129: Healing from the Inside Out: Reversing Disease with Love, Food, and Purpose

Show Notes: From Rock Bottom to Radiant Health with Stacey Heiny

Episode Overview

In this inspiring episode, guest host Maxime Sigouin sits down with Stacey Heiny, a certified holistic nutritionist and lifestyle wellness mentor who transformed her life from depression, anxiety, and chronic health issues to vibrant wellness through plant-based living and mind-body practices.

Guest Bio

Stacey Heiny is a certified holistic nutritionist, lifestyle wellness mentor, and founder of The Herban Farmacy. She holds certifications from the Physicians Committee (Food for Life instructor), Cornell University (plant-based nutrition), and is a newly certified plant-based coach through the Food Revolution Network. From her organic farm in Indiana, she grows produce, crafts elderberry wellness remedies, and empowers women through coaching, e-courses, and community building around clean living and holistic health.

Key Topics Discussed

Stacey's Transformation Journey

• Rock bottom moment: Depression, anxiety, ADHD medication (Adderall), asthma, and poor lifestyle habits in her early 20s
• Pivotal moment: Lying on the couch after eating Papa John's pizza, realizing "there had to be something more"
• The catalyst: Mind-body connection through Pilates and yoga
• Books that changed everything: Natural remedies guide, "Diet for a New America" by John Robbins
• Documentary impact: "Fast Food Nation" - immediate shift away from meat consumption

The Mind-Body Connection Revolution

• Breaking free from the "caffeinated morning, wine at night" lifestyle
• Learning to slow down and connect with her body through Pilates and yoga
• The gut-brain connection and managing IBS symptoms through stress reduction
• Moving from sympathetic to parasympathetic nervous system dominance

Common Plant-Based Transition Mistakes

1. Under-fueling: The biggest hurdle - not eating enough calories due to lower caloric density of plant foods
2. Fear of starch: Avoiding necessary complex carbohydrates like whole grains, beans, and potatoes
3. Perfectionism trap: All-or-nothing mentality instead of sustainable progress
4. Inadequate protein planning: Especially important for women over 40 dealing with sarcopenia

Practical Solutions for Success

• Plate balancing: Understanding caloric density and proper portions
• Protein optimization: Embracing minimally processed options like tofu, tempeh, and plant protein powders
• Meal timing: "Eat like a king in the morning, prince at lunch, pauper at dinner"
• Social navigation: Planning ahead for restaurants and social gatherings

Breaking Free from Societal Norms

• The leadership mindset: Being the leader in your social circle for healthy choices
• Restaurant strategies: Ordering first, asking for modifications without shame
• Family and peer pressure: Navigating holidays and social events while staying committed

Personal Development and Authenticity

• Daily self-work: Listening to podcasts, working with coaches, and continuous growth
• Your story matters: The power of sharing vulnerabilities to help others
• Fear of judgment: Working through limiting beliefs and taking "messy, imperfect action"
• Community importance: Finding supportive people who align with your values

The Farm Life Integration

• Organic farming journey: Growing from backyard gardening to operating a farm
• Farmers market success: Selling organic produce and herbal remedies
• Future vision: Creating plant-based foods for the local community using tested recipes
• Toxin reduction: Growing clean food as part of overall wellness strategy

Key Takeaways

1. Start with mind-body connection - Slow, mindful movement can be the gateway to overall health transformation
2. Fuel properly - Don't under-eat when transitioning to plant-based; embrace healthy starches
3. Progress over perfection - 85% plant-based is better than giving up entirely
4. Plan for social situations - Preparation is key to maintaining your lifestyle in challenging environments
5. Invest in personal development - Daily self-work and coaching accelerate growth
6. Your story has power - Sharing your journey authentically helps others and strengthens your own commitment

Resources Mentioned

Certifications:

• Food Revolution Network Plant-Based Coaching Certification: https://certificate.foodrevolution.org/join/ (Stacey calls this "one of the best certifications" she's taken and believes "everybody needs to become a plant-based coach")

Books:

• "Diet for a New America" by John Robbins
• "The Kind Diet" by Alicia Silverstone
• "Sun Food Diet Success System" by David Wolfe
• "4,000 Weeks" by Oliver Burkeman

Products:

• Big Mountain Foods Fava Bean Tofu (64g protein per block)

Podcasts:

• The Mindset Mentor with Rob Dial

Upcoming Events:

• Modern Homemaker Conference - September 2025 (Indiana)
• NHA Conference - June 2025

Connect with Stacey

Instagram: @TheHerbanFarmacy
YouTube: The Herban Farmacy
Facebook: Stacey Heiny

Free Resource: High Raw Revival Mini Video Course - A guide to incorporating more raw, living plant foods into your diet for better health and glowing skin.

Final Thoughts

This episode beautifully illustrates that transformation is possible at any stage of life when you're willing to challenge societal norms and prioritize your health. Stacey's journey from rock bottom to radiant wellness serves as a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, community support, and commitment to personal growth, we can reclaim our health and help others do the same.

Remember: Life is only 4,000 weeks - what are you going to do with yours?

---

Guest Host: Maxime Sigouin is the founder and CEO of Fit Vegan Coaching, helping people optimize their health through plant-based nutrition and lifestyle design.