Cultured Food Life

Cultured Food Life

Discover how to make and serve delicious probiotic foods and improve your overall health with Donna Schwenk. In her weekly radio show "Cultured Food Life" (new episodes every Tuesday at 1pm Pacific), Donna will de-mystify different probiotic foods such as kefir, kombucha, and cultured vegetables, and share how to add these foods into your diet. As a teacher and writer, Donna works with thousands of people to open the door to a world of foods that can help improve an array of health problems including high blood pressure, diabetes, and IBS. In her down-to-earth and informative style, Donna will walk you through the basic preparation techniques and teach you how to make these delicious probiotic recipes at home. You can find out all about Donna on her web site https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/

Episodes

November 15, 2025 11 mins
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There's nothing more comforting than a warm bowl of soup or a bubbling casserole — especially when it's filled with life! In this episode, we're exploring Fermented Comfort Foods — how to finish cozy dishes with kefir, yogurt, labneh, or a splash of kraut brine so they nourish both your belly and your heart. You'll learn how to keep those live cultures happy, why they boost mood and digestion, and simple ways to turn everyday comfo...

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Your immune system doesn't need boosting — it needs balance. Discover how fermented foods help it heal, protect, and thrive.

Your body is brilliant — learn how your immune system remembers, repairs, and responds, and how fermented foods help it shine.

This fall, find out how kefir, yogurt, and cultured veggies strengthen your immune system from the inside out. Your immune system listens to you — your thoughts, your food, your peace...

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This week I'm sharing how red light therapy transformed my energy, mood, and metabolism — and helped me find balance again. What started as a Valentine's Day gift became a nightly ritual that restored my body and spirit. Learn how light therapy boosts your cells, supports hormones, improves skin, and works beautifully alongside fermented foods to help you glow from the inside out. ✨

Episode link: https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/p...

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Candida isn't always the enemy—but when it overgrows, it causes fatigue, brain fog, and gut issues. In this episode, I share how fermented foods and specific probiotics like L. plantarum, L. reuteri, L. gasseri, and S. boulardii help keep candida in balance, restore your microbiome, and bring lasting relief.

Episode link: https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/podcast/episode-333-friendly-bacteria-vs-candida-ferments-that-win-the-fight/

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September 27, 2025 30 mins

There are moments in life when something so simple, yet so powerful, changes everything. For me, that "something" was food—five very specific foods that transformed my health, my energy, and even the course of my life.

I'll walk you through my story with each of these foods, how they helped me heal from the inside out, and why I still enjoy them daily. My hope is that by the end of this episode, you'll be inspired to invite at leas...

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Discover why minerals are the unsung heroes of good health. From boosting energy and calming nerves to supporting immunity and digestion, minerals do it all. I'll share how my husband found relief from years of sciatic pain with the help of minerals, and how pairing them with cultured foods can transform your health too.

Episode link: https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/podcast/minerals-and-cultured-foods-the-foundation-of-good-healt...

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In this episode, I share the cultured foods I rely on to strengthen my immune system before the cooler months set in. From daily kefir and yogurt to tangy cultured vegetables and refreshing probiotic drinks like kombucha and kefir soda, these foods have transformed my health and energy. Tune in to discover how they can help you build resilience, nourish your gut, and enter autumn feeling stronger and ready for the season ahead.

Epi...

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Discover the world of yogurts—from creamy Skyr and protein-rich Greek yogurt to powerful cultured varieties like Yogurt Plus, L. reuteri, and L. gasseri. In this episode, I'll share their unique health benefits and help you find the yogurt that's best for you.

Episode link: https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/podcast/episode-329-which-is-the-best-yogurt-for-you/

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Discover how a humble jar of sauerkraut can become one of your gut's strongest allies. In this episode, I share groundbreaking research showing how fermented cabbage protects the gut lining in ways raw vegetables can't—thanks to over 300 powerful compounds created during fermentation. You'll learn why sauerkraut soothes digestion, supports your microbiome, and works best as a whole, living food. Plus, we'...

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August 16, 2025 11 mins

In this episode, I'll show you how to turn homemade yogurt into creamy, tangy yogurt cheese—and why the golden liquid that drains off (whey) is one of the most powerful probiotic-rich ingredients you can keep in your kitchen. You'll learn just how nourishing, versatile, and easy yogurt cheese is to make, and all the ways to use whey to boost your gut health, immunity, and even your garden! It's simple, healing food—and your body wi...

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If you're struggling with psoriasis, there is hope—and it begins in the gut. In this episode, I share how fermented foods like kefir, cultured vegetables, kombucha, and L. reuteri yogurt can help calm inflammation, restore gut balance, and bring relief to your skin. You'll learn about the powerful probiotic strains that support immune regulation and healing, plus practical tips for getting started gently. These living foods have he...

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There's a powerful story behind the creamy, tangy yogurt that originated in the mountains of Bulgaria. In this episode, I'll share the fascinating legend of how Bulgarian yogurt healed a king, the science that won a Nobel Prize, and the probiotic strains—like Lactobacillus bulgaricus—that make this yogurt one of the most healing fermented foods you can eat. I'll also explain how you can make it at home with my favorite starters, an...

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Summer is the season of vibrant produce, warm breezes—and thriving ferments! In this episode, I'm sharing my favorite probiotic-packed foods to enjoy during the sunny months. From kefir smoothies and fizzy kefir soda to kombucha, cultured veggies, and thick creamy yogurts, these are the summer staples that keep my gut happy and my energy high. Discover why your body naturally craves these foods in the heat, and how they can help su...

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Nothing has influenced and changed my body and life more than cultured foods. Each food has different strains and gives different health benefits. I thought I would lay it out for you which ones bring the health benefits you are seeking. Tune in to learn more. 

Episode link: 

https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/podcast/episode-323-benefits-of-each-cultured-food/

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In this episode, we're diving into the creamy, probiotic-rich world of Skyr and Greek yogurt—two powerhouse foods that do more than just nourish... they transform. You'll discover how these thick, strained yogurts concentrate protein while reducing lactose and sugar, making them easier to digest—even for those who are lactose sensitive. We'll break down the nutrition per cup, explore the miraculous process of fermentation, and expl...

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Kefir changed my life—and I've watched it do the same for thousands of others. In this episode, I'm sharing how this powerful, probiotic-rich drink helped restore my health from the inside out. From lowering blood pressure and balancing blood sugar, to calming the nervous system and boosting immunity, kefir is a living food with ancient roots and modern-day miracles. If your body is crying out for help, kefir may just be the answer...

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 In this episode, I'm sharing the bubbly truth about fermented sodas like kefir soda and kombucha—and how these living drinks can transform your health. Learn how fermentation naturally reduces sugar, boosts probiotics, and supports everything from your gut and adrenals to your immune system and brain. I'll share my favorite tips, strains, and recipes—plus why these fizzy brews have become daily must-haves in my life. You don't hav...

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Ever wondered if the secret to longevity might be hidden in your fridge? Join me on today's podcast as we explore the fascinating story of Maria Branyas Morera, who lived vibrantly until 117, fueled by three daily servings of yogurt! We'll dive into how specific probiotic strains in yogurt and kefir can profoundly impact your health, your brain, and your longevity. Discover why maintaining a healthy microbiome could hold the key to...

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Greek & Skyr Yogurt in a Mug: Easy, High-Protein, Probiotic-Rich! 🥣

Discover how to make rich, creamy Greek and Icelandic Skyr yogurt right at home—no yogurt maker required! In this episode, I share my favorite way to craft high-protein, probiotic-packed yogurt using just a stainless steel insulated mug. We'll explore the health benefits of these heirloom yogurts, from gut health and blood sugar balance to muscle support and more....

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