222 episodes

Wade T. Lightheart, a host of the Awesome Health Podcast, is a 3-time All Natural National Bodybuilding Champion, advisor to the American Anti-Cancer Institute and Director of Education at BiOptimizers, one of the world’s most innovative nutritional supplement companies.

Wade has been involved professionally in the nutritional supplement industry for over 15 years. After his digestion totally broke down and he gained 42 pounds following a bodybuilding competition, he began to search for answers. Through a revolutionary doctor, he discovered the power of specific enzyme and probiotic strains for healing digestion and turned his health and life around.

The Awesome Health Podcast reflects Wade’s passion and mission to end needless physical suffering while helping individuals fix their digestion and transform their health.

This podcast is a fun, yet informative show about cutting-edge health tools, technology, principles and nutritional science that rapidly transform anyone’s digestion, overall wellness, and life. It’s both light (and at times hilarious), and highly instructional. Each week, worldwide leaders in their respective areas of health or nutrition are interviewed so that listeners can take their best insights and rapidly upgrade their bodies and quality of life.

BiOptimizers - Awesome Health Podcast Wade Lightheart

    • Health & Fitness
    • 4.6 • 52 Ratings

Wade T. Lightheart, a host of the Awesome Health Podcast, is a 3-time All Natural National Bodybuilding Champion, advisor to the American Anti-Cancer Institute and Director of Education at BiOptimizers, one of the world’s most innovative nutritional supplement companies.

Wade has been involved professionally in the nutritional supplement industry for over 15 years. After his digestion totally broke down and he gained 42 pounds following a bodybuilding competition, he began to search for answers. Through a revolutionary doctor, he discovered the power of specific enzyme and probiotic strains for healing digestion and turned his health and life around.

The Awesome Health Podcast reflects Wade’s passion and mission to end needless physical suffering while helping individuals fix their digestion and transform their health.

This podcast is a fun, yet informative show about cutting-edge health tools, technology, principles and nutritional science that rapidly transform anyone’s digestion, overall wellness, and life. It’s both light (and at times hilarious), and highly instructional. Each week, worldwide leaders in their respective areas of health or nutrition are interviewed so that listeners can take their best insights and rapidly upgrade their bodies and quality of life.

    220: Rebuilding the nervous system after trauma - with Ronnie Landis

    220: Rebuilding the nervous system after trauma - with Ronnie Landis

    Trauma is a term that has been gaining a lot of attention in recent years, with many people recognizing the impact it can have on our mental and physical health. 
    In order to understand trauma and its effects, it is important to define what it is and how it can manifest itself.  
    Ronnie Landis is a leading expert in holistic health, natural nutrition, and human potential. He powerfully supports driven entrepreneurs, athletes, performers, executives & influencers to perform at their best mentally, emotionally, and physically.
    Ronnie Landis, describes trauma as: “not what happened to you, but the disconnect of the impact within you, as a result of what happened.” 
    In other words, trauma is the internal response to a traumatic experience, such as:
    Loss Abuse Or a traumatic event.  It is the psychological and emotional distress that can be caused by these experiences, and it can be difficult to process. 
    Trauma can manifest itself in a variety of ways, including fear, anger, depression, and anxiety. 
    These feelings can be triggered by a variety of stimuli, even those that may seem unrelated to the traumatic experience. 
    This is why it is important to be aware of the potential triggers and to be mindful of how we are responding to them.
    The connection between trauma and dopamine
    The connection between trauma and dopamine is becoming more and more apparent as scientists and researchers explore the effects of trauma and its implications for our mental and physical health. 
    It has been suggested that trauma can lead to an overactive dopamine system, which can lead to a range of mental health problems.   
    Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for reward-seeking behavior, and motivation. 
    When people experience trauma, the dopamine system can become overactive, resulting in increased levels of dopamine in the brain. 
    This can lead to an increase in reward-seeking behavior, and can even result in addictive behavior as people attempt to cope with the traumatic experience.   
    It is thought that the increase in dopamine levels caused by trauma can lead to an increase in stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can lead to further psychological and physiological effects. 
    Increased levels of cortisol can lead to a decrease in serotonin, which can lead to an increase in anxiety and depression. 
    In addition, a decrease in serotonin can lead to an increase in cravings and a decrease in impulse control.   
    In addition to psychological and physiological effects, trauma can also have neurological consequences. 
    Studies have shown that people who have experienced trauma can have changes in the brain structure that can lead to changes in behavior, such as impulsivity and aggression. 
    It is thought that these changes in brain structure are caused by the increased levels of dopamine that are released during traumatic experiences.
    How to heal the nervous system, dopamine levels and other mental issues
    The nervous system can be healed by implementing various techniques and modalities, such as regulating stress levels, reducing digital device usage, and avoiding activities like excessively watching pornography that can lead to dopamine deficiencies. 
    Additionally, engaging in activities that bring ease to the body and mind, such as yoga and meditation, can help restore balance and calm the nervous system. 
    Eating a healthy diet and getting adequate rest and exercise can also help the body heal and repair itself. 
    Finally, engaging in activities that bring joy and connection can help to rebuild the nervous system's connection to the world and provide a sense of safety and security.
    In this podcast, you will learn:
    What is trauma What is Dopamine and its effects in our mental states? The different categories of addiction? The difference between stress and distress? What is a peak state and a neutral balance state? EPISODE RESOURCES:
    IG: @ronnie_landis
    FB: Ronnie Landis

    • 1 hr 12 min
    222: Detoxification: a vital step in balancing hormones - with Peter Kozlowski

    222: Detoxification: a vital step in balancing hormones - with Peter Kozlowski

    The link between hormones and toxicity is an important one that is often overlooked. 
    Hormone imbalances are becoming more and more common, and our toxic environment is one of the leading causes of these variations.
    It can have a wide range of symptoms, from low sex drive, to fatigue and depression. 
    Dr. Peter Kozlowski uses a broad array of tools to find the source of the body's dysfunction: he takes the time to listen to his patients and plots their history on a timeline, considering what makes them unique and co-creating with them a truly individualized care plan. 
    Dr. Kozlowski did his residency in Family Practice but started training in Functional Medicine as an intern. He trained in the clinics with leaders in his field, including Dr. Mark Hyman, Dr. Deepak Chopra, and Dr. Susan Blum.
    To identify the cause of the imbalance, a functional medicine doctor will look at five main areas: 
    Food Gut health  Mental and emotional health Toxins And hormones. Toxins are often overlooked, but they can have a major impact on hormone balance. 
    Toxins such as heavy metals, mold, and glyphosate can be found in a variety of sources, such as fish, water, and air. 
    These toxins accumulate in the body and disrupt the delicate balance of hormones.
    Mold toxicity can also cause hormonal imbalances and is often found in water-damaged buildings. 
    Glyphosate, a chemical found in herbicides, is another common toxin and has been found in high levels in many people's bodies, even those who have been eating organic food for years.
    What is Functional Medicine?
    Functional Medicine is a medical practice that focuses on preventative care, looking at the root cause of illness and disease, and treating the body as a whole. 
    It is a holistic approach that takes into account the patient’s lifestyle, environment, and genetic predisposition.
    Functional medicine practitioners use advanced testing to diagnose health problems, including hormone imbalances, blood sugar issues, adrenal fatigue, and other chronic illnesses. 
    They use a personalized approach to health, looking at the body as a whole, rather than just treating individual symptoms.
    One of the main goals of Functional Medicine is to identify and address the underlying causes of a patient’s health issues. This may involve looking at the patient’s diet, lifestyle, and environment. 
    For example, a practitioner may examine a patient’s diet to determine if there are any nutritional deficiencies or if the patient is consuming too many toxins.
    How to get proper detoxification?
    Detoxification is a process of removing these toxins from the body, and it is something that everyone should consider doing. 
    Peter Kozlowski believes that heavy metal testing should be done as a routine pediatric visit at the age of 3 and that everyone should be tested for mold, glyphosate, and other toxins every 6 months or every year. He believes that these toxins are not only found in the environment but can also be passed to children through the umbilical cord during pregnancy.
    So, what is the best way to detoxify your body? According to Kozlowski, "the first step is to stop exposure to toxins, such as reducing the use of processed foods, lipsticks and mascaras, and other products that may contain toxins."
    Additionally, he recommends drinking half your body weight in water, exercising and sweating, using an infrared sauna, getting enough sleep, and managing stress in order to help the body detoxify.
    Kozlowski also recommends using the Environmental Working Group's website (ewg.org) to identify what toxins may be in your home and products you are using. Additionally, he recommends getting tested for heavy metals, mold, and glyphosate to get an accurate picture of what toxins are in the body.
    Finally, Kozlowski recommends searching for a certified functional medicine doctor on ifm.org to get a personalized detox plan. It is important to note that the amount of time it takes to d

    • 59 min
    221: Parenthood & wellness: a balance guide - with Mary Katherine Stahl

    221: Parenthood & wellness: a balance guide - with Mary Katherine Stahl

    If you're a busy parent struggling to stay healthy, you're not alone.
    With the demands of parenting, it can be difficult to find the time and energy to prioritize your own health and wellness.
    But it is possible - and more important than ever - to find the balance.
    Take it from Mary Katherine Stahl, the Community Manager for Fit Body Boot Camp:
    "As a mom, one of my priorities is being the one who takes them to school in the morning and prepares their meals, and has the craft waiting for them after school. Also, making a career for myself, so my kids can model and hopefully do something great themselves," says Mary Katherine Stahl, a busy mom, wife, and multi-business owner.
    She has a love for health and fitness and inspires others to be the best version of themselves. At the young age of 25, she started as a member at Fit Body Boot Camp and it quickly became the best part of her day every day.
    She used that passion and energy she felt at boot camp to open her own location in August 2017.
    The key to staying healthy as a parent is to have honest conversations with your partner about what you both value.
    For Mary Katherine Stahl and her husband, that conversation began with how to make their schedules work with two young children at home:
    "My husband knows that I value spending quality time with my children, but also making a career for myself," she explains.
    Communication is key, but so is nutrition. Mary Katherine Stahl focuses on eating protein and drinking plenty of water, and strives to get at least 7-9 hours of sleep every night.
    Exercise is also important, but with kids, it can be difficult to make time for it. Mary Katherine Stahl's solution? Bring the kids to the gym with you:
    "My daughter has been at the gym with us from 6 weeks old until now," she says. "Surrounding them with that from such a young age makes it easier to fit in that workout."
    It's also important to give yourself and your partner praise for the work you're both doing. "My husband needs that feedback," says Mary Katherine Stahl. "Just little things like that go a long way in our relationship because he just wants to feel appreciated."
    At the end of the day, Mary Katherine Stahl and her husband are grateful for the two children they share and all the blessings they have in their lives. "Life is crazy," she says. "But we're blessed."
    Staying healthy as a parent is a challenge, but it can be done.
    Take it from Mary Katherine Stahl: with honest communication, a focus on nutrition, and plenty of praise, you can find the balance you need to stay healthy and happy.
    In this podcast, you will learn about:
    How to balance work and family How to stay healthy and fit as a parent The importance of communication and appreciation between couples How to keep your relationship strong despite the challenges of parenting
    And so much more. EPISODE RESOURCES:
    Instagram
    fitbodybootcamp.com

    • 1 hr 3 min
    219: The power of change and self-healing - with Dr Chloé Hom Bañales

    219: The power of change and self-healing - with Dr Chloé Hom Bañales

    As a Doctor of Chinese Medicine and Integrative NLP Coach, Dr. Chloé is the founder of Ascended Alchemy dedicated to supporting purpose-driven leaders in embodying their next level of health and performance.
    With her clinical experience focused on how our mental and emotional health manifests through our physical body (and vice versa), Dr. Chloés work is dedicated to helping purpose-driven leaders connect the strength of their mind to the wisdom of their body so that they can finally end patterns of burnout and feel empowered in their health journey.
    What is NLP?
    NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) is a method of communication and personal development that focuses on the connection between the way we think, the words we speak, and how we behave. 
    It is based on the idea that when you change one of these things, it changes the other two. 
    NLP can be used to create effective change in clients and patients, by helping them to identify and change their habits, behaviors, and self-talk. 
    It is a powerful tool that can be used to help people experience a more elevated, joyous, and fulfilling way of living. 
    NLP is based on techniques such as Timeline Therapy, which was created by Dr. Tad James in 1985, and Mental Emotional Release, which was developed by Matt James and has been studied in three separate research studies. 
    NLP can help us to become aware of our thoughts and the programming from the outside world that we have chosen to take on, as well as to take time for ourselves in order to remain in an empowered state.
    The benefits of NLP
    The benefits of NLP, or Neuro-Linguistic Programming, are numerous:
    It is a method of communication and personal development that focuses on the connection between the way we think, the words we speak, and how we behave. It is based on the idea that when we change one of those things it changes the other two.  NLP can help create effective change for clients and patients by addressing their habits, behaviors, and the way they speak about themselves. 
    It is also a tool for goal setting, as the words we use when speaking about our goals can make all the difference in whether or not we believe we can achieve them. 
    NLP techniques can also help to release unresolved negative emotions, which can have a positive effect on our physiology. 
    Additionally, NLP can help to reframe how we interpret external events, allowing us to respond in a more empowered way. Finally, 
    NLP can help us to take a step back and observe our thoughts and behaviors, enabling us to identify and address any limiting beliefs or patterns of negative thinking or behavior. 
    In doing so, we can take back control of our lives, allowing us to live in a more joyous and fulfilling way.
    Chinese Medicine: The Power of Self-Healing  
    Chinese medicine has been a powerful form of natural healing for centuries, and its efficacy has been demonstrated time and time again. 
    From the belief that our bodies are microcosms of the entire universe, to the importance of attuning to the heart to promote health, Chinese medicine is a holistic approach to healing that is both powerful and effective.  
    One of the key aspects of Chinese medicine is the power of self-healing. This is the idea that the body has an innate ability to heal itself, without the need for external intervention. 
    This is achieved through a combination of lifestyle changes, proper nutrition, and mindfulness. For example, when faced with digestive issues, Chinese medicine may suggest a combination of dietary changes and proper self-care. 
    Additionally, it also suggests paying attention to underlying beliefs or emotional issues that may be contributing to the issue. Chinese medicine also emphasizes the importance of boundaries. This is particularly true when it comes to technology and self-care. 
    Setting boundaries and taking time for yourself are essential for maintaining a healthy balance. It's also important to remember that boun

    • 1 hr 9 min
    218: Thyroid Hormones and their vital role in the body - with Sara Banta

    218: Thyroid Hormones and their vital role in the body - with Sara Banta

    Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland fails to produce enough hormones to regulate the body’s metabolism. 
    Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
    Fatigue Dry skin Depression Hair thinning And slow metabolism.  Iodine deficiency is the number one predictor of hypothyroidism. 
    Iodine is an essential element required by the thyroid to produce thyroid hormones. When there is inadequate iodine, the thyroid cannot produce these hormones and hypothyroidism can result. 
    This can be especially dangerous for infants, as an iodine deficiency during the early stages of life can lead to cognitive and physical impairments.   
    Iodine deficiency can be caused by an inadequate intake of iodine-rich food, eating a diet high in goitrogenic foods, or drinking contaminated water. 
    It can also occur due to a lack of iodine in the soil and iodine depletion in the environment.
    What are the different hormones involved in the thyroid?
    Thyroid hormones play an important role in the body’s endocrine system and affect many different bodily functions. 
    So, what are the different hormones involved in the thyroid? the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and thyroid all work together to regulate thyroid hormones. 
    The hormones that the thyroid produces are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). T3 is the active form of the hormone, while T4 is the inactive form that needs to be converted by the liver into T3 for it to be used. Both T3 and T4 are formed from the element iodine, so iodine deficiency can lead to hypothyroidism. 
    Stress can also lead to thyroid disorders. This is because the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid access (HPT) and hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal access (HPA) can convert T4 into reverse T3 during periods of heightened stress. This has the effect of slowing down the metabolism and further aggravates the symptoms of thyroid dysfunction.
    What does Sara think about conventional beef and pork?
    Sara is a passionate advocate for healthy living and healthy eating, and she believes that conventional beef and pork are not the healthiest options. 
    For one thing, Sara points out that conventionally raised beef and pork have been fed estrogen and GMO grains, which can have detrimental effects on your health. 
    Additionally, these meats often contain toxins from radiation, halogens, fluoride, bromide, and chlorine, which can further impede the liver's ability to detoxify any medication taken for thyroid issues.  
    Sara recommends looking for wild animal proteins such as bison, lamb, and wild fish instead. 
    She strongly believes that these proteins, when sourced from organic, sustainable sources, are much healthier alternatives and can improve your overall health both mentally and physically. 
    She points out that wild animal protein is much easier to cook and doesn’t have to be as expensive as many people might think. 
    To further emphasize the importance of these proteins, Sara reminds us that we are what we eat and our diet plays a big role in our overall health. 
    Sara also advises paying attention to the foods your family consumes to ensure everyone is eating nutritionally. 
    She encourages her clients to look for signs that their bodies might be reacting positively or negatively to certain foods and adjust their diet accordingly. 
    Finally, Sara emphasizes the importance of teaching your children why it’s important to eat healthily so that they can own their behavior and have control over their health.
    In this podcast you will learn about:
    The number one predictor of hypothyroidism Consequences of not treating a thyroid problem The different hormones involved in the thyroid How does stress affect the body's metabolism The role of the liver in thyroid function The healthy foods that can now trip up our detox The different ways you can do a keto diet wrong And so much more. EPISODE RESOURCES:
    www.acceleratedhealthproducts.com/awesome
    Use a coupon code AWESOME5

    • 50 min
    217: Factors contributing to low thyroid function - with Elle Russ

    217: Factors contributing to low thyroid function - with Elle Russ

    Thyroid problems are a common yet often overlooked issue that can have a major impact on one's health and well-being. 
    This was the case for Elle Russ, who experienced two bouts of hypothyroidism within 10 years. 
    Elle is a #1 bestselling author, world-renowned thyroid health expert, and thought leader on confidence and self-esteem. 
    She has written for Entrepreneur and has been featured in Success, HuffPost, Podcasting Magazine, Mind Body Green, Prevention, while offering affordable online courses and free masterclasses. 
    Her hypothyroidism presented as menstrual irregularities, which her doctor dismissed and instead put her on birth control pills to mask the symptom. 
    This decision was highly misguided as Elle soon experienced a host of other symptoms including acne, hair loss, rapid weight gain, fatigue, mood swings and constipation. 
    It took E.R. 7 years to get properly diagnosed and treated for her thyroid condition because many doctors are uninformed about thyroid issues or unwilling to look into it further due to their ego or lack of time. 
    What are some things that can contribute to low thyroid function?
    Elle states that:
     "Low thyroid function can have a wide range of symptoms, from fatigue and constipation to difficulty concentrating and mood swings. While the causes of low thyroid function can vary, some common factors can contribute to this condition."  
    "First and foremost, diet plays a major role in maintaining healthy thyroid function. Eating a diet high in processed foods, sugar, and refined carbohydrates is not only unhealthy for your overall health, but it also disrupts the balance of hormones that your thyroid needs to stay healthy. Additionally, gluten sensitivity has been linked to hypothyroidism in some cases. Therefore, it is important to eat a clean diet consisting mostly of unprocessed whole foods such as fruits and vegetables."   
    "Another factor that can contribute to low thyroid function is sleep deprivation or an irregular sleep cycle. Not getting enough sleep or having an inconsistent sleep schedule can disrupt hormone production and cause fatigue as well as other symptoms associated with low thyroid function. Therefore, it is important to maintain a consistent sleep schedule and get at least 8 hours of sleep each night."  
    "Finally, having a strong support system is essential for maintaining healthy thyroid function. Having a “tribe” of supportive friends and family can help reduce stress and provide emotional support when needed. This can help keep hormones in balance and prevent the development of low thyroid function."
    The importance of Iodine in hypothyroidism
    Iodine is a key component in the production of thyroid hormones and is essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. 
    Without adequate iodine, hypothyroidism can develop due to decreased production of hormones.  
    Historically, low levels of iodine were responsible for a phenomenon known as the “Goiter Belt” in the Midwest United States. 
    This was due to a lack of iodine from ocean air, seawater, and food grown in that region. 
    To combat this issue, people began taking iodine supplements which helped reduce the incidence of hypothyroidism in the region.   
    Today, many people are deficient in iodine due to poor dietary habits and exposure to chlorine and bromine which can displace iodine from receptors. 
    This can be particularly dangerous for those who swim frequently in chlorinated pools as chlorine can further deplete iodine levels. It is important to note that adults do not need fluoride in their toothpaste anymore, as it is not beneficial and may even be harmful. 
    To optimize iodine levels, adults should consider taking a thyroid support complex that contains trace amounts of iodine. 
    Alternatively, iodine can be obtained through food such as seaweed or cruciferous vegetables, although the jury is still out on whether raw or cooked vegetables are better.

    • 1 hr 9 min

Customer Reviews

4.6 out of 5
52 Ratings

52 Ratings

saradoane ,

what a great show!

thank you so much for your wisdom, wade!

TraPod53 ,

Podcast great but the Robbie Bent episode knocked it out of park!

I just started listening to this podcast and I’m hooked. The guest are terrific and do most of the talking. Wade doesn’t need to listen to himself talk so the listener gets educated by guests that are passionate about their topic. And I have listened to Robbie Bent episode 3 times.

thetechjunkie80 ,

Awesomeness!

Wade Lightheart has been a true Blessing and game changer in the health and digestion field! He’s changed my life in such a positive way with enzymatic health! Let’s get it! 💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽💪🏽

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