Up For A Chat

UC 429: Exploring Life, Love & Gratitude with Karen Blaine

In this episode, Kim and Cyndi welcome Kathryn Gale, a psychologist specialising in nutritional and metabolic psychology, to explore how nutrition, lifestyle, and mindset are transforming approaches to mental health.
Kathryn shares insights from her 20+ years in psychology and how her perspective evolved after studying functional nutrition and the gut microbiome. She reveals why addressing physical stress and stress hormones is crucial before tackling mental wellbeing, and how the gut-brain connection plays a vital role in mood regulation.
The conversation dives into:
The emerging field of nutritional psychology and why it’s gaining global attention
How ultra-processed foods affect teen mental health — and why whole foods matter
Positive psychology principles and creating school programs to teach happiness, self-worth, and resilience
Strategies for breaking bad habits and building new, empowering ones
The bidirectional link between gut health and the mind
Why mental health is about the whole body, not just the brain
From discussing teen mental health challenges to practical tips for habit change and self-reflection, this episode is filled with tools and perspectives for anyone passionate about integrating nutrition and psychology.
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, health professional, or someone curious about how food and lifestyle influence mental wellbeing, Kathryn’s expertise will inspire you to rethink how we care for the mind and body.
About Kathryn GaleKathryn Gale is a registered psychologist with over 20 years’ experience, offering in-person and online therapy in Australia and Hong Kong. She combines evidence-based psychology with mindfulness, meditation, nutrition, and lifestyle strategies. Kathryn also runs corporate wellness workshops and owns Three Chicks Farm, reflecting her passion for nature and holistic health.
QuotesI didn’t want to learn about nutrition if it didn’t involve whole foods.It felt like mooshing problems around on the surface which didn’t go deeper into the body.I’m floored at the connection between food nutrition and our mental health.It’s really about how to return to wellness.We are increasingly disconnected from what’s real and right for us.People think anxiety and feeling low is normal not is there a way to be without this?We have a primal instinct wanting and needing to be accepted by our tribe.We can all have a deep sense of limiting beliefs.We need to think about how am I nurturing my gut microbiome?The brain changes the body and the body changes the brain.Education is the biggest impotence to change.When you know better you do better.Anxiety and stress is optional.It can all be learned.
Where to find KathrynWebsite: https://www.kathryngalepsychology.com.au/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kathryngalepsychologist/Work With Kathryn: https://www.kathryngalepsychology.com.au/contact
Cyndi O’Meara LinksWebsite – https://thenutrition.academy/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cyndiomeara/https://www.instagram.com/thenutrition_academy/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cyndi.lovettohttps://www.facebook.com/thechnutritionacademy
Kim Morrison LinksWebsite – https://www.kimmorrison.com/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kimmorrison28/https://www.instagram.com/twenty.8.essential/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/KimMorrisonTraininghttps://www.facebook.com/twenty8essentials

UC 428: The Wild Fix Nature, Wild Swimming & Finding Joy with Anna Deacon

In this uplifting and nature-filled episode, Cyndi and Kim chat with Anna Deacon, photographer, author, and passionate advocate for wild swimming, about her upcoming solo book, The Wild Fix: Scotland. Anna shares how connecting with nature can transform our mental and physical health, from the soothing power of birdsong to the invigorating challenge of cold-water immersion.
The conversation flows from Anna’s personal journey, transitioning from a career in the music industry to writing and photographing stories of wild swimmers, to her deep connection with Scotland’s landscapes. She also reveals fascinating research for her book, including the science of negative ions, the gut health benefits of soil-based probiotics, and the ancient sauna culture of the Shetland Islands.
Alongside personal stories of joy, grief, and resilience, Anna, Cyndi, and Kim explore how nature offers “glimmers”—small moments of beauty and positivity that help us feel grounded, inspired, and alive.
Topics Covered
How wild swimming supports mental health, community, and resilience
The science behind why being in nature feels so good
Links between birdsong, gut health, and stress reduction
The role of trees and natural spaces in navigating grief and joy
Scotland’s ancient sauna culture and Anna’s family history in the Shetland Islands
Why embracing discomfort—whether in cold water or hot sun—can be transformative
How to find and collect “glimmers” in your daily life
Anna’s favourite nature rituals and how they keep her creative and inspired
About Anna Deacon:
Anna Deacon is an Edinburgh-based photographer, writer, and nature advocate whose work celebrates the healing power of the outdoors. She has co-authored several books, including Taking the Plunge and For the Love of Trees, and her upcoming solo project The Wild Fix: Scotland explores the intersection of nature, well-being, and the four elements—air, fire, water, and earth.
Her photography and writing have been featured in major media outlets, and her projects have inspired a growing movement of wild swimmers and nature lovers across the UK and beyond.
QuotesI am a story teller and I love telling people’s stories.Love the feeling of being outdoors and the feeling of cold water.There is lots of science around cold water – if you can do it – do it anywhere.It is good to push the body to extremes.Ice baths do not have the same effect as wild swimming as every day it is different.Getting into cold water is a very mindful practice.Swimming into the sunrise is the most magical experience.When you are grieving go to nature to feel connection.You always feel better when you have been outside, most people get that.There’s a lot to be said for getting hands dirty in soil and touching trees.We live in a very sterilised world.I’m not afraid to reinvent myself.There is something beautiful in creating the opposite of triggers can only be achieved in nature.
Where to find AnnaWebsite: https://anna-deacon.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewildfix/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wildswimmingstories/Linkeden: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-deacon-17b4a818b/?originalSubdomain=uk
Cyndi O’Meara LinksWebsite – https://thenutrition.academy/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cyndiomeara/https://www.instagram.com/thenutrition_academy/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cyndi.lovettohttps://www.facebook.com/thechnutritionacademy
Kim Morrison LinksWebsite – https://www.kimmorrison.com/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kimmorrison28/https://www.instagram.com/twenty.8.essential/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/KimMorrisonTraininghttps://www.facebook.com/twenty8essentials

UC 427: Alcohol-Free and Empowered: Sarah Rusbatch on Grey Area Drinking, Hormones & Self-Love

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Cyndi and Kim sit down with Sarah Rusbatch, a health and wellness coach and author, to unpack the growing conversation around grey area drinking—a space where many women find themselves, struggling with their relationship to alcohol but not fitting the traditional mold of addiction.
Sarah shares her own journey from social drinking to sobriety, and how becoming alcohol-free in 2019 transformed her health, mindset, and purpose. The discussion explores how alcohol affects women’s hormones, particularly during perimenopause and menopause, and why even moderate drinking can have serious consequences on health and well-being.
This episode is filled with inspiration, science, and practical tips for any woman questioning her relationship with alcohol or seeking a healthier, more empowered lifestyle.
What You’ll Learn:
What grey area drinking is—and how to identify it
The link between alcohol and estrogen dominance in women
Why women metabolize alcohol differently than men
The mental and emotional health impacts of alcohol
How alcohol disrupts dopamine and serotonin levels
The social stigma and judgment faced by women who choose not to drink
Why self-love and alcohol-free living go hand in hand
How effort-based dopamine boosts like exercise and goal-setting can replace drinking
Tips for navigating relationships when one partner continues to drink
Stories of transformation from Sarah’s “Rediscovering Me” program
QuotesThere is an unconscious link in the way you have fun with your friends as that is how you drink alcohol.I was a fish out of water.People would say – Sarah you’re hilarious when you’re drunk.I created a neural pathway when drunk, I became Sarah the party girl!I wore my capacity for alcohol like a badge of honour, it was girl power!Alcohol helps us to not feel disconnected and gives a big dopamine hit.There is a ‘Mummy win’ culture – my kids whine so I drink wine!It was like the light inside was going out.Decided to take a 21 day break and could not believe the difference.Society tells us if you can take 100 days off you don’t have an alcohol issue.I started to realise everything was better when I didn’t drink!The liver will always choose a substance outside of the body.It takes 72 hours for alcohol to leave the system,There is a 35% increase in the risk of breast cancer and alcohol use.80% of women don’t know that alcohol – 3-4 units is a risk.The more you drink the bigger the risk.Alcohol makes us very bloated and puffy.I’m not the fun police but I want to educate women on what alcohol is doing.There is a huge ‘grey area’ I talk about.An addiction is anything we crave and have trouble giving up.Be careful of anything that gives you a dopamine hit without effort.A goal is a powerful dopamine hit, we are at our happiest when working towards a goal.Alcohol keeps us small.We have to live our lives for us.Most grey-area drinkers will associate with other grey-area drinkers.Only you can do it but you can’t do it alone.Do the self-enquiry, be with self, take in the world.Get curious.Unless someone wants to change – they wont.Our children watch everything we do.When we know better we do better.
About Sarah Rusbatch:Sarah is a certified Health & Wellbeing Coach, keynote speaker, and author, specialising in helping women redefine their relationship with alcohol. She supports women who don’t identify as having an addiction but know alcohol is affecting their health, relationships, and happiness. Sarah’s programs have helped thousands of women step into greater self-worth and freedom through sobriety.
Where to Find SarahWebsite: www.sarahrusbatch.comInstagram: @sarahrusbatchCourses: https://sarahrusbatch.com/courses
Cyndi O’Meara LinksWebsite – https://thenutrition.academy/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cyndiomeara/https://www.instagram.com/thenutrition_academy/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cyndi.lovettohttps://www.facebook.com/thechnutritionacademy
Kim Morrison LinksWebsite – https://www.kimmorrison.com/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kimmorrison28/https://www.instagram.com/twenty.8.essential/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/KimMorrisonTraininghttps://www.facebook.com/twenty8essentials

UC 426: Soil, Spirit & Sustenance: Dan Kittredge on Consciousness, Food Quality & Nature’s Wisdom

In this deeply thought-provoking episode, Cyndi and Kim are joined by farmer, educator, and founder of the Bionutrient Food Association, Dan Kittredge, to explore the powerful relationship between soil health, nutrient density, and human consciousness. Together, they dive into the systemic need for food and farming practices that align with the principles of nature, not control.
From discussions on holistic agriculture, biodiversity, and regenerative practices to the spiritual and emotional transformation that comes from reconnecting with the land, Dan offers wisdom cultivated over decades of experience. He speaks passionately about empowering consumers and farmers alike through open-source tools, education, and a shift in cultural values toward love, simplicity, and collective well-being
Topics Covered
.The importance of nutrient-dense food for human and planetary health
How conscious farming can create global change
The spiritual journey that informs Dan’s work
Tools like the refactometer and their role in measuring food quality
The challenge of shifting away from industrial agriculture
Why aligning with nature’s rhythms is key to healing ourselves and the Earth
Aboriginal culture, ancient wisdom, and consciousness
Dan’s open-source mission and how you can get involved
About Dan Kittredge:
Dan is the founder and executive director of the Bionutrient Food Association and a lifelong organic farmer. Through his work, he advocates for soil and crop practices that naturally lead to higher quality, more nutrient-rich food. His focus extends beyond farming, delving into consciousness, autonomy, and living in harmony with nature.
QuotesI come from the movement.I was a bad farmer who couldn’t make a living.I learned how to work with Mother Nature.I want to create a reality where people’s bodies are more coherent.Rather than fight the political system, medical system, or agricultural system, create a movement where people are coherent.You get a new body every six months.There is no they – only we.Let’s do what we are called to do.Those who are ready are listening.The reality is high-quality food is not available. Let’s solve that.Until you get the job done the job isn’t done.There is unity or duality.Love is all there is, it is the essence of reality.It is on us to take responsibility with integrity.If you don’t want to do better… ok.But if you want to do better we have the tools.Nature is completely brilliant.We need to take a multi-generational strategy.If not now, when? If not us, who?Our words have power.Get the dogma and ego out of the way.Our culture is trained to look at the surface not the deeper wisdom.Let’s understand the structure of the system.I think the optimal way is to do it gently and peacefully and together.Start with humility.The power we have is where we put our attention.The essence of humanity is divinity.
Bionutrient Food Association – bionutrient.orgBionutrient Institute – bionutrientinstitute.orgYouTube Channel – Courses, presentations & talks https://www.youtube.com/c/Bionutrient/videosMutant Message Down Under by Marlo Morgan (recommended by Cyndi)
Cyndi O’Meara LinksWebsite – https://thenutrition.academy/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cyndiomeara/https://www.instagram.com/thenutrition_academy/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cyndi.lovettohttps://www.facebook.com/thechnutritionacademy
Kim Morrison LinksWebsite – https://www.kimmorrison.com/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kimmorrison28/https://www.instagram.com/twenty.8.essential/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/KimMorrisonTraininghttps://www.facebook.com/twenty8essentials

UC 425: Plant Power & Environmental Wisdom with Dr Greg Clark

In this episode, plant biologist Greg Clark joins Cyndi and Kim to explore the fascinating world of plants, soil health, and microbiomes. Greg explains how plants respond to stress, communicate through microbial networks, and maintain symbiotic relationships that mirror the human gut microbiome.
The conversation touches on the history of the Gondwana landmass, the role of regenerative agriculture, and the importance of individual action in healing the environment. Greg also explains the difference between gene editing and genetic modification, and shares insights into the health benefits of blackcurrants, including their impact on blood flow, energy, and recovery.
This episode is a blend of science, sustainability, and inspiration, reminding us how deeply connected we are to the natural world, and how small actions can lead to meaningful change.
Key Topics Covered
Plant stress physiology & microbiomes
Soil health and plant communication
Gondwana landmass and ecosystem evolution
Gene editing vs genetic engineering
Blackcurrants for cardiovascular support
Regenerative farming and environmental resilience
QuotesAs a kid I was always fascinated by living things.Plants are rooted in the ground and have to cope with everything around them.Plant microbes in the soil are like human microbes in the gut.Live in the now and make it better for the future.Blackcurrant powder helps to reduce the impact of stress.It is a vasodilator, loaded with anthocyanin and antioxidants.The linoleum acid in the seeds will help with fat oxidation.It is a fascinating insight when you look at the evolution, ecology, synergistics and resistances in the plant world.We can learn a lot from plants.
Where to find Dr Greg ClarkBlackcurrant performance product: https://blackcurrantperformance.com/
Cyndi O’Meara LinksWebsite – https://thenutrition.academy/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cyndiomeara/https://www.instagram.com/thenutrition_academy/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cyndi.lovettohttps://www.facebook.com/thechnutritionacademy
Kim Morrison LinksWebsite – https://www.kimmorrison.com/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kimmorrison28/https://www.instagram.com/twenty.8.essential/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/KimMorrisonTraininghttps://www.facebook.com/twenty8essentials

UC 424: From Mexico to Canada: Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail with Daniel McKinnon

In this adventure-filled episode, Cyndi and Kim sit down with Daniel, a 36-year-old travel enthusiast and content creator, to unpack his extraordinary 4.5-month hike of the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), a 4,260km journey from Mexico to Canada. Daniel shares the highs and lows of the trail, the physical and mental resilience it required, and the personal epiphanies it inspired.
They explore the deeper motivations behind long-distance hiking, Daniel’s passion for storytelling and content creation, and the emotional impact of solitude and nature. The trio also discusses trail safety, hiking gear, wildlife encounters, and how to stay present while facing discomfort and uncertainty.
From practical advice to philosophical reflections, this conversation is a reminder of the power of action, adventure, and personal growth.
Key Topics Covered
Daniel’s start at the Mexican border and 4.5-month journey to Canada
Mental and emotional challenges on the Pacific Crest Trail
The importance of solitude, presence, and self-reflection in nature
Trail angels, wildlife encounters, and night hiking
How Daniel met his hiking partner Cam and their shared love of AFL
Advice on safety, gear, and resupply logistics
The idea of turning his story into a book
Struggles with creativity and using AI to support storytelling
Hiking plans for the Great Ocean Walk and the Great Southwest Walk
Reflections on fear, faith, mortality, and purpose
Resources & MentionsTrail App: Far OutBook Reference: Wild by Cheryl StrayedDaniel’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielmck17/Brand Partnership: Altra Running
Quotable Moments“We often wait for the perfect moment. The trail taught me to just begin.”“Discomfort doesn’t mean something’s wrong—it means something’s happening.”“Fear of death drives me to fully live.”
Cyndi O’Meara LinksWebsite – https://thenutrition.academy/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cyndiomeara/https://www.instagram.com/thenutrition_academy/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cyndi.lovettohttps://www.facebook.com/thechnutritionacademy
Kim Morrison LinksWebsite – https://www.kimmorrison.com/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kimmorrison28/https://www.instagram.com/twenty.8.essential/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/KimMorrisonTraininghttps://www.facebook.com/twenty8essentials

UC 423: From Prude to Pleasure: Embracing Intimacy, Conscious Sexuality & Connection wiith Pauline Ryeland

In this deeply heart-opening and educational episode, we’re joined by the incredible Pauline Ryeland, affectionately known as the Intimacy Whisperer. With certifications in Somatic Sexological Body Work, Tantra, NLP, Hypnotherapy, and trauma release, Pauline brings a powerful mix of science, soul, and lived experience to the often-taboo topic of sexuality.
Together, we dive into Pauline’s journey from “prude” to pleasure, the pivotal role of conscious sexuality in relationships, and the vital need for education that addresses not just the physical but emotional and energetic aspects of intimacy. Whether you’re single, in a relationship, navigating menopause or post-prostate recovery, this conversation offers something for everyone
Key Topics Covered
Pauline’s story: from personal development to sexual healing and public speaking at Woodford Festival
Why intimacy is more than just sex – it’s about presence, honour, and connection
The difference between orgasm and ejaculation for men (yes, there’s a difference!)
The impact of trauma on sexual connection and how Havening and somatic work can help
How to reawaken libido and pleasure at any age – with or without hormone therapy
Eye gazing, breathwork, and other powerful practices for deeper connection
How to teach teens about consent, boundaries, and healthy sexual relationships
The problem with porn and re-educating pleasure beyond media-driven performance
Perimenopause, erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation – and how Pauline supports individuals and couples through these challenges
Why post-birth intimacy needs a plan – and how to maintain connection through life’s phases
About Pauline Ryeland
Pauline Ryeland, widely known as the Intimacy Whisperer, is a highly qualified Intimacy, Sex, and Libido Coach and Educator. Her work is grounded in a broad range of modalities, including Somatic Sexological Bodywork, Tantra, Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Advanced Subconscious Reprogramming, Eriksonian Hypnotherapy, Havening Techniques™ for trauma, and Results Coaching.
As a certified Tantra Teacher and Master NLP Practitioner, Pauline blends mind, body, and spirit practices to support individuals and couples in transforming their relationships, intimacy, and sexual well-being. She specialises in helping clients align with their sexual and emotional desires while clearing trauma, limiting beliefs, and emotional blockages.
Pauline is also the author of Empowered Conscious Sexuality – From Prude to Pleasure, which became a #1 Amazon bestseller across five categories. In the book, she shares her personal journey to becoming a sex therapist, insights into the healing modalities she uses, the challenges her clients face, and powerful practices readers can try on their own or with a partner. Topics include sacred sexuality, conscious relationships, boundaries, and consent.
As a Transformational Coach, Pauline works with both women and men to overcome a range of challenges:
For women: low libido, painful sex, inability to orgasm, and complications from conditions such as endometriosis.
For men: low libido, erectile issues, premature ejaculation, Peyronie’s disease, genital nerve damage, and enlarged prostates.
She is also trained in scar remediation techniques that help restore sensation and address genital numbness and discomfort due to trauma, surgeries (including vasectomies and circumcision), and nerve damage.
Pauline uses Havening Techniques™ to help clients release trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and particularly sexual abuse or emotional trauma. This gentle, neuroscience-based approach helps deactivate the fight-or-flight response from the amygdala, allowing the individual to recall the experience without emotional distress.
A passionate advocate for sexual empowerment and the sustainability of relationships, Pauline helps couples rediscover intimacy and deepen connection.
Pauline is a sought-after speaker and presenter, having appeared at events such as Sexpo, MindBodySpirit Festival, and Woodford Folk Festival. She’s also been featured in publications including Cleo, Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Holistic Bliss, and major news outlets in Australia and New Zealand. Her radio appearances include ABC Radio and Noosa Community Radio.
QuotesI had a download – you’re a sexual healer!You have to get below the surface to get to the underlying problems.When we are in a trauma response we are running in fight or flight mode, in alert mode.Havening calms the nervous system and unlocks the amygdala to create no charge.The memory doesn’t matter – it’s how it made you feel that does.It comes back to education and knowing what consent and boundaries look like.It’s about having great communication to have a good relationship.Sex is not a checklist.You have to be in your body to get in flow.I’m working with the sexual energy through the mind, heart and genitals.Tantra is a philosophy, a way of life.The more awareness you have the more you can love.Use it or lose it!I can never guarantee anything but I can teach you what to do!Be attentive. Be present.Intimacy is how you spend your day with your partner; it’s honouring each other, and appreciation creates connection.
Where to find PaulineWebsite:  www.paulineryeland.comEmail:   pauline@paulineryeland.comFacebook:   www.facebook.com/intimacywhispererInstagram:    https://www.instagram.com/intimacywhisperer/You Tube:  https://www.youtube.com/user/MultiPauline7You Tube:  https://www.youtube.com/@IntimacyWhisperer
Cyndi O’Meara LinksWebsite – https://thenutrition.academy/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cyndiomeara/https://www.instagram.com/thenutrition_academy/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cyndi.lovettohttps://www.facebook.com/thechnutritionacademy
Kim Morrison LinksWebsite – https://www.kimmorrison.com/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kimmorrison28/https://www.instagram.com/twenty.8.essential/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/KimMorrisonTraininghttps://www.facebook.com/twenty8essentials

UC 422: Microbiome Masterclass with Dr. Brad Leech: Gut Health, Emotions, and the Future of Wellness

In this insightful and passionate conversation, Cyndi O’Meara and Kim Morrison sit down with PhD-qualified clinical nutritionist Dr. Brad Leech to explore the profound connection between gut health, chronic illness, and emotional wellbeing. Dr. Leech dives deep into the world of the microbiome, explaining how our gut bacteria influence everything from autoimmune conditions and eating disorders to depression, immunity, and even relationships.
He highlights the impact of diet diversity, antibiotic use, heavy metal toxicity, and medications like PPIs and NSAIDs on gut function. Brad also unpacks fecal microbiota transplants (FMTs), the importance of prebiotics and microbiome testing, and the resilience of our gut when properly nurtured.
The trio also navigates hot topics like the carnivore diet, UTIs, the rise in allergies and eating disorders, and the implications of birth methods on the baby’s microbiome. This episode is loaded with takeaways for anyone wanting to optimise their gut, understand the science behind mental and physical health connections, and prepare for a healthier future,starting in the gut.
About Brad
Dr Brad Leech is a PhD Clinical Nutritionist and Herbalist renowned for his expertise in addressing chronic autoimmune conditions and complex gastrointestinal disorders. He provides complete and personalised care to his patients using functional nutrition, integrative medicine and holistic wellness.
After entering the profession in 2008, Brad has contributed significantly to academia, shaping curricula at universities and delving into research areas such as intestinal permeability, autoimmune disease management, and the therapeutic potential of food-based probiotics. Brad is currently an Adjunct Fellow at the National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, where he continues to advance natural health sciences.
In addition to patient care, Brad is passionate about empowering practitioners with the knowledge to enhance their clinical practice. Over the years, he has mentored thousands of practitioners, providing them with the tools to navigate the complexities of gut health. His program, Brad’s Brainiacs: Microbiome Mentoring, is a six-month online mentorship designed to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and real-world application. This mentor program equips recent graduates and practitioners with the skills to interpret microbiome reports, uncover actionable insights, and transform patient outcomes.
Top Takeaways:
Gut health is connected to chronic disease, mood, immunity, and even behaviour.
Prebiotics and microbiome diversity are key to building resilience.
Measuring the microbiome every 6–12 months can be as crucial as blood tests.
Heavy metal exposure (e.g. lead, mercury) can embed in bones and affect mineral systems.
The carnivore diet may offer temporary benefits but long-term gut health requires fiber diversity.
Eating disorders can severely impact gut integrity and require a multidisciplinary healing approach.
Vaginal births and breastfeeding help build foundational microbiome health, but early exposure to nature can help compensate when that’s not possible
QuotesThere is more going on in the gut than in the Universe.We are vessels for microorganisms in the gut.I believe in diet diversity and increasing plant foods in the diet.You can train the microbiome.If you have been on antibiotics, get these supplements – Saccharomyces boulardii probiotic (SB), Bifidobacterium (BB-12) and Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO).NSAID’s cause leaky gut.Use outdoor adventures for health including nature, animals, wilderness and rainforest.If you cannot determine what you need use targeted interventions with Dr Brad
Where to find Dr BradWebsite: www.DrBradLeech.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drbradleech/
Cyndi O’Meara LinksWebsite – https://thenutrition.academy/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cyndiomeara/https://www.instagram.com/thenutrition_academy/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cyndi.lovettohttps://www.facebook.com/thechnutritionacademy
Kim Morrison LinksWebsite – https://www.kimmorrison.com/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kimmorrison28/https://www.instagram.com/twenty.8.essential/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/KimMorrisonTraininghttps://www.facebook.com/twenty8essentials

UC 421: Redefining Longevity, Purpose & Connection with Marcus Pearce

In this soul-stirring episode of Up for a Chat, Cyndi O’Meara and Kim Morrison reunite with longtime friend and longevity expert Marcus Pearce, author, coach, speaker, and host of the 100 Not Out podcast. Together, they unpack the deeper meaning behind living a long and exceptional life, inspired by Marcus’s recent trips to the Blue Zones of Sardinia and Ikaria.
Highlights:
The Blue Zones beyond the buzzwords: Discover the truth behind the Mediterranean diet, olive oil myths, and what longevity really looks like in Sardinia and Ikaria.
Redefining “health”: It’s not about supplements or biohacks, Marcus shares why human connection, community, and meaningful routines are far more powerful than any vitamin.
Simple living, rich life: From walnut trees to front door keys, learn what tiny villages in Sardinia can teach us about security, belonging, and slowing down.
Real transformations: Hear the powerful stories of attendees who returned from Marcus’s tours with newfound clarity, walking to work, selling their homes, ending toxic relationships, and reconnecting with purpose.
Why discomfort matters: Whether it’s hiking in leather sandals or milking goats in a Sardinian barn, Marcus urges us to embrace inefficiency and live more deliberately.
Purposeful parenting & soul-led living: How we show up in family, work, and spirit affects our longevity more than any diet plan ever could.
Tools for transformation: Learn about Marcus’s Exceptional Life Blueprint, quiz, coaching, and how to join his next Blue Zone adventure
QuotesI am living my best life, juggling responsibilities as best I can.Everything is in 7 year cycles, I am in soul searching and wonder.We all have the same purpose to help people and what makes us unique is how we do that.Sardinia is where people want to get to really know you.Mediocrity in old age is the continual pursuit of constant comfort.An exceptional life is the continual pursuit of being uncomfortable.Everything in the blue zone is ‘ish! See you at 4’ish!It is so sacred and so ad-hoc and sadly we’ve lost the art of ad-hoc.If we didn’t have the contrast it wouldn’t enter our minds.There’s always insights.Let’s appreciate what we have.Blue zone people do not live in poverty, they just spend less than they earn and spend the rest on experiences.I’m working on having a 2 hour break every day and slowing down in the middle of the day.We have to master the art of longevity and own the fact that if they don’t design it – it’s too late.Longevity is a recent phenomena.History has a way of repeating itself.It’s so much more than the modern definition of longevity.Longevity is a constant lifestyle and a journey.We chase longevity with nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals.Most of us do not want to age like our parents.We must master the art of listening to our intuition.Our trips to the Blue Zone is an assault on the senses on how to listen to the heart and soul.These trips are the gift that keeps on giving.We are so far removed from the process of where food comes from.People like the safety of traveling with a group and being uncomfortable together
Connect with Marcus Pearce:Website: marcuspearce.com.auPodcast: 100-not-out-podcastInstagram: www.instagram.com/marcusdpearceEvents: 100 Not Out EventsCoaching: Book A Call
Cyndi O’Meara LinksWebsite – https://thenutrition.academy/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cyndiomeara/https://www.instagram.com/thenutrition_academy/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cyndi.lovettohttps://www.facebook.com/thechnutritionacademy
Kim Morrison LinksWebsite – https://www.kimmorrison.com/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kimmorrison28/https://www.instagram.com/twenty.8.essential/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/KimMorrisonTraininghttps://www.facebook.com/twenty8essentials

UC 420: Vital Origins: Redefining Health Through Ancestral Wisdom and Holistic Living with Richard Game

In this transformative episode of Up For A Chat, Cyndi and Kim sit down with Richard Game from Vital Origin for a thought-provoking conversation on health freedom, ancestral living, and the future of wellness. They dive deep into the pitfalls of conventional healthcare, the importance of resilience, and how environmental and lifestyle shifts can create lasting well-being.
Richard shares his personal journey—from sports and physiotherapy to precision medicine and biohacking, and how it led him to create a virtual practice focused on holistic health optimization. The trio discusses the critical role of mindset, values, and behaviour change in healing chronic conditions and optimizing performance.
They also explore collaborative opportunities, such as developing a health coaching course, sourcing regenerative ingredients, and planning transformative live events. Whether you’re a health professional or a wellness enthusiast, this episode offers inspiration and insight into reclaiming vitality through a more grounded, ancestral lens.
Topics Covered:
Health freedom & government overreach
Functional & ancestral medicine
Overcoming chronic disease with lifestyle shifts
Mindset, resilience, and personal growth
Regenerative agriculture & carnivore nutrition
Future collaborations in health coaching & product development
About Richard
Richard is a functional medicine practitioner and the founder of Vital Origin, an animal based wholefoods company. He combines evolutionary and functional medicine principles along with a biohacking mindset to help people overcome chronic conditions and optimise their health, performance and longevity. In his pursuit for optimising health he has also become passionate about sustainability and regenerative agriculture to help provide sustainable healthy food and improve the health of the planet – the core values behind Vital Origin.
Where to find Richard:Website: https://www.richard-game.com/https://vitalorigin.com.au/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evolvedhealth/https://www.instagram.com/vital.origin/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vitaloriginhttps://www.facebook.com/richardgamempt
Special Mention:Richard was also a keynote speaker at this year’s Nutrition Summit in July 2025 if you missed the event and want to hear more from Richard you can purchase the recording of his talk over at https://healthandnutritionsummit.com.au/
Cyndi O’Meara LinksWebsite – https://thenutrition.academy/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cyndiomeara/https://www.instagram.com/thenutrition_academy/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cyndi.lovettohttps://www.facebook.com/thechnutritionacademy
Kim Morrison LinksWebsite – https://www.kimmorrison.com/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kimmorrison28/https://www.instagram.com/twenty.8.essential/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/KimMorrisonTraininghttps://www.facebook.com/twenty8essentials

UC 419: The Evolution and Challenges of Natural Health Education in Australia with Martin Stone

In this episode, Cyndi, Kim, and Martin (founder of Switch on Health) dive deep into the shifting landscape of natural health education in Australia. They explore the history of the industry, the decline of educational institutions, and the effects of government regulations and vocational education corruption. Martin shares the inspiration behind founding Switch on Health and how their flexible, practitioner-level online courses are filling the gap left by traditional colleges.
The conversation also covers the risks of privatising education, the struggles of balancing flexibility and accountability in online learning, and the importance of self-regulation in the natural therapies industry. The group reflect on declining event attendance, industry trends, and macroeconomic challenges, while looking ahead to future collaborations and strategies to support the next generation of natural health practitioners.
About Martin Stone
Martin instantly fell in love with Australia when he arrived on our sunny shores in 1996.  He graduated as a Naturopath in 2001 and has now spent more than 20 years working in the education field in natural therapies.  He has a passion for helping others to realise their dreams of becoming qualified as a natural health practitioner so that they too can go out there and help more people.
He is the owner and founder of Switch on Health, the only college of its kind to be wholly Australian owned and operated by a Naturopath, and the only college in Australia to be accredited by both ATMS and ARoH.  Switch on Health offers online practitioner level qualifications in Nutrition, Western Herbal Medicine, Naturopathy, and Homeopathy, as well as a range of short courses for general interest.
Key Topics Covered:
The rise and fall of naturopathy colleges in Australia
Impact of VET Fee Help and vocational education misuse
Self-regulation vs. government regulation in natural therapies
Switch on Health’s mission and online education approach
Trends in event attendance and student enrollment
Future industry collaboration and business strategies
QuotesWe often get into this work based on our own experiences.Instinctual knowing that modern medicine is not right.At some level I’ve always known there has to be a better way.I always wanted to teach – it was in my bones.We have to fix the standards in education across Australia.Nothing really happens overnight – it’s a continuum.On the face it may seem a great idea but unfortunately it often isn’t.It seems where the government diollar goes, the crooks follow.The wheels of government turn slowly but they do turn.College owners started sweating it out and got out as it became increasingly unpalatable.I’d like to see everyone have access to a natural therapist.We should not have a government body tell us what to learn.Associations generally are in agreeable with one another.Everyone has the right to a happier and healthier life.Our focus is to empower competent and confident as a practitioner.
Learn More:Visit Switch on Health for free content, program info, and social links.
Tune in and join the conversation on the future of natural health education.
Cyndi O’Meara LinksWebsite – https://thenutrition.academy/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cyndiomeara/https://www.instagram.com/thenutrition_academy/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cyndi.lovettohttps://www.facebook.com/thechnutritionacademy
Kim Morrison LinksWebsite – https://www.kimmorrison.com/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kimmorrison28/https://www.instagram.com/twenty.8.essential/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/KimMorrisonTraininghttps://www.facebook.com/twenty8essentials

UC 418: The Courage to Question: Dr. Charlie Teo’s Journey Through Medicine and Controversy

In this powerful episode, world-renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Charlie Teo opens up about his journey in medicine and his commitment to patient-centered care. Charlie dives into the systemic challenges facing doctors today, medical governance issues, media misinformation, and the pressure to conform, and calls for more compassion, courage, and curiosity in healthcare.
We explore cutting-edge brain mapping innovations, including tools from the Human Connectome Project that could revolutionize mental health and neurosurgery. Charlie discusses the Omniscient technology, which quantifies brain function to better treat conditions like ADHD, PTSD, and depression—highlighting its success overseas and the lag in adoption here in Australia.
Beyond the tech, this episode dives into medical ethics, personal transformation, and the power of questioning authority. Charlie shares raw stories, from misjudging patient quality of life to being sidelined by Australia’s medical system—while advocating for integrative care, mother’s intuition, and truly listening to patients.
Whether you’re a healthcare professional, parent, or advocate for medical freedom, this conversation will leave you informed, inspired, and empowered
Key Topics:
Patient autonomy & the flaws in medical governance
Brain mapping and surgical innovation
Media, politics, and healthcare reform
The fight for vaccine schedule transparency
Mother’s intuition and trusting your gut
Integrative medicine and humility in practice
QuotesIt is important to treat patients well with respect and autonomy.70% of complaints to APRA are Doctors complaining about other DoctorsChange is only as good as its weakest link.We are paid to think and treat everyone individually.Never give up on someone if they haven’t given up.I’m sure right up until I’m dead there’s a chance.The concept of quality of life is different for everyone.The medical fraternity is very slow moving, conservative and risk averse.Covid taught us to question everything.I always felt I saw the best in people first.As one door closes another opens.Cream always rises to the top.What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.At Cingulum the scanner scans the brain showing how it is working not just how it is looking.There was 47 eloquent areas of the brain. We have now discovered there are 389.I never had much respect for mental health conditions but I now realise it is a disease like any other disease.There are 100 billion neutrons in the brain, we only use 10% so there are a lot in reserve – that;s plasticity.My general statement is question everything.Find a Doctor who has an open mind, respect and doesn’t put you down
Where to find Dr CharlieWebsite: https://charlieteo.com.au/Foundation Website: charlieteofoundation.org.auInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlieteofoundation
Cyndi O’Meara LinksWebsite – https://thenutrition.academy/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/cyndiomeara/https://www.instagram.com/thenutrition_academy/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/cyndi.lovettohttps://www.facebook.com/thechnutritionacademy
Kim Morrison LinksWebsite – https://www.kimmorrison.com/Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/kimmorrison28/https://www.instagram.com/twenty.8.essential/Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/KimMorrisonTraininghttps://www.facebook.com/twenty8essentials