Ask the Resource Queen: Recent Episodes
Alix Litwack
Holistic Nutritionist and Radio Host, Alix Litwack brings her knowledge and humor to a wide range of healthy topics. She interviews all kinds of integrative and alternative practitioners about the hottest topics in health and wellness. From CBD to Yoga and everything in between.
With thousands of supplements on the market, it is not always easy to discern what are the best products to buy. Deb McClure Smith has been studying and selling nutritional supplements for over 40 years. She has gathered a wealth of information as to how to figure out the best ingredients and how to understand what is written on the label. Let Deb be your guide to making good decisions about what you put in your body.
So many people are looking for the best way to eat to improve their overall health. It can be very confusing to discern which diet is the one that will be successful for you. Deb McClure-Smith has worked for 40 years helping individuals find a reasonable and workable way to eat. There is no single correct diet that works for all people. Knowing your genetics, modifying your lifestyle, and making good choices will help you start on a new path. Let Deb lead the way.
Raise your hand if you dread going to the dentist. Maybe when you listen to Dr. Michael Harris describe the holistic and gentle manner in which he works -- you will make sure to find a dentist who is similar. Dr. Harris sees no reason to suffer from metal fillings, invasive procedures, or too many Xrays. Integrative dentistry will help ease your fears and keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Are you thinking about taking up a new healthy habit? Maybe running could be your new favorite thing. Trainer & Coach, Matt Ebersole shares his passion for and extensive knowledge about being a healthy runner. He shares tips on how to begin, how to train without injury, and how to create a running practice that adds to the quality of your life. He has years of experience and wonderful, easy hints on how to get the most out of each and every run. Consider all the possibilities!
Dr. Melissa Laborsky is committed to helping each of her patients find their path to excellent health by drawing on their inner strength, intuition, and their body's innate ability to heal itself. She works with eastern medicine techniques and her deep connection to Spirit to help guide people into new practices and new ways of approaching wellness. Invest in your health with the guidance of this very wise and insightful practitioner.
When a practitioner is working with the whole person -- it means expanding one's understanding of how our bodies are signaling us that something is out of balance. Whether it be spiritually, physically, or mentally there are numerous ways to explore solutions to better health. Dr. Melissa Laborsky is a western trained MD who decided to get outside of that box and train in eastern medicine to serve her patients better. She truly listens to your concerns and goes deeper into the world of your spirit to find ways that will help you heal. Dr. Laborsky helps set you on a new path to wellness with the tools you need to move forward.
Chiropractors may offer a wide variety of healing modalities because they practice the art of getting your body in balance. Dr. Mary Grace Panella has created a practice that works with the whole person and she has a deep well of knowledge to share with her patients. You can clearly hear the passion in her voice that led her to become a chiropractor. Learn all about how she works to help patients heal.
The wisdom of our bodies is seen through the maps of our eyes. Certified Iridologist, Derek Weaver shares so much information about our irises and the surrounding sclera to give us indications about our state of health. Some issues may be hereditary and others may be related to what we eat and our lifestyle. With Iridology, our eyes are truly the windows into our souls and our ability to feel our best.
Your digestive system is truly the foundation of your overall health. If your gut is out of whack -- then other issues will follow. Derek Weaver's practice is called "Heal Your Disease" and he always starts with what you eat, what you drink, and how smoothly you digest your food. It is fascinating to learn the many ways one can improve any number of health issues by becoming a more mindful eater and nourishing one's body with as many plant-based foods as possible. Trust your gut and listen in.
Traditional Chinese Medicine includes acupuncture, herbs, and reading a patient's pulses . Sara Rodefeld practices Five Element Acupuncture which has similarities but a very different approach to health and healing. She discusses how the five elements of earth, water, fire, metal, and wood show up on a person's face, in their mannerisms, and even how they smell. Join us on this fascinating journey into another type of eastern medicine that treats the body, mind, and spirit.
What you eat has an impact on every aspect of your health. Nutrition Therapist, Bev Rella discusses ways to test your hormones and how to make good decisions about what you eat. Feeding your body well also means feeding your hormones well. What a surprise! Bev has had years of experience working with both women and men on how to be a healthy eater, have a good lifestyle, and reduce the stress in your life. Why go through life not feeling well -- especially for peri-menopause and menopause? No reason to do that. Check out what Bev has to say.
Healing can take so many different forms. Imagine sitting in a comfy chair, laying in bed, or out in nature and being bathed in sound. This kind of immersive experience is exactly what the ever-so-talented, Michelle Quereshi creates. Trained as a classical guitarist and expanding into a wide variety of instruments, the music that Michelle creates is healing for one's soul. Learn all about what inspires her and how she composes her beautiful music. Take some time to nurture yourself with a taste of sound immersion.
There are so many different kinds of energy healing. Reiki, Acupuncture, and Homeopathy are a few of the more popular modalities. LinDel Sandlin calls herself an Urban Shaman who helps her clients move old, negative energies out and bring positive energy in. She is able to blend her many years of training in Qigong, TaiChi, and more into her role as a Shaman. Listen to her describe the many benefits of this wonderful energy practice.
So many healing modalities -- so little time. LinDel Sandlin has been practicing and teaching the art of Qigong for many years. In this conversation she shares her knowledge of the genesis of this eastern art and the many benefits. Engage your mind, body, and soul in this ancient practice that will help you let go of the negative energies that are in and around you. Learn something new and healthy every day!
In the western world, there is a lot of fear around death and dying. But it doesn't have to be so scary. Hospice Chaplain, Richard Brendan tells us how we can become friends with death instead of enemies. Caring for loved ones is also not always easy and Richard shares the many benefits of hospice to support both caretakers and the individual who is dying. He has all kinds of insights and lovely stories for you to hear that may help you become more at ease with this profound life passage.
We are in the middle of significant planetary movements which are having an effect on all of our lives and institutions. Astrologer, Phyllis Salina has a wonderful way of presenting the challenges that lay ahead and how each of us can ride these intense waves of change. Many ideas and principles that we share, since this nation was formed, are being reexamined and are pushing us to make kinder and healthier decisions for ourselves and this country. Find out if you are lined up with these astrological predictions.
We all have negative emotions that can stick with us for a very long time. Why not let those go with this amazing, simple, and fast tapping protocol? Toni Macri Reiner has been teaching people how to release those negative thoughts that may keep them stuck in an old story. Or, maybe a recent experience has been upsetting and with a little tapping -- that experience is no longer taking up headspace. Toni explains how our brain processes thoughts and feelings and how to unwire those unsettling connections. Learn how to let go of what isn't serving your brain and body well by learning fast tapping.
How slow can you go? Tai Chi instructor, Rita Schilling says one can never go too slow when it comes to helping you achieve balance and calm in your life. Rita has been a fitness instructor, yoga teacher and for the past eleven years, she has taught Tai Chi. She shares her wisdom about this ancient practice and the many benefits for your body, mind, and spirit. Learn how to move through life with just a bit more ease.
We all want to feel as good as possible. If you are eating foods that are irritating your gut, causing swelling or itching, or maybe giving you pain -- then you need to understand what macronutrients and micronutrients are working for you and which ones are not. Nutritionist, Jackie Dikos has been working with all kinds of people, especially athletes, to help them discern what foods are supporting their health and what foods are not. She may recommend some diagnostic tests and will ask you to pay attention to how well you sleep, how your exercise routine is working, and how well you feel overall. Success and feeling your best are within reach when Jackie is your guide.
It can be devastating to receive a diagnosis of either dementia or Alzheimer's Disease. Not just for the individual but for the family as well. Jessie Hillock has been working with patients for many years as a Speech & Language Pathologist and has seen how difficult it is for them to understand the road they will be traveling as their memory and their ability to function well is compromised. Jessie functions as a resource guide and navigator for the partners, caretakers, and spouses. Get the help you and your loved one need so that the stress and sadness of these diseases do not weigh you down.
Your work, your purpose in life, and how to pursue what you are passionate about are issues you may be pondering. Coach, Shannon Connolly especially loves to work with women who are considering what their next adventure will be. She is a Soul Evolution Mentor who has created a program called "Discover Your Magic". Shannon will help you reflect on all of your accomplishments and explore your wishes. How wonderful to take the opportunity to move forward in your life in a new way and with the assistance of a coach who will support and guide you to make your dreams come true.
The practice of yoga is different for each person. Barb Kennedy has been teaching yoga for over 30 years and is well-versed in how to get the most out of your yoga classes. She leads us through the many ways to enjoy the different postures and how to turn off that over-active brain you may have. Yoga doesn't have to always be serious or so challenging that you find yourself in pain. That is not the ultimate goal of any yoga practice. Barb shares so much great knowledge and understanding as to how each of us can deepen our practice and enjoy ourselves even more.
We are energy beings which means that energy therapies may help your emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. Pranic Healing is a full body and mind practice that can shift negative thoughts and feelings that are getting in your way. Paula Lord shares a nurturing and powerful understanding of how Pranic Healing can help you get rid of traumas old and new that are not serving you well. Living your best life is possible.
All of us carry a panoply of emotions in our brains. Whether it be anxiety, fear, shame, guilt, anger, etc. -- those emotions may be keeping us from feeling our best. Therapist, Kristin Tenuta is certified in a technique called Brain Spotting that is helpful in releasing those troubling emotions. Tapping into our brain's ability to shift and "rewire" is how Brainspotting works to relieve you of any distress you may have experienced whether it be recent or old trauma.
Once someone has received a diagnosis of cancer -- they are confronted with so much information which can be completely overwhelming. In addition, it is a scary diagnosis and one must find ways to understand what oncologists, radiologists, nurse practitioners, etc. are saying to you. Enter the Cancer Sherpa, Cathy Nobil-Dutton, who brings a wealth of experience as a therapist, exercise trainer, and Certified Cancer Navigator to the table. She knows how to listen, to hear your fears, and to help guide you as you go through treatment or make choices to explore alternatives and supportive care.
Climate change is having a huge impact on the entire world. Earth Charter Indiana Executive Director, Jim Poyser gives us an update on this global issue and shares great information about the connection between poverty and the climate crisis. Jim also tells us about the many valuable student projects, from banning straws to zero waste, that are happening with kids all across the state of Indiana. Tune in for a lively and fun conversation around a very serious issue.
Of your five senses, the sense of sound is quite healing. Listen to Janiece Jaffe chant, sing, and discuss the many benefits of letting all kinds of sounds wash over you. Whether you are seeking emotional or physical healing -- you may want to try bathing in a sound session.
Maybe you have a bad habit you would like to stop, a fear that is preventing you from moving forward, or some doubts about what direction to take next. Any and all of these concerns may be helped by hypnotism. Clinical Hypnotist, Toni Macri-Reiner shares her insights and wealth of knowledge about the benefits of hypnotism. She also dispels some of the myths and concerns that many people have about being hypnotized. Join us for a lively conversation.
So many types of yoga -- from Hatha to Yin and everything in between. Bowspring Yoga is a completely different way of practicing postures and releasing tension, injuries, illness, and more. Samantha Simpson leads us through the Bowspring formula and characteristics that define this wonderful mind-body practice. Listen in and see if it is something you may want to try.
If you are in a dream drought or have recurring dreams, Jenny Foley may be able to help you remember, examine, and move forward in a healthy way. As an Active Dream Interpreter, Jenny shares tips and insights into how to work through the feelings your dreams bring to your attention. She also discusses a technique she uses called Body Mapping.
Birth is a traumatic event for newborns. It may have a negative impact on bones, muscles, fascia, and more depending on how quickly labor and delivery were, position at birth, and many other factors. Danielle Burr explains the way this joyous, and difficult event can cause numerous problems in the growth and development of all infants.
Part of being Jewish is being grateful for your body, your health, and your life. Rabbi Brett Krichiver helps us understand how Judaism encourages everyone to take care of their personal wellness by being mindful about what they eat, how they exercise, and how they engage in daily practices and prayers for one's health.
Do you have a digestive system that is working well? How about your hormones? Sometimes the negative symptoms we have with our moods, skin, sleeping, and more are being impacted by how well our bodies digest the food we eat. In fact, this may be the underlying cause of a great deal of dis-ease in one's body. Naturopath, Melanie MacLaren helps us dive into a number of these health issues and what can be done to get you on a healthier path.
We live in a world where the food we eat, the body care products we use, and the stress we live has a significant impact on our health. Naturopath, Melanie MacLaren helps us understand how a sensitivity, intolerance, or allergy may affect us mentally, emotionally, and physically. As a practitioner of NAET, Melanie knows there are non-invasive, foundational ways to rid yourself of those sensitivities and allergies so that you may feel your best.
Have you had that important conversation with your loved ones about their final wishes? Learn how to ease into that topic with the help of Angela Dawn, End of Life Doula. Why should you or those you love suffer from fear, pain, or sadness if near death? When those important conversations happen ahead of time then everyone can focus on being a compassionate, positive presence for a family member or dear friend who is dying.
While you are here on earth today, you may also have been here before. Join this lovely conversation with Katherine Kidd on psychic readings, hypnotism, and past life regression. She's had years of experience working with individuals to help them understand how emotions, relationships, and feelings of familiarity may be from a past life. Anything is possible.
Join Alix and personal trainer, John Simmonds for strategies, helpful hints, and more when working with seniors. Instead of more being better -- less is more -- when you're over 50 and trying to stay in shape. Functional skills, balance, stamina, and strength are all part of an exercise plan that John and his fellow trainers tailor for each individual. As John says, "Motion is the lotion" that keeps those joints working and you out of pain as you age.
For both humans and pets, inflammation is the underlying cause of much dis-ease. Long-time, integrative vet, Julie Towle discusses the newer tools that can be used to help our dogs and cats. New ways of testing, assessing, and treating everything from pain to cancer. Find out all about these therapeutic treatments in this sweet conversation.
CBD is such a versatile ingredient. You can put it in any baked good and make something yummy even better. Leo Colon started cooking and baking years ago but not until his son was diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum did he start thinking about how to make great food and sweet treats that wouldn't impact his behavior in negative ways. Leo started giving his son CBD in smoothies and juices and eventually in cookies, muffins, and more. A great CBD journey that has helped his son feel less anxious and more settled in himself.
All of us experience grief whether it be through the loss of a loved one, a beloved friend, or our best furry friends. How can we process that grief in a manner that serves us well? Experienced therapist, Lisa Arick shares her wisdom and offers a number of ways to help each of us navigate what is a very difficult and painful emotion. Lisa says, "You have to feel to heal." Powerful advice that is a challenge for so many.
By combining both ancient and modern wisdom, Human Design is able to take your birth data and help you understand what you are meant to be doing with your life. You still need someone to analyze the information and that is where Cameron Coots comes in. She has trained to be able to interpret and offer you a greater understanding of your Human Design chart. Wouldn't it be great to know if you're on the best path in both your personal and professional life or if you need to make some changes? Cameron can help you on your journey.
Myofascial release is usually done by a practitioner like Danielle Burr. However, when you're home either post-treatment or have an old injury that is stuck in your body -- a little self-care can go a long way. As Danielle says, "Listen when your body whispers or you will be sure to hear it when it starts to scream." She teaches us the props needed and the techniques involved to help your body melt away the pain. Whether it is your neck, shoulders, back, knees, or feet these practices will keep you in tip-top shape.
One of Integrative Nurse Practitioner, Nichole Ingersoll's favorite challenges is figuring out specific testing and assessing what needs to be done to solve a medical mystery. Patients may walk in with all kinds of symptoms or may have seen other medical professionals and still, they cannot get better. Nichole discusses how she works from the first conversation through testing, referrals, and many times, a happy, healthy ending.
With over 20 years of experience as an Integrative Nurse Practitioner, Nichole Ingersoll is well-versed in what it takes to stay well. Learn about the many ways you can take care of your body so that your immune system is strong and able to fight off bacterial, viral, or fungal invaders. Now, more than ever, having a solid foundation of health is the key to surviving and thriving in a world where the next pandemic may be just around the corner.
No matter who you are, or what your life challenges have been, yoga may be one path that will help you process old traumas, old emotions, and anything that might be getting in your way. Yoga teacher, Barb Kennedy has so much wisdom to share about the many places those stuck emotions can hide and how yoga poses and deep breathing can shift things for you. And, she reminds us that the path to enlightenment may be a long and bumpy ride so make sure to get as many laughs as you are able.
If you have a mind that is on overdrive and unable to calm then listen to what Yoga teacher, Barb Kennedy has to say. There are a number of techniques to use to release your "monkey mind" and get deep into your heart. Of course, making yoga and meditation part of your daily life will help create an outlet for those racing thoughts, worries, stress, and tension so that you may relax into a higher state of consciousness.
All the constituents of the hemp/cannabis plant can be used in cooking. Chefski Laskowski knows how to integrate everything from the seeds & leaves to the oil, terpenes and more. Whether you are creating a salad, an appetizer, a dessert, or a full meal -- you can incorporate CBD into your food. Join us for a fun conversation about making tasty, innovated dishes from Chefski.
Everyone experiences illness, trauma, accidents, and other issues that have an impact on how your body functions. Whether it is emotional or physical -- some issues get stuck in your body and may have a long-term negative impact on your ability to feel your best. Massage and Soft Tissue Therapist, Danielle Burr explains how the fascial system works and how a multitude of issues can be released by gently manipulating and massaging your tissues.
So many different ways to breathe to help you feel your best. Learn all about Soulful Breathwork with Lynn Tisza and how this method can impact your overall sense of well-being in profound ways. Lynn also discusses the differences between yoga breathing, meditation and Soulful Breathwork.
Take a fun journey into the world of crystals with Lynn Tisza. Discover the many healing properties attributed to a wide variety of crystals from all over the world. Learn how to appreciate the energy and vibrational qualities that crystals may bring to your life.
Explore the wild world of Numerology with the amazing Joni Hansen. Find out how your birth date, month, and year all have an impact on the paths you choose. Learn about even numbers versus odd numbers and how every year the numbers change slightly which will have an impact on your life.
Are you what you eat? Find out how to ascertain your digestive health with the insights of Integrative Health Coach & Digestive Health Practitioner, Heidi Straub. Could it be what you are eating, how you are eating, or whether the lining of your stomach is compromised in some manner? Heidi has great insights into how you can determine the best path to excellent digestion and a healthy foundation.
Every day we use body, face care, and cleaning products that have hundreds of toxic ingredients that have a negative impact on our health. Heidi Straub has been researching and teaching individuals and families how to identify dangerous ingredients and reduce their toxic load. As a health coach, Heidi knows that having more awareness about what we eat, drink and use on our bodies will help us be more mindful with what we purchase.
Join Alix and her guest, Sam Blandina, High-Performance Corrective Exercise Specialist as they wind there way down the road of how to be more intentional in the way we work out. Just going out for a run, a ride or a swim requires a certain amount of thoughtfulness and an assessment as to how well your body feels that day. Avoid injury, improve your posture, and increase your stamina when you hear what Sam has to say.
Astrologer, Phyllis Salina shares her deep well of knowledge as to how the planets are moving in our solar system and why our world is experiencing such tumult. She discusses that we are all energy bodies and how to reframe our negative reactions to the big changes that are happening all over the world.
Certified Nutritionist, Kathleen Comerford discusses some of the best practices for eating well during treatment and after. When your whole body is inflamed and stressed -- what you eat can make a huge, positive difference in how well you heal.
Hoosier Hemp farmer, Mark Davidson explains how you take the hemp plant and process it into a CBD liquid. There are so many stages of harvesting, trimming, infusing, and more. Learn from an enthusiastic expert the gentlest way to get the most beneficial constituents from the hemp plant. Mark brings his love of farming and hemp to our listeners.
Are you searching for a spiritual connection and don't know where to start? Spiritual Coach/Divine Synergist, Karmen Fink talks about how to find your spiritual path. She discusses how each of us can figure out our purpose in being here and how to find a sense of spirituality whether it be in nature or in a higher power. Karmen brings all of her better angels with her as well.
Build Your Brilliance founder, Carla Taylor shares her amazing knowledge about how to use the StrengthsFinder test as a tool to move forward in your professional life. It is not enough just to take the test because that is only the first step. One needs to learn how to integrate those strengths daily so that you are doing work that you feel passionate about and competent at. Let Carla be your guide.
Learn all about the Indy Holistic Hub with the Founding Director, Jennifer Seffrin. She talks about her journey in creating this excellent resource for the entire city and discusses the many workshops and trainings they provide. Getting connected to just the right holistic practitioner could make all the difference with your health and wellness.
Yoga teacher, Barbara Kennedy shares her wisdom and skills to help you stay calm especially during these very stressful times. It may be a deep breath, balancing your chakras or simply taking the time for self-care. Barbara knows so many ways for each of us to work on our inner self so that the outside world doesn't get in our way.
MAKO Hemp co-owner, Ian Kistler talks in-depth about hemp flower. Learn about the different strains, the history of hemp plant growth and development, and so much more. Ian talks about the safety profile of the plant and how hemp is the number one renewable resource in the world.
Alix interviews Mark Bradley, owner of Midwest Hemp Authority about the ingredients that are in CBD tinctures. It shouldn't be a mystery. The ingredients are found in the QR code and can help you understand exactly what you are purchasing. Mark discusses the major and minor cannabinoids and how to buy a high-quality CBD product.
Learn all about the amazing hemp plant. From putting the starters in the ground and through every growth stage. Mark discusses the challenges of growing hemp and the many healing benefits that come from its main constituent, CBD.