert, certified dietician and Integrative and Functional Nutrition Practitioner. Krista helps women get to the root causes of their hormonal and/or gut related imbalances by integrating intuitive eating philosophies, evidence-based nutrition practices, and spiritual and emotional tools. Over the past few years Krista has made it her mission to not only help women get to the root cause of their health issues but to help women heal their hormones more naturally.     If you’re someone who menstruates, has painful periods, who’s curious about the role nutrition plays in supporting your hormones, and wants to learn more about the four phases of your menstrual cycle, then you’ll want to tune into today’s episode.  The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/ The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/4_phases_of_menstrual_cycle/  Brand Promo: Aether Beauty. If you’re looking for a makeup brand that has gone above and beyond to be sustainable and ethical, free of questionable ingredients, and that actually works, check out aetherbeautyco.com and receive 20% off any one purchase using code WISELOVE. (Affiliate Link Disclaimer: If you use this link to buy something I may earn a commission.)

Do you use lube? Have you ever wondered why your sex life may benefit from lube? Curious about whether or not “natural” brands actually work and/or if you can use coconut oil as lube? Trust me, you’re not alone. I can’t tell you how many times women have timidly asked me these questions. Questions, I had been asking myself to be honest.  So, I decided to dedicate an entire podcast episode to the topic of lubrication, lube for short. In today’s episode I explore, the benefits of using lube, the difference between oil, water, and silicone-based lubes, which ingredients you might consider avoiding and why, 3 of my favorite eco and natural lube brands, whether or not it’s OK to use coconut oil as lube and more!  The Wise Consumer "Feel Good-Do Good" Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/feelgooddogoodclub/ The Wise Consumer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewiseconsumer/ The Wise Consumer Show Notes: https://thewiseconsumer.com/why-your-sex-life-may-benefit-from-natural-lube/ 

Welcome to The Wise Consumer podcast! The show that answers and explores all your eco-friendly and healthy lifestyle questions -- how to select safe cosmetic products, whether or not it’s normal to have a painful period, how to cycle sync, how to live an eco-friendly lifestyle on a budget, and more! With the help of the experts -- I am talking scientists, toxicologists, endocrinologists, cosmetic chemists -- you’ll get knowledge and know-how to your most pressing health concerns and sustainability questions, straight from the source.  This is a space where I do the heavy lifting so you don’t have to - a space where you can incrementally evolve, live a more mindful life and do good for yourself, your family and the planet in the process.  So, come on in, pour yourself a cup of tea (or glass of wine!) and join me every Monday and Wednesday as we explore mindful and healthy living tips, tricks and takeaways to create the kind of slower, sustainable life you’ve been craving.  This is our space, our corner of the world where we feel good to do good. Together. Subscribe to the show wherever you get your podcast and make sure to connect with me at www.thewiseconsumer.com and on Instagram @thewiseconsumer

This is the final episode of Season 2 and I couldn't be more thrilled to close out this season than with today’s guest, Rebecca Ballard, the founder of the ethical and sustainable fashion brand Maven Women. A clothing label created by women for women that honors people and planet along every step of the way.  In today’s episode we chat about: - The important role her faith plays in everything she does - Her passion for human rights - What inspired her to shift gears from working as a lawyer in the federal government to launching an ethical fashion brand for women - The challenges women face around always striving to achieve “effortless perfection” and the toll it plays on us - The importance of embracing all shapes and sizes - Her entrepreneurial challenges over the years and lessons she’s learned - The difference between her American eco-innovation collection and her global artisan collection- The importance of resiliency and prioritizing your mental health and wellbeing - And so much more! Happy listening! 

Meet Kristi Knowles, the CEO of Mother Raw, a brand that truly believes in the importance of making healthy and nutritious food accessible and appealing to all. Mother Raw creates delicious plant-based products, ranging from salad dressings to condiments, using only nutrient-rich, sustainably sourced, organic ingredients in their purest form. All of Mother Raw's products are free from preservatives, fillers and artificial ingredients. And let me tell you, you can absolutely taste the difference! In today's episode Kristi and I chat about: - The journey that led her to work in the food industry- The unfortunate and tragic passing of RawFoodz, now Mother Raw’s, founder Michelle Kopman in 2018 and what inspired Kristi to carry on her mission. - The importance of eating pure and natural foods that are minimally processed. - How Mother Raw develops and creates it’s dressings, dips, and condiments, and who gets to taste test them - The difference between cold-blended and heated products. - How you can eat healthy even when you're on a budget - How she manages work life balance - How to overcome fear of failure - And so much more!  Happy listening!  Connect with Mother Raw: Instagram Facebook

Meet Dan Demsky, the co-founder of Unbound Merino, an ethical and sustainable men’s clothing line that utilizes “nature’s miracle fiber" -- merino wool.  In today’s episode Dan and I chat about: How someone who had absolutely no passion or interest in fashion launched a clothing label. The importance of understanding and living out your core values. Why less is sometimes better. The hidden cost of fast fashion. The pros and cons (but mostly pros) of working with your best friends. What mulesing-free merino wool means and why it’s controversial. Where and how Unbound’s products are sourced and manufactured. Our love of fresh tomatoes And so much more! Happy listening!

Meet Devan Gregori, the founder of the ethical and sustainable fashion label, Devan Gregori--a brand that creates beautiful timeless pieces that are functional, effortless and meaningful. In today’s episode Devan and I chat about: What inspired her to move to France after college and return to school to study fashion the importance of developing an ethical brand and creating a personal relationship with her manufacturer Why women should support and raise each other up. her creative design process. Where her textiles are sourced and how they’re made. The challenges she’s faced launching a business in the midst of a global pandemic. Why she believes there’s no such thing as a clean slate + the importance of learning from our “mistakes” , and so much more!  Happy listening! Connect with Devan Gregori: Instagram Twitter Facebook

Meet Lin Chen, the founder of Pink Moon, an online market space that not only promotes wellness and self-care but that partners with and curates amazing natural skincare brands — skincare brands that value sustainability, philanthropy, and holistic wellness. In today’s episode Lin and I chat about: Her journey into the natural skincare space. The challenges around the stereotypes of asian women, especially in the skincare industry. Her mission to inspire more Asian women to enter the entrepreneurial space (even if it means possibly going against their parents wishes). How she selects the brands she partners with. Why supporting women-owned businesses is so important to her. The importance of self-care. What a Gua Sha tool is and how to use. How to implement a natural skincare routine even when you're on a budget. And so much more! Happy listening! Connect with Pink Moon: Pink Moon Instagram Facebook 

Did you know that Bluefin Tuna can live up to 40 years, weigh about 1500 lbs, and measure anywhere from 6 to 10 feet? What is the importance of studying tuna larvae and how do you even study larvae? In today’s episode with scientist, PhD candidate, and founder of the blog Science & Sustainability, Alanna Mnich,  we cover all these questions and more! Plus, Alanna shares what inspired her to transition to living a more eco-friendly lifestyle, her favorite sustainable living tips, and why she’s OK being an imperfect “zero-waster.” This was truly such a fun and interesting conversation and one I think you’ll really enjoy and gain a lot from. Happy listening! Resources: Monterrey Bay Aquarium "Seafood Watch" Connect with Alanna:Instagram Blog: Science & Sustainability LinkedIn

Meet Scéona Poroli-Chauveau, the founder of Scéona, a sustainable and ethical jewelry brand that designs, produces and sells jewelry using only two materials: 18kt solid recycled gold and lab-grown diamonds.  In today’s episode Scéona and I discuss: The journey that led her to launching a sustainable/ethical jewelry brand. Why she decided to use 18kt solid recycled gold and lab-grown diamonds for all her pieces. How gold and diamonds are mined + the harmful environmental and social impact of mining. Whether or not there’s a difference between lab grown vs mined diamonds.  What to look for and how to buy ethical and sustainable jewelry. Greenwashing in the jewelry industry. Where and how her pieces are made.  The impact of COVID-19 on her business. And so much more! This was truly such an insightful and eye-opening conversation!

Meet Tiila Abbitt, the founder of Āether Beauty, a zero-waste, vegan, cruelty free, non-toxic, and ethically created makeup brand! From the harmful ingredients found in most commercial cosmetic products to the challenges of running a clean and responsibly sourced makeup brand, Tiila and I cover it all! This is a conversation you don’t want to miss. In today’s episode Tiila and I chat about: The journey that led her to launching a clean beauty brand. How she became Sephora’s Senior Director of Product Development (she was the head of head of the sustainability department for a few years). Her passion for color/color forecasting + how she creates her products (this was super interesting!) Greenwashing in the beauty industry and the overwhelming list of harmful ingredients used throughout the industry. The challenges around defining the term “clean beauty” and why it’s so confusing for consumers to find “clean” products. Her motivation to create a completely recyclable product + the challenges with the recycling industry. What mica is + the heartbreaking reality of child labor used in mica mines. Why not all synthetic ingredients are harmful (i.e. just because it’s natural doesn’t mean it’s better for you). Her love of Beauty Heroes + defining the term “blue beauty,” a term I had never heard of before. Her entrepreneurial challenges as the sole employee of her business. And so much more! This was such a wonderful, insightful, and inspiring conversation! Happy listening.

Could you imagine launching a footwear business with absolutely having no background experience in fashion design, manufacturing, or textiles? Not only that but imagine that the vision you have for your "dream shoe brand" consists of working solely with African businesses and artisans. In this perfect world where you’re imagining this perfect shoe you will, of course, only source the highest quality handmade wax fabrics, work with local charities that support women artisans, create close collaborations and partnerships with fair-trade manufacturers, use only eco-friendly materials, and oh, who knows, maybe at some point, you’ll want to create a circular fashion program!?! For most of us, this “vision” may seem impossible. Where would one even begin? But for Hugues Didier and Vulfran de Richoufftz, the co-founders of PANAFRICA, and Hélène Lucas, their Communications Director, and today’s podcast guest, this “impossible vision” is exactly what they set out to create. Was it easy? Absolutely not. Did they make it happen? Yes, and I had the pleasure of sitting down and chatting with Hélène to hear all about the journey that led this amazing trio to turn their vision into a reality.  In today’s episode Hélène and I cover: - Her Franco-African upbringing and how it influenced her career. - How she came to join PANAFRICA’s founding team. - What inspired Vulfran and Hugues to launch an ethical footwear company working with African businesses and artisans. - The various textiles used + how and where they’re sourced. - The history of traditional wax fabric. - Their collaboration with Afrika Tiss (a Franco-Burkinabe organization which sets up initiatives aimed at promoting craftsmanship as a lever for economic and social development) - Their close partnerships with artisans and manufactures throughout Africa. - The importance of creating a transparent and ethical fashion brand. - The entrepreneurial challenges they’ve faced. - Their collaboration with the fashion brand agnes b. - And so much more! This was such a wonderful conversation and one I think you’ll really enjoy! Happy listening! 

Meet Kim Walls, the co-founder of Furtuna Skin, a wild foraged, sustainably created, all-natural skincare brand made in the heart Sicily. Kim is a clean beauty pioneer, master formulator, award-winning natural products innovator, mentor and mother who cares about social change and advocates for safe beauty, family health, and human rights. Needless to say, I was honored to have her on the podcast.  In today’s episode Kim and I chat about: The journey that led her to co-founding Furtuna Skin with Agatha Relota Luczo. Her previous entrepreneurial ventures. The importance of touch and creating natural skincare products for premature babies. (Kim also founded BEB Organics a few years back, a brand I absolutely love and which we talked about in today's episode.) The various wild foraged and regenerative ingredients used in Furtuna’s skincare products + their benefits. Furtuna’s innovative usage of the Soundbath™ Extraction Method to maximize the potency of ingredients and how it works. How Furtuna is supporting the local economy and its farmers. Regenerative agriculture  Her favorite skincare tips + the importance of taking care of your skin. And so much more! Such a wonderful conversation. Happy listening!  Connect with Furtuna Skin - Instagram - Facebook

“Life is always a fashion show.” — Isoke Salaam Meet Isoke Salaam, a PR fashion consultant and the founder of Noir Vintage, an online vintage store, based out of Washington D.C.  In today's episode we cover: - What inspired Isoke to quit her 9-5 job and move to Paris!- Her work as a fashion PR consultant for high-end luxury brands- Her passion for fashion, thrift shopping, and art - The importance of secondhand shopping + tips on how to successfully thrift shop - How to sustainably style your wardrobe - Why she launched Noir Vintage - And so much more! This was such a fun and insightful conversation! Happy listening! Connect with Isoke: - Noir Vintage (her online vintage store) - Instagram - Isoke Salaam PR