Keeping The ‘Live’ In Alive! Steps, Sneakers, Skidjoring & Smiles!

Hey friends! On Wellness Wednesday on The Debbie Nigro Show, as always, we covered a LOT—from climbing steps like an Italian grandma climbs hills in the mountains to the latest in fancy sneakers, and even Coca-Cola's new "healthy" soda (who knew?!). Buckle up, because here’s your full recap of this week's  shenanigans, wisdom, and wellness tips.

Step It Up—Like an Italian Grandmother!

I kicked off the show kinda moaning (I hate moaners) about my aching leg muscles. Was feeling every single step in my legs after just visiting my daughter’s house (which, by the way, is basically a Stairmaster disguised as a home). But then I thought—wait! The Italian women of the Blue Zones live to be 100+ because they’re always climbing hills to pick fresh food. And they don't moan. Maybe these aching legs are a good thing?

Moral of the story: Keep moving, folks! Even if it feels like torture now, your future self will thank you

Garlic: The Secret to Longevity?

Speaking of healthy living, did you know some of the longest-living people in the world eat raw garlic—like, a LOT of it? I, on the other hand, prefer my garlic caramelized in olive oil, courtesy of my chef boy toy (life partner) Dave. If you want a great hack for having garlic oil ready to go at all times, I shared an easy one—just slow-low-cook a whole bunch of garlic cloves in olive oil for like an hour and keep it in your fridge. You’re welcome.

Ice Lawns, Black Ice & The Amazon Package Slide

Winter has been extra icy this year, hasn’t it? Kids are stuck inside instead of playing out in the snow because of ice lawns! (seriously, lawns are covered in a sheet of ice). The Amazon delivery guys are launching packages across driveways like Olympic curlers, and black ice is lurking at every gas station. Like the one I stopped at on the way to the show. I’d have totally wiped out if I didn’t notice the black ice when I opened my car door at the pump about to step out. Drove to another to another pump. Told the gas station guy I just saved him a lawsuit. Small wins, people!

The Sneaker Business Just Got a Kardashian Twist

Sneaker lovers, listen up! Nike just partnered with Kim Kardashian to create Nike Skims, and I gotta admit—I didn’t see that one coming. Nike has always focused on sports, but now they’re blending “innovation and science” with “shapewear for the female foot.” If it makes sneakers comfier and more stylish, I’m in. By the way, the 'very' expensive sneaker market is starting to decline—though many pairs are still going for between $400 and $800+. I know this because an 18-year-old neighbor showed me her very expensive pair. 

Coca-Cola’s New Health Kick: Prebiotic Soda

Coke is jumping on the health train with Simply Pop, their new prebiotic soda. Apparently, they’re trying to compete with brands like Poppy and Ollipop, which have been taking over the fizzy drink game. Less sugar, more gut health—sounds great, but let’s see if it actually tastes good. Anyone else tried these yet?

Collagen in My Coffee? Yep, It’s Happening.

I finally gave in to the collagen craze! After a friend raved about how it helped her joints, skin, and even bones, I decided to do a story on her. I had spotted her in an ad online for Native Path Collagen and she posted the story of my story about her online and the grateful company sent me some to try. Love it!  Now dumping a scoop of collagen into my coffee is a part of my morning coffee routine. Will it make me look younger? Not sure but it’s worth a shot! LOL

Meet the "Go-Go Grannies"—The Most Heartwarming Story Ever

This one gave me ALL the feels. There’s a program called Meet the Grannies where grandmothers in places like South Africa, Colombia, and Ghana are paired with orphaned babies to give them love and human connection. Can you imagine how much that means to a baby who has no one? These amazing women are literally changing lives, and I had to give them a shoutout.

Skidjoring—The Winter Sport You Didn’t Know You Needed

Ever heard of skidjoring? Me neither. But it turns out, it’s a Scandinavian winter sport where you strap yourself to your dog and let them pull you on skis. Sounds equal parts fun and terrifying. If you’re a dog owner and need a new winter activity, maybe give it a try? Just don’t forget the harness!  ( and honestly I'd just check your medical insurance policy to see if you're covered for a Skidjoring injurie. lol )

Glimmers: The Opposite of Triggers

We all know about triggers—those little things that set us off. But what about glimmers? They’re tiny moments of joy, warmth, or calm that can instantly shift your mood. Like taking a quiet bath, catching a beautiful sunset, or laughing with someone you love. Turns out, focusing on these small moments rewire your brain for happiness. So let’s all start collecting glimmers, shall we.

Final Thought: Give Away a Smile!

I wrapped up the show with a little wisdom from Dolly Parton:

"If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours."

Because let’s be honest—this world needs more smiles.

That’s a wrap on Wellness Wednesday!

Enjoy the podcast of this full live radio show.

Until next time—let’s all try to keep the live in alive!

Oh …Don’t forget to tune in live weekdays from 11 to 12 noon EST on WGCH or on WGCH.com from anywhere in the world.

And follow me on social media for more fun, info, and glimmers.

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