Chronically Healing Podcast
Chronically Healing started as a space to share the stories of those with chronic illness. As the show has continued, we've morphed into a space for anyone focused on living a holistic, healthy life - realistically. Your host, Jessie Fritz, creates solo episodes about living with chronic illness.
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Ep. 118: Sleep - Why it's Important and What's Affecting it with Devin Burke
05/11/2022
Ep. 118: Sleep - Why it's Important and What's Affecting it with Devin Burke
Today’s podcast is with sleep expert, Devin Burke. Don’t worry - if you listened to last week’s episode with Emma, this is entirely different and more focused on overall sleep. In this episode with Devin, we dive deep into the issues around sleep and why so many people have sleep anxiety. There is so much that goes into getting a good night’s sleep and we talk about how stressful it can be to be told to “fix your sleep” but not know where to start! We hope you enjoy this episode with Devin Burke! In today’s episode we chat about: How stressors throughout the day affect our sleep at night Are night and morning routines really necessary? Sleep’s effects on weight loss and happiness Is sleeping through the night really all that important? Sleep anxiety Supplements that are helpful for sleep (or should we be taking them at all?) How a woman’s hormones affect her sleep cycle Links and things:
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Ep. 117: The Chronic Condition That's Highly Overlooked: Sleep Apnea with Emma Cooksey
04/27/2022
Ep. 117: The Chronic Condition That's Highly Overlooked: Sleep Apnea with Emma Cooksey
Today’s podcast is with sleep apnea expert, Emma Cooksey. Sleep apnea is a condition that’s highly overlooked and may be showing symptoms that you wouldn’t expect. Christina shares her own story with sleep apnea and they get into the nitty gritty details of the importance of sleep and what to do when your body just isn’t doing it. We hope you enjoy this episode with Emma Cooksey! In today’s episode we chat about: Sleep apnea and sleep disordered breathing and how it ties in to chronic illness Brain fog caused by sleep disorders and how it affects daily life Symptoms of sleep apnea and sleep disordered breathing that are often overlooked Different treatment options-CPAP isn’t the only option anymore! Links and things:
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Ep. 116: The "Comfort Crisis" and Hope in the Midst of Anxiety and Depression with Alissa Schneider, MA, LMHC
04/13/2022
Ep. 116: The "Comfort Crisis" and Hope in the Midst of Anxiety and Depression with Alissa Schneider, MA, LMHC
Today’s podcast is with therapist, Alissa Schneider! Alissa’s bright and cheery energy was such a great match for our conversation in this episode. We were open about their own struggles with anxiety, depression and emotional issues we’ve struggled with. We loved having a conversation from a therapist’s perspective, especially because we both are HUGE proponents of getting help and never being ashamed of it. We can’t wait for you to hear this episode with Alissa! In today’s episode we chat about: Tending to our emotional needs while working from home and being self-employed The importance of having (and sticking to) your values Being “enough” Living a fulfilled and meaningful life while living with chronic illness How to start taking care of your mental health while managing a chronic illness The “comfort crisis” Having hope in the midst of anxiety and depression Links and things:
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Ep. 115: Dogma in Chronic Illness & Becoming Your Own Advocate with Rachel Hill
03/30/2022
Ep. 115: Dogma in Chronic Illness & Becoming Your Own Advocate with Rachel Hill
Today’s podcast is with a repeat guest, Rachel Hill! Rachel is a hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s advocate who shares her journey via her blog, Instagram and her books. We had Rachel on again because she’s such an amazing person to follow in the chronic illness space, especially those of us with Hashimoto’s (which Jessie, Christina AND Rachel all have.) We can’t wait for you to hear from Rachel Hill! In today’s episode we chat about: Dogma in chronic illness and specifically, Hashimotos How to be your best advocate and listening to our body’s whispers (before it starts to scream) How to care for ourselves as an HSP with thyroid issues Bloodwork isn’t the only thing we have to pay attention to with Hashimoto’s Movement and food - why “calories in, calories out” isn’t successful for those with thyroid issues and not all movement is created equal Links and things: More about Rachel Hill: Rachel Hill and The Invisible Hypothyroidism are an award-winning thyroid patient advocacy website and online presence. Rachel advocates for better thyroid disease awareness, diagnosis, treatment and management. She talks about her personal health experiences as well as the information thyroid patients need to know in order to reclaim their health.
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Ep. 114: Letting Go of Identities that No Longer Serve Us with Doug Cartwright
03/16/2022
Ep. 114: Letting Go of Identities that No Longer Serve Us with Doug Cartwright
In today’s podcast, Jessie and Christina were so excited to talk to author, Doug Cartwright. Doug is a self-proclaimed “Mormon, Sales, Tech Bro” and how (and why) he decided to give up that identity. We also really dove into the fear of control that we have that keep us from letting go of who we are supposed to be. Our conversation dove into trauma and how we’re gaslighting our own trauma. Why are we trying to “out suffer” each other and instead come together and heal collectively? We hope you love this insightful episode with Doug Cartwright! In today’s episode we chat about: Doug tells us about The Daily Shifts and his book, Holy Shit, We’re Alive Why Doug considers himself “woo” and not “woo-woo” The magic that’s all around us that some of us are completely oblivious to Doug’s shift from having a corporate identity to what he is now Doug’s experience with the and how that’s a good alternative to psychedelics for those of us who are control freaks and afraid to let go Gaslighting and undervaluing our own traumas because they’re not “bad enough” or “someone else has it worse” (spoiler alert: this is not helpful!!) Resistance and the scariness of letting go of our stories and labels Everyone needs to learn to love to be alone and why that’s so important Links and things: Get Doug’s book, Follow on Instagram
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Ep. 113: Everything is Connected: Chiropractic Medicine & the Nervous System with Dr. Arneka Cooper
03/02/2022
Ep. 113: Everything is Connected: Chiropractic Medicine & the Nervous System with Dr. Arneka Cooper
In today’s podcast, Jessie and Christina interviewed Dr. Arneka Cooper about her journey with being a chiropractor and how connected EVERYTHING in the body is. It’s hard to believe that every single piece of our mind, body and soul are connected… but they are! Today’s episode is such a good one and we loved our conversation with Arneka - we had so much fun! In today’s episode we chat about: What does a chiropractor do and what does Arneka do for people (like Jessie) who are afraid of going to the chiropractor? Finding nervous system dysregulation in chiropractic medicine and explaining the relationship of pain Digestive problems and our nervous system The concept of transitions and resetting our energy when we come into a new space Why movement is so important for those with chronic conditions especially Movement doesn’t need to be crossfit… Arneka gives tons of examples of easier movement to incorporate into our lives Do “bad backs / knees” really run in your family and there’s nothing you can do about it? (spoiler alert: nope!) Tools to add to your movement toolbox The important pieces Arneka adds to her day to keep her feeling her best Links and things:
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Ep. 112: Mind Body Health and Getting Lost in the Details with Ali Ramos
02/16/2022
Ep. 112: Mind Body Health and Getting Lost in the Details with Ali Ramos
In today’s episode we chat about: Ali’s explanation of what a Mind Body Coach is and why it’s important to connect the mental and the physical The mental health shifts that came with moving to Costa Rica from California How we all sometimes get lost in the details Ali’s journey with Stage 4 Endometriosis and where she’s at now How working with a trauma therapist changed her physical health Why Ali believes that all chronic illness is triggered by trauma How Ali starts to “move” things when her emotional bucket is getting too full Why are we saying “fighter” or “warrior” after our chronic illness? Can that actually be harmful? What is an inner child and what does it mean to do inner work? Ali’s favorite methods and prompts for journaling Links and things: More about Ali Ramos: Back in November of 2019, Ali was in more physical pain than she could articulate. She had about three days a month that weren’t terrible, so she went back to therapy to deal with coping with the pain. Through an integrative and functional medicine approach, Ali got to the root of the issue, shame. In November of 2021, Ali will be one year “flare up” free and hoping to keep it that way. She shares her story not to dismiss others that are still suffering, but rather to show them there is hope. There were many things Ali had to change in her day to day life that were affecting her and keeping her sick. She talks a lot about her career divorce and moving away from the mindset of being an endowarrior and into an endohealer.
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Ep. 111: Giving Yourself Permission to Heal and What Trauma Really is with Ashley Bernardi
02/02/2022
Ep. 111: Giving Yourself Permission to Heal and What Trauma Really is with Ashley Bernardi
In today’s episode, we dive deep into trauma- what it is and how it affects each of us. We all have trauma and it looks different for everyone. Christina and Jessie chat with Ashley Bernardi, author of the book, all about leaning into our trauma, not masking our feelings, finding a helpful practitioner and her FEEL method, We absolutely loved talking to Ashley today - she’s such a bright light and so fun to talk to! We hope you all love her podcast as much as we do! In today’s episode we chat about: Diving into Ashley’s story with Lyme Disease and Postpartum Depression How Ashley describes trauma and is what does it mean when they say trauma is stored in the body? Everyone has trauma… no matter how big or how small Jessie shares her financial and illness trauma with her husband that almost ended their engagement Even if people experience the same trauma, you will all experience it differently How numbing and ignoring your feelings and trauma will eventually knock you down The chronic illness and trauma connection Overachievers… are we actually just really traumatized and haven’t worked through it? Christina’s shame around previously having mom/wife rage and how that was stored emotions and trauma that couldn’t get out The importance of finding a practitioner who will listen to you and truly want to help you Diving into Ashley’s FEEL Method and how you can try it right now Links and things: Buy Ashley’s book,
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Ep. 110: Debunking Vegan Myths & Why We Need to Eat More Plants with Kathy Davis
01/19/2022
Ep. 110: Debunking Vegan Myths & Why We Need to Eat More Plants with Kathy Davis
We’re so excited to share this episode with Kathy Davis all about busting vegan myths and why you should be adding in more plants. Now, carnivores - don’t click off! While Kathy is a vegan herself and has written plant-based cookbooks, she believes what we really need to do is just add more plants (even if you’re still eating meat.) During this episode, Kathy gives us helpful ideas on how to incorporate more plants, why carbs aren’t the enemy and reframe the way you think about food. She takes us through how she makes plant-based living work while living on the road and why it doesn’t have to be difficult! We can’t wait for y’all to listen in to this episode with Kathy! In today’s episode we chat about: How Kathy got started with a plant-based diet. Junk vegan vs. plant-based… not all vegan food is created equal (+marketing in the food industry.) Intention over perfect … let’s just add in more plants! What is the issue with sugar? Insulin resistance - carbs are an easy out! Don’t blame good carbs. What about vitamin deficiencies and the elusive protein problem? How to focus on adding more plants and be less afraid of carbs. What life is like living on the road as a biz owner of VegInspired. Links and things:
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Ep. 109: The Harmful Effects of Diet Culture andHealing Your Relationship with Food with Sarah Stites
01/05/2022
Ep. 109: The Harmful Effects of Diet Culture andHealing Your Relationship with Food with Sarah Stites
We’re all slammed with diet culture every single day, whether we’re consciously connecting it or not. But did you know that food choices are about biology, not willpower? That’s why we’re excited to bring on Sarah Stites, CEO and co-founder of Wavelength. Wavelength is a modern program for healthy eating that combines personalized nutrition with mental health tools. Sarah knows first-hand the shame that comes with eating and weight-related issues — she was diagnosed with PCOS and prediabetes as a teen, gaining 100lbs in a year. While diet programs relied on guilt and body shame, her mom — a PhD with a masters degree in nutrition science — helped her take a more compassionate approach. By using principles from behavioral neuroscience, addiction, nutrition, and mindfulness, Sarah was able to understand the root cause of her habits, reverse her prediabetes, and lose 150lbs. That was over ten years ago. Now, Sarah leads the Wavelength team to scale her mom’s holistic solution to millions of people. She is a fierce advocate for “more science, less blame,” and pleasure as an important part of health. She believes it’s time to move beyond the concept of body perfection, and start focusing on helping people have a better time in their bodies instead. In today’s episode we really dive into the messages we’re getting around food and how that impacts the way we lose weight (if we even can.) I know you’re going to love it, so let’s dive in! In today’s episode we chat about: Sarah’s story and why she started Wavelength with her mom. Food choices are about biology, not willpower. 92-98% of dieters don’t reach their weight loss goal… and most gain it back if they do! Marketing and food: What’s actually happening to get you to buy something? Why Wavelength is different from other platforms and how it will help you make better eating choices for you. Shame and how it relates to weight loss. Links and things:
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Ep. 108: Nervous System Regulation: How to Create Safety in Our Bodies with Elisabeth Kristof
12/22/2021
Ep. 108: Nervous System Regulation: How to Create Safety in Our Bodies with Elisabeth Kristof
Wow - this episode is truly one of our favorites! Today’s episode is with Elisabeth Kristof of Brian-Based Wellness, a virtual platform that puts training the nervous system at the center of everything from movement practice, to behavior change, trauma resolution and pain reduction. Elisabeth has been an entrepreneur and mover her whole life. She experienced her own nervous system dysregualtion -- chronic pain, fatigue, migraines, binge eating. She began to understand that applied neurology could be used for so much more than just pain reduction and athletic performance, and that our nervous system drives our behavior and experience of the world. During this episode, Elisabeth takes us through what nervous system regulation even is and how dysregulation can cause things like chronic pain, fatigue, migraines and binge eating. She also gives us “quick win” tools to start to listen to our nervous system so we can start to change our response overtime. There’s so many amazing nuggets in this episode, so make sure not to miss this one! In today’s episode we chat about: Elisabeth’s story with the techniques that she now teaches in her own life (movement and applied neurology.) Big T vs. Little T trauma: What is trauma and nervous system regulation? Jessie & Christina’s stories and how we’ve seen nervous system dysregulation in our own lives and healing. Where to get started if you feel like you have a nervous system that’s a bit out of whack (plus a few “quick win” techniques you can try out right now!) Binge and emotional eating behaviors (aka protective outputs) and what’s happening in our nervous system when that happens. What is somatic therapy and healing and why is it important to acknowledge? Weight gain, emotional eating and binge-behavior, and how that is connected to our emotional healing. Minimum effective dose: what does that mean and why is it important to remember in our healing work. Links and things:
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107: Living an Empowered Lifestyle with Mandy Podlesny
12/08/2021
107: Living an Empowered Lifestyle with Mandy Podlesny
Today’s episode is with Mandy Podlesny, an empowered eating coach. Christina and I loved talking with Mandy about all things diet culture and becoming a victor and empowered member of your life. I really loved our deep dive into nutrition and dieting because it’s something I struggle with a lot. We also talked about finding the right practitioner for you that will listen to what you say and work with your bio-individuality. We loved getting to know Mandy and she was so much fun to talk to! Listen in and learn how to live your best, empowered life with chronic illness. In today’s episode we chat about: Mandy’s past (and current) experience with chronic and mysterious illness The grit that comes along with living with chronic illness or pain - how to be a victor, not a victim Go from surviving to thriving mode and get out of that victim state Mandy’s 5 pillars that she teaches on A simple morning ritual that Mandy recommends to set yourself up for success Where diet and nutrition can be damaging to those of us with chronic illness Gut health and how it’s the foundation to our overall health Taking off the labels and just doing what feels best for YOU How Mandy helps people and why she needs to know you’re ready first What biohacking is and why is it such a buzzword right now Links and things:
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106: Hustle Culture, Stress and Chronic Illness with Karina Sturm
11/24/2021
106: Hustle Culture, Stress and Chronic Illness with Karina Sturm
Today’s episode is with Karina Sturm! Karina is a German native who is now in San Francisco. She’s a research associate turned journalist living with several chronic illnesses and an invisible disability. Her main health condition is called Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a rare connective tissue disorder that leads to many co-morbid conditions. She’s had around a dozen diagnoses, including dysautonomia, mast cell activation, small fiber neuropathy, a rare bleeding disorder called factor VII deficiency and much more. We absolutely loved hearing from other spoonies out there and we got INTO IT with Karina today. We chatted about her experience with multiple chronic illnesses, we ranted about hustle culture and how it’s negatively affected the chronically ill for many years. In today’s episode we chat about: Karina’s story with invisible and multiple chronic illness Some specific symptoms Karina deals with with EDS and MCAS The three of us went on a rant about hustle culture and working with chronic illness Companies shifting to remote work because of the pandemic, but wishing that companies would’ve thought of this for those of us who have been living with chronic illness or disabilities for awhile What came up for Karina or were amplified because of the pandemic Coping techniques that Karina uses Being a voice in the community for chronic illness and how Karina got into it Dogma and the problem with social media and chronic illness Facebook groups Links and things:
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105: Healing Comes in Different Forms with Dafne Wiswell
11/10/2021
105: Healing Comes in Different Forms with Dafne Wiswell
Christina and Dafne chatted about how healing comes in different forms, the importance of gut health and skin exposure and maintaining a sense of self as a mom with chronic illness. One of the great quotes from the podcast is “when we’re imagining the future with fear, we’re partnering with the wrong thing.” We can’t wait for you to listen in to this episode! In today’s episode we chat about: Dafne’s journey with multiple chronic and autoimmune illnesses and where she’s at now. What goals and “success” really mean and why core values might be more helpful. Dafne’s top affirmations that she uses for both herself and her clients. A conversation that changed her life and pushed her in the direction of chronic illness coaching. The importance of sleep, especially with those with chronic illness. Are you sleeping well? Diving deep into low stomach acid and gut issues. Being sun-phobic and how to get safe sun exposure (it’s so important!) ☀️ Maintaining a sense of self as a mom with chronic illness. What Dafne would tell someone who just found out they have a chronic illness and they’re feeling scared. Links and things:
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Ep. 104: Breaking the Stigma of Being a Highly Sensitive Person and it's Connection to Our Healing with Alissa Boyer
10/27/2021
Ep. 104: Breaking the Stigma of Being a Highly Sensitive Person and it's Connection to Our Healing with Alissa Boyer
Today we’re so excited to share with you our interview with my friend Alissa Boyer, a mentor for Highly Sensitive People (HSPs.) Christina wasn’t able to make the episode today, so my husband, Ben Fritz (who is also an HSP and coaches a lot of HSPs) stepped in to be my cohost! Alissa’s experience with chronic gut issues and SIBO brought her to the HSP world and now she’s helping others out there just like us! I’ve always been interested in interviewing Alissa because I’ve always seen the correlation between some of us who are highly sensitive and have a chronic condition. For those of you out there a that think you might be an HSP (), this episode is for you! In today’s episode we chat about: What is a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) and how do you know if you are one? Sensitivity is not a “weakness” and how it actually tends to impact those of us who are high achievers How chronic stomach issues and SIBO led Alissa to finding out she is an HSP How the phrase “just stop being stressed!” from our doctors is extremely unhelpful and how we can learn to manage that stress Sometimes we subconsciously don’t want to heal OR don’t think we can (ouch!) How being out of alignment as an HSP affects our health If you are an HSP, finding ways to take care of your self is key in our healing The correlation between being highly sensitive and having chronic illness (for some!) Links and things:
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Ep. 103: Dealing with Misdiagnosis and Treating Symptoms as Messengers with Lyn Delmastro-Thomson
10/13/2021
Ep. 103: Dealing with Misdiagnosis and Treating Symptoms as Messengers with Lyn Delmastro-Thomson
Today’s episode is with Lyn Delmastro-Thomson. Lyn was misdiagnosed with leukemia at age 25 , but she kept questioning why she wasn’t improving despite doctors saying that her labs looked good. So, like many of us, her questions were dismissed. She took her health into her own hands. That’s when she learned how to listen to her body and its wisdom, understanding how it communicates and working together with it. She now helps other people do this and take charge of their health. We also dive into HOW to listen to your body and move past hating it. Jessie also shares some personal experiences regarding body love and how hard it can be to listen to your body. Lyn’s story is so special and she shares some tangible tips that we can start doing today that will help us listen to our bodies and forgive them. We’re so excited for you to hear it! In today’s episode we chat about: Getting the phone call you never want to get and getting a diagnosis of chronic myelogenous leukemia… … and then finding out she was misdiagnosed and treated incorrectly for three years How to move forward after such a horrific misdiagnosis and finding someone to listen to her Treating symptoms as messengers in the body and learning to listen to your body (with tangible tips on how to actually do this!) How easy it is to fall into just treating your symptoms Why using the word “too busy” when it comes to your health just doesn’t work anymore and Lyn’s recommendations around that Talking to our bodies in terrible ways and how that’s programming our bodies to believe that (and how hard that can be to change) How to forgive your body and get on the path where you can trust it again (and it can trust you!) Some of Lyn’s favorite nervous system healing modalities Christina’s experience with body talk and why Lyn loves it, too! Links and things:
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The Death and Rebirth of Identity with Chronic Illness with Renée Nicholson
09/15/2021
The Death and Rebirth of Identity with Chronic Illness with Renée Nicholson
Welcome back to Season 2 of the Chronically Healing Podcast! If you haven’t heard already, listen to our where we introduce our new cohost, Christina Sanghera! Today’s episode is with Renée Nicholson. Renée takes us through her journey of growing up a dancer, but having that stripped away by Rheumatoid Arthritis. In that journey, Renée found ways to create a new identity for herself that wasn’t just a “chronic illness patient.” We talk about the amount of grit we need to get through the hard times, but how joyous it can make our ordinary life. We also dive into narrative medicine and how that brought Renée to writing her book, “Fierce and Delicate.” In today’s episode we chat about: Renée’s story of having her dancing life cut short because of rheumatoid arthritis The parallels between being a dancer and being a patient with chronic illness What rheumatoid arthritis is and the telltale signs to look for Dealing with the death of your identity and then a rebirth of sorts when you get a diagnosis The dangers of “symptom chasing” and how that can really affect your outlook on how you’re feeling The push and pull of chaos and control The idea of narrative medicine: “The care of the sick unfolds in stories” How writing for patients reminded Renée that ordinary lives are so beautiful More about her book, Links and things:
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Ep. 100: The Secret is Out!
09/01/2021
Ep. 100: The Secret is Out!
Today's episode is a special one - we're finally announcing that Chronically Healing will now have a cohost, Christina Sanghera! Listen in to this episode to learn more about Christina, what changes will be coming to the show and what you can expect moving forward in the Chronically Healing Community! Instagram: Jessie's Instagram: Christina's Instagram:
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Ep. 99: The Journey to Health & Finding the Right Practitioner with Samantha Lander
08/04/2021
Ep. 99: The Journey to Health & Finding the Right Practitioner with Samantha Lander
Full shownotes: www.jessiefritz.com/blog/samantha-lander Today’s podcast is with the wonderful Samantha Lander! Samantha is a Functional Diagnostics practitioner, certified personal trainer, and holistic lifestyle coach who got into the field to take control of her own health. After years of struggling with how she was feeling, a few misdiagnosis and slipping into the world of drugs, Samantha’s story is so interesting to hear - not only on how she’s changed her own life and health, but how she’s helping others. I hope you enjoy this episode with Samantha! In today’s episode we chat about: Samantha’s story growing up with chronic symptoms and misdiagnosis of IBS Finding out she was dealing with anxiety and hypothyroidism in college Junior year of college and entering into the music world as a DJ, she started partying and using drugs like meth to self medicate for how she was feeling She got into selling drugs after college and her life started falling apart where she ended up in prison for a few years Changing her life and becoming a personal trainer after prison, but she was feeling like crap all the time Finding out she had parasites, mold, candida and heavy metals (along with hypothyroidism) She got into the FDN world to help herself and also to help her clients Finding the right practitioners who will help you on your journey Both Jessie and Samantha understanding and working through body dysmorphia and eating disorders Struggling with strict, extreme elimination diets and how those can affect our healing The REAL difference in working with someone in functional medicine vs. western medicine Links and things: More about Samantha Lander: Samantha Lander found her way into the health industry through years of working on her own health. She first set personal goals for herself as a young athlete who participated in team sports such as synchronized swimming, water polo and field hockey. In college, she continued with athletics since her experience working in the fitness field was so positive that she decided to major in sports management. In 2003 Samantha graduated with a degree in kinesiology from the University of Michigan with a major in sports management. Following graduation she moved to Los Angeles where she found success working in the music industry as a club dj and producer where her life took a turn with drugs and even prison. After several years she became disenchanted with her work and began to realize that she missed having athletics in her life. Always one to tackle a dilemma head on, she decided to take a spinning class and immediately wanted to get back into the fitness industry. She began recording fitness cds and marketing them to a record labels. In 2006 Samantha moved back to St. Louis to pursue her personal training certification. Her certifications include NASM, Functional Diagnostics Nutrition, NESTA and CHEK Level 2 Holistic Lifestyle Coach. Samantha’s desire to do functional Diagnostics came from her own health problems she discovered when she learned she suffered from Adrenal Fatigue, Food sensitivities, Pathogens, Leaky gut and lots of hidden stressors. She spent a good portion of her life struggling with weight despite working out and eating a perfect diet and knew it had to be something more. With the right coaching she slowly began to rebuild her health and realize that she didn’t have to settle for feeling horrible the rest of her life. The long hard road to get better has given her the drive to help others who are suffering with the same. Through her passionate love of health and wellness and natural ability to partner with her clients to tailor their individual workout plans and Holistic protocols, Samantha has found her professional calling as Functional Diagnostics practitioner. In this role she has a genuine desire to help her clients achieve their goals they believed were never attainable. Currently she works with a diverse range of clients in terms of age, gender and ability.
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Ep. 98: Body Image and Dealing with Depression {Solo Episode!}
06/02/2021
Ep. 98: Body Image and Dealing with Depression {Solo Episode!}
Today's episode is just with me as I give you updates on how I'm feeling about my body, weight gain, dealing with unhelpful doctors and dealing with depression.
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Ep. 97: Finding Joy While Living with Hashimoto's & Autoimmunity with Shanna Nemrow, FNTP
05/26/2021
Ep. 97: Finding Joy While Living with Hashimoto's & Autoimmunity with Shanna Nemrow, FNTP
I’m so excited to introduce you to Shanna Nemrow, FNTP! I found Shanna via YouTube about a year ago when I was dabbling with the AIP diet (Autoimmune Protocol) and loved her authenticity and helpful tricks for living with Hashimoto’s. I asked Shanna to be on the podcast to talk about all things Hashimotos and we definitely dug into some big thyroid topics during our chat. Shanna is a Hashimoto’s warrior herself and now helps others out there dealing with thyroid issues. Her story is inspiring and we also tapped into the emotional side of living with Hashimoto’s, which is just as important (if not even MORE important) than the physical. Her content is all about finding joy while living with autoimmune disease and it’s such a refreshing way to talk about chronic illness. Shanna and I also talked about dealing with depression, anxiety and mental health issues with Hashimoto’s but didn’t get to it today. Let me know if you’d like another episode with Shanna to dive into this! In today’s episode we chat about: Shanna’s story with Hashimoto’s (which is similar to so many of ours!) Exercise intolerance and how that’s affected both Shanna and Jessie How Hashimoto’s looks different for every single person The emotional side of Hashimoto’s and how that can be so difficult for us all Giving your body grace and not comparing yourself to others (or even yourself) What AIP (Autoimmune Protocol) is, why Shanna used it in her healing and how she helps others on their AIP-journey Comparing yourself to others with (or without) chronic illness and how we’ve gotten through that Why working with someone when doing a strict “diet” for your health is extremely beneficial Finding control in an uncontrollable life with Hashimoto’s and finding the things we can work on to feel better, rather than focusing on the things we cannot The important ways that Shanna sets up her days and weeks to feel her best How Shanna works with Hashimoto’s warriors and where you can join her community Links and things:
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Ep. 96: Nourishing Ourselves, Living with Lupus and Chronically Fabulous with Marisa Zeppieri
05/05/2021
Ep. 96: Nourishing Ourselves, Living with Lupus and Chronically Fabulous with Marisa Zeppieri
Time for another episode of the Chronically Healing Podcast! Today’s episode is with the founder of Lupus Chick, Marisa Zeppieri. Marisa and I chatted all about her experience with Lupus, getting run over by a drunk driver in her early teens, why she started Lupus Chick and so much more. We also dove into being a business owner with chronic illness, how to best nourish yourself during this life and the comparison game. I’m also super pumped for y’all to hear about her new book, , that just came out! In today’s episode we chat about: The road to finding out that Marisa had Lupus and why the diagnosis can be difficult to get Getting run over by a pickup truck by a drunk driver and going through rehab (and that triggered a bunch of her symptoms) What prompted her to start Lupus Chick The different modalities that she loves to nourish and take care of her body What it’s like to be running a business with chronic illness Comparing yourself to others with (or without) chronic illness and how we’ve gotten through that Why Marisa decided to write Chronically Fabulous and what it’s about Links and think:
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Ep. 95: When Thyroid Medication Isn't Enough (PLUS a teaser announcement) with Christina Sanghera
04/21/2021
Ep. 95: When Thyroid Medication Isn't Enough (PLUS a teaser announcement) with Christina Sanghera
I am SO excited to share my conversation with Christina Sanghera on the Chronically Healing Podcast today! Christina is a friend of mine I met on Instagram and we’ve clicked since the beginning. I wanted to have Christina on the show for a real and raw conversation about Hashimoto’s, but we dipped into so many other conversation while we were at it. We talked about sleep, our health issues leading up to Hashimoto’s, supplements and lifestyle changes we’ve made PLUS what it’s actually like to have chronic illness. Somedays you may feel great, others you may not… and we get into the nitty gritty of all of that. Christina and I also have a fun announcement coming SOON! Can you guess what it is? In today’s episode we chat about: Christina's health story with abusing her body with unhealthy habits, addiction and other various symptoms before finally being diagnosed with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Both Christina and Jessie's experience with Hashimoto's medications and how that was never enough to actually feel better Our experiences with alternative medicine and methods to feel better and take care of ourselves The supplements that Christina recommends for most people (obviously speak with your doctor first!) SLEEP: Why it's important and how it doesn't need to be perfect, but should be something you're paying attention to How Christina works with people who have chronic illness SO much more about Hashimoto's, hypothyroid and a very fun announcement teaser that Christina and I have coming soon! Links and think: More about Christina Sanghera: Christina is a Holistic Health Coach for women business owners with Hashimoto’s and Hypothyroidism. A fellow Hashimoto’s warrior, she once struggled just to get through the day. Her lifestyle was a merry-go-round of unhealthy habits, and when she was later diagnosed, it all came full circle and she knew something had to change. It was this moment in her life that inspired countless hours of education, training and soul searching. Having experienced firsthand what it feels like to suddenly lose your health and wellbeing and to struggle daily, her unique point of view allows her to offer sound advice that’s rooted in empathy from having experienced many of the ailments she now helps women overcome. She believes that you shouldn’t have to make a choice between following your dreams of business ownership or tending to a chronic illness … you CAN do both! In the beginning of 2018 she welcomed a healthy, vibrant baby girl after multiple unexplained miscarriages years prior. Her birth was a testament to the tireless effort of reclaiming health one step at a time. Be it holistic “bio-hacking”, an intense HIIT routine or downtime with a good book or podcast, Christina now dedicates her life to inspiring others and immersing herself in natural, sustainable health. Through real food nutrition, movement, nervous system healing and more she helps women from all walks of life navigate their health, achieve their goals and thrive.
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Ep. 94: Acceptance, Validation and Moving Forward with Chronic Illness with Dani Fusaro
04/14/2021
Ep. 94: Acceptance, Validation and Moving Forward with Chronic Illness with Dani Fusaro
Today on the Chronically Healing Podcast I was excited to talk to Dani Fusaro of Days with Dani! Dani is a physical therapist, mindset & lifestyle coach, disabled model who happens to also be living with multiple chronic illnesses. Dani takes us through her experience with learning to accept her situation and validate everything she was going through. I can’t wait for you to listen to today’s episode, so let’s dive in! In today’s episode we chat about: Dani's experience with chronic illness and how that changed the way she looked at her career in PT Living with multiple chronic illnesses including EDS, POTS, spinal instability and MCAS The importance of acceptance and pacing in your chronic illness journey Don't run your body into the ground because you're trying to be the person you're not anymore. Approach life with "how can I make this easier" Surrounding yourself with people who have drive and work on being healthy can then help you on your own journey Why Dani decided to get into chronic illness coaching and why she wishes there were more people doing this type of coaching Links and think:
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Ep. 93: Living with Chronic Pain & Fibromyalgia with Casey Stanley
03/31/2021
Ep. 93: Living with Chronic Pain & Fibromyalgia with Casey Stanley
Today on the Chronically Healing Podcast we have Casey Stanley of A Unique Life. Casey takes us through her story with leaving her job and starting her business to help people. Casey lets us in on what her life is like living in chronic pain, but how she’s continuing to live her best life. I’m so grateful to Casey for being on the show and sharing her story! In today’s episode we chat about: Why she started A Unique Life after having to leave her job The importance of allowing those with chronic illness who NEED to work from home to work from home (especially when it’s easy to do) Why people with chronic and invisible illness aren’t treated the way that they should be and are compared to others without health issues (and how damaging that can be) Finding compassion for other’s situation that you may not understand Casey’s experience with fibromyalgia Links and think:
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Ep. 92: Naturopathic Medicine and the Importance of Incorporating Natural Medicine in your Healing Journey with Dr. Lori Bouchard
03/24/2021
Ep. 92: Naturopathic Medicine and the Importance of Incorporating Natural Medicine in your Healing Journey with Dr. Lori Bouchard
Today on the Chronically Healing Podcast I was fortunate enough to talk to naturopathic doctor, Dr. Lori Bouchard! Lori and I had such a great conversation about natural medicine and how to fit it into your healing team. During our conversation, I dove into my experiences with conventional medicine vs. naturopathic medicine and how it was able to help me move forward in my chronic illness. This episode is not a space for bashing any type of medicine, but instead a safe space to talk about the importance of having a multidimensional team. Natural medicine, testing and digging into the root cause of your chronic illness is essential in fully healing or just feeling better on the day to day. I’m passionate about finding a functional, integrative and/or naturopathic-trained doctor to see if you feel like you can’t make any headway with how you’re feeling. I’m so grateful for talking to Lori and learned so much… which I know you will, too! In today’s episode we chat about: What is naturopathic medicine and how does it differ from other medicine? Jessie’s personal experience with naturopathic medicine and how it’s helped her with Hashimoto’s and other chronic issues The importance of finding a doctor that will take the time to investigate what’s going on in your own personal experience and journey How Lori specialization in complicated conditions, cancer and those who can’t get answers The importance of asking the right questions with any practitioner you’re seeing How Lori’s mom influenced her to look into natural medicine and eventually make it her career There needs to be a culture change when it comes to our health to stop chronic illness and cancer Functional medicine testing and how Lori tests right away to see where to focus first How mental and emotional healing is crucial and the importance of having a purpose More about Lori’s book, “Live Longer & Stronger with Breast Cancer” and where you can get a free copy Links and think: More about Dr. Lori Bouchard: Dr. Lori Bouchard is an author, an entrepreneur, and licensed Naturopathic Doctor. Inspired by her mother’s vibrancy and knowledge in natural medicines, she knew from a young age she would enter the healthcare field. She completed her Degree in Health Science at Western University prior to completing her Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine, a four-year full-time program at the prestigious Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine in Toronto. She is the author of Live Longer and Stronger with Breast Cancer, endorsed by US Presidential candidate and 4 times NY Times best selling author Marianne Williamson. It is step-by-step guide to help women fight their cancer more effectively. She is the owner of Oakville’s most innovative naturopathic healing centre, Inside Health Clinic, which has been helping men and women reverse complicated diseases, such as Lyme, chronic fatigue, Hashimoto’s, and infertility, for over a decade. She is registered through the College of Naturopathic Doctors Ontario, as well as a member of the Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors (OAND), Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors (CAND), and the Oncology Association of Naturopathic Physicians.
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Ep. 91: How Can You Get Moving When Everything Hurts with Christopher Blakeslee
03/10/2021
Ep. 91: How Can You Get Moving When Everything Hurts with Christopher Blakeslee
Today on the Chronically Healing Podcast I have Christopher Blakeslee on the show! Christopher’s story is truly one you will not want to miss (promise I’m not just saying that!) Christopher has been dealing with chronic illness (interstitial cystitis, fibromyalgia, irritable bowel syndrome, occipital and trigeminal nerve irritation) and chronic pain for 24 years and when I say he’s been through the ringer, I mean it! During the episode, Christopher takes us through his struggle with chronic, excruciating pain and the different things he did to try to heal (or even just manage the pain during that time.) It’s hard to believe the person on the podcast was going through that much pain not that long ago. We talked about the different modalities, medications and failed attempts he had during his healing journey before he was finally able to find things that worked. Christopher is now a health coach and consultant, plus he’s writing a book with the doctor who helped him on his way. I can’t wait for you to hear this story, so listen in and let us know what you think! In today’s episode we chat about: Belinda's story and what brought her to Hawaiian healing Teaching under Tony Robbins and doing fire walks How to best talk to your body so you can heal and live your best life How do you start to change that pattern of speaking to yourself in a negative way Belinda's training in Hawaiian healing as well as her other teachings Hawaiian forgiveness process: "I'm sorry, I love you, I forgive you, Thank you" All about her book, "Find Your Friggen' Joy" and where she came up with the name Cleaning the plaque of your soul Links and things…
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Ep. 90 - SOLO EPISODE: Updates on the Podcast and My Health
03/03/2021
Ep. 90 - SOLO EPISODE: Updates on the Podcast and My Health
I’m back! Thank y’all for being so patient with me as I took some time off of the Chronically Healing Podcast. Quite honestly, I was seriously considering letting go of the podcast but I’m happy to say that after some time off and making a new schedule (I talk about this on the show!) I’m excited to be getting back into it! In today’s show, I let you in on the new podcast schedule, why I changed it up and asked you for any requests to hear from me on the show. I also talked a bunch about my own mental and physical health struggles and what my plan is moving forward. Links and things…
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Ep. 89 - My Lifestyle DNA Testing Results with with Dr. Lois Nahirney of dnaPower
01/27/2021
Ep. 89 - My Lifestyle DNA Testing Results with with Dr. Lois Nahirney of dnaPower
Today on the Chronically Healing Podcast I’m welcoming back Dr. Lois Nahirney to go through my lifestyle DNA test results LIVE! Lois has been on the show before (which you can listen to ) and she is the CEO of dnaPower and has seen results from getting her own DNA test results. dnaPower is a DNA testing company that helps you find out more about what is right for YOUR body and where you may need some help in the form of lifestyle changes, supplements, etc. I was a bit surprised by some of the “scary” things that popped up in my test results, but I also feel equipped to focus on some lifestyle changes that will keep me happy and healthy into my future. In today’s podcast, Lois takes me through my results live and explains what all of it means. I’ll have the podcast linked below, but I’ll also have a YouTube video to watch for all of you that want to see the actual results. In the YouTube video, Lois is showing you my exact test and explaining how it works. If you’re interested in getting your own DNA lifestyle testing, I highly recommend you watch the video! To try out dnaPower’s testing, head on over to and use coupon code ‘jessie’ for $50 off totalPower!
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Ep. 88 - Huna Healing & Finding Your Joy with Belinda Farrell
01/06/2021
Ep. 88 - Huna Healing & Finding Your Joy with Belinda Farrell
Today’s episode is all about Huna Healing and finding your joy with Belinda Farrell, author of the book “Find Your Friggin’ Joy.” Belinda is trained in hypnotherapy, past life regression, NLP, Hawaiian chanting and ancient Hawaiian healing (Huna). Belinda tells us about how she trained with Anthony Robbins and has effectively used these skills in her own life. When Belinda was forty-eight, she collapsed with herniated discs and spinal nerve damage. Threatened with paralysis by her medical doctors if she didn’t have surgery, Belinda instead chose to apply the ancient Hawaiian healing practices she had been learning the previous three years, which are covered in this book. Her back completely healed, including childhood scoliosis. For fifteen years she has been sharing these healing practices with others, offering Reconnective Healing and Huna classes and taking clients to Hawaii to teach Huna and swim with wild spinner dolphins. Today’s episode is a wonderful one and Belinda has an amazing story. Listen in! In today’s episode we chat about: Belinda's story and what brought her to Hawaiian healing Teaching under Tony Robbins and doing fire walks How to best talk to your body so you can heal and live your best life How do you start to change that pattern of speaking to yourself in a negative way Belinda's training in Hawaiian healing as well as her other teachings Hawaiian forgiveness process: "I'm sorry, I love you, I forgive you, Thank you" All about her book, "Find Your Friggen' Joy" and where she came up with the name Cleaning the plaque of your soul Links and things…
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