Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable.

Sleep isn’t just about whether your child seems tired. It can influence their mood, behavior, concentration, immune function, physical health, growth, and ability to learn. In this episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable. , Susan sits down with JaNae Haycock, certified pediatric nurse practitioner, pediatric sleep specialist, and founder of Sleep Stars Kids, to unpack why children’s sleep deserves much more attention. With 25 years of experience in pediatric healthcare, JaNae has helped thousands of children and families navigate medical and behavioral sleep challenges. She breaks down what healthy sleep can look like from infancy through the teenage years, why routines matter, how genetics can influence sleep, and the impact phones and screens may have at bedtime. Susan and JaNae also discuss how poor sleep can sometimes show up as hyperactivity, emotional dysregulation, trouble concentrating, anxiety, or poor academic performance. Plus, JaNae shares important red flags parents should know, including snoring, breathing disruptions, extreme daytime sleepiness, and excessive restlessness. In This Episode: How much sleep children actually need at different ages The connection between poor sleep, behavior, mood, learning, and physical health Why some sleep issues can look similar to symptoms associated with ADHD How genetics, routines, screens, and environment can influence sleep Why snoring and restless sleep in children shouldn’t automatically be considered normal Sleep disorder red flags that may warrant further evaluation Learn more about our guest JaNae Haycock: JaNae Haycock is a Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and the founder of SleepStars Kids. She earned her master’s degree in nursing and has spent the past 25 years working in pediatric healthcare. After years working in pediatric primary care, JaNae specialized in sleep medicine, helping thousands of children conquer complex medical and behavioral sleep struggles. Today, she runs a virtual behavioral sleep medicine practice for families in Colorado, where she is licensed as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. She created SleepStars Kids to expand her reach, bringing her expertise to parents worldwide through dedicated one-on-one coaching and self-guided educational tools. JaNae breaks down complex medical insights into actionable, easy-to-understand advice. As a mother of four who has faced her own fair share of sleepless nights, she knows there is no one-size-fits-all sleep solution. She blends her clinical expertise with practical, compassionate strategies, tailored to fit the unique needs of every parent and child. When she’s not helping families get the rest they need, she can be found enjoying the great outdoors in beautiful Colorado. RESOURCES: Connect with JaNae Haycock: Website: https://www.sleepstarskids.com/ Facebook - SleepStars IG - https://www.instagram.com/sleepstarskids Full Shownotes: https://healthyawakening.co/2026/10/05/episode143 Connect with Susan: https://linktr.ee/susanrobbins Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

You know your body better than anyone else, but putting “something feels off” into words a healthcare provider can actually use isn’t always easy. In this episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable. , Susan welcomes back naturopathic doctor and women’s health strategist Dr. Daniella Remy for a powerful conversation about the gaps that still exist in women’s healthcare and why understanding the patterns behind our symptoms matters. Daniella introduces Luna, a new women’s health platform created to help women capture their lived experiences, identify patterns over time, and translate that information into something both they and their healthcare providers can better understand. Susan and Daniella also dive into perimenopause and menopause, the overlap between hormones, stress, sleep, nutrition and other body systems, the limitations of looking at isolated symptoms or single lab results, and why women shouldn’t have to become their own doctors just to get answers. The goal isn’t to self-diagnose. It’s to understand your body well enough to advocate for yourself and have better conversations about your care. In This Episode: Why “something feels off” can be so difficult to translate in a traditional medical appointment How symptoms can tell a much bigger story when viewed together and over time Why perimenopause can begin years before menopause and look different for every woman The overlap between hormones, stress, sleep, nutrition, inflammation, and other body systems How Luna helps organize symptoms and patterns into useful information for women and their clinicians Why becoming your own health advocate is different from trying to become your own doctor Learn more about our guest Dr. Daniella Remy: Dr. Daniella Remy, a naturopathic doctor, health strategist, and one of the sharpest minds in the emerging field of precision wellness. Daniella is the Vice President of Science at Shae.ai, where she’s been part of the core team since inception. She is the scientific architect behind Shae’s groundbreaking AI-based health technology, driving the personalization engine, the precision lab interpretation, and the predictive algorithms designed to help people prevent disease long before it starts. In September, she launched her newest venture, The Perimenopause Lab, a platform dedicated to helping women cut through the chaos of hormonal changes with clarity, confidence, and science-backed solutions. Her mission is to transform how women understand and navigate perimenopause, making this stage a powerful reset instead of a struggle. Beyond her work, Daniella is an avid gym buff, a devoted dog lover, and a passionate traveler who speaks four languages and brings a global, human-centered perspective to everything she does. She’s known for blending deep scientific expertise with a warm, grounded, and totally relatable approach to health. RESOURCES: Connect with Dr. Daniella Remy: Website : https://perimenopauselab.com/ Luna Web-app : https://luna.perimenopauselab.com/ —> Free! Lock in those Founding Member benefits! Mobile app on iOS and Android coming early 2027 —> Free tier will remain but premium benefits will come at a higher price Join the private Facebook group for your perimenopause community (health professionals and women talking about all the issues that come with it) —> https://www.facebook.com/groups/isithormones Want to join the directory? Women’s health professionals should connect with Daniella on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellaremy/ Check out the previous Daniella Remy Episodes: https://healthyawakening.co/2025/12/08/episode99 https://healthyawakening.co/2025/12/12/episode100/ Full Shownotes: https://healthyawakening.co/2026/09/28/episode142 Connect with Susan: https://linktr.ee/susanrobbins Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

Your brain and immune system may be more connected than you realize. In Part 2 of Susan’s conversation with Dr. Jackie Kilraine, they explore how chronic stress, trauma, anxiety, pain, and a brain stuck in survival mode may influence the way we feel throughout the entire body. Jackie shares what she has observed through years of working with neurofeedback and discusses research exploring connections between brain activity, immune pathways, chronic pain, and neurological health. Susan and Jackie also dive into the gut-brain connection, thyroid health, autoimmune conditions, traumatic brain injuries, PTSD, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and what can happen when the brain remains hypervigilant long after the original threat is gone. They discuss neurofeedback and light and sound therapies, how Jackie uses brain mapping in her work, and why addressing lifestyle without considering the nervous system may leave an important piece of the puzzle untouched. This conversation is a powerful reminder that the body does not operate as isolated systems. To understand what is happening physically, sometimes we have to look at what the brain has been carrying. In This Episode How chronic stress and an overactive brain may interact with immune pathways The connections Jackie sees between anxiety, trauma, chronic pain, and autoimmune conditions Why the gut, brain, thyroid, nervous system, and immune system cannot always be viewed separately What happens when the brain remains stuck in fight-or-flight and hypervigilance How neurofeedback and brain mapping are used to identify and retrain dysregulated brainwave patterns Research Jackie discusses around brainwave frequencies, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, PTSD, and traumatic brain injury RESOURCES: Connect with Dr. Jackie Kilraine: Website: https://www.mydivinelife.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackiekilraine/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@expressingoptima4750 Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes: https://healthyawakening.co/2026/09/21/episode141/ Connect with Susan: https://linktr.ee/susanrobbins Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

What if the missing piece to better health isn't another supplement, diet, or protocol, but your brain? In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Susan Robbins sits down with Dr. Jackie Kilraine, chiropractor, board-certified neurofeedback specialist, and fellow epigenetic human performance coach, to explore how the brain influences everything from stress and sleep to chronic pain, focus, and overall well-being. Together, they unpack the science behind brainwaves, why so many people get stuck in survival mode, and how unresolved stress can shape the way we think, feel, and function. Dr. Kilraine explains how neurofeedback works to retrain dysregulated brain patterns, helping people move beyond anxiety, overwhelm, insomnia, and burnout so they can experience greater calm, clarity, and resilience. If you've ever felt like you're doing everything "right" but still don't feel your best, this conversation offers a powerful new perspective on where healing truly begins. Key Takeaways What neurofeedback is and how it helps retrain dysregulated brain patterns The different brainwave states and how they influence stress, sleep, focus, and overall health Why chronic stress and unresolved trauma can keep your brain locked in survival mode The connection between brain function, chronic pain, anxiety, and emotional well-being How genetics, lifestyle, and brain health work together to shape long-term wellness Simple ways to begin supporting a calmer, more resilient brain Be sure to tune in next week for Part 2, where Susan and Dr. Jackie Kilraine connect the dots between the brain, the immune system, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, PTSD, and why calming the brain may be one of the most overlooked strategies for improving long-term health. RESOURCES: Connect with Dr. Jackie Kilraine: Website: https://www.mydivinelife.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackiekilraine/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@expressingoptima4750 Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes: https://healthyawakening.co/2026/09/14/episode140/ Connect with Susan: https://linktr.ee/susanrobbins Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

What if the way we’ve been thinking about iron is missing a much bigger part of the story? Low ferritin, fatigue, anemia, iron supplementation, and infusions are incredibly common conversations in health and wellness, but according to Morley Robbins, we need to be asking a different question: Why is iron dysregulated in the first place? In this episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable. , Susan sits down with Morley Robbins, founder of the Root Cause Protocol and author of Cure Your Fatigue , for a deep dive into the relationship between iron, copper, energy production, stress, and genetic expression. Morley challenges many commonly accepted beliefs about iron and explains why he believes bioavailable copper plays an essential role in iron recycling and overall metabolic function. Susan and Morley also explore ferritin, thyroid function, histamine, methylation, vitamin A, parasites, supplementation, mitochondrial health, and why looking at one marker in isolation can lead us down the wrong path. This conversation will challenge what you think you know and, more importantly, encourage you to start asking better questions about what is happening inside your body. In This Episode: Why Morley believes iron dysregulation is often misunderstood as iron deficiency The relationship between copper, iron recycling, and cellular energy production Why ferritin and other blood markers need to be considered within a bigger picture How stress may influence iron regulation, mitochondrial health, and genetic expression The connections between copper, thyroid function, histamine, methylation, and vitamin A Why Susan and Morley believe individualized health requires better questions instead of chasing isolated symptoms RESOURCES: Connect with Morley Robbins: Phone: 847-922-8061 Email: morleyrobbins@gmail.com https://therootcauseprotocol.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therootcauseprotocol/ Articles Mentioned: https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/medical-hypotheses/vol/71/issue/2 Find all of Susan’s Resources and links on LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/susanrobbins https://healthyawakening.co/2026/09/07/episode139/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

What happens when you’re doing everything you think is healthy, but your body keeps telling you something is wrong? In Part 2 of this special sister series, Susan sits down with Leslie to share her deeply personal journey from exhaustion, weight gain, brain fog, hormone struggles, and constant self-diagnosing to finally understanding what her individual body needed. Leslie had spent years immersed in natural health, researching symptoms and trying to make informed choices. But by the time she came to Susan, she was exhausted, taking two- to three-hour naps, struggling to think clearly, gaining weight despite her efforts, and navigating hormone therapy that wasn’t addressing the complete picture- and making things worse. By looking at Leslie’s genetics, labs, lifestyle, stress response, metabolism, hormones, and nutrition together, they uncovered connections that had previously been missed. Today, Leslie is 37 pounds down, no longer relying on daily naps, has significantly more energy, and feels like she has her life back. Her story is a powerful reminder that knowing what is generally “healthy” is not the same as knowing what is healthy for YOU. In This Episode: Why years of researching and self-diagnosing her health eventually left Leslie exhausted How hormones, insulin resistance, thyroid function, stress, and genetics were contributing to her symptoms Why foods and habits considered “healthy” weren’t necessarily supporting Leslie’s individual biology How personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes helped her lose 37 pounds without starving herself Why maintaining her progress through an incredibly stressful month became one of her biggest measures of success How her energy, digestion, daily routines, and overall quality of life have transformed RESOURCES: Connect with Leslie Adamson: https://trinityanchoredformation.com/ Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes: https://healthyawakening.co/2026/08/31/episode138/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

At 64, Pam has lost 45 pounds without a GLP-1, but that is only one part of her transformation. For years, Pam knew something wasn’t right. She was gaining weight, exhausted, frustrated, and tired of trying things that simply weren’t working. She and her husband had reached a point where they were sick of feeling stuck and didn’t know what else to do. But Pam’s story began to change when the focus shifted away from yet another generic plan and toward understanding what was actually happening inside her body. In Part 1 of this special two-part series, Susan sits down with Pam and her sister, Leslie, to share the raw, real story behind their health transformations. They explore how genetics, labs, stress, metabolism, digestion, and lifestyle helped uncover pieces of their health that had previously been missed, including genetic lipid risks such as Lp(a) and phytosterolemia. In this episode the focus is on Pam. This conversation is about much more than a number on the scale. At 64, Pam has lost 45 pounds, feels dramatically better, and has changed the trajectory of her health by learning how to work with her individual biology. Her story is a powerful reminder that feeling better is possible at any age, and that sometimes the answer isn’t trying harder, but finally understanding what your body needs. In This Episode Why Pam felt exhausted, frustrated, and stuck after repeatedly trying to improve her health How personalized testing revealed genetic and metabolic factors that helped explain what was happening What Pam learned about Lp(a), phytosterolemia (ABCG8 genes), stress, digestion, and their impact on her individual health risks Why weight loss became a by-product of helping her body function better rather than the only goal The lifestyle and nutrition changes that helped Pam lose 45 pounds at age 64 Why feeling seen, heard, and understood can completely change someone's health journey Come back next week for Part 2, where Pam’s sister Leslie shares her own very different journey, from overwhelming fatigue, weight gain, hormone struggles, and years of trying to figure out her health on her own to finally understanding what her body needed. Two sisters, shared genetics, but two distinctly individual and impactful health stories that will inspire you. RESOURCES: Connect with Pam Fowler: https://galenoiabrainwellness.com/ Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes: https://healthyawakening.co/2026/08/24/episode137/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

MTHFR may be one of the most talked-about and misunderstood genes in the wellness world. Depending on where you get your information, you may have been told that an MTHFR variant is responsible for everything from fatigue and brain fog to poor detoxification, hormone issues, fertility challenges, and chronic disease. You may have even been told you need a specific supplement, detox protocol, or diet simply because of one genetic result. But your biology is far more complex than one SNP. In this solo episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable. , Susan Robbins is breaking down the facts and fiction surrounding MTHFR. She explains what the MTHFR gene actually does, the difference between a genetic variant and a mutation, and why having an MTHFR variant does not mean your methylation is "broken." Susan also explores folate versus folic acid, methylfolate supplementation, detox claims, MTHFR-specific diets, and why looking at genetics without considering labs, symptoms, lifestyle, environment, and the rest of your genetic pathways can lead to unnecessary fear and one-size-fits-all recommendations. This episode is about replacing fear with context so you can use your genetics as information, not as a prediction of your future. In This Episode: What MTHFR actually is and its role in folate metabolism and methylation Why having an MTHFR variant is not the same as having a disease or diagnosis The difference between folate, folic acid, and methylfolate Why an MTHFR variant doesn't automatically mean you need methylfolate or another supplement How genes such as DHFR and other pathways add important context to MTHFR Why genetics should be considered alongside labs, symptoms, nutrition, sleep, stress, movement, environment, and health history RESOURCES: DNA Decoded: The Truth About Genetic Testing & What You Need to Know https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dna-decoded-the-truth-about-genetic-testing-what-you/id1736527617?i=1000700566833 Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes: https://healthyawakening.co/2026/08/17/episode136/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

When people think about longevity, they often focus on nutrition, supplements, strength training, or cardio. But there's another piece of the puzzle that's just as important, and it's often overlooked: balance. In this episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable. , Susan Robbins sits down with fitness professional and Balero Board creator, Karen Harbour to explore why balance is one of the most powerful predictors of long-term health, mobility, and independence. Karen shares how decades of experience in the fitness industry, combined with her own passion for functional movement, led her to create a simple, accessible way for people to improve balance, stability, and confidence. Together, Susan and Karen discuss why balance begins declining earlier than most people realize, how it affects everything from injury prevention to athletic performance, and why training balance should become part of everyone's wellness routine—regardless of age or fitness level. In this episode: Why balance is one of the most overlooked pillars of longevity and healthy aging The four essential components of balance: stability, agility, strength, and endurance How improving balance can reduce the risk of falls, injuries, and loss of independence Why functional movement and unilateral training are key for recovery and everyday life Simple ways to incorporate balance training into your daily routine without spending hours in the gym How building balance today can improve confidence, mobility, and quality of life for years to come RESOURCES: Connect with Karen Harbour: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/baleroboard/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenharbour/ Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes: https://healthyawakening.co/2026/08/03/episode135/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

Have you ever felt like you're not qualified enough, smart enough, or experienced enough to step into the life you're meant to live? Whether it's launching a business, starting a new career, speaking up, or simply allowing yourself to be seen, imposter syndrome has a way of keeping us stuck. But what if the voice telling you you're "not enough" isn't the truth? In this episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable. , Susan Robbins welcomes back relationship and behavioral change specialist Anne Larsen for an eye-opening conversation about imposter syndrome and the hidden ways it shapes our careers, relationships, health, and identity. Together, they explore why so many people struggle with self-doubt, how comparison and perfectionism keep us from living authentically, and why understanding your biology and nervous system can help you move beyond fear. This is a powerful conversation about embracing vulnerability, quieting your inner critic, and giving yourself permission to show up as your authentic self. In this episode: What imposter syndrome really is, and why it affects far more people than you might think How self-doubt, comparison, perfectionism, and fear of being "found out" keep people stuck The connection between imposter syndrome, the nervous system, and chronic stress Why understanding your unique biology can help you embrace your authentic strengths Practical strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome and building self-trust How vulnerability, self-awareness, and authenticity can transform your relationships, career, and overall well-being RESOURCES: Connect with Anne Larsen: annelarsenconsults@gmail.com Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes: https://healthyawakening.co/2026/07/27/episode134/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

Is extra virgin olive oil really as healthy as people claim? Or has it become another nutrition trend surrounded by conflicting opinions? In this solo episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable. , Susan Robbins explores the science behind one of the most researched foods in the world: extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). Drawing from years of reviewing DNA reports, biomarkers, epigenetic testing, and current research, Susan explains why EVOO continues to stand out as one of the few foods she consistently recommends across a wide range of clients. She also breaks down common myths about dietary fat, cooking with olive oil, cholesterol, and why personalized nutrition will always matter more than following the latest diet trend. Whether you're trying to support heart health, reduce inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, or simply make more informed food choices, this episode will help you understand why food is more than fuel, it's information that influences how your body functions every single day. In this episode: Why extra virgin olive oil continues to stand out across genetics, biomarkers, and nutrition research The connection between EVOO, inflammation, insulin sensitivity, cardiovascular health, and healthy aging Why personalized nutrition is more effective than following one popular diet The truth about cooking with extra virgin olive oil and whether it really is stable when heated How your genes influence the way your body responds to different dietary fats Practical tips for choosing a high-quality extra virgin olive oil and incorporating it into your daily routine If you've ever wondered whether olive oil deserves its reputation as one of the healthiest foods you can eat, this episode offers a practical, science-backed perspective that may change the way you think about one simple ingredient. RESOURCES: Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes: Oxidative Stress Episode: https://healthyawakening.co/2025/12/19/episode102/ Cholesterol Episode: https://healthyawakening.co/2026/03/16/episode115/ https://healthyawakening.co/2026/07/20/episode133/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

Healthy skin isn't created by expensive creams, complicated skincare routines, or the latest beauty trend. It's a reflection of what's happening inside the body. In this episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable., Susan Robbins sits down with licensed esthetician, Functional Medicine Practitioner, and founder of Skin Deep Aesthetics & Wellness, Samantha Dench, to explore the powerful connection between skin health and whole-body wellness. Together, they discuss how gut health, hormones, stress, sleep, nutrition, genetics, and lifestyle all influence the health and appearance of your skin. From acne and rosacea to eczema, premature aging, and perimenopause, Samantha explains why lasting skin health begins by addressing the root causes instead of simply treating symptoms. Susan and Samantha also dive into today's biggest skincare debates, including sunscreen versus sunblock, the rise of aggressive skincare routines among younger generations, the impact of processed foods on aging, and why personalized health is essential for achieving healthy, resilient skin. This conversation is filled with practical takeaways that will change the way you think about skincare and remind you that your skin is often one of the body's first signals that something deeper deserves attention. In this episode: Why healthy skin starts with gut health, hormones, and lifestyle The connection between stress, the nervous system, and common skin conditions How nutrition influences acne, rosacea, eczema, and premature aging The truth about sunscreen, sunblock, and healthy sun exposure Why perimenopause and menopause dramatically change skin health Simple lifestyle habits that support healthy skin from the inside out Learn more about Samantha Dench: Samantha Dench is a licensed esthetician, functional medicine practitioner, entrepreneur, and educator with over two decades of experience helping clients achieve clear skin from the inside out. As the founder of Skin Deep Esthetics + Wellness, she addresses the root causes of skin issues by understanding the connection between internal wellness and external beauty. Samantha blends functional medicine with esthetics to empower clients and professionals alike to view the skin through a whole-body lens. Her focus is on women suffering from perimenopause and autoimmune conditions. Her work includes gut testing, customized nutrition and lifestyle plans to help her clients look and feel their absolute best at any stage of life. She’s also the creator and host of The Functional Aesthetician Podcast, where she shares insights on how gut health, nutrition, hormones, and lifestyle impact skin health. When she’s not working, this single mom of three finds balance in walks, baths, journaling, and spending time with her kids. RESOURCES: Connect with Samantha Dench: Website: www.skindeepil.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skindeepil Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skindeepIL/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@skindeepil YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@skindeepil Episode shownotes: https://healthyawakening.co/2026/07/13/episode132/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

Have you ever wondered if frequencies could play a role in supporting your health? In this episode, Susan sits down with Stephen Davis, founder of the Nikki wearable, to explore the fascinating world of frequency wellness. Inspired by his family's long journey with Lyme disease, Stephen shares how years of searching for answers led him to develop a wearable device designed to deliver frequency-based wellness programs that support the body's natural healing processes. Together, Susan and Stephen discuss how the Nikki is used for everything from stress, sleep, and recovery to athletic performance and Lyme support. Susan also shares her own experience using the device over the past several months and the changes she's noticed along the way. Whether you're curious about frequency technology, living with chronic health challenges, or simply looking for new ways to support your overall well-being, this conversation offers a thought-provoking look at an emerging area of wellness. In this episode, you'll learn: Stephen's personal journey that led to the creation of the Nikki wearable. What frequency wellness is and why it has become an area of growing interest. How Stephen believes frequency technology can support the body's natural healing processes. The connection between stress, sleep, immune function, and overall wellness. How the Nikki is being used for general wellness, recovery, athletic performance, and Lyme support. Susan's personal experience wearing the Nikki and what she observed over several months. Why healthy lifestyle habits remain an essential part of supporting long-term health. Learn more about Stephen Davis: Stephen Davis is a serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, seasoned inventor & a healthcare pioneer with over 35 years in the global business economy. He has a deep passion for and involvement in mission-driven companies and organizations that seek to promote social good and greater access for all. As a pioneer in health & wellness, he has co-developed a cutting-edge proprietary device, waveforce ONE, that utilizes frequency emission technology to temper and – in some cases – completely eliminate the symptoms of chronic Lyme disease and other debilitating ailments. This is a product Mr. Davis feels uniquely tethered to as the conception of the waveforce ONE stemmed from his own personal struggles with chronic Lyme disease having witnessed it upend the lives of his daughter and two grandsons. Beyond the overall hopelessness, the immense financial strain of sustaining the costly medications and treatments prompted Davis to seek out alternatives. Fortuitously, he connected with Stuart Gross who would introduce him to the groundbreaking frequency emission technology that would ultimately stave off the symptoms of his daughter and grandsons, as well as lay the foundation for the revolutionary and affordable waveforce ONE wearable device. RESOURCES: Connect with Stephen Davis: https://wellness.wearenikki.com/ Episode shownotes: https://healthyawakening.co/2026/07/06/episode131/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

In this episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable., Susan Robbins sits down with Alyssa Blue, Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner, former aerospace engineer, and co-founder of Align Mat, for a powerful conversation about nervous system regulation, chronic stress, resilience, and what it truly means to create a foundation for healing. In a world that constantly pushes us to do more, optimize more, and achieve more, many people are finding themselves exhausted, anxious, inflamed, and disconnected from their bodies. Susan and Alyssa explore why so many individuals are stuck in cycles of burnout despite doing all the "right" things, and how nervous system dysregulation may be the missing piece. They discuss the impact of chronic stress, biohacking overload, sleep disruption, information fatigue, environmental stressors, and the cultural pressure to always be productive. Together, they challenge the idea that healing comes from adding more supplements, protocols, or wellness trends. Instead, they highlight the importance of creating safety within the body, honoring biological rhythms, building resilience, and learning to trust the body's innate ability to heal. This conversation is filled with practical insights, empowering perspectives, and reminders that true wellness begins when we stop fighting our bodies and start working with them. In this episode: Why nervous system regulation is foundational for healing and recovery The connection between chronic stress, anxiety, sleep issues, and weight loss resistance How biohacking and wellness optimization can sometimes create more stress than health Why your body needs to feel safe before it can heal, recover, and thrive The impact of technology, social media, and information overload on the nervous system How beliefs, mindset, and emotional patterns influence physical health outcomes The importance of honoring circadian rhythms and listening to your body's signals Why personalized wellness matters more than following generic health advice The role of resilience, recovery, and creating balance in a high-stress world Practical ways to support your nervous system and reconnect with your body's natural intelligence If you've been doing all the things but still feel exhausted, anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on healing that goes far beyond supplements and protocols. Sometimes the next step forward isn't doing more, it's creating enough space for your body to do what it was designed to do. Learn more about Alyssa Blue: Alyssa is a non practicing Aerospace engineer that found the human body more fascinating than rockets. After suffering a health crisis in her early 20's she went on a decade long journey learning how to heal herself. Today as an FDNP, her research background shines, taking a deep dive to investigate her clients bio-individuality and walking with them on a path back to balance. Out of a necessity to help more people than their 1-2-1 practice would allow, Alyssa and her partner Mike embarked on a 2.5 year R&D journey to co-create ALIGN. Clinically researched, meticulously crafted wellness tools that blend ancient wisdom with modern technology. Together they are on a mission to empower people to actualize their own true healing potential. RESOURCES: Connect with Alyssa Blue: https://myalignmat.com https://www.instagram.com/myalignmat/ https://www.facebook.com/myalignmat https://www.youtube.com/@MY-ALIGN-MAT Episode shownotes: https://healthyawakening.co/2026/06/29/episode130/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

Have you ever felt like you're doing everything right for your health, yet somehow you're more stressed, more overwhelmed, and more confused than ever? In this solo episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable., Susan Robbins tackles a growing problem in the wellness space: when the pursuit of health becomes unhealthy. From endless supplement stacks and biohacking protocols to obsessive health tracking, AI rabbit holes, and conflicting advice from influencers, many people are finding themselves trapped in a cycle of information overload rather than experiencing true wellness. Susan shares what she's seeing with clients, why more information doesn't always create more clarity, and how the constant search for the next solution can actually work against the health goals people are trying to achieve. This episode is a powerful reminder that health isn't about chasing perfection, following every trend, or constantly looking for what's wrong. It's about learning to trust your body, focusing on what truly matters, and creating enough space for progress to happen. If you've ever found yourself obsessing over lab results, supplements, wearables, diets, or the latest health trend, this conversation will challenge you to take a step back and rethink what wellness is really meant to support. In this episode: Why information overload is becoming one of the biggest challenges in modern wellness How health anxiety can develop from constant research, tracking, and biohacking The difference between using data as a tool versus becoming obsessed with it Why personalized health matters more than following influencer advice How fear-based wellness marketing keeps people stuck searching for more The importance of trusting your body, your process, and your progress RESOURCES: Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes: Shop the products: http://healthygut.com/healthyawakenings (this link will provide you a special discount!) https://healthyawakening.co/2026/06/22/episode129/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

In Part 2 of this special two-part series on genetic lipid disorders, Susan Robbins welcomes back renowned lipidologist Dr. Tom Dayspring for an eye-opening discussion on Lipoprotein(a), often written as Lp(a), one of the most common yet overlooked genetic cardiovascular risk factors in the world. While many people focus on standard cholesterol numbers, Dr. Dayspring explains why Lp(a) deserves far more attention and why major cardiovascular organizations now recommend that every person be tested at least once in their lifetime. Together, Susan and Dr. Dayspring break down the science behind Lp(a), how it differs from traditional cholesterol markers, and why elevated levels can significantly increase the risk of atherosclerosis, stroke, and aortic valve disease. They discuss the role genetics play in determining Lp(a) levels, why lifestyle changes remain important even when they do not directly lower Lp(a), and how advanced testing can provide a more complete picture of cardiovascular risk. This conversation also tackles common misconceptions surrounding cholesterol, statins, and influencer-driven health advice. Dr. Dayspring shares practical guidance on what to do if you discover you have elevated Lp(a), how to advocate for yourself within the healthcare system, and why understanding your unique biology is essential for protecting long-term health. In this episode: What Lipoprotein(a) or Lp(a) is and why it matters Why Lp(a) is one of the most common genetic lipid disorders worldwide The connection between elevated Lp(a), heart disease, stroke, and aortic valve disease Why every person should consider being tested for Lp(a) at least once How genetics determine Lp(a) levels throughout life The difference between Lp(a), LDL cholesterol, and ApoB Why standard cholesterol testing may miss important cardiovascular risk factors The role of oxidized phospholipids in cardiovascular disease If you've ever been told your cholesterol is "normal" but still have a family history of heart disease, stroke, or unexplained cardiovascular events, this episode offers critical information that could help you ask better questions, pursue the right testing, and become a stronger advocate for your own health. Learn more about Dr. Tom Dayspring on the website shownotes! https://healthyawakening.co/2026/06/15/episode128/ RESOURCES: Lipoprotein(a) - Family Heart Foundation https:// familyheart.org/high-lipoprotein-a A Masterclass on Cardiovascular Risk: Decoding Lipoprotein(a) | Dr Dayspring | The Proof EP #320 Connect with Dr. Tom Dayspring X: https://x.com/drlipid https://familyheart.org/ https://healthyawakening.co/2026/06/15/episode128/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

In this episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable., Susan Robbins is joined by renowned expert lipidologist Dr. Tom Dayspring for Part 1 of a special two-part series on genetically driven lipid disorders. Together, they explore phytosterolemia (formerly known as sitosterolemia), a little-known but potentially serious genetic condition that affects how the body absorbs and processes plant sterols. While often overlooked in conventional healthcare, this disorder can contribute to elevated cholesterol markers, cardiovascular risk, xanthomas, kidney issues, and other health concerns when left undetected. Dr. Dayspring breaks down the complex science of cholesterol absorption, plant sterols, and the ABCG5 and ABCG8 genes in a way that is easy to understand. Susan shares what she has observed through years of genetic testing and coaching, including how frequently she is seeing these gene variants appear in practice and why many people are being missed by standard testing. This conversation highlights the importance of personalized medicine, advanced lipid testing, and understanding the unique ways genetics can influence long-term health outcomes. In this episode: What phytosterolemia is and why it is often missed The difference between cholesterol and plant sterols How the ABCG5 and ABCG8 genes regulate sterol absorption Why some people absorb significantly more cholesterol than others The connection between plant sterol hyper-absorption and cardiovascular disease risk Why standard cholesterol testing may miss important clues The role of sitosterol and campesterol testing How phytosterols can impact cell membranes, kidneys, joints, blood cells, and other tissues The difference between heterozygous and homozygous loss-of-function gene variants Why many patients are told their cholesterol is "fine" when deeper issues may exist The importance of ApoB, non-HDL cholesterol, and advanced lipid testing Why some cholesterol-lowering therapies work better than others depending on genetics How lifestyle, nutrition, and personalized interventions can support lipid health When to consider working with a lipid specialist If you have a family history of heart disease, unexplained cholesterol elevations, or have been told your numbers are "normal" despite ongoing concerns, or if use of statins hasn’t helped yu, this episode offers valuable insight into a genetic factor that is rarely discussed but can have a significant impact on long-term health. Learn more about Dr. Tom Dayspring on the website shownotes! https://healthyawakening.co/2026/06/08/episode127/ RESOURCES: Connect with Dr. Tom Dayspring X: https://x.com/drlipid https://healthyawakening.co/2026/06/08/episode127/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

Blue light is everywhere… but most people have no idea what it’s actually doing to their bodies. In this episode of the Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable podcast, Susan sits down with Sam Nahna from Block Blue Light to unpack the real science behind blue light exposure, circadian rhythms, melatonin production, sleep disruption, and why modern lighting may be affecting your health more than you realize. From doom scrolling at night to overhead LED lights, Sam explains how constant exposure to artificial blue light impacts sleep quality, recovery, focus, mood, and long-term wellbeing. The conversation dives into the differences between clear, yellow, amber, and red blue light blocking lenses, why cheap “blue light glasses” often don’t work, and how to create a more sleep-supportive environment without completely disconnecting from modern life. Susan also shares her own experience using red light glasses and how dramatically they’ve helped her wind down, improve sleep quality, and support her natural rhythms during longer summer evenings. This episode is packed with practical, easy-to-understand information for anyone struggling with sleep, screen fatigue, nighttime stimulation, or feeling “wired but tired” at the end of the day. Key Takeaways: What blue light actually is and how it affects the body and brain Why artificial light exposure at night disrupts melatonin and circadian rhythms The difference between clear, yellow, amber, and red blue light blocking lenses How poor sleep impacts recovery, mental health, hormones, and overall health Simple ways to reduce blue light exposure and create a healthier nighttime environment Connect with Sam Nahna + Block Blue Light: Website: https://www.blockbluelight.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blockbluelight_official/ Learn more about Sam Nahna: At BlueBlockLight, we create research-backed products designed to support health, circadian biology, and light-conscious living. Sam has been with the company since its early stages and has become a leading product expert in the field of blue light mitigation and blue light blocking technology. His expertise spans the science of artificial light exposure, circadian health, sleep optimization, and the practical application of blue light blocking solutions in everyday life. Working closely across product development, education, and marketing, Sam specializes in translating the technical and scientific side of light biology into practical, real-world strategies people can actually use. He is known for his deep understanding of how different wavelengths of light impact human physiology and how targeted light environments can support better sleep, recovery, energy, and long-term health. RESOURCES: Connect with Sam Nahna: Website: https://www.blockbluelight.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blockbluelight_official/ https://healthyawakening.co/2026/06/01/episode126/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

In this episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable., Susan Robbins sits down with physician, researcher, and science communicator Dr. Gil Carvalho for a powerful conversation about nutrition misinformation, influencer-driven fear, and what the science actually says about cholesterol, saturated fat, seed oils, oats, and popular diet trends. Dr. Gil Carvalho, founder of the Nutrition Made Simple YouTube channel, is known for breaking down complex health research into practical, understandable information without the fear tactics and sensationalism that dominate so much of the wellness world. Together, Susan and Dr. Gil unpack some of the biggest myths circulating online, including the idea that “higher cholesterol is always better,” that oats are harmful, and that seed oils are toxic. They also discuss why individualized health matters, how genetics influence risk factors like ApoB and Lp(a), and why lab work should guide decisions more than viral social media claims. This episode is a grounded, evidence-based conversation designed to help listeners think critically, ask better questions, and become stronger advocates for their own health. In this episode: Why high cholesterol should not automatically be dismissed as “healthy” The difference between cholesterol levels, ApoB, particle size, and Lp(a) How misinformation spreads through influencer culture Why oats are not the “worst breakfast you can eat” The truth about seed oils and inflammation How genetics impact cardiovascular risk and dietary responses Why one-size-fits-all nutrition advice often backfires The importance of personalized nutrition and individualized lab work Why fear-based wellness messaging can create more harm than good How social media oversimplifies complex health topics The role of lifestyle, stress, sleep, movement, and environment in long-term health Why learning to interpret science critically matters more than following trends Dr. Gil Carvalho Gil Carvalho is a Portuguese physician, research scientist, and science communicator known for his work in nutrition, longevity, and evidence-based health education. Born in Portugal, he earned his MD from the University of Lisbon and later obtained a PhD in Biology from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), where he trained under pioneering geneticist Seymour Benzer. Carvalho's research spans genetics, molecular biology, nutrition, behavior, aging, and neuroscience, with contributions including the identification of genetic and nutritional mechanisms underlying longevity; his work has been cited over 4,130 times as of 2023 according to Google Scholar. He has collaborated with neuroscientist Antonio Damasio on neural signal transmission and the basis of interoception, and his publications appear in prestigious outlets such as Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and Nature Methods. In addition to his academic career at the University of Southern California, Carvalho is a prominent science communicator, founding the YouTube channel Nutrition Made Simple in 2018, which has amassed over a million monthly viewers by simplifying complex dietary science for lay audiences. He contributes to organizations including the Institute of Limbic Health, and his expert insights have been featured in media like Quanta Magazine and ScienceDaily. Carvalho has received awards such as the DeLill Nasser Award for Professional Development in Genetics and a Mathers Foundation grant, underscoring his impact in bridging clinical practice, rigorous research, and public health education. RESOURCES: Connect with Dr. Gil Carvalho: Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@NutritionMadeSimple twitter.com/NutritionMadeS3 facebook.com/DrGilCarvalho tiktok.com/@nutrition.made.simple instagram.com/gilcarvalho.md https://healthyawakening.co/2026/05/25/episode125/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

This episode of the Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable. podcast takes a hard look at one of the biggest trends in the wellness world: detox culture. Susan Robbins shares a raw and deeply honest perspective on the fear-based messaging surrounding parasites, mold, heavy metals, cleanses, and “toxic overload,” while explaining what true detoxification actually looks like inside the body. From harsh protocols and supplement overload to the nervous system’s role in health, this conversation challenges the idea that more detoxing always equals better wellness. Susan also dives into the genetics behind detox pathways, including MTHFR, COMT, PEMT, GST genes, inflammation markers, bile flow, and histamine responses. She explains why personalized health matters, why one-size-fits-all detox programs can backfire, and how stress, sleep, nutrition, circadian rhythm, and emotional safety often play a much bigger role in how the body functions than another cleanse ever will. This episode is a reminder that the body already knows how to detox when it has the right support, nourishment, and stability. In this episode: Why the detox industry often profits from fear The difference between true toxic overload and depletion How the body naturally detoxifies through the liver, kidneys, gut, skin, and lymphatic system Why harsh cleanses can create more stress on the body The truth about parasite cleanses, binders, colonics, and juice detoxes How chronic stress impacts detox pathways and hormone balance Why genetics like MTHFR, COMT, GST, PEMT, IL6, and TNF-alpha matter in personalized health The connection between histamine, sulfur pathways, glutathione, and detox symptoms How nervous system regulation impacts healing and detoxification Why lifestyle rhythms, sleep, meal timing, and stress management matter more than most people realize How Susan uses epigenetics and PH360 health types to personalize detox support The importance of building resilience instead of living in fear around health RESOURCES: Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes: Shop the products: http://healthygut.com/healthyawakenings (this link will provide you a special discount!) https://healthyawakening.co/2026/05/18/episode124/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast