We’ve been told that food is just fuel, but the truth is, it’s one of the most powerful tools we have for happiness. Dr. Emily Leeming went from cooking on luxury yachts to decoding the science of gut health, and now, she’s here to help us all feel better from the inside out. In this episode, Mercedes and Anastasia sit down with chef-turned-researcher and author of Genius Gut for a fascinating conversation on the powerful link between food, mood, and the gut-brain connection. Whether you’re dealing with stress, energy crashes, or just want to boost your mental well-being through simple changes, this episode is packed with science-backed tips and surprising truths.
In this episode:
How her journey from private chef to gut-health researcher unfolded (and the moment she knew she had to pivot).
- What the gut microbiome actually is, and how it affects your mood, energy, and happiness.
- The #1 food that we all need to eat more!
Easy hacks to support your gut, without giving up all your favorite foods.
The #1 nutrition myth we all need to stop believing.
How to take care of your gut through big life transitions like moving away for college.
Behind-the-scenes stories from life as a chef on superyachts!
Whether you’re a parent trying to help your teen feel better, a college student navigating food freedom, or just someone curious about the food–mood connection, this episode will leave you informed, empowered, and excited to eat with purpose.
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Ready to Hack Your Happiness some more? Listen to our interview with nutritionist, Ellie Krieger. In this episode, Ellie debunks nutrition myths, shares simple + delicious recipe ideas, and hacks for living a balanced lifestyle: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2s5bi3oJ9ia9evBIbZyygj?si=r2NBDGV8Sx2gMOIzQ5Mugg
(00:00) Intro
(02:10) How Emily Got Started
(04:22) What Is A Gut Microbiome + Why Is It Important?
(07:05) Child vs Teen vs Adult Gut Microbiomes
(11:26) How Can I Tell If I Have A Healthy Gut Microbiome?
(15:07) Food Hacks For Happiness!
(19:08) How Much Fibre Should I Eat Per Day?
(21:32) Do I Need To Avoid Certain Foods?
(25:19) The Truth About Vitamins
(28:47) Biggest Nutrition Myths
(32:37) What Is The Gut-Brain Connection?
(38:11) Moving Out? Here's How Teens & College Kids Can Maintain Good Gut Health
(42:14) Emily's Hacks For Being A Strong Communicator
(45:19) Are Kombucha & Kefir ACTUALLY Good For Gut Health?
(51:45) Story Time As A Chef For Billionaires On Superyachts
(54:18) Emily To Her Teen Self
(56:26) What Brings Emily A Small Bit of Happiness?
(57:53) Emily's Motivational Quote
(58:23) One Meal For Rest Of Emily's Life!
(59:32) Find Emily Here
(1:00:25) Key Takeaways
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