100 | Making Sustainable Health Changes with Derek Alessi

In this episode with Dr. Mark Sherwood, a seasoned functional medicine practitioner and co-founder of the Functional Medical Institute in Tulsa, we chat about why your health issues may be self-imposed and how knowing that can bring you hope. If you want to learn more about holistic health, the impact of lifestyle choices, and the true meaning of stress you’ll love this. He offers practical advice for busy parents and individuals looking to reclaim ownership of their health beyond pharmaceuticals and quick fixes.Main Points:Early onset perimenopause and low testosterone are rising, linked to stress, environmental toxins, and poor diet.Traditional medicine often focuses on symptom management rather than root causes; Dr. Mark emphasizes thorough listening and personalized care.Functional medicine approach includes exhaustive testing—blood, genetic, stool, and micronutrient—to develop tailored health plans.Stress is reframed as an action (a verb) we control, not a fixed condition, empowering individuals to manage their responses.Self-imposed, choice-driven lifestyle factors (poor diet, unresolved emotions like fear and resentment) account for over 90% of chronic disease patterns.Healthcare system or reactive “sick care”? How to take personal responsibility in health and wellness.Practical lifestyle habits include prayer/meditation, movement, clean eating focused on whole foods, and maintaining balanced relationships.The importance of teaching children healthy habits early and modeling stress management and good nutrition.Virtual and in-person care options available, with monthly free webinars educating anyone interested in functional health.Connect with Dr. Mark SherwoodWebsite: https://sherwood.tv/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drs_mark_and_michele_/Website for searching pharmaceutical caused deficiencies: https://mytavin.com/Free Ebook: Health, Hope, Freedom: http://fmidr.com/hhfPlease take 1 minute to show your support!  Apple Podcasts: Sign in and scroll to the bottom to review!https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-wellness-podcast/id1651051841Spotify: Leave a rating and follow the show! (Click on the 3 dots.) https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melisha-meredithYouTube: Subscribehttps://www.youtube.com/@DailyWellnessCommunity-podcastConnect with Melisha and the Daily Wellness Communityinstagram.com/dailywellnesscommunity/facebook.com/dailywellnesscommunityWebsite: dailywellnesscommunity.comEmail us at: [email protected] products I mention may be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through one of my links. Our family greatly appreciates your support, it helps us keep creating the free resources we make for you all!DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Curious how your nervous system affects your fertility? In this episode of the Daily Wellness Podcast, I sit down with Monica, founder of Finding Fertility, to explore the complex journey of fertility struggles from a holistic perspective. Monica shares her personal story of overcoming infertility through intuition, lifestyle changes, and functional medicine, emphasizing the crucial role of gut health, emotional healing, and self-empowerment. Whether you’re navigating your own fertility challenges or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers hope, practical advice, and encouragement.Main Points:Monica’s personal fertility journey, including challenges with IVF and discovering the root causes of her infertility.The importance of gut health as a foundational element impacting cellular health and fertility.How emotional and energetic healing complement physical health in overcoming fertility issues.The role of intuition and radical honesty in navigating medical advice and personal health decisions.Common misconceptions in the medical system regarding fertility and age.The impact of chronic stress and the nervous system on reproductive health.Encouragement to give yourself grace and trust in your personal timing when dealing with fertility struggles.The need for women to be empowered in their health journey and to question the narratives that don’t serve them.Practical advice on mindset shifts, mindset work, and re-evaluating health approaches over time.The connection between parental health and children’s well-being, emphasizing generational healing.Connect with Monica CoxWebsite: https://www.findingfertility.co/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@findingfertilityInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/findingfertility/Book we mentioned: Is Your Body Baby Friendly - https://amzn.to/44ql8quHEAL HISTAMINE INTOLERANCE COURSE - 20% off code: HISTAMINE20https://groundedapproach.freshlearn.com/checkout/Course/29726?_ref=1037819Please take 1 minute to show your support!  Apple Podcasts: Sign in and scroll to the bottom to review!https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-wellness-podcast/id1651051841Spotify: Leave a rating and follow the show! (Click on the 3 dots.) https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melisha-meredithYouTube: Subscribehttps://www.youtube.com/@DailyWellnessCommunity-podcastConnect with Melisha and the Daily Wellness CommunityOn https://www.instagram.com/dailywellnesscommunity/On  https://www.facebook.com/dailywellnesscommunityWebsite: https://www.dailywellnesscommunity.comEmail us at: [email protected] products I mention may be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through one of my links. Our family greatly appreciates your support, it helps us keep creating the free resources we make for you all!DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Are you a believer seeking to integrate your faith with your health journey? In this episode, I talk with Matthew, a Christian health coach passionate about helping the Church embrace holistic wellness as an act of stewardship and worship. From his personal story of transformation to practical advice on balancing health with faith, Matthew offers a biblically grounded perspective on why taking care of our bodies matters deeply in our walk with Christ and our service to others.Main Points:Matthew’s journey from a troubled youth to a committed follower of Christ and fitness coach.The pivotal role a life-altering car accident played in awakening his faith and purpose.Understanding the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit and the call to steward it responsibly.How health and fitness serve as forms of worship when centered on God rather than self-image.The importance of keeping health pursuits from becoming idols by anchoring them in faith.Biblical foundations supporting health stewardship, including nutrition and physical discipline.The church’s vital role in promoting health and wellness, not just after sickness but through preventive care.Practical ways to initiate health-focused conversations and ministries within church communities.Strategies for approaching loved ones with love and accountability about their health journeys.Encouragement for believers to start small, share their experiences, and disciple others in holistic wellness.Connect with Matthew GayWebsite: https://www.fitchurchunited.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fitchurchunited/Join Kingdom Fit Academy: https://joinkingdomfit.com/offerMatthew’s book: https://amzn.to/4e1bkqaHEAL HISTAMINE INTOLERANCE COURSE - 20% off code: HISTAMINE20https://groundedapproach.freshlearn.com/checkout/Course/29726?_ref=1037819Please take 1 minute to show your support!  Leave a rating/review on Apple. (Sign in and scroll to the bottom)https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-wellness-podcast/id1651051841Leave a rating and follow the show on Spotify. (Click on the 3 dots.) https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melisha-meredithSubscribe on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DailyWellnessCommunity-podcastConnect with Melisha and the Daily Wellness CommunityOn https://www.instagram.com/dailywellnesscommunity/On  https://www.facebook.com/dailywellnesscommunityWebsite: https://www.dailywellnesscommunity.comEmail us at: [email protected] products I mention may be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through one of my links. Our family greatly appreciates your support, it helps us keep creating the free resources we make for you all!DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Pass or smash: women’s health edition.  Women receive a lot of mixed messaging when it comes to health.  This is good for you.  This is bad for you.  Do this. No, don't do that! It’s hard to filter all of it and discern what is really best. So, in this episode, I invite Micah Hubbard, a functional medicine nurse practitioner to weigh in on trending topics in women’s health. I really appreciate her advice as an expert in women’s health on things like hormone therapy, fasting, red light therapy, GLP-1 medications, mammograms, birth control, cold plunging, botox and more!  Some of these topics are pretty controversial in the health and wellness world, so I love the clarity that our conversation gives. See what YOU think!Episode Highlights:Overview of Micah’s background and why she chose functional and natural medicine.Common women’s health challenges seen in clinical practice, with a focus on hormone issues.Importance of individualized hormone testing and thoughtful hormone replacement therapy (HRT).Risks and considerations around popular treatments such as Botox and breast implants.Benefits and cautions with cold therapy (ice plunging) and fasting for women.Insights on GLP-1 medications (e.g., Ozempic, Wegovy) including responsible prescribing and lifestyle integration.Positive perspective on natural therapies like red light therapy and medicinal mushrooms.Thoughtful approach to pharmaceutical medications like SSRIs and hormonal birth control.Alternative breast cancer screening options along with mammogram pros and cons.Micah’s top priorities for women’s health: quality sleep, stress management, exercise, diet, and being proactive about health.Practical advice for moms on advocating for their health and seeking supportive healthcare partners.Connect with Micah HubbardWebsite: https://www.417integrativemedicine.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/417integrativemedicine/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/417integrativemedicineThanks for leaving a rating/review on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-wellness-podcast/id1651051841(You’ll have to be signed in and scroll to the bottom.)As always, you can also leave a rating and follow the show on Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melisha-meredith(Click on the three dots to rate.)Subscribe and watch on Youtube: Connect with Melisha and the Daily Wellness CommunityOn https://www.instagram.com/dailywellnesscommunity/On  https://www.facebook.com/dailywellnesscommunityWebsite: https://www.dailywellnesscommunity.comEmail us at: [email protected] products I mention may be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through one of my links. Our family greatly appreciates your support, it helps us keep creating the free resources we make for you all!DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

When you think about ways to improve your well being, you are probably like me and think of eating better, exercising, getting outside, hydrating, maybe even taking supplements or filtering your water.  But what about rest? I think because of cultural norms and values as well as the busyness that we build into our lives - rest isn’t top of mind.  Or maybe you think of rest as a pathway to health, but struggle like me to actually slow down and make it a priority. In this episode, I chat with Erin Taylor about rest. She is a passionate advocate for the importance of rest and recovery in our busy lives. Erin was a collegiate athlete that learned about rest the hard way, now she’s a mom helping  others discover the benefits of rest and figure out how to practice rest in their daily routines. In this episode we really focus in on what prioritizing this could look like for busy moms. I’m not gonna lie, Erin stepped on my toes in this episode - in a good way.  And you might feel it too. But we really need to hear this encouragement. Listen in and discover how rest can be your new superpower. BONUS: Erin is graciously offering a FREE month of her resource: Balance Practice. “Weekly writings + yoga classes — practices to inspire and support balance. A space to catch your breath.” When you use this link, it will take you to a site where you can choose the “FREE” option! Main Points:Erin's background as a collegiate athlete and her introduction to yoga through injury.The significance of rest and recovery in enhancing performance and well-being.Practical tips for incorporating rest into daily life, including utilizing transitions between activities.The connection between rest and the nervous system, particularly the importance of activating the parasympathetic nervous system.The unique and personal nature of rest practices, tailored to individual needs and life circumstances.The mental health benefits of rest, including improved patience and focus.Erin's platform, Balanced Practice, which offers resources for integrating rest and yoga into everyday life.Connect with Erin Martin: Full website: erintaylor.worksInstagram: @erintaylorworksShop Erin’s Books HereGIVEAWAY DETAILS: This giveaway is in no way sponsored by anyone other than Daily Wellness Community, winners will be announced in my Instagram stories and in the podcast following May 20th. Earn 1 entry for each action:Subscribe to our YouTube Channel. (You need to be signed in.)Leave a stellar review on Apple Podcasts. Click and scroll down. (You need to be signed in.)We are launching VIDEO podcast episodes!! Find the DW Podcast on Youtube! Or watch the video on Spotify!As always, you can also leave a rating and follow the show on Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melisha-meredith(Click on the three dots to rate.)Connect with Melisha and the Daily Wellness CommunityOn InstagramOn FacebookWebsiteEmail us at: [email protected] products I mention may be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through one of my links. Our family greatly appreciates your support, it helps us keep creating the free resources we make for you all!DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Relationships affect our health for better or worse. And this includes our relationships with our kids.  If those relationships are strained in our home, then that increases our stress (which impacts all systems in the body) and relationships impact our mental health, too.  I am currently experiencing the truth that navigating the teen years as a parent comes with some unique challenges. Some of you know exactly what I mean!  And that’s why I welcome Kirsten Cobabe on the podcast this week.  She is a seasoned teen and parent coach and we discuss the nuances of parenting teenagers in today's fast-paced world.  I’ve already been applying her tips on curiosity and awareness. And I loved her ideas on how to foster and maintain a strong emotional connection in the midst of inevitable challenges. There is such great wisdom in here guys, I’m excited for you to listen.Reminder - that you have one more week to enter our $100 giveaway, celebrating 100 episodes on this podcast - check the show notes for super easy links to enter!Main Points:Kirsten's background and journey into teen and parent coaching.The importance of curiosity and awareness in parenting.Unique challenges faced by parents and teens today, including technology and busy lifestyles.Strategies for building emotional connections with teens.The significance of understanding teen development and hormonal changes.Tips for managing technology use and fostering healthy tech habits.Approaches to reconnecting with teens when there's a drift in the relationship.How to encourage teens to reframe and take ownership of their responsibilities.The impact of physical health, nutrition, and lifestyle on teen behavior and mood.Resources and support available for parents seeking guidance.Connect with Kirsten Cobabe: On InstagramParenting Wave Parent Community Kirsten Cobabe Website and CoachingResources she mentioned:Book: Bonds that Make us Free by WarnerYuka App - for finding safer products and foodGIVEAWAY DETAILS: This giveaway is in no way sponsored by anyone other than Daily Wellness Community, winners will be announced in my Instagram stories and in the podcast following May 20th. Earn 1 entry for each action:Subscribe to our YouTube Channel. (You need to be signed in.)Leave a stellar review on Apple Podcasts. Click and scroll down. (You need to be signed in.)As always, you can also leave a rating and follow the show on Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melisha-meredith(Click on the three dots to rate.)Connect with Melisha and the Daily Wellness CommunityOn InstagramOn FacebookWebsiteEmail us at: [email protected] products I mention may be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through one of my links. Our family greatly appreciates your support, it helps us keep creating the free resources we make for you all!DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Its’ the 100th episode of the Daily Wellness Podcast!!!  I’m humbled and grateful to share this resource with you.  To celebrate our growing podcast, our awesome listeners and this milestone - we are giving away a $100 Amazon gift card, to be given away May 20th. To enter that giveaway you can do 1 or 2 things or both and earn 2 entries!!! 1)  leave us a glowing written review on the Apple Podcasts app or 2) Subscribe to the Youtube Channel - because we are officially launching video podcasts on this show as well! Check the show notes for details and links and good luck!Derek Alessi is my guest on the show today, being in the health industry for 30 years he shares my passion for helping people make lasting changes. Have you ever struggled with making progress in your health journey and then pretty soon after regressing back to where you were before or worse? Making sustainable health changes can be hard.  One thing is for sure, you need more motivation than a certain pant size or looking good on vacation for the changes to really be lasting. This episode will equip you with the right motivation and perspective for long term health, but it’s also loaded with practice ideas and tips to help you take those actual steps forward.  If you feel like you could use some motivation to prioritize your wellness…. This is it!GIVEAWAY DETAILS: This giveaway is in no way sponsored by anyone other than Daily Wellness Community, winners will be announced in my Instagram stories and in the podcast following May 20th. Earn 1 entry for each action:Subscribe to our YouTube Channel. (You need to be signed in.)Leave a stellar review on Apple Podcasts.  (You need to be signed in.)Thanks for leaving a rating/review on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-wellness-podcast/id1651051841(You’ll have to be signed in and scroll to the bottom.)We are launching VIDEO podcast episodes!! Find the DW Podcast on Youtube! Or watch the video on Spotify!As always, you can also leave a rating and follow the show on Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melisha-meredith(Click on the three dots to rate.)Connect with Melisha and the Daily Wellness CommunityOn InstagramOn FacebookWebsiteEmail us at: [email protected] products I mention may be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through one of my links. Our family greatly appreciates your support, it helps us keep creating the free resources we make for you all!DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Next week is our 100th episode!  So make sure you listen in for some fun announcements. Talking to Teens Podcast - Listen Here!We soft launched VIDEO!! Find the DW Podcast on Youtube!Thanks for leaving a rating and following the show on Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melisha-meredith(Click on the three dots to rate.)Thanks for leaving a rating/review on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-wellness-podcast/id1651051841(You’ll have to be signed in and scroll to the bottom.)Connect with Melisha and the Daily Wellness CommunityOn InstagramOn FacebookWebsiteEmail us at: [email protected] products I mention may be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through one of my links. Our family greatly appreciates your support, it helps us keep creating the free resources we make for you all!DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

In this episode, we chat with Lindsey, a registered dietitian with over 14 years of experience, who specializes in helping women reclaim their menstrual health and fertility. Lindsey shares her personal journey with period loss and infertility, shedding light on common misconceptions and offering practical advice for women struggling with similar issues. If you’ve ever felt confused about your menstrual cycle or the impact of lifestyle choices on female health, this episode is for you!Main Points:Lindsey's personal experience with hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA) and its impact on her fertility.The role of the hypothalamus in regulating menstrual cycles and hormone production.Common misconceptions about periods and the effects of hormonal birth control.The importance of understanding ovulation as the key event in the menstrual cycle.How disordered eating and over-exercising contribute to menstrual irregularities.The psychological factors influencing women's relationships with their bodies and food.The significance of personalized nutrition and exercise plans for restoring menstrual health.Strategies for stress management and its effect on hormonal balance.The importance of education around menstrual health for young women and teens.Resources for women seeking to understand their cycles and advocate for their health.  Tune in to learn how to take control of your menstrual health and empower yourself on your fertility journey!Connect with Lindsey:On InstagramWebsiteApply for the: Food Freedom Fertility SocietyThanks for leaving a rating and following the show on Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melisha-meredith(Click on the three dots to rate.)Thanks for leaving a rating/review on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-wellness-podcast/id1651051841(You’ll have to be signed in and scroll to the bottom.)Connect with Melisha and the Daily Wellness CommunityOn InstagramOn FacebookWebsiteEmail us at: [email protected] products I mention may be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through one of my links. Our family greatly appreciates your support, it helps us keep creating the free resources we make for you all!DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.

Today you’ll hear from Nathan Jones, founder of Xlear, to explore nasal and oral hygiene and how those pursuing natural health will benefit. He also shares about the challenges faced by businesses in the wellness industry. Nathan shares his journey from a concerned son to a passionate entrepreneur, highlighting the importance of addressing bacterial infections in oral health and the controversies surrounding flu@ride. Listeners will gain valuable insights into why the benefits of oral and nasal hygiene practices shouldn’t be overlooked and the impact of government regulations. He has an incredible story!  Warning: You might end up sad, baffled, mad or all three!Main PointsNathan's background and the inspiration behind starting Xlear.The role of xylitol in oral and nasal hygiene and its benefits over f1uoride.The connection between oral health and systemic health, including respiratory infections.Insights into the regulatory challenges faced by natural health products.The importance of educating the public about hygiene and prevention.The impact of government regulations on health claims and product marketing.Personal health practices Nathan follows for optimal wellness.The significance of individual accountability in health choices.Nathan's vision for a healthier future through education and prevention.To connect with Nate: Shop Products Follow on Instagram @xlear  Want to make a post supporting Nate! Share the podcast and tag the @ftc  Top 6 Quotes from Nathan:1.  "If you really want to change your health, the first thing that you need to do is practice better oral hygiene and nasal hygiene."2.  "Xylitol gets rid of the invading army of bacteria, allowing your body to heal."3.  "The government has a pharmaceutical bias, and that’s pretty obvious in how they regulate health products."4.  "We’ve known that xylitol works since the 1970s, yet the ADA and FDA don’t allow it to be marketed with health claims."5.  "It’s not a question of looking at the truth; it’s about maintaining the status quo."6.  "For $50, we can end tooth decay in children, but the system is more focused on treating illness than preventing it."Thanks for leaving a rating and following the show on Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melisha-meredith(Click on the three dots to rate.)Thanks for leaving a rating/review on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-wellness-podcast/id1651051841(You’ll have to be signed in and scroll to the bottom.)Connect with Melisha and the Daily Wellness CommunityOn InstagramOn FacebookWebsiteEmail us at: [email protected] products I mention may be affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through one of my links. Our family greatly appreciates your support, it helps us keep creating the free resources we make for you all!DISCLAIMER: The content in the podcast and on this webpage is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on the podcast or on my website.