Once Upon A Food Story

Elise Museles

Once upon a time, your food story began… Like all good stories, it's filled with twists and turns. Your beliefs, experiences, and thoughts about food all play starring roles. But what if the story you've been telling yourself is holding you back in ways you don't even realize… until now? Welcome to Once Upon a Food Story, the podcast that uncovers the powerful internal and external narratives shaping your relationship with food. Hosted by Elise Museles, an expert in eating psychology and nutrition, this show offers raw, real conversations with inspiring change-makers who are making a big impact in this world. Together, we'll explore the tools you need to shift your inner dialogue into one that's empowering, transformative, and uplifting. If you're feeling weighed down by diet culture, overwhelmed by food choices, or simply seeking a space to talk openly about cultivating a more positive mindset around food, you're in the right place! When it comes to your food story, you deserve a happy ending. And no matter where you are on your journey, it's never too late to turn the page and write a new chapter.

  1. MAR 18

    What Happens When You Bring Stress to the Table with Elise Museles

    Ever sit down to eat and realize you're distracted, rushing, or already thinking about the next thing instead of the food in front of you? That's stress taking a seat at the table, and it's quietly impacting your digestion, your metabolism, and your ability to enjoy your food. Even though I've been teaching and sharing about this for over a decade, I recently had a firsthand reminder of how stress can sneak into meals and have real consequences. Stress can show up in many ways – from multitasking while eating, rushing from one thing to the next, overthinking food choices, or running through that constant inner dialogue about whether you're "doing it right." The good news is that you can shift your physiology and get the most from your meals. I dive into simple and practical ways to move out of that stressed state so your body can "rest and digest", allowing your food to be more nourishing, satisfying, and energizing. In this episode, you'll learn: What stress does to your body while eating The subtle ways stress shows up at your table (that you might not even notice) How overthinking food choices and trying to optimize every bite can backfire The negative impact of multitasking while eating (and what to do instead) Simple shifts to support your nervous system and improve digestion  You'll feel empowered to leave stress behind and sit down to eat in a much more relaxed state of mind. Supportive Resources: Calm Your Nervous System and Find Inner Peace Walk Your Way to Energy, Clarity, and Calm The Food-Mood Bundle ($15 special offer!!) Learn More about Elise Museles: Work 1:1 with Elise (get 50% off with code FOODSTORY) Food Story: Rewrite the Way You, Eat, Think, and Live Website: elisemuseles.com Instagram: @elisemuseles Facebook: @elisemuseles

    17 min

  2. MAR 4

    Rethink Movement to Feel More Energized and Alive with Lara Heimann

    Has movement become just another task on your to-do list? Get your steps in. Lift the weights. Stretch before bed. But what if movement could be more than a box to tick. What if it could energize you, spark joy, and set you up for a better tomorrow? Lara Heimann is a physical therapist, yoga teacher, movement educator, and founder of the LYT Method™, who helps thousands of people rethink what movement really means. Instead of seeing it as punishment or performance, she shows how it can help you understand your body, build a strong foundation, and support your energy, mindset, and daily life. In this episode, you'll learn: Why pain is feedback and how to use it to move smarter How a strong foundation transforms everything you do physically and mentally Quick "movement snacks" that boost energy and focus in minutes Why novelty in movement literally grows your brain and keeps you engaged Simple strategies for stronger, healthier bones How curiosity and compassion turn movement into a feel-good practice   If you've ever felt overwhelmed by all the information or stuck in a punitive relationship with exercise, this episode will help you reframe movement in a more expansive and empowering way.   Learn More about Lara Heimann: Website: practice.lytyoga.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lytyogamethod Lara's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lara.heimann Redefining Movement Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/redefining-movement/id1440053459 Get 5 weeks of The LYT Daily for $5 using code MOVEBETTER: lytyoga.com   Learn More about Elise Museles: Get the  Food-Mood Bundle Special Podcast Listener Offer (just $15) Food Story: Rewrite the Way You Eat, Think, and Live Website: elisemuseles.com Instagram: @elisemuseles Facebook: @elisemuseles

    57 min

  3. FEB 18

    Cut Through the Clean Beauty Confusion with Melanie Petschke

    The products you use every day – from makeup to skincare – don't just sit on your skin. They become part of your daily exposure, and understanding what's really in them can impact your health and overall wellbeing. While clean beauty has been gaining attention, there are still important nuances beyond labels and marketing claims. This conversation goes deeper, giving you the clarity to make empowered choices every day. Melanie Petschke, board-certified nurse practitioner and co-founder of Crunchi, is raising the bar for makeup and personal care products. With over 15 years of research into the health impacts of environmental toxins, she shares how beauty products can be safe, high-performing, and sustainable. Melanie also breaks down how to cut through the noise, focus on what really matters, and take practical steps to reduce your toxic burden – without fear or overwhelm. In this episode, you'll learn: What "clean beauty 2.0" really means in 2026 and why it matters How to spot greenwashing and see past marketing claims Why some commonly misunderstood ingredients, like preservatives, are more nuanced than they seem The everyday exposures that make the biggest difference (hint: fragrance isn't so safe) A simple approach to reduce your body's cumulative toxic burden    This conversation is about raising standards, cutting through confusion, and giving you the clarity and confidence to care for yourself in ways that really matter.   Learn More about Melanie Petschke: Website: www.crunchi.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crunchicollection/ Melanie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melaniepetschke/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crunchicollection     Learn More about Elise Museles: Get the  Food-Mood Bundle Special Podcast Listener Offer (just $15) Website: elisemuseles.com Instagram: @elisemuseles Facebook: @elisemuseles

    45 min

  4. JAN 28

    Saffron for Mood, Skin, and a Balanced Nervous System with Hanna Mehrabani

    What if one tiny thread could lift your mood, support your skin, and help your nervous system feel more balanced? Most of us are familiar with saffron but have no idea that it has numerous benefits that we can tap into right away!  Hanna Mehrabani, Earth scientist, skincare alchemist, and founder of Seeb Organics, shares why saffron is so much more than a luxury spice. She explains how this ancient ingredient has been prized for generations and what modern science shows about its benefits from emotional wellbeing to skin health.  Hanna explores her entire saffron ritual and dives into how to integrate it into a daily routine so that you can feel calm and steady from morning until night. And the best part? A little goes a long way!   In this episode, you'll learn: How ancient wisdom can be applied to modern living Ways to tap into the healing powers of saffron and rose A simple method to make mood-boosting lattes Why a healthy gut is essential to reap all the benefits of saffron How to use saffron proactively to support your nervous system   This conversation will have you thinking about saffron in a whole new way. It's no longer just a spice but a powerful ingredient to support your mood, skin, and nervous system too.   Resources Mentioned: Dr. Amen Article Learn More about Hanna Mehrabani: Website: Seeb Organics Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seeborganics/   Learn More about Elise Museles: Get the Food-Mood Bundle Special Podcast Listener Offer Food Story: Rewrite the Way You Eat, Think, and Live Website: elisemuseles.com Instagram: @elisemuseles Facebook: @elisemuseles

    44 min

  5. JAN 14

    Optimize Weight Health and Feel Your Best with Ashley Koff

    We talk a lot about weight. We talk a lot about health. But rarely do we talk about them together – even though they're deeply connected. The concept of weight health looks at the bigger picture: hormones, habits, and your body as a whole, rather than separate parts. Ashley Koff, a leading voice in personalized nutrition and author of the newly released book Your Best Shot, brings decades of experience helping people decode how their bodies actually work. She combines science, practical tools, and compassionate guidance to show how to tune into your hunger cues and build a personalized approach to weight health – whether you use GLP-1 medications or not. As the founder of The Better Nutrition Program, Ashley explains how traditional methods and diet culture messaging can be harmful and shares a better way to reclaim trust in your body so you can feel your best.   In this episode, you'll learn: How hormones like GLP-1, GIP, PYY, and CCK influence appetite, cravings, and weight Simple ways to optimize your weight health for lasting results The truth about GLP-1 medications and how they fit into a larger toolkit Experiments and mindset shifts to help you trust your body Tips for navigating triggering diet culture messaging Ashley's "better, not perfect" philosophy and why joy matters This conversation offers a fresh lens to understand your body, make informed choices, and filter out the noise that doesn't serve you. Resources Mentioned: The Biology of Trauma and the Path to Healing (Episode) Learn More about Ashley Koff: Book: Your Best Shot Website: The Better Nutrition Program Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashleykoffapproved/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashleykoffapproved   Learn More about Elise Museles:Get the Food-Mood Bundle Special Podcast Listener Offer Food Story: Rewrite the Way You Eat, Think, and Live Website: elisemuseles.com Instagram: @elisemuseles Facebook: @elisemuseles

    1h 6m

  6. 12/31/2025

    Wellness Trends You'll Want to Try in 2026

    Every year, wellness trends seem to come at us faster and louder. Something goes viral, everyone's talking about it, and suddenly it feels like you're behind if you're not doing it too. In this solo episode, I've selected nine key trends that I've personally explored or that align closely with my expertise in mind-body nutrition and eating psychology. These are all ways that could make a real difference in your year… and your life. While we all have different needs, I offer my perspective on what might be worth exploring, what can be adapted, and what you can skip without guilt or feeling left out.   In this episode, you'll learn: The new way to travel that feels like an intentional reset A fun, creative, slightly nostalgic approach to digital boundaries Rituals to bring the cafe into your own kitchen  What Pinterest has named the hottest vegetable of the year (shocker!) The biggest focus for women's health (finally!) The lowdown on GLP-1s and how to navigate the conversation  The hidden benefits to spend more time with your besties   Take what resonates and leave the rest. Find what supports you, in ways that are sustainable, joyful, and actually make life better. Related Resources:   Rise & Shine Coaching Program Walk Your Way to Energy, Clarity, and Calm Stop Burnout and Reclaim Your Joy Calm Your Nervous System and Find Inner Peace The Food-Mood Bundle (major discount applied for podcast listeners) Elise's  go-to matcha (code ELISEMUSELES for a discount)   Learn more about Elise Museles: Food Story: Rewrite the Way You Eat, Think, and Live Website: elisemuseles.com Instagram: @elisemuseles Facebook: @elisemuseles

    15 min

  7. 12/10/2025

    How to Make Your Health and Yourself a Priority with Elise Museles

    Ever feel like life is moving so fast you barely notice your own needs? You're showing up for everyone else, checking boxes, and doing what's expected… but somewhere along the way, you stopped showing up for yourself. It's not because you don't care. It's because life is loud. Responsibilities pile up. And our culture rewards being busy and self-sacrificing, especially for women, caregivers, and anyone who's used to holding everything together. In this solo episode, I share a simple, sustainable 3-pillar method to take back your power and finally make your health and yourself a priority – without overwhelm, guilt, or an overly rigid routine.I You'll learn: A clear way to recognize when you're living on autopilot How to respect your energy instead of pushing through Nourishing practices that support your mind and body Simple ways to regulate your nervous system and restore balance A grounded method to help you consistently show up for yourself This framework will empower you to support your health, honor your needs, and reconnect with what makes you feel alive.   Supportive Resource: Stop Burnout and Reclaim Your Joy Calm Your Nervous System and Find Inner Peace Walk Your Way to Energy, Clarity, and Calm The Food-Mood Bundle ($15 special offer!!) Elise's go-to matcha (code ELISEMUSELES for a discount)   Learn More about Elise Museles: Rise & Shine Coaching Program (50% discount for podcast listeners) Food Story: Rewrite the Way You Eat, Think, and Live Website: elisemuseles.com Instagram: @elisemuseles Facebook: @elisemuseles

    17 min

  8. 11/19/2025

    Find Your Flow State and Unlock Joy with Dr. Caitlin Hoops

    Have you ever moved through your day on autopilot – checking boxes, getting things done, but barely feeling present? Spending too much time in your head can leave you feeling stuck, disconnected, and out of sync with what brings you joy. Dr. Caitlin Hoops is a physician and hula-hoop artist who believes that flow state is the gateway to presence, focus, and calm. She first experienced being in flow while hula hooping, and it completely changed every aspect of her life. Now she teaches others how to access that same energy in their everyday lives so they can get out of their heads, reconnect with their bodies, and feel fully alive.   In this episode, you'll learn: What flow state really feels like in your body How being in flow positively impacts your stress hormones and wellbeing Why multitasking pulls you out of presence – and what to do instead Simple practices to become clearer, calmer, and more aligned How to reconnect with joy (and play) and invite more of it into your life   You'll feel inspired to find your flow state, shift out of autopilot, and follow your true joy – hula hoop optional! Resources Mentioned: Astral Hoops Hoopologie   Learn More about Dr. Caitlin Hoops: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.caitlinhoops/ Facebook: https://www.instagram.com/dr.caitlinhoops/   Learn More about Elise Museles: Get the Food-Mood Bundle Special Podcast Listener Offer Food Story: Rewrite the Way You Eat, Think, and Live Website: elisemuseles.com Instagram: @elisemuseles Facebook: @elisemuseles

    39 min
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5
out of 5
79 Ratings

About

Once upon a time, your food story began… Like all good stories, it's filled with twists and turns. Your beliefs, experiences, and thoughts about food all play starring roles. But what if the story you've been telling yourself is holding you back in ways you don't even realize… until now? Welcome to Once Upon a Food Story, the podcast that uncovers the powerful internal and external narratives shaping your relationship with food. Hosted by Elise Museles, an expert in eating psychology and nutrition, this show offers raw, real conversations with inspiring change-makers who are making a big impact in this world. Together, we'll explore the tools you need to shift your inner dialogue into one that's empowering, transformative, and uplifting. If you're feeling weighed down by diet culture, overwhelmed by food choices, or simply seeking a space to talk openly about cultivating a more positive mindset around food, you're in the right place! When it comes to your food story, you deserve a happy ending. And no matter where you are on your journey, it's never too late to turn the page and write a new chapter.

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