Wake Up and Read the Labels!

Can a chip company actually make a difference in your health—and in the world? Sarah Tanus, founder of Tatemada, thinks so. In this episode, she shares how she built a clean-label snack brand rooted in tradition, purpose, and real ingredients. From nixtamalization to avoiding inflammatory oils, Sarah explains how her chips and salsas deliver bold flavor without compromise—and why consumers should care about what goes into their favorite snacks.Key Takeaways:Tatemada chips are oven-baked, never fried in seed or inflammatory oilsMade from whole nixtamalized corn, not processed corn flour or fillersNo preservatives or artificial ingredients — just real, recognizable foodThe nixtamalization process enhances flavor, nutrition, and digestionSalsas contain 5 ingredients or less, like tomatoes, peppers, garlic, and pink saltOnly use non-GMO citric acid when needed to maintain safe pHWoman-owned and B Corp certified, with a mission to support rural women farmersAvailable at Sprouts, Whole Foods (Southwest), select Costco locations, and more🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:Tatemada – chips, tostadas, and salsas made with clean ingredientsUse Code “TatemadaReadsTheLabels” for 20% off when ordering on their websiteDisclaimer:The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.Jen’s Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX 

Can your blender really transform your health? Best-selling author and blending expert Tess Masters—aka The Blender Girl—joins Jen to share how one powerful kitchen tool can unlock better digestion, tastier veggies, and hormone balance. From ditching dairy to smoothie wow-factors and menopause transformations, Tess unpacks the small daily habits that create big results.With over 30,000 women supported through her programs, Tess offers practical strategies for joyful eating, strategic nutrition, and gut-first wellness—no extremes required.Key Takeaways:Why plastic vs. glass blenders matter more than you thinkSmoothie “wow factor” tips: lemon zest, red bell pepper, and even red onionExtreme dieting vs. strategic eating—why under-eating may be sabotaging your healthThe #1 key to thriving in menopause: gut healthHow to make veggies craveable using bold sauces and blender-made dressingsMindful living defined: “Paying attention without judgment”One clean swap to make this week: cut back on non-nutritive sweeteners and sugar-free products🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:More Tess MastersMore The Blender GirlTess Masters on InstagramDisclaimer:The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.Jen’s Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX 

Show Notes: Anxiety isn’t always just a mental issue—it can start in your gut. In this eye-opening episode, Jen sits down with Dr. Nicole Cain, a naturopathic doctor and clinical psychologist, to explore how food, trauma, and environmental toxins play a hidden role in anxiety, panic attacks, and brain fog. Dr. Cain breaks down the science behind the gut-brain connection, explains why your symptoms are signals—not problems—and shares simple ways to reclaim your health, naturally.Key Takeaways:Your anxiety isn’t the problem—it’s your body’s way of communicating what needs healing.The gut microbiome plays a major role in anxiety, and it’s inherited through generations.Every bite you eat changes your gut bacteria, for better or worse.Hidden ingredients like dyes, additives, and artificial sweeteners can fuel anxiety.Childhood gut health shapes adult brain function—what your kids eat matters.Overstimulation from phones and screens can mimic the symptoms of a panic attackPractical tip: Sleep with your phone out of the room and use a real alarm clock.The 3-Minute Hack: Dr. Cain’s simple method for rewiring anxiety through body awareness.Clean eating = clear thinking—use tools like Read the Labels and EWG to spot toxic ingredients.🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:Grab Dr. Nicole Cain’s bookTake the free anxiety quizFollow Dr. Nicole Cain on InstagramDisclaimer:The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.Jen’s Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX 

Think all tea is healthy? Think again. In this episode, Jen Smiley sits down with Stephanie Wakefield from Your Tea to expose the truth behind trendy detox teas and why traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) blends are different. From digestive support to fertility breakthroughs, Stephanie shares how Your Tea’s herbal formulas address root causes—without the gimmicks, sugar, or harsh laxatives. If you’ve ever sipped a “detox tea” and wondered why you still feel bloated or burnt out, this one’s for you.Key Takeaways:Most detox teas use senna leaf, a harsh laxative that can harm your body when overusedYour Tea blends use traditional Chinese herbs, formulated to target root causes, not just symptoms“Phlegm and damp” in Chinese medicine refers to digestive buildup—often mistaken for weight gainPeppermint tea can worsen bloating, especially for those with cold digestionFennel and licorice are better choices for digestive support and hormonal harmonyChinese herbs can work on an energetic level, improving sleep, emotions, and digestion over timeLow energy has multiple causes—Your Tea offers different blends for adrenal fatigue vs. gut fatigueYour Tea has helped many women conceive naturally, thanks to its fertility-focused blendsCommon store-bought teas often contain chemical additives, synthetic flavors, and pesticide residueYour Tea’s herbs are grown in the Fujian province, meeting strict international safety standards🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:YourTea.com — Use code TCM15 for 15% off (excludes bundles)Follow Your Tea on InstagramExplore TCM education Disclaimer:The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.Jen’s Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX

Show Notes: Most detox programs promise results in 3, 7, or maybe 21 days—but Troy Casey has been detoxing for 35 years. In this episode, Jen sits down with the Certified Health Nut himself to explore what it really takes to maintain long-term wellness in a toxic world. From dry fasting and parasite cleanses to rebuilding gut health and boosting testosterone naturally, Troy shares his unconventional (and highly effective) protocols to raise your body’s vibration, avoid chronic illness, and reclaim your health at any age.Key Takeaways:Detox isn’t a quick fix—it’s a lifestyle built around seasons, intuition, and personal testingFasting means more than food—it can be digital, dry, juice-based, or herbalParasites are everywhere—but you can stop being a host by strengthening your bodyMost people’s guts are inflamed—due to processed food, antibiotics, and toxic exposuresClean food = clean skin, clean hormones, and real energyWalking, tai chi, and sleep are more powerful than high-intensity workouts for manyNatural testosterone boosters include going to bed by 10pm, detoxing, and eliminating seed oilsRecovery and nervous system regulation are essential, especially as we ageThe food supply is broken—but there are still ways to eat clean and support ethical brandsYou can’t outsource healing—your mirror and your mindset are your best health trackers🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:Troy Casey’s Website Follow Troy Casey on InstagramTroy Casey’s Free Detox GuideDisclaimer:The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.Jen’s Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX 

Show Notes: You’re doing “everything right”—eating clean, working out, and taking supplements—but you still feel tired, inflamed, or bloated. Sound familiar? In this episode, Jen is joined by Erin Holt, a functional nutritionist and founder of the Functional Nutrition Academy. Erin shares the hidden reasons your body might be fighting back, even when your habits look healthy on paper. From trauma and stress to restrictive eating and the nervous system, this conversation reveals what wellness routines often leave out—and how to truly heal from the inside out.Key Takeaways:Clean eating isn’t always enough—stress and trauma matter tooYour nervous system directly impacts digestion, hormones, and inflammationOver-supplementing or under-eating can keep you stuck in “healing mode”Functional labs are helpful, but context and coaching are keyErin’s Functional Nutrition Academy teaches practitioners a full-body approach to healingGut health, hormone balance, and metabolism are all connected through nervous system functionYou’re not broken—your body’s just asking for something different🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:Erin Holt’s Website Follow Erin Holt on InstagramErin Holt's PodcastDisclaimer:The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.Jen’s Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX 

Most of us think our homes are safe—but what if your bed, your humidifier, or even your receipts are making you sick? In this episode, Jen talks with Dr. Tania Elliott, a dual board-certified physician in internal medicine and allergy & immunology, about the surprising ways everyday habits and home environments may be harming your health. From dust mites and mold to hormone-disrupting toxins, Dr. Tania shares powerful insights and practical fixes—without the fear-mongering.Key Takeaways:Don’t make your bed right away—it traps dust mites and moistureAvoid going to bed with wet hair—it can lead to mold and dandruffYour humidifier may be making you sick—clean it or switch to a dehumidifierFreezer trick for stuffed animals—kills dust mites and bacteriaAllergy meds vs. immunotherapy—why the long-term fix may be worth itHealthcare isn’t health-focused—Dr. Tania breaks down the broken systemTop labs to request—Ferritin, B12, and thyroid for women’s healthHer new Healthy Home Guide walks through room-by-room changes with science-backed advice🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:Dr. Tania Elliott’s WebsiteFollow Dr. Tania on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Dr. Tania’s SubstackDisclaimer:The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.Jen’s Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabelsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX

Everyone’s asking: What should I stop eating in 2025? Jen breaks it all down with five sneaky "health" foods that are secretly spiking your inflammation, disrupting your gut, and keeping you tired and bloated. From sparkling water to yogurt and bread, she reveals what to ditch—and what to swap in instead—for more energy and less confusion at the grocery store.Key Takeaways:LaCroix and other flavored sparkling waters may contain PFAS—“forever chemicals” that mess with hormones, thyroid, and immune health.Nut Pods and other “plant-based” creamers use synthetic emulsifiers like dipotassium phosphate, which inflame your gut and drive cravings.Veggie sticks are mostly seed oils and additives, not vegetables. Swap them for clean brands like Lesser Evil, Siete, or Tatamata.Chobani and most conventional yogurts contain milk from GMO-fed cows and pasteurized probiotics. Try coconut-based yogurts like Kalina or Coconut Cult instead.Dave’s Killer Bread is ultra-processed and loaded with omega-6s and gluten. Jen recommends Pasha Bread (with code “WAKEUP” for 20% off) as a clean, fermented alternative.Disclaimer:The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.Jen’s Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX 

After nearly 15 years as an executive and talent scout for four NBA franchises, Jared Ralsky looked like he had it all. But behind the scenes, he was struggling with anxiety, inflammation, and feeling “skinny-fat.” In this episode, Jared joins Jen Smiley to share how clean eating, ancestral health, and learning to read labels transformed his life. From boardrooms to infrared saunas, Jared’s story proves that peak performance starts with what’s on your plate—and what you believe about your body.Key Takeaways:Jared worked in the NBA for nearly 15 years before becoming a certified health coachAncestral health helped him reduce anxiety and body fat while increasing energyClean eating isn’t about giving things up—it’s about choosing better ingredientsYou can’t solve health with a pill—environment and food are foundationalEven “healthy” foods and labels can be misleading without the right knowledge🔗 Follow Jared: Instagram & LinkedIn🌐 Learn more about Jared’s mission: The Health GOATDisclaimer:The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.Jen’s Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX 

You’ve cleaned up your diet, ditched the seed oils, and started reading labels—but you still wake up feeling puffy, tired, and inflamed. What gives? In this solo episode, Jen Smiley breaks down one of the most overlooked tools for detox and inflammation: infrared saunas. She explains how they work (spoiler: it's not like the steam room at the gym), why they’re a game-changer for your lymphatic system, and how to get started without breaking the bank. Plus, Jen shares her personal routine and the brand she trusts in her own home.Key Takeaways:Infrared saunas reduce inflammation by penetrating deeper than traditional heat or steamYou sweat out toxins—not just water (think: plastics, heavy metals, and more)Infrared light boosts mitochondrial function for more natural energyPuffiness and bloating could be signs your lymphatic system needs supportYou don’t need to spend $10K—start with local sessions or a sauna blanketJen’s go-to sauna brand? Sunlighten, with a discount code linked belowHydrate, rinse, repeat: how to make the most of your sweat session🔗 Follow Kyle: Instagram & TikTok🎧 Listen to more Kyle: Clean Kitchen Podcast🌐 Learn more about Kyle’s mission: Clean Kitchen NutritionDisclaimer:The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.Jen’s Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribeApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX