Ep 988: His Health Struggle Inspired a Superfood Empire: JR Ortiz Tells the Story

SHOW NOTES What if one of the original superfood companies began not with a business idea, but with a mother determined to help her son reclaim his health? In this episode of the Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T., Linda sits down with JR Ortiz, President of MacroLife Naturals, for the remarkable story behind a family business that began in 1998. JR's mother, fitness expert and nutrition advocate Sylvia Ortiz, created Macro Greens as part of her mission to support her son's health transformation. Starting with just 500 units, MacroLife Naturals grew into a multi award winning superfood company with products including Macro Greens, Miracle Reds and KIDS Coco Greens. Today, JR works alongside his mother to carry the family mission forward. JR shares his personal health journey, what it means to now lead the company that was partly inspired by his own transformation, and what nearly three decades in the nutrition industry have taught the Ortiz family about wellness. Linda and JR also dive into the explosion of greens powders, what consumers should look for when reading supplement labels, the difference between clever marketing and quality nutrition, and how simple daily choices can support long term health. In this episode, you'll discover: • The personal story that inspired MacroLife Naturals • Why Sylvia Ortiz created Macro Greens for JR • How 500 units grew into a decades long family business • JR's journey from health transformation to company President • The difference between Macro Greens and Miracle Reds • What to look for when choosing a greens powder • Why ingredient quality matters • Nutrition fundamentals for energy, gut health and healthy aging • What JR has learned from nearly three decades in the wellness industry • Why small, consistent health choices can create lasting change Sometimes changing your life doesn't begin with doing more. It begins with adding one better choice to your day. Add a little to your day… Add a LOT to your LIFE! Discount Code SOSSWEAT for 35% off at http://www.macrolifenaturals.com  Summary In this episode, Linda Mitchell interviews JR Ortiz about the origins of Macro Life Naturals, the benefits of superfoods, and practical tips for maintaining health through nutrition. They explore how simple daily choices and quality ingredients can support long-term wellness, especially as we age.   Key  Topics The origin story of Macro Life Naturals and its family roots The difference between greens and reds in superfoods and their benefits How simple daily choices support long-term health The importance of nutrient density and bioavailability in supplements Trends in the natural products industry and principles that never change The role of antioxidants, probiotics, and adaptogens in wellness The impact of acidity and alkalinity on aging and health Practical tips for incorporating superfoods into daily routines  Takeaways Quality ingredients and nutrient density are key to effective supplements Eating the rainbow provides a broad spectrum of phytonutrients Simple daily habits can significantly improve long-term health The importance of bioavailability and digestion in nutrition Avoiding overhyped trends and focusing on science-backed principles  Sound Bites "Our formulas are still extremely unique and award-winning." "Different antioxidants target different organ systems." "Stay hydrated, it's the foundation of health." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to JR Ortiz and Macro Life Naturals 02:15 The origins of Macro Greens and family inspiration 04:17 The importance of health as we age 06:38 JR's childhood and early health challenges 09:38 How green supplements changed Linda's life 12:54 Differences between greens and reds in superfoods 15:49 Incorporating superfoods into daily routines 18:51 The spectrum of antioxidants and longevity 22:15 The role of alkalinity and stress in health 24:06 Trends in the natural products industry 29:29 Adding life to your years and practical health tips 37:23 Living a vibrant life and final thoughts

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id="8a9f5553-025d-4138-9329-566abf0d094d" data-turn-id-container="8a9f5553-025d-4138-9329-566abf0d094d" data-testid="conversation-turn-6" data-turn="assistant"> What happens when every second counts—and someone else's life depends on what you do next? On this episode of The Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T., Linda Mitchell sits down with internationally acclaimed actor Rodrigo Santoro to talk about his new action thriller, RUNNER, directed by Scott Waugh and starring Owen Wilson and Alan Ritchson. Rodrigo takes us behind the scenes of the high-stakes film and discusses what drew him to a story built around danger, trust, betrayal, and a desperate race to save an innocent life. But this conversation goes beyond RUNNER. Rodrigo reflects on an extraordinary career that began in Brazil and grew into international roles in projects including 300, 300: Rise of an Empire, Love Actually, Westworld, Focus, Che, The 33, and Project Power. He talks about what continues to challenge him as an actor, approaching complex characters, and the kinds of stories he still wants to tell. In this episode, you'll hear about: What attracted Rodrigo to RUNNER The human story underneath the action Working with Owen Wilson, Alan Ritchson, and director Scott Waugh Trust, betrayal, and what pressure reveals about people Rodrigo's journey from Brazilian cinema to Hollywood How he steps away from intense characters when filming ends What keeps him challenged after an extraordinary career The roles he still hopes to explore RUNNER opens in theaters September 11.  Summary In this episode, Rodrigo Santoro shares insights from his diverse acting career, his preparation for action roles, and what it takes to portray complex characters on screen. Discover how his background and experiences shape his approach to acting and stunt work.  Key Topics Rodrigo Santoro's transition from Brazilian cinema to Hollywood Preparation and training for action roles, including workout routines Collaboration with stunt coordinators and directors like Scott Law The importance of authenticity and technical skill in stunt work Themes of trust and betrayal in the film Runner The complexity of portraying morally gray characters The role of discipline and focus in acting and stunt performance Insights into the film industry and international acting careers  Sound Bites "It's about the combination of workout and diet that makes the result." "Working with Scott Law changed the way I approach the physical side." "Runner is about trust and betrayal under pressure." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Rodrigo's diverse career 01:52 Training for 300 and the discipline involved 04:12 Transitioning from non-stunt roles to performing his own stunts 05:28 Working with director Scott Law and the technical aspects of action scenes 06:59 Themes of trust, betrayal, and moral complexity in Runner 08:35 Rodrigo's journey from Brazilian cinema to Hollywood 10:07 The importance of character depth and humanization in acting    

What really separates consistent winners from everyone else? On today's episode of The Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T., Linda Mitchell sits down with Wall Street Journal journalists Joshua Robinson and Jonathan Clegg, authors of The Playbook: The Hidden Forces Shaping Winners and Losers in the Modern NFL. This conversation goes far beyond touchdowns, coaches, and quarterbacks. Joshua and Jonathan take us behind the scenes of some of the NFL's most fascinating organizations to reveal how winning is actually built—from the front office to the salary cap, analytics, leadership decisions, organizational culture, calculated risks, and the willingness to challenge conventional wisdom. We dive into the power and danger of groupthink, why successful organizations can't simply copy what worked yesterday, and how teams such as the Baltimore Ravens, Los Angeles Rams, Philadelphia Eagles, Seattle Seahawks and others have approached the constant challenge of creating—and sustaining—success. Linda also explores one of the book's biggest lessons: sometimes great leadership isn't about forcing people to fit your system. It's about recognizing their strengths and having the courage to change the system. Whether you're an NFL fan, entrepreneur, leader, coach, or simply someone determined to create your own next level, this conversation is packed with lessons about winning, resilience, innovation, adaptability and thinking differently. In this episode, you'll discover: how NFL franchises create sustainable success; why groupthink can destroy innovation; what separates calculated risk from reckless decision-making; why culture matters as much as talent; how great leaders adapt around people's strengths; what failure can teach us about strategy; and why sometimes the best way to win is to stop following everyone else's playbook. The Playbook: The Hidden Forces Shaping Winners and Losers in the Modern NFL by Joshua Robinson and Jonathan Clegg is available now.   Summary In this episode, Joshua Robinson, sports journalist and author of The Playbook, shares insights on what makes NFL organizations successful beyond the game. We explore leadership, innovation, risk-taking, and the importance of adaptability in achieving sustained success.  Key  Topics How NFL teams win before the game starts The importance of organizational alignment The role of innovation and risk in success Lessons from teams like the Eagles, Rams, and Ravens The danger of groupthink and copying successful teams Adapting to circumstances and real-time changes Leadership and culture in high-performance organizations  Takeaways Winning is often decided long before the game begins. Organizational alignment from owner to coach is crucial. Smart teams look around corners and challenge conventional wisdom. Adaptability is more important than a fixed long-term plan. Failure can be part of the path to success if managed well.  Sound Bites "Winning is done long before anyone steps into the field" "Organizational alignment is crucial for success" "Adapt or die in the NFL" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to NFL success principles 02:00 How rules shape NFL team strategies 04:00 The importance of organizational alignment 04:51 Groupthink and the risk of copying successful teams 06:01 Innovative approaches of teams like the Eagles and Rams 07:54 Learning from failure: The Cleveland Browns case 08:46 Adapting to circumstances: The Ravens and Lamar Jackson 09:47 The value of adaptability over fixed plans 11:01 Leadership lessons from NFL organizations 13:07 Final insights: Look around corners and invest in value

In honor of Linda's birthday, we're bringing back this special Let It Rip Friday episode, originally released on her 60th birthday. Above all, Linda gives God all the glory for every blessing, every lesson, and every chapter of her journey. Through the victories, setbacks, unexpected turns, and powerful comebacks, God has carried her, sustained her, and continued to show her that His plans are greater than anything she could have imagined. Now celebrating her 64th birthday, Linda's journey is living proof that age does not limit what God can do through us. Some of her greatest accomplishments, including national fitness championships, magazine covers, pageant titles, and earning her Fitness and Bikini Pro Cards, have happened in her 60s. In this episode, Linda reflects on six decades of life and encourages women who may believe it is too late to pursue a dream, make a change, or begin a brand new chapter. Growing older is a privilege, our dreams do not have expiration dates, and God is not finished writing our stories. "Even to your old age and gray hairs I am He, I am He who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you. I will sustain you and I will rescue you." Isaiah 46:4 Listen in and raise a glass to faith, resilience, reinvention, and another year of becoming the woman God created you to be. Happy birthday, Linda! Cheers to 64 years, with all the glory going to God! Topics discussed: • Giving God the glory in every season • Trusting God to carry, sustain, and rescue us • Celebrating life and every part of the journey • Refusing to let age define our possibilities • Finding the courage to pursue new dreams • Turning setbacks into powerful comebacks • Living with faith, gratitude, and purpose • Believing our best years may still be ahead Connect with Linda: Website: sisterhoodofsweat.com Instagram: @sisterhoodofsweat Listen and learn more: listentolinda.me

What if the struggle you are experiencing with your health begins beneath your feet? In this episode of The Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T., Linda speaks with UFC Hall of Famer, former UFC Welterweight Champion, elite coach, soil-to-human health researcher, and Soil Saviors founder Pat Miletich. Pat grew up in Iowa farm country and spent much of his childhood struggling to breathe. When doctors were unable to provide the answers he needed, he began researching minerals, detoxification, nutrition, and the environmental factors surrounding him. That personal pursuit of healing later influenced the way he trained, competed, and coached 12 MMA world champions. Today, Pat is taking on a different kind of fight: depleted soil, chemical exposure, and the declining nutritional quality of our food. Pat explains how the condition of our soil may directly affect the minerals in our food and our bodies. He discusses how chemicals can move through the food supply, why eating "healthy" may not always provide the nutrients we expect, and what gardeners, homesteaders, farmers, and consumers can do to make more informed choices. In this episode, you'll discover: • How Pat went from a chronically sick farm kid to a UFC champion • The connection between soil health, food quality, and human health • What mineral depletion means for the nutritional value of our food • How agricultural chemicals can travel from the ground into our bodies • What Pat's team learned from nutrient-density testing • Why chemical-free growing begins with understanding the soil • Common mistakes people make when attempting to restore their land • Practical steps you can take even if you do not grow your own food • How Pat's championship mindset continues to guide his mission • Why rebuilding human health may begin by rebuilding the soil This conversation will change the way you look at your food—and the ground from which it grows. Connect with Pat Miletich and learn more about Soil Saviors through his website and social-media platforms. Use Code SOS10 for 10 percent off!Soil Saviors Home   Summary In this episode, UFC Hall of Famer Pat Miletich shares his journey from childhood illness to becoming a champion and advocate for soil health. Discover how soil quality impacts human health, the importance of nutrient-dense food, and practical steps to improve soil and personal well-being.   Key Topics Pat Miletich's childhood health struggles and recovery The impact of soil depletion on human nutrition Natural detoxification protocols and supplements The role of minerals and antioxidants in health Soil restoration techniques and soil-borne probiotics The dangers of synthetic chemicals and heavy metals How to test and improve soil quality for gardening The importance of nutrient-dense, organic food Sound Bites "Our soil health directly impacts our health" "If we don't fix the environment, we face problems" "Growing with synthetic chemicals reduces medicinal power" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pat Miletich's Journey 02:24 From Childhood Illness to UFC Champion 04:07 Training and Legitimacy in MMA 05:45 Solving Respiratory Issues Through Research 07:21 The Connection Between Soil and Human Health 09:03 The Power of Natural Protocols for Detoxification 12:08 Heavy Metals, Forever Chemicals, and Bioaccumulation 15:27 Restoring Soil with Biological Diversity 17:05 Practical Steps for Gardeners and Homesteaders 19:36 Growing Nutrient-Dense Food Without Chemicals 22:55 The Impact of Synthetic Chemicals on Soil and Health 25:02 The Living Soil and Its Role in Health 28:15 Choosing Organic and Nutrient-Dense Foods 30:21 Pat Miletich's Mission to Help Children 32:12 Repairing DNA and Cellular Health 33:14 Measuring Nutrient Density in Produce 34:45 Starting Your Garden with Easy Crops 35:40 Final Thoughts and Practical Advice

This week, I'm celebrating my birthday by revisiting some of my favorite birthday episodes from years past! In this special throwback episode, I reflect on where I was at that moment in my life, the lessons I had learned, and the journey that was still unfolding. Listening back is such a powerful reminder that we are never finished growing, dreaming, or becoming. So much has happened since this episode originally aired, and I cannot wait to share it all with you. After a full week of birthday rereleases, I'll be back next week with a brand-new birthday episode to catch you up on everything I've accomplished, experienced, and learned along the way. No matter your age or season of life, it is never too late to set a new goal, reinvent yourself, or answer the calling God has placed on your heart. Your next chapter may become your most exciting one yet. Listen in, celebrate with me, and get ready for next week's all-new birthday update! Connect with Linda: Instagram: @sisterhoodofsweat Website: sisterhoodofsweat.com Listen and learn more: listentolinda.me

What if the rejection that broke your heart was actually protecting you and redirecting you toward something greater? On this episode of The Sisterhood of S.W.E.A.T., Linda Mitchell sits down with powerhouse vocalist Pia Toscano for a conversation about faith, rejection, surrender, resilience and learning to trust the path you never planned. Pia first captured national attention as a frontrunner on Season 10 of American Idol. Her unexpected ninth-place elimination stunned viewers and judges alike and became one of the most talked-about eliminations in the show's history. But Pia's story didn't end when that door closed. She went on to tour with Jennifer Lopez, collaborate and perform with legendary producer David Foster, and become a frequent touring performer with world-renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli. Today, Pia has built a community of more than one million followers and is preparing to head back on tour with Bocelli. Now she's telling the story behind those unexpected turns through her deeply personal new single, "Redirected." Co-written with Stacey Kelleher, the song grew from a phrase Pia had repeated to herself for years: "Rejection is God's protection." Pia shares how she came to understand that closed doors, heartbreak and unanswered prayers weren't necessarily setbacks. Sometimes they were leading her somewhere she couldn't yet see. Linda and Pia also talk about surrendering control, looking back at the defining moments of her career, finding purpose in disappointment, and Pia's newest and perhaps most meaningful chapter yet: preparing to welcome her first baby in December. This conversation is for anyone who has ever wondered why something she desperately wanted didn't happen. Maybe you weren't rejected. Maybe you were redirected. IN THIS EPISODE Pia and Linda talk about the powerful story behind "Redirected," why Pia believes rejection can be God's protection, her shocking American Idol elimination, what came after Idol, touring with Jennifer Lopez, working with David Foster, performing around the world with Andrea Bocelli, surrendering the life you planned, trusting closed doors and unanswered prayers, preparing for motherhood, and finding the courage to believe there may be something greater ahead. Summary In this episode, Pia Toscano shares her inspiring journey from American Idol rejection to international success, emphasizing the importance of trust, surrender, and redirection in life and career. Discover how embracing setbacks can lead to unexpected opportunities and personal growth.   Key Topics Pia Toscano's journey from American Idol to international performer The role of rejection and redirection in personal growth The importance of trusting life's timing and surrendering control Balancing career ambitions with motherhood and personal joy Lessons learned from working with Jennifer Lopez and Andrea Bocelli Takeaways Rejection is often redirection and a sign of God's protection. Trusting the timing of your life can lead to unexpected opportunities. Surrendering control is key to discovering your true path. Maintaining faith and positivity helps overcome heartbreak and setbacks. Embracing change and new seasons brings joy and fulfillment. Sound Bites "I don't take no for an answer and I try not to let it defeat me." "Sometimes the life is your meant for begins when your original plan falls apart." "God's way is going to be better than my own." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pia Toscano's Journey 02:12 The Impact of American Idol and Unexpected Elimination 04:04 Redirection and Trusting the Timing of Life 06:12 The Power of Surrender and Letting Go of Control 07:33 Preparing for Motherhood and Its Perspective Shift 08:51 Touring with Andrea Bocelli and Performing While Pregnant 10:42 Lessons from Working with Jennifer Lopez 12:01 The Message of Redirection and Embracing Opportunities

Let It Rip Friday: Why You Should Buy Your Haters Roses What if the dirt people throw at you isn't meant to bury you, but to become the ground you grow from? On this week's Let It Rip Friday, Linda Mitchell is talking about what happens when you start going after big dreams, stepping outside the box, and actually achieving the things you once only imagined. The truth is, when you give people something to talk about, some of them are going to talk. There will be criticism. There will be opinions. There may even be people throwing rocks at what you're building. So what do you do with those rocks? Build your house with them. Instead of allowing criticism to make you shrink, quit, or question your worth, use it as fuel. Grow a thicker skin. Keep doing the work. Keep showing up. And remember that other people's opinions do not get to determine the size of your dreams. As Linda shares, "Be like seeds. Do not see dirt thrown at you as your enemy, but as ground to grow." And maybe instead of getting angry at your haters, you should buy them roses. After all, they may be giving you exactly the resistance you needed to grow stronger. In This Episode, You'll Hear: Why criticism often comes when you start doing something worth noticing How to stop allowing other people's opinions to derail your dreams Why you need thicker skin when you're pursuing big goals How to turn the rocks thrown at you into something you can build with Why being talked about isn't necessarily a bad thing How criticism can become fuel instead of a roadblock Why you should never shrink yourself to make other people comfortable How to turn "dirt" into the ground for your next season of growth The takeaway: Let them talk. Let them throw dirt. Let them throw rocks. You have a life to build and dreams to chase. And while you're at it, buy your haters roses. 🌹