129: Healing from the Inside Out: Reversing Disease with Love, Food, and Purpose

Show Notes: From Rock Bottom to Radiant Health with Stacey Heiny

Episode Overview

In this inspiring episode, guest host Maxime Sigouin sits down with Stacey Heiny, a certified holistic nutritionist and lifestyle wellness mentor who transformed her life from depression, anxiety, and chronic health issues to vibrant wellness through plant-based living and mind-body practices.

Guest Bio

Stacey Heiny is a certified holistic nutritionist, lifestyle wellness mentor, and founder of The Herban Farmacy. She holds certifications from the Physicians Committee (Food for Life instructor), Cornell University (plant-based nutrition), and is a newly certified plant-based coach through the Food Revolution Network. From her organic farm in Indiana, she grows produce, crafts elderberry wellness remedies, and empowers women through coaching, e-courses, and community building around clean living and holistic health.

Key Topics Discussed

Stacey's Transformation Journey

• Rock bottom moment: Depression, anxiety, ADHD medication (Adderall), asthma, and poor lifestyle habits in her early 20s
• Pivotal moment: Lying on the couch after eating Papa John's pizza, realizing "there had to be something more"
• The catalyst: Mind-body connection through Pilates and yoga
• Books that changed everything: Natural remedies guide, "Diet for a New America" by John Robbins
• Documentary impact: "Fast Food Nation" - immediate shift away from meat consumption

The Mind-Body Connection Revolution

• Breaking free from the "caffeinated morning, wine at night" lifestyle
• Learning to slow down and connect with her body through Pilates and yoga
• The gut-brain connection and managing IBS symptoms through stress reduction
• Moving from sympathetic to parasympathetic nervous system dominance

Common Plant-Based Transition Mistakes

1. Under-fueling: The biggest hurdle - not eating enough calories due to lower caloric density of plant foods
2. Fear of starch: Avoiding necessary complex carbohydrates like whole grains, beans, and potatoes
3. Perfectionism trap: All-or-nothing mentality instead of sustainable progress
4. Inadequate protein planning: Especially important for women over 40 dealing with sarcopenia

Practical Solutions for Success

• Plate balancing: Understanding caloric density and proper portions
• Protein optimization: Embracing minimally processed options like tofu, tempeh, and plant protein powders
• Meal timing: "Eat like a king in the morning, prince at lunch, pauper at dinner"
• Social navigation: Planning ahead for restaurants and social gatherings

Breaking Free from Societal Norms

• The leadership mindset: Being the leader in your social circle for healthy choices
• Restaurant strategies: Ordering first, asking for modifications without shame
• Family and peer pressure: Navigating holidays and social events while staying committed

Personal Development and Authenticity

• Daily self-work: Listening to podcasts, working with coaches, and continuous growth
• Your story matters: The power of sharing vulnerabilities to help others
• Fear of judgment: Working through limiting beliefs and taking "messy, imperfect action"
• Community importance: Finding supportive people who align with your values

The Farm Life Integration

• Organic farming journey: Growing from backyard gardening to operating a farm
• Farmers market success: Selling organic produce and herbal remedies
• Future vision: Creating plant-based foods for the local community using tested recipes
• Toxin reduction: Growing clean food as part of overall wellness strategy

Key Takeaways

1. Start with mind-body connection - Slow, mindful movement can be the gateway to overall health transformation
2. Fuel properly - Don't under-eat when transitioning to plant-based; embrace healthy starches
3. Progress over perfection - 85% plant-based is better than giving up entirely
4. Plan for social situations - Preparation is key to maintaining your lifestyle in challenging environments
5. Invest in personal development - Daily self-work and coaching accelerate growth
6. Your