Nourishing Neurodivergence Podcast

In this episode, Sam is joined by Kara Nash, an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and Registered Nurse with over a decade of experience specializing in mental health and autism. Today's discussion delves into common misunderstandings about autism, the physical and mental health challenges faced by individuals on the spectrum, and the importance of personalized care. Kara emphasizes the role of self-advocacy in improving ...

In this episode, Sam and Staci continue their discussion on the 'Make America Healthy Again' movement, focusing on the individual experience and how social media rabbit holes are formed as we are looking for answers and how passively consuming certain content can shift your views without your consent. They also dive into how social media algorithms can intensify health anxiety and what role parasocial relationships play int...

In this episode, Sam and guest Staci Belcher, a registered dietitian, dive into the 'Make America Healthy Again' (MAHA) movement spearheaded by RFK Jr. They discuss the movement's controversial aspects, such as the recent USDA funding cuts, and the inherent biases and conflicts of interest in both the wellness and nutrition industries. They emphasize the importance of being aware of fear-based marketing tactics and how ...

Coming in at #1 for most listened to episode of the first year of the Nourishing Neurodivergence podcast is our episode about ARFID with Brittany Valentine, enjoy!

On this week's episode, Sam is chatting with Brittany Valentine. She speaks about her personal experience with ARFID, ADHD, and Autism. Brittany breaks down:

• What ARFID is, and how it is different from picky eating

• How ARFID has been "left behind&q...

In this episode, Sam is joined by Mary Ganfors, a CCI Certified Eating Disorder Recovery coach based in Asheville, NC and founder of Hardcore Coaching. Mary explains the role of a recovery coach and how they support individuals struggling with eating disorders as well as their parents and caregivers. She highlights the comprehensive training provided by the Carolyn Coston Institute and shares insights from her own experience as a p...

Coming in at #2 for most listened to episode of the first year of the Nourishing Neurodivergence podcast is our episode about OCD and eating patterns with Erin McCallum, enjoy!

In this week's podcast episode, Sam reconnects with Erin McCallum, a graduate school and fellow 'neuro spicy' friend. They discuss their shared journey at the University of North Carolina during the onset of COVID-19, Erin's winding career path from aspiring ...

In this episode, Sam welcomes Katie Hake, the owner of Katie Hake Health and Fitness, a registered dietitian, certified intuitive eating counselor, and certified personal trainer. Katie shares her journey from obsessive fitness and diet practices to adopting a more intuitive and enjoyable approach to nutrition and exercise. She discusses common myths about fitness, the importance of understanding one's true intentions behind fi...

Coming in at #3 for most listened to episode of the first year of the Nourishing Neurodivergence podcast is our episode about GLP-1 medications, enjoy!

In this episode, Sam welcomes Erin MacDonald, a therapist, clinical supervisor, speaker, and professor based in Texas, to discuss the topic of GLP-1 medications, including Ozempic, Mounjaro, Zepbound, and Wegovy. They explore the classification of these medications, their functio...

In this episode Sam talks about the highs and challenges of planning and producing the podcast over the past year. Sam shares the three most listened to episodes this year and encourages feedback from listeners to help make the podcast even better. She also shares her top 4 recommended podcasts right now (the ones that are currently running through her ears on the daily!).

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In this episode, Sam welcomes Savannah Blake, the host of the podcast 'New Earth Alchemy: How to Heal and Manifest.' The conversation is a casual chat between friends, diverging from the usual structured format. They discuss the challenges of podcasting, including editing, guest management, and the pressures of social media marketing. Savannah shares her personal journey with anxiety and the struggles of fitting in, emphasi...

In this episode, Sam chats with Mehek Mohan, co-founder and CEO of Kahani, a digital recovery companion app aimed at helping individuals stay engaged with therapeutic skills daily. Mahek explains the inspiration behind Kahani, rooted in her personal and friends' recovery experiences, and the app's aim to fill the gap between sessions with your care team. Sam and Mehek discuss the app's features, which include personaliz...

In this episode, Sam chats with Hannah Turnbull, founder of Nourish Colorado, Values Driven Group, and the co-founder of Weight Inclusive Innovators, about neurodivergence and leadership. They discuss how Hannah discovered her neurodivergence, her leadership style, and how she handles challenges like over-committing and people-pleasing. They also talk about the importance of Radical Candor in leadership, managing neurodivergent tea...

In this episode, Sam delves into the intricacies of nutrition labels, discussing how to use them for gentle nutrition rather than restriction. She covers topics including the breakdown of what is included on the nutrition label and what to do with it. Sam discusses how to use nutrition labels as a guide rather than to enforce strict rules. The episode also offers advice on recognizing appropriate portions for meals and snacks and p...

In this episode, Sam delves into wearable technology such as smartwatches, smart rings, and smart earrings. She unpacks the benefits, drawbacks, and the ultimate question, is it harming us more than it's helping us? This episode critically examines the accuracy of wearable tech, its influence on mental health, and how it can exacerbate disordered behaviors in some individuals. This episode provides insightful discussion on the ...

In this episode, Sam sits down with eating disorder therapist Savannah Fredde MS, LCMHCA, who also specializes in ADHD. They discuss their experience working with neurodivergent clients, the overlap between ADHD and eating disorders, and the nuances of therapy and dietetics for these populations. The conversation covers therapeutic rapport, personalized approaches, and common challenges faced by clients, including emotional eating,...

In this solo episode of the Nourishing Neurodivergence podcast, Sam discusses her insights and strategies for approaching New Year's resolutions. Key topics include setting realistic and sustainable goals, understanding the importance of 'why,' and addressing the pressure around New Year's resolutions. Tune in for practical advice tailored for neurodivergent individuals to help you navigate goal setting and intentions effectively.

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In this episode, Sam sits down with Eva Haldis MS, RD, LDN, the owner and CEO of Reclaim Nutrition and founder of RDCEO. We discuss the challenges of neurodivergence in parenting, Eva's journey of discovering her own ADHD, and how it has impacted her as a parent and business owner. The episode delves into the complexities of managing ADHD while raising a...

In this episode, Sam talks with Arlene McCarthy, a public school teacher and author of the children's book 'My Friend John.' They discuss Arlene's inspiration from her brothers with special needs, awareness and understanding of neurodivergent students, and practical ways to promote inclusivity in classrooms and at home.

The conversation highlights the importance of empathy, kindness, and fostering inclusive environments for studen...

In this episode, we explore the hot topic of supplements, diving into what to look for, the role of third-party testing, and how to determine if you really need them. The main focus is on how to evaluate supplements, with specific examples like magnesium, protein powder, natural focus aids, B vitamins, and greens powders. We also highlight potential concerns, including safety, effectiveness, and marketing practices. WNC Tourism Re...