Words of Wellness with Shelly

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Want a simpler path through the wellness maze? Shelly opens up about two decades of testing “clean” products and shares the standouts that actually deliver: low-toxin skincare that feels good on your skin, safer scents that don’t hide mystery chemicals, and home essentials that make daily life easier without compromising your health. We also unpack the mindset behind better choices—clear standards, patient experimentation, and faith-grounded routines that keep you steady when marketing noise gets loud.

You’ll hear why a strong morning routine matters and how resources like the John Maxwe...

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What if the path out of overwhelm isn’t a 90-day overhaul but the smallest meaningful step you can repeat today? That simple pivot anchors a candid, energizing conversation with Lindsie Vizethann, a former ER nurse who now coaches women through PCOS with practical tools and real empathy. We trace her move from high-stress hospital shifts to building a gym community to guiding clients beyond symptom management, and we unpack the mindset shift that turns “start again Monday” into “start again now.”

Together we clarify what PCOS is and isn’t, why you no l...

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Want a longer life that actually feels good? We dive into the four pillars of longevity—nutrition, movement, sleep, and stress management—and show how a deeper sense of purpose can make healthy habits stick. With clear examples and simple routines, we cut through the noise to help you choose what matters: stable energy, stronger muscles, better mood, and real recovery.

First, we mention the importance of food, quality nutrition and then we move into movement, the importance of regular exercise,  strength, walking, and fitting in higher intensity workouts on a regul...

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What if balance isn’t a myth but a muscle you can build with small, faithful choices? We sit down with author and podcaster Vivian Cumins to unpack how a severe burnout became the unexpected path to restoration—and why perfectionism often hides in our most praised habits. From a childhood memory that seeded “never enough” to a life reoriented around faith, stewardship, and joy, Vivian shows how to step off the treadmill of constant striving without abandoning your ambition.

We explore her three pillars for a sustainable life: put God first in...

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A sudden goodbye can reset a life. Shelly opens up about the heartbreak of unexpectedly recently losing her beloved bonus dad and the hard truth that when health starts to change, even if there are mild challenges, our effort to see loved ones and spend time with them needs to be the priority. This is a conversation about presence over perfection—about carving out time for aging parents and elders, and finding gratitude that steadies you when the unexpected arrives.

Shelly shares practical ways to reduce regret before it starts—taking time...

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In this brief special episode, Shelly sits down for a cozy Thanksgiving chat with her husband Brad, and their scene‑stealing pup, Charlie, to reflect on the kind of traditions that they share as a family with their three children; cooking together, laughing often, and always choosing to love one another in addition to liking each other. Together, they share openly and honestly what they are grateful for and it always comes back to family time. The message always comes back to gratitude and how simple moments and spending time together helps a fa...

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The holidays can feel like a tug-of-war between joy and overload. We lean into a quieter, steadier approach by focusing on three small practices that change everything: choosing who gets our time, building a simple gratitude routine, and using an easy 4-4-4 breathing pattern to reset the nervous system. Instead of chasing big life changes, we show how tiny, repeatable actions can lower stress, improve mood, and make healthier decisions easier when schedules get tight and rooms get crowded.

We start by reframing time as a wellness choice. Intention means...

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The modern health crisis isn’t just about willpower or steps; it’s about an invisible web of toxicity, nutrient gaps, and stress that rewires how our bodies store fat and spend energy. We sit down with author and researcher Peter Greenlaw to map TDOS—Toxicity, Deficiency, Overweight, Stress—and show how these forces collide inside the liver and visceral fat, shaping metabolism, inflammation, and long-term risk.

Peter walks us through eye-opening research: microplastics in daily drinks, obesogens that mimic hormones, and the steep decline of nutrient density in common foods. Then we...

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Feeling stretched by parties, travel, and longer to-do lists? We dive into a simple plan to protect your energy and joy through the holidays by focusing on three anchors you can actually keep: steady sleep, balanced nutrition, and realistic movement. With warmth and practical detail, we map out how to turn noisy advice into a few daily promises that hold up when life gets busy.

We start with the sleep foundation—why seven to nine hours matters more right now, during these holiday months, not just for your body's repair but al...

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The highlight reel doesn’t show the cost. Eric Mark Fisher went from an eight-year run in professional baseball to producing films in Los Angeles, stacking wins that looked impressive from the outside. Underneath, surgeries, lawsuits, back pain, and volatile family dynamics collided with a relentless drive that had no brakes. Alcohol didn’t arrive as a stereotype; it crept in as “one more” and became a progressive escape until a terrifying psychotic break, a hospital wristband, and a vow in a quiet hotel room forced a different path.

We dig into wha...

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Ever notice how a once-trusted “natural” brand suddenly feels different? We open the hood on wellness marketing and show how to shop with clarity in a market full of green leaves, soft colors, and big promises. Shelly shares why brand buyouts can change what’s in your favorite juice or protein powder, how to spot red flags like sucralose and vague flavor blends, and a simple system you can use to verify claims without spending hours in the aisle.

We start with a quick reset on what really matters: ingredients over imager...

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What if training wasn’t about chasing a look, but about building a life you can’t wait to live? That’s the heartbeat of this conversation with Heather Flebbe—exercise physiologist, kinesiology professor, and owner of Fit Fix Studios—where we unpack how movement fuels confidence, clarity, and a longer, happier health span.

We start by reframing fitness as agency: the daily choice to move your body so you can say yes to opportunities. Heather breaks down the essentials of aging well—consistent movement, joint mobility that protects your freedom, and progress...

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Tired of wellness noise and quick fixes that don’t stick? Shelly brings the conversation back to a simple practice with outsized impact: gratitude. Not as a seasonal trend, but as a daily habit that steadies your mood, supports better sleep, and helps you carry hard days with more grace. We walk through practical ways to start—three to ten items in the morning, a brief reflection before bed, or a quick thank you during a run or walk—so the habit fits your life instead of becoming another chore.

Shelly draws...

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Ever feel buried under wellness advice that changes by the hour? We cut through the noise with a clear idea: consistency over time wins. I sit down with coach Brian Parana, joining us live from a sunlit Ohio park, to talk about building a family culture of movement, raising active kids, and keeping health simple enough to do on your busiest day. From after-dinner walks with a 130-pound Newfoundland to playground tag that turns into core memories, Brian shares how small rituals shape identity, confidence, and joy.

With practical advice, we...

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What if the biggest health gains don’t come from a new app or miracle plan, but from seeing our food system clearly and taking one small step at a time? Shelly shares why a proactive mindset beats quick fixes and how decades of teaching kinesiology led her to connect the dots between ultra-processed foods, pesticides, and the rise of chronic conditions showing up earlier in life.

She unpacks insights from documentaries like Fed Up and Breaking Big Food and explore how sugar, additives, and market incentives shape what lands in ou...

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What if the word “fragrance” on your favorite bottle hid a thousand invisible decisions about your health? We sit down with Savannah, the founder of Safe and Sound Soap, to unpack how deceptive marketing and ingredient overload led her to build a transparent, six-ingredient laundry detergent—and an expanding lineup of boosters, room sprays, magnesium oil, and car fresheners that skip parabens, phthalates, and mystery fillers.

The episode dives into the difference between “natural” and truly safer, how greenwashing confuses even careful shoppers, and why simple, shorter ingredient labels are most often best...

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What you do before the world wakes up can change how the whole day feels. We share a simple, flexible morning routine that includes a little sunlight, gratitude, journaling, and movement. Shelly shares how a few intentional choices—hydration and a light protein start, five minutes of fresh air, a short spiritual or reflective reading, and a quick strength or cardio block—can be  the best start to your day!

We talk about how language and the words you say to yourself affect your beliefs. Also, the benefit of stepping outside first...

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The most life-changing health advice often starts with more time, not more rules. We sit down with nurse practitioner Aly Johnston as she shares how her desire to spend more time with patients and more education in the area of weight management and hormone care led her to offering tele health care and a more personalized approach to her patients. Aly traces her path from family practice to a specialty in metabolic health, explaining why it is critical to be able to spend time with patients without any limitations. and how video visits...

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Ever feel like wellness advice is just noise? We cut through it with a grounded routine that actually fits a busy life—consistent sleep, protein-first mornings, daily movement you’ll look forward to, and simple meals that remove decision fatigue. Shelly shares her personal daily wellness routine:  seven to nine hours of sleep on a steady schedule, hydration with electrolytes right after waking, and a small but powerful shift—protein before coffee—to keep energy smooth and cravings in check.

From there we go to a daily run or walk, a few weekl...

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Sometimes life changes in an instant and forces us to STOP whether we want to or not! That is exactly what happened when our guest Selina Thomas had what she thought to be food poisoning, turn into a life threatening emergency. When her gallbladder went from normal to catastrophic overnight, everything she believed about wellness was tested! What followed was a lesson in listening to your body, trusting your people, and a very grateful heart. 

Selina shares the subtle warnings—upper abdominal pain that wrapped around her back, escalating nausea—and the m...

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Doubt has a way of getting loud right before a breakthrough. Today we go behind the scenes, of putting on a live event and building the Moms Who Flourish wellness event: the hours of preparation, the last‑minute checklists, the concern of missing a detail, all the while being most concerned about touching the hearts of moms and serving everyone in the room. As Moms Who Flourish was placed on Shelly's heart years ago as a vision, a dream, now she was seeing it unfolding right before her eyes.  "What does your dream lif...

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Health doesn’t have to be complicated—or loud. With a lot of noise when it comes to fitness, we reduce the fitness hype and emphasize what actually sticks: small, steady actions, smart coaching, and routines that fit a real-life calendar. Our guest, kinesiologist and veteran CrossFit athlete Tina Angelotti, opens up about training at a high level, reshaping her approach in her 50s, and why community and mentorship can accelerate progress at any age. If time, motivation, or info overload has been holding you back, you’ll leave with a simple blueprint you ca...

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Your cup needs filling first. It's not selfish—it's essential. This powerful message forms the foundation of Shelly's heartfelt discussion about Moms Who Flourish, a community born from her twin passions of motherhood and wellness.

Drawing from 26 years as a mother and over 40 years in the wellness industry, Shelly shares the evolution of her vision to create a safe, nurturing space where mothers can prioritize their health without guilt. She walks us through how a simple idea blossomed into coaching relationships, mentorship opportunities, and transformative live events bringing mothers together to le...

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From debilitating anxiety to profound joy—Julie Cyvonne never imagined mushrooms would transform her life. After losing her father at age six, Julie developed intense anxiety, depression, and control issues that followed her into adulthood. Despite becoming a successful attorney, she felt unfulfilled by a legal system that left everyone feeling worse than when they started.

Everything changed when Julie discovered the healing potential of psilocybin mushrooms. Not only did they help her overcome her own trauma, but they revealed her true calling: guiding other women through transformative psychedelic experiences. Today, sh...

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Some conversations transcend our regular wellness discussions, and today's reflection on national tragedy is one of those moments. When devastating events shake our communities, we're reminded that wellness extends beyond nutrition and exercise—it reaches into how we connect with one another as human beings.

Sharing my experience attending a local tribute and prayer vigil after recent national events, I was struck by a profound yet simple truth spoken that night: "We shouldn't be on one side or the other of anything. We should all be on the human side." Those wo...

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What if the greatest obstacle to your wellness isn't your diet, exercise routine, or stress management techniques, but rather the "shoulds" you've internalized throughout your life? In this illuminating conversation with author and coach Jessica Frew, we explore how reclaiming your decision-making power might be the most transformative wellness practice of all.

Jessica reveals a profound truth that many of us have never considered: from childhood, we're systematically taught not to trust ourselves. Those well-meaning reassurances of "it doesn't hurt that bad" or "you shouldn't feel that way" create a lifelong...

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Are you eating healthy but still feeling tired, foggy, or struggling with your health? You're not alone. The shocking truth is that our modern food supply has become nutritionally bankrupt, leaving even the most health-conscious eaters deficient in essential nutrients.

In this eye-opening episode, Shelly breaks down the fourth component of the TDOS syndrome affecting Americans' health - the critical deficiency in our nutrition. The statistics are staggering: iron levels in spinach have dropped 4,300% over decades, calcium in broccoli has declined 53%, and experts estimate you'd need to eat nine modern oranges...

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What makes your wellness story worth telling? It's not the drama or intensity of your experiences—it's the transformation you've undergone. In this enlightening conversation with storytelling coach Alex Street, we explore how our personal journeys toward better health and wellbeing create powerful narratives that can inspire others.

The episode begins with reflections on how our earliest wellness experiences shape us. I share how my teenage love for running provided not just physical benefits but mental clarity during turbulent years. Alex masterfully helps unpack this, revealing how fitness can help us fi...

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Have you ever wondered why so many weight loss attempts fail despite our best efforts? The answer might surprise you. 

Welcome to the third part of my special series on the TDoS syndrome—four critical factors undermining America's health. Today's focus: the obesity epidemic that's reshaping our nation's health landscape. With over 40% of adults and 20% of children now classified as overweight, we're facing a crisis that traditional approaches have failed to solve.

For years, we've been told weight management is simply about "calories in versus calories out." As a hea...

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What happens when women put everyone else's needs before their own for decades? Dr. Sienna Olson knows firsthand from working with busy women who wake up one day wondering what happened to their health, energy, and sense of self. 

From a deeply personal experience watching her mother suffer through mysterious illness while being dismissed by medical professionals, Dr. Olson forged a path that combines chiropractic medicine with metabolism and strength coaching. Her mission? Helping women understand their bodies and optimize their health even amid hectic schedules.

"The better you f...

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The silent epidemic affecting millions of Americans isn't making headlines, but it's hiding in plain sight in our homes, food, and personal care products. Welcome to a deep dive into the "T" component of the TDoS syndrome—Toxins—and how they're undermining our health despite our best wellness efforts.

Did you know the average woman is exposed to 167 chemicals daily just through skincare and makeup? Or that newborns arrive with approximately 200 chemicals already detected in their umbilical cord blood? Perhaps most alarming: of the estimated 80,000 chemicals in commercial use today, only abou...

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Ever glanced at a "sugar-free" label and wondered what's actually in it? In this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into the hidden dangers lurking in those seemingly innocent artificial sweeteners many of us consume daily without a second thought.

I was recently scrolling through social media when I came across a fitness professional casually recommending sugar-free sweeteners in coffee—advice that immediately raised red flags. This prompted me to share critical information about artificial sweeteners like sucralose that most people don't realize carry serious potential health risks. From cancer and gastrointestinal is...

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Ever feel like you're drowning in noise, unable to hear your own thoughts? Join me as I share powerful insights from my recent experience at the Powerhouse Women event, where being surrounded by purpose-driven women reaffirmed my mission to create supportive environments for moms seeking wellness and fulfillment.

What truly resonated was seeing mothers with three-month-old babies pursuing their dreams without waiting for "someday." These women embodied the truth that when a dream is placed on your heart, it's there for a reason. Their example reminds us all—regardless of gender or...

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What does it take to maintain your health without sacrificing precious family time? In this energizing conversation with Brian Parana, we uncover the delicate balance between personal wellness and family priorities that so many parents struggle with daily.

Brian, a father of four and veteran fitness professional with over 20 years in the industry, shares his journey from owning two gyms to developing his specialized approach helping busy professionals reclaim their health. His perspective is refreshingly honest: "Living life with family first, finding some sense of balance while still trying to prioritize...

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Stress isn't just a mental state—it's a powerful physiological force reshaping our health from the inside out. Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels throughout the body, triggering a cascade of harmful effects that manifest as stubborn belly fat, compromised immunity, metabolic slowdown, and even cellular damage.

What separates anxiety from stress? While anxiety often paralyzes us through exaggerated fear, appropriate levels of stress can sometimes motivate action. Yet our bodies respond identically whether we're experiencing "positive" stress (like planning a wedding) or negative stress (like financial troubles), flooding our systems with st...

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When Adia Nuno stepped away from her demanding network marketing business to focus on her family, she had no idea the void would be filled with overwhelming depression. Twenty years of unprocessed grief from losing her father as a teenager came flooding to the surface, leaving her contemplating suicide. Her unexpected lifeline? Country line dancing.

"It was like the healthiest drug you could ever have," Adia reveals as she shares how discovering country dance communities provided not just movement, but healing, purpose, and connection when she needed it most. From those...

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The final goodbye hits differently. After sending our first two children off to college, we thought the third time might be easier. But when it's your baby, your youngest, leaving the nest—that's when the reality of returning to a truly empty home takes on new meaning.

My journey taking our youngest son to college in Michigan revealed unexpected emotions, challenges, and ultimately, a surprising sense of peace. The summer baseball separation that preceded his college departure became an unexpected blessing—God's way of preparing my heart for the bigger transition ahea...

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Ever wondered why you react so strongly to certain triggers? Your brain might be carrying what therapist Jamie calls an "emotional backpack" – stored trauma that hasn't been properly processed. In this illuminating conversation, Jamie reveals how our brains respond to traumatic experiences and the cutting-edge therapies helping people heal.

As a licensed therapist specializing in trauma, Jamie brings clarity to the complex world of mental wellness. She explains that our brains have two distinct regions – the logical frontal lobe that helps us make conscious decisions, and the emotional back region where trau...

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Watching your child walk away into a college building marks one of parenting's most bittersweet milestones – a moment when pride and heartache occupy the same space. In this vulnerable episode, Shelly opens up about taking her middle son Cody to college in San Diego, continuing her series on college transitions and the empty nester journey.

Though geographically closer than her daughter's school in Oregon, the emotional landscape remained challenging. That profound feeling of returning to a home where your child's bedroom sits empty never quite gets easier. What struck her most po...

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What if the key to creating your dream life isn't fighting harder but finding alignment? In this illuminating conversation with manifestation expert Jamie Greenfield, we explore the fascinating intersection of neuroscience, self-concept, and energy work that creates real-world results.

Jamie shares her personal journey from feeling stuck in fight-or-flight mode to discovering the transformative power of manifestation. But this isn't about vision boards and wishful thinking. "I'm a science nerd," Jamie confesses, explaining how she was skeptical until she discovered the neurological evidence behind these practices. "When I understood the science...

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Leaving a child at college marks one of parenthood's most profound transitions – a milestone many approach with mixed emotions but few are truly prepared for. As Shelly shares, her heart still aches recalling the moment she pulled away from her daughter's college dorm nine years ago,  as tears flowed freely.

The 12-hour journey home from Oregon became a long ride of grief, with her husband, her son and herself cycling through waves of tears that would briefly subside only to begin anew. That raw, vulnerable experience – the physical ache of separation, the e...

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Motherhood often comes with an unspoken expectation that self-care is somehow selfish – a luxury that should take a backseat to the endless needs of family. In this refreshing conversation, high performance coach Brittany Anderson flips this narrative on its head, declaring that making space for ourselves isn't selfish but profoundly selfless.

"The more we're able to show up for us, the better we are able to show up for all the others that need us," Brittany explains, sharing how her own journey from teaching stroller fitness classes to competing in Ironman co...

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Ever experienced that exhausted, disoriented feeling after returning from vacation? That "vacation hangover" is exactly what Shelly is unpacking in this personal, practical episode of Words of Wellness. Fresh from a meaningful trip to Wisconsin watching her son play baseball, she shares the real strategies that help her maintain wellness while fully enjoying travel experiences.

The balance between vacation enjoyment and wellness maintenance doesn't have to be complicated. Her approach includes simple daily movement (walking is perfect!), bringing along key nutritional products to support immune health during travel, and managing sleep...

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Picture this: you've diligently saved for decades, your retirement account has grown impressively, but a nagging question keeps you up at night – "Will I have enough money for as long as I live?" Financial expert Olga Campbell addresses this universal concern head-on in our latest conversation, revealing how proper planning can transform anxiety into peace of mind.

Olga shares a powerful client story that demonstrates the life-changing impact of proactive financial planning. Her client had originally planned to retire at 67, but when both parents fell ill, she became their full-time caregiver, fo...

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Ever put off a medical screening because it just wasn't convenient? You're not alone. In this heartfelt episode, Shelly opens up about her recent colonoscopy experience that didn't go quite as planned. From the dreaded preparation solution to an unexpected severe reaction to anesthesia, she shares the uncomfortable reality of preventative screenings—and why they're absolutely worth it despite the discomfort.

This conversation takes on deeper meaning when she reveals her personal connection to colonoscopies: her father's tumor discovery during a routine screening just months before his passing. Though doctors successfully re...

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What if the key to breaking free from yo-yo dieting isn't another restrictive plan, but healing your relationship with food at its core? Laura Conley, founder of the Yummy Mummy Method and self-described "fun weight loss coach," shares her powerful journey from post-baby body struggles to discovering sustainable weight management that transformed not just her body, but her entire approach to life.

Standing naked after a shower with her six-week-old daughter cooing up at her, Laura experienced a powerful awakening: if she continued her unhealthy relationship with food and her body...

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Feeling overwhelmed by contradictory health advice? You're not alone. The wellness landscape is crowded with competing theories and trending diets, making it challenging to determine what your body truly needs.

This episode cuts through the noise to deliver fundamental nutritional wisdom, wrapping up our three-part series on the six essential nutrients your body requires daily. We explore the final three crucial components: vitamins, minerals, and water. Discover the difference between fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and water-soluble vitamins (B complex and C), including how they're absorbed, utilized, and excreted by...

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Can you make a dramatic career change while raising young children? What if you're missing those once-in-a-lifetime moments with your kids because of work? And why is it so hard for mothers to ask for help?

Stephania Weisz, host of the "Mom Powered Life" podcast, tackles these questions and more as she shares her compelling journey from registered nurse to real estate agent and health coach. The pivotal moment? Missing her daughter's first steps while working a night shift - a heartbreaking experience that sparked a complete reevaluation of her professional...

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Feeling confused by nutrition advice? You're not alone. In a world of conflicting information, sometimes we need to return to fundamental principles.

This episode dives deep into carbohydrates and fats – two essential macronutrients crucial for health that are often misunderstood. Shelly explains the difference between simple carbohydrates (quick energy sources like fruit juice) and complex carbohydrates (sustained energy from foods like whole grains). We explore why the recommended 40-65% of daily calories from carbohydrates makes sense physiologically, and why extreme low-carb approaches might not deliver sustainable results.

Most importantly, Sh...

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What happens when the medication you've relied on for decades becomes a prison? And what if the compulsive behaviors controlling your life could be addressed through something as fundamental as nutrition?

Marci Lorentz's story begins with a confession few people make publicly—for years, she compulsively cut her own hair, a condition called trichotillomania, until she had visible bald spots requiring wigs and extensions to conceal. This obsessive behavior became all-consuming, destroying her self-image and isolating her from others. Simultaneously, she depended on high-dose Adderall for 23 years, creating a chemical dependency fe...

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Wellness isn't complicated, but sometimes getting back to basics is exactly what we need. In this essential episode, Shelly dives deep into one of the most misunderstood macronutrients: protein. Drawing from over three decades as a health professional and educator, Shelly shares why current science has dramatically shifted our understanding of optimal protein intake.

You'll discover why the old recommendations fall short and how consuming approximately 0.8-1 gram of protein per pound of body weight daily can transform your wellness journey. This isn't just about building muscle—protein serves as the fu...

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What happens when we treat our health as non-negotiable? This question lies at the heart of the most recent Words of Wellness conversation with Rossie Ballard, holistic health coach and owner of a fitness studio, who believes firmly that "your health is your wealth, and if you're not okay, nothing's going to be okay."

Rossie's journey began unexpectedly at 14 when she was thrust into teaching a fitness class after the instructor didn't show up. Despite her shyness, something clicked—she found her confidence and passion. Fast forward to the pandemic, where sh...

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Emotions are rarely black and white, especially when it comes to significant occasions like Father's Day. Whether you're celebrating, grieving, or experiencing both simultaneously, this episode offers a heartfelt exploration of the complex emotional terrain many of us navigate during holidays and milestones.

Drawing from personal experience, Shelly shares how the seemingly contradictory feelings of profound sadness and deep gratitude can peacefully coexist when remembering loved ones who are no longer with us. This emotional duality isn't something to resist or feel confused by—it's a natural reflection of the depth of...

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What happens to fatherhood when children no longer need you for the basics of life? How do fathers navigate the emotional journey of becoming empty nesters? These essential questions take center stage in our heartfelt conversation with podcaster and father of three Rory Paquette.

Rory opens up about his profound health journey, surviving a collapsed lung and major thoracotomy surgery that became a wake-up call to reprioritize his life. This brush with mortality led him to launch his third purpose-driven podcast and reconsider what truly matters. His vulnerability in sharing both...

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Could that "healthy" sugar-free product actually be undermining your wellness goals? After discovering artificial sweeteners in a children's shake from a wellness company, Shelly embarked on a mission to uncover the truth about sucralose and other common toxins hiding in our everyday foods.

The facts about sucralose are alarming. This popular artificial sweetener disrupts gut health and the microbiome, potentially triggering digestive issues, immune dysfunction, and systemic inflammation. Paradoxically, while marketed to diabetics and those watching their weight, sucralose may negatively affect blood glucose and insulin levels. When heated, it breaks...

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Extra: Since we focused and honored Moms in the month of May, with Father's Day coming soon this month of June, we are honoring and talking about and with Dads. Enjoy:)

"An empty cup doesn't have anything left to fill other cups." 

This powerful metaphor opens a candid conversation between Shelly  and Nathaniel Hovsepian, founder of Fit Fatherhood, about the critical connection between personal wellness and effective parenting. Drawing from their combined decades of experience in health, wellness, and raising children, they explore how parents—particularly busy, career-driven dads—can pr...

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Have you been struggling with weight loss despite trying every diet under the sun? You're not alone, and it's not your fault. The conventional wisdom about weight loss has been fundamentally wrong.

For generations, we've been told that losing weight is a simple mathematical equation: burn more calories than you consume. But groundbreaking research now reveals this approach is not only ineffective but potentially harmful to your body. In this eye-opening episode, I share why traditional dieting approaches that focus on calorie restriction ultimately backfire, leading to weight regain and significant...

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Have you ever wondered if "normal" blood test results are truly optimal for your health? What if feeling "fine" is actually far from feeling your absolute best?

Dr. Ailina, a functional medicine practitioner with decades of experience, joins us to challenge conventional thinking about health markers and wellness. After completing medical school in 1995, her journey took an unexpected turn when two of her children were diagnosed with autism. Frustrated by the limitations of conventional medicine in addressing their conditions, she dove into functional medicine to find answers conventional approaches couldn't provide.<...

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Imagine planning your entire life around becoming a young grandmother, only to face infertility, pregnancy loss, and a complete redirection of your path. This is Debbie Simmons' powerful story—a journey from devastating heartbreak to extraordinary purpose.

After losing quadruplets born prematurely, Debbie faced the ultimate question: How do you move forward when your dreams are shattered? Through raw vulnerability, she shares how she learned to stop asking "why me?" and instead focus on two simple steps: breathe, and take the next best step. Some days, that meant simply getting out of...

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Have you ever wondered if that viral health tip you saw online is actually legitimate? The digital world is flooded with wellness advice, but distinguishing scientific fact from profitable fiction can be challenging. This episode dives into the crucial difference between true health experts and popular influencers who may lack scientific backing.

Drawing from her 35+ years as a wellness professional and college professor, Shelly shares insights on how to critically evaluate the health information bombarding us daily. We explore the concerning trend of social media personalities with massive followings dispensing wellness...

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Motherhood comes with its unique set of joys—and an often overwhelming sense of guilt many women silently carry. In this deeply personal conversation, coach Alysia Lyons shares her transformation from a guilt-ridden new mom who lost her marriage, career identity, and sense of self within months of becoming a mother to a woman who helps others navigate similar struggles.

"Time heals wounds as much as time bakes cookies. We need to add the heat," Alysia explains, capturing the essence of her approach to emotional healing. Rather than waiting for guilt to...

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What makes motherhood simultaneously the most challenging and rewarding journey a woman can experience? In this heartfelt Mother's Day special, Shelly reflects on the profound impact of motherhood and why it truly isn't "for the faint of heart."

Motherhood demands strength, determination, and dedication—qualities we aren't born with but develop through observation, experience, and for many, through faith. Whether you became a mother through birth, adoption, or step-parenting, the responsibility and joy that comes with nurturing young lives remains unparalleled. Drawing from her experience growing up with a single mom af...

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Could your feet hold the key to profound emotional and physical healing? In this eye-opening conversation with foot zone expert Maleah Gordon, we discover how this lesser-known but powerful modality connects the dots between our feet and our entire wellbeing.

Maleah shares her remarkable journey that began at age 15 with what she describes as a "life-saving foot zone experience" that transformed her path. Now with 12 years of expertise, she explains how every spot on your feet corresponds to places in your body through energetic meridians, allowing practitioners to identify imbalances that...

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The miracle of motherhood often comes with unexpected challenges that test our faith, resilience, and hope. In this heartfelt episode, Shelly opens up about her deeply personal journey to becoming a mother of three beautiful children—a path filled with medical scares, moments of profound uncertainty, and ultimately, extraordinary blessings.

Her story begins with the revelation that motherhood wasn't always my planned destiny. Unlike many women, she didn't grow up dreaming of future children or mapping out a family timeline. When she and her husband finally decided to start their family, th...

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What happens when the broken healthcare system fails both patients and providers? This powerful conversation with Esther Yunkin reveals the journey of an emergency room nurse who transformed her own thyroid diagnosis into a mission to help others heal naturally.

After 17 years in emergency medicine, Esther grew frustrated watching patients return repeatedly for conditions that could be addressed through lifestyle changes rather than temporary fixes. The turning point came during a particularly grueling shift when her body physically rejected food hours after consumption—a clear signal that her nervous system was in...

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Life moves so quickly, especially when raising a family. The wisdom in recognizing "these are moments we can't ever get back" forms the heartbeat of this deeply personal episode where Shelly shares about parenthood, being present, and finding joy in the stands of a baseball game. 

After 35+ years as a health and wellness professional, Shelly shares insights from her most cherished role: being a mom. For over two decades, baseball has woven itself into her family's story. Now, with her youngest playing for Michigan while her older son coaches for Northwestern, S...

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Have you ever wondered why some days you're bursting with motivation while others leave you feeling depleted? Miri, founder of The Women's Happiness Project, reveals how understanding your natural energy patterns through the lens of Chinese medicine's five element theory can transform your approach to wellness and self-care.

The conversation explores the revolutionary idea that wellness isn't about forcing yourself to follow rigid routines but rather tuning into what your body truly needs in each moment. Miri shares her personal journey from perfectionist all-or-nothing thinking—where only a 90-minute yoga session "co...

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Navigating the world of nutrition can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to protein—how much do you really need? Join Shelly as she dives deep into protein requirements and sharing why most people aren't getting nearly enough of this essential macronutrient.

The science is clear: your daily protein goal should match your body weight in grams. For a 180-pound person, that means aiming for 180 grams of protein daily. Drawing from Dr. Paul Arciero's groundbreaking research on protein pacing, Shelly explains why strategically spacing your protein throughout the day dramatically improves ab...

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What if your relationship with food is actually trying to tell you something about your emotional needs? In this captivating conversation with certified trauma-informed coach Jillian Scott, we uncover the profound connection between emotional hunger and our deeper psychological longings.

Jillian courageously shares her 12-year battle with binge eating and the revelation that changed everything: food was meeting emotional needs that weren't being fulfilled elsewhere in her life. With remarkable insight, she explains how dieting and restriction created a vicious cycle that made her binge eating worse, not better. "I was...

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Have you ever experienced those magical moments when life's seemingly random events suddenly reveal their hidden connections? That's exactly what happened during Shellt's recent trip to Eugene, Oregon where she traveled to watch her son play baseball.

Walking into the Valley River Inn brought a flood of memories—from an impromptu family stay fifteen years ago during a Thanksgiving road trip, to visits when her daughter attended the University of Oregon, to business events Shelly later hosted in the area. The realization that this place had been woven throughout her family st...

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Fatty liver disease is silently reaching epidemic proportions, now affecting roughly 25% of adults and alarmingly appearing in children. Shelly shares how her father's battle with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease opened her eyes to this often-overlooked condition that can be reversed if caught early but potentially fatal when ignored.

Unlike its alcohol-related counterpart, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease stems from lifestyle choices we make daily. The connection between this condition and other metabolic disorders like diabetes and obesity creates a perfect storm, putting millions at risk without their knowledge. When the Surgeon General...

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When Monika Eva found herself gaining weight and battling fatigue in her twenties despite eating clean and exercising regularly, her doctor dismissed her concerns and offered only birth control or antidepressants as solutions. That pivotal moment launched her into discovering the complex world of hormone health—and eventually becoming a hormone nutritionist who's helped thousands of women reclaim their vitality.

On this eye-opening episode, Monika reveals why so many women struggle with hormone-related symptoms that conventional medicine often misses. She explains how the current buzz around perimenopause has created both awareness an...

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Dr. Paul Arciero revolutionizes everything we thought we knew about protein consumption in this eye-opening conversation about optimal health and longevity. With over 70 peer-reviewed publications and three decades of scientific research, Dr. Arciero presents compelling evidence for his protein pacing strategy—a game-changing approach that could transform your health trajectory.

The science is clear: consuming high-quality protein sources (particularly those rich in essential amino acids) every four hours is fundamental to maintaining muscle mass, supporting brain function, and extending your healthy years. Dr. Arciero dismantles longstanding protein myths, revealing that our bo...

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Quality sleep might be the missing puzzle piece in your wellness journey. Even those who are getting the recommended seven to nine hours each night may still wake up feeling unrested if their sleep quality is poor. So what's the secret to truly restorative sleep?

Your body's natural circadian rhythm holds the key. Starting your day with morning sunlight exposure sends powerful signals to your brain that regulate energy and hormone levels throughout the day. As evening approaches, intentionally dimming lights and engaging in calming activities prepares your body for rest...

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What if everything you think you know about health and weight loss is wrong? Peter Greenlaw, known as "the researcher of researchers," reveals shocking truths about why our health is deteriorating despite our best efforts.

The alarming reality is that our bodies are under siege from what Greenlaw identified two decades ago as the TDoS Syndrome - Toxicity driven by nutritional Deficiency, causing Overweight and Stress. He was ridiculed for years until scientific validation finally arrived through seven groundbreaking peer-reviewed human trial studies. Now the evidence is irrefutable.

Modern...

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Are you ready to travel without compromising your health? Join Shelly as she explores the best strategies to maintain your wellness journey while on the go. From staying hydrated to packing nutritious snacks, these five simple tips will help you stay on track with your wellness goals no matter where your travels take you.

Discover the importance of hydration, especially when navigating through different time zones or busy airport terminals. Shelly also shares how packing healthy snacks can save you from unhealthy impulse buys and set you up for sustained energy.  Duration: 00:20:00

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Transforming your health isn’t just a dream; it's entirely achievable with the right information and taking the most effective action! On this enlightening episode of Words of Wellness, Shelly's guest, Dr. Paul Arciero, who is an esteemed expert in nutrition and health optimization with decades of research experience and over 70 published articles, shares his expertise and proven science that backs up the importance of nutrition and a specific routine when it comes to our exercise. Dive deep into the crisis of sedentary living and how our environment has shaped our health choices.  Duration: 00:51:10

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Join us for a compelling conversation on Words of Wellness, where we unravel the profound impact of self-love and emotional well-being with the insightful Rhonda Morales, a seasoned mental health therapist. Explore the transformative journey of embracing self-love and breaking free from the constraints of early conditioning in emotionally dysfunctional environments. Rhonda's journey from such a background to becoming a guiding light in mental health provides real-life inspiration for anyone looking to foster healthier emotional and relational connections.

The discussion highlights the critical role of community and personal development, especially in...

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Empower your wellness journey with insights each week on Words of Wellness! This week is especially focused on mothers navigating the complexities of modern life. Shelly offers a recap of her most recent inspiring "Moms who Flourish" wellness event, a community growing in support and dedication to the well-being of mothers. From reducing exposure to everyday toxins to healthier social media habits, there are various strategies shared that can transform daily choices and foster a more mindful lifestyle. With our upcoming mentorship program on the horizon, there's an opportunity to connect with fellow...

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Uncover the inspiring journey of Dr. Harleen Grewal, a fearless entrepreneur who proves that with determination and strategic thinking, the sky's the limit. From her disciplined upbringing in England and India to her bold leap to America with only $5,000, Dr. Grewal exemplifies persistence in the face of obstacles. As a board-certified pediatric dentist and the owner of both a dental practice and a med spa, her story is a testament to embracing challenges and transforming them into opportunities. Learn how she turned a struggling dental office into a thriving business, highlighting the importance...

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Discover the transformative journey of Dr. Manessa Shaw, a trailblazer in the world of holistic medicine and the visionary founder of Rooted Integrative Medical Clinic. Dr. Shaw takes us through her evolution from a traditional healthcare setting to establishing a practice that emphasizes personalized and meaningful patient care. Learn how her passion for holistic wellness has allowed her to reconnect with the true essence of medicine, moving away from the constraints of corporate healthcare to focus on empowering patients with knowledge and active involvement in their own health journeys.

Shelly and...

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Have you ever found yourself balancing a thriving business alongside a bustling family life, and every day feels like a whirlwind? That's exactly where our inspiring guest Dr. Patti Gonzalez found herself. A retired chiropractor turned health concierge, Patti made the decision to leave her chiropractic practice to pursue entrepreneurship with the goal of being home more often while also mastering the art of being a present mom and successful entrepreneur. Patti shares changes she made through her professional career to be more present and available for her daughter, while also pursing her...

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What if you could vastly improve your health by simply understanding the toxins in your environment? Join Shelly as she unlocks the secrets to holistic well-being with the wisdom of Drs. Glenn and Ina Nozek. With decades of experience in chiropractic care and clinical nutrition, the Nozeks reveal their passion for detoxification and how reducing toxic loads can lead to transformative wellness. Together, they explore the fundamental importance of detox protocols amidst our increasingly toxin-filled world, where even our natural detoxification abilities need a helping hand.

The Nozek's and Shelly discuss...

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Discover the secrets to revitalizing your health routine with timeless wisdom that cuts through the clutter of modern wellness fads. Join Shelly as she draws from over three decades in the wellness industry to help you refocus on the essentials of fitness and nutrition. In this episode, we explore the foundational elements of a healthy lifestyle, from incorporating consistent movement and strength training into your daily routine to understanding the crucial role of restorative sleep. These insights are not just reminders but necessary tools to ensure you're on track for a vibrant and...

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After a year of transformative conversations, the Words of Wellness podcast kicks off the New Year and marks its anniversary with a heartfelt reunion. Andrea Crisp returns as a guest, sharing her year-long journey from focusing on vanity to embracing genuine self-care and self-love. Together, Shelly and Andrea unravel the complexities of wellness, discussing its deeper facets beyond physical appearances and highlighting the need for nurturing our inner selves. Andrea’s journey is one of rediscovering balance and shares that showing self-compassion plays a crucial role in our health journeys.

As we...

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As the holiday season approaches, the significance of wellness and family traditions comes to the forefront. In this special anniversary episode of "Words of Wellness," host Shelly Jefferis focuses on cherishing quality time with loved ones, particularly during the holidays. With over 35 years in the health and wellness industry, Shelly's insights offer a fresh perspective on how to navigate the festive season while prioritizing well-being and meaningful connections.

Shelly emphasizes that the holidays are a time to focus on the quality of interactions rather than the quantity. As families grow and...

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Unlock the secrets to understanding and managing anxiety with our guest, Elizabeth Scarcella, a pioneer in bringing a holistic approach to mental health. Elizabeth dives into the depths of anxiety beyond the surface-level symptoms, emphasizing the importance of uncovering its root causes. Through her unique blend of neuroscience, hormone balancing, and faith, she guides us to view anxiety as a natural and treatable condition without stigma. By listening, you'll discover how to embrace anxiety symptoms as signals for deeper healing, highlighting the importance of personalized care and moving away from relying solely on...

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Dr. Suresh, a distinguished lifestyle physician from Brisbane, Australia, joins us to reveal the transformative power of preventative care. Discover the Primal Fusion Diet and its potential to revolutionize how we approach chronic diseases, as Dr. Suresh recounts his inspiring journey from the NHS in the UK to a more fulfilling practice Down Under. His firsthand experiences shed light on the systemic pressures of medication-driven healthcare and the urgent need for a shift towards holistic wellness, offering listeners a fresh perspective on managing health.

We dive into the nuances of patient...

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Ever wondered why some men avoid the doctor's office like the plague? Our guest, Rory, Paquette, a fellow podcaster, opens up about his personal health scare and the common reluctance among men to prioritize medical checkups. His candid story is a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing symptoms early and not relying solely on holistic practices. Rory's experience is a testament to the life-changing impact of regular health screenings and the crucial role they play in safeguarding our well-being.

Join us as we explore Rory's transformative journey and the hurdles...

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What if you could navigate the unpredictable waves of menopause with confidence and grace? Join Shelly as she chats with Karen Cerezo, a nationally board-certified health coach who knows a thing or two about supporting women through midlife transitions. Karen's inspiring journey from teacher to wellness advocate shines a light on her passion for empowering midlife women, a group often overlooked in conventional fitness environments. Together, they explore her holistic approach to health and wellness, emphasizing the importance of creating inclusive spaces that cater to women beyond the high-intensity realm of younger-focused fitness.<...

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Retired chiropractor turned health concierge, Dr. Patti Gonzalez, joins us to share her inspiring journey from a bustling chiropractic practice to a more holistic wellness approach. Driven by the desire to spend more time with her daughter, Dr. Patti reveals the joys and struggles of balancing a demanding career with family life. Her story is a profound reminder that returning to our health's essence is vital. Together, Shelly and Dr. Patti uncover how focusing on nutrition, supplementation, and comprehensive health coaching can transform one's well-being.

Have you ever wondered how parasites...

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Discover the hidden culprits hindering your weight loss journey and learn how to effectively combat them. Join me, Shelly as she unravels the pervasive influence of obesogens and toxins on our health. With over 35 years of experience in health and wellness, Shelly shares her personal transformation through cellular cleansing and intermittent fasting, revealing how these methods have amplified her energy, mental clarity, and overall well-being. Prepare to be informed about the unregulated chemicals lurking in our food, water, and personal care products, and understand how to protect yourself from these silent saboteurs.
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Feeling overwhelmed by the constant juggle between career, family, and personal well-being? Meet our guest, Relle Dixon, a dynamic working mom has found a way to balance it all, even while navigating a high-performance lifestyle inspired by mentors like Brendan Burchard and Ed Mylett. Join us as she shares her fascinating journey into wellness coaching with the Faster Way to Fat Loss program, sparked by a passion for health that began in her high school days. Together, we discuss how one healthy habit at a time can transform your life, making wellness both...

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From facing unimaginable challenges to finding a path of resilience and faith, Kelci Jager's story is one of hope and inspiration. Join us as we explore her journey, which began with a move from Southern California to Florida in 2020 and quickly turned into a series of life-altering experiences. A car accident involving her two eldest sons and a shocking medical diagnosis for their oldest set the stage for a tumultuous few years. Kelsey's world was further rocked in 2021 when her husband, Colin, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Despite his courageous battle, Colin...

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Discover how nurturing social connections could be the key to a healthier, happier life. As modern life becomes increasingly complex, it's essential to maintain those bonds that invigorate us. This episode of Words of Wellness is a solo endeavor where Shelly focuses on the importance of an often overlooked aspect of wellness; social wellness. In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we often overlook the power of community. Together, we will unravel the significance of belonging to various groups, whether it's family, friends, business circles, or recreational communities, and the pivotal role...

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Lisa's journey is nothing short of remarkable. As a breast cancer survivor, former midwife, and current advocate for women's health, Lisa offers a wealth of insights and experiences that are both inspiring and educational. Her transition from the tech industry to becoming an embodied leadership coach and founder of the nonprofit For the Love of Cups showcases her dedication to empowering women. Listen as Lisa shares how her background in supporting women through childbirth equipped her with invaluable skills that later guided her through her own health challenges.

Breast cancer screening...

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After years of nurturing her passion for health and wellness, Shelly, host of Words of Wellness, shares an inspiring journey of dedication and empowerment. She shares the importance of following one's heart, any signs that are placed there, are there for a reason. Through dedication and obedience, Shelly created a heartwarming wellness event for moms, Moms Who Flourish, where diverse aspects of well-being were explored with the purpose of educating, inspiring and empowering moms to put their health and self-care as a priority. From financial health to reducing toxic exposure, Shelly and all...

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Join us in this eye-opening episode of Words of Wellness as we welcome Colette Brown, a personal wellness advocate and creator of the non-inflammatory snack line, Love Colette. Colette shares her incredible transformation journey from struggling with chronic health issues like arthritis and brain fog to discovering holistic solutions that changed her life. Growing up as the eldest of nine on a farm, Colette faced frequent illnesses and sought answers beyond traditional medicine, eventually becoming a certified holistic practitioner and esthetician. Her resilience and dedication to helping others achieve wellness shine through her...

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In this latest episode of "Words of Wellness," Shelly welcomes Christine Santos, a seasoned entrepreneur who began her journey with over 30 years in the corporate world who now owns and operates a Boutique Podcast Production Company. Christine and Shelly come together to share their personal experiences as new empty nesters.  

As parents, saying goodbye to our kids as they head off to college can be unexpectedly emotional. Christine and Shelly open up about their personal experiences navigating the empty nest transition. From the surprising triggers of sadness during routine shopping trips t...

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Losing a loved one is never easy, but what if there were ways to find solace and inspiration amidst the pain? As the anniversary of my mom's passing is approaching, join me, as I share the personal story of my mother’s unexpected cancer diagnosis, her vibrant life, and the emotional journey of caring for her and spending time with her during her final months. 

This heartfelt episode also explores the delicate balance of family responsibilities and the heartbreak of watching a loved one decline. I recount the cherished moments, including the...