The CIRS Group Podcast

thecirsgroup

CIRS, or Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, can happen to 25% of the population and is usually triggered by a biotoxin in the environment, like mold, red tide, lyme (tick bite), and even some medical interventions. Those with CIRS are susceptible to these toxins and cannot clear them on their own. Thankfully, treatment is possible, but given that people suffering with CIRS have difficulty processing new information, we created The CIRS Group and now, this podcast, to help people better understand and identify this treatable illness. Jacie is a 3 year carnivore, certified nutrition coach, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a wealth and wellness coach, 2 year carnivore and a big fan of health and freedom. Along with Jacie, she co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis.

  1. 2D AGO

    Anxiety & Depression in CIRS: Your brain isn't broken, it's inflamed!

    For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com In this week's episode, Barbara and Jacie discuss how anxiety and depression commonly show up in CIRS, and why these symptoms are often driven by biology and NOT personal weakness. Brain and body inflammation can disrupt neurotransmitters, increase inflammatory cytokines, affect mood regulation, and contribute to blood-brain barrier dysfunction and limbic system hypervigilance, leading to depression, anxiety, cognitive issues, and difficulty word-finding. They share personal experiences with OCD, suicidal ideation, and severe anxiety. They emphasize a “bottom-up” approach (reducing inflammation, treating CIRS/co-infections, addressing environment and exposures like mold) alongside “top-down” supports (therapy, limbic retraining, and community), noting therapy may be less effective without addressing root inflammation. They also highlight how mood improves with treatment, and suggest support options including The CIRS Group community and small group coaching through Untamed Iona (Dr. Lauren Sparks and Dr. Brenda Stewart). Check out our helpful links below the time stamps. For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Anxiety & Depression in CIRS: Intro + Disclaimer 01:48 What is CIRS? and why mental health symptoms aren’t your fault 02:49 Top-Down vs Bottom-Up Healing (Therapy vs Treating Inflammation) 05:07 Let's talk biology: brain inflammation, neurotransmitters & mood 06:24 Our stories: suicidal ideation, hypervigilance & tick-borne triggers 10:23 Blood-Brain barrier + limbic system: why you feel stuck in "threat mode" 12:42 The Moldy Doc: snowball effect + hope through treatment 14:38 Support Options: therapy, support groups, limbic retraining + resources 16:48 Wrap-Up: Calming the alarm + Finding the right order of healing for YOU 18:54 Join us at TheCIRSGroup.com HELPFUL LINKS: For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com Moldy Doc: https://moldymovie.com/ Untamed Iona's support groups: https://www.untamediona.com/therapy Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/ Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie’s book on the Carnivore diet!  https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/ Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

    19 min
  2. FEB 11

    The hidden illness no one talks about: How common is Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS)

    In this episode of The CIRS Group podcast, Barbara and Jacie talk about the prevalence of Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). Despite being relatively unknown, CIRS is not rare; It  affects approximately 25% of the population due to genetic susceptibility. They discuss the reasons behind the lack of awareness in conventional medicine, from underdiagnosis and nonspecific symptoms, to larger systemic issues with the medical industry and lack of awareness around mold. This episode highlights who should consider CIRS, the symptoms to look out for, and the steps to diagnosis and treatment. With a mix of personal insights and factual information, this episode aims to arm listeners with the knowledge to make informed decisions about their health. For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and medical disclaimer 00:36 What is Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS)? 01:36 Why don't people take mold seriously? 02:55 Why it's difficult to diagnose CIRS 05:22 Prevalence of CIRS and Genetic Susceptibility 10:11 Exposure sources and triggers for illness 11:22 Common misconceptions and normalization, rationalization 15:24 Who should consider CIRS as a potential diagnosis? 19:31 Conclusion and Resources For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com HELPFUL LINKS What even is CIRS? episode: https://youtu.be/K-rztn5x7_w?si=kbmVdeVXx8mLLWu7 Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/ Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie’s book on the Carnivore diet!  https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/ Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

    20 min
  3. FEB 4

    Navigating Perimenopause, Menopause & Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome with Dr. Noble

    In this informative episode of The CIRS Group podcast, hosts Jacie and Barbara welcome Dr. Anjali Noble to discuss the complexities of perimenopause, menopause, and Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). Dr. Noble, founder of the Noble Center for Health and Healing, shares insights on perimenopause and menopause, potential treatments and ways to support the transition, and how CIRS may complicate this natural process. Viewers are advised to consult their own healthcare providers for personalized medical advice.  Dr. Noble emphasizes the importance of addressing stress, improving gut health, and testing/tracking before employing hormone replacement strategies. Tune in for a deep dive into menopause, its symptoms, and what to look for in a doctor and treatment in order to manage it effectively and safely. To work with Dr. Noble, visit her website at https://drnoble.com For more CIRS information and support, visit us at https://thecirsgroup.com TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro and disclaimer 01:56 What is menopause? 04:32 Hormonal changes and symptoms of perimenopause 07:00 What happens with menopause, or when you hit estrogen depletion? 07:50 What are menopause symptoms and how long do they last?  10:50 Definition of perimenopause 11:55  CIRS vs menopause 17:02 Treatment recommendations for dealing with menopause 18:40 Dangers of pellets as a menopause treatment 21:45 Deal with stress first, adrenal support, then look at hormones 25:30 Lifestyle changes: gut health, methylation, detox 30:00 GLP-1s 31:29 How to work with Dr. Noble 34:30 Outro For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com HELPFUL LINKS: Dr. Anjali Noble's informational website: https://dranjalinoble.com/ Work with Dr. Anjali Noble: https://drnoble.com Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/ Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie’s book on the Carnivore diet!  https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/ Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

    36 min
  4. JAN 28

    Can you really get sick from mold? Let's talk about CIRS: Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome

    In this episode of The CIRS Group podcast, hosts Jacie and Barbara explain what Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS) is, how to get diagnosed, and how to treat it. They cover sources of biotoxin exposure that can make you sick and what kind of binders work best for these toxins. Jacie and Barbara also discuss the importance of genetic predisposition, the diagnostic criteria, and testing you can do, including visual contrast sensitivity tests and relevant blood markers. They'll also cover the Shoemaker Protocol for treatment, and acknowledge that many of us need to treat co-infections and other long term damage for complete recovery. This episode aims to empower listeners with the knowledge to seek appropriate treatment and navigate this chronic illness effectively. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer 01:09 What is CIRS? 01:32 Common sources of biotoxins that can make you sick 06:01 How CIRS causes inflammation and multiple symptoms 08:10 Why most doctors miss CIRS 09:47 Common ways CIRS is misdiagnosed 11:00 The CIRS Symptom Clusters, and how to get diagnosed with CIRS 16:25 Treating CIRS 20:07 Side Quests (co-infections, damage repair) in CIRS recovery 22:00 We hope you find healing! For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com HELPFUL LINKS: Our episode on the Symptom Clusters: https://youtu.be/RyKff3TWBZo VCS Test: https://www.survivingmold.com/store/online-vcs-screening Our episode on which bloodmarkers to test: https://youtu.be/XMtbxLLZzaU Genetic test for CIRS: https://www.lifeextension.com/lab-testing/itemlc100087/hla-dr-mold-genetic-test Our CIRS vs Mold Illness episode: https://youtu.be/ZlYoAcV7uUo Shoemaker Protocol research: https://www.survivingmold.com/Downloads/Dooley-McMahon_Final_Publication_-_3-30-2020.pdf https://www.survivingmold.com/Publications/CIRS_diagnostic_protocol_final_5_1_2018.pdf Our episode on the right CIRS Binders: https://youtu.be/KAQfLXuPjFI Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/ Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie’s book on the Carnivore diet!  https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/ Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

    23 min
  5. JAN 21

    Do you have Hashimoto's? Are you at risk? Take care of your thyroid health while treating CIRS

    In this episode of The CIRS Group podcast, hosts Jacie and Barbara explore the connection between Hashimoto's disease and chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS). They dive into the importance of early diagnosis, crucial blood tests, and the differences between conventional and functional treatments. The episode also includes personal anecdotes and practical tips for managing thyroid health, touching on topics like diet, stress management, and the significance of tracking symptoms. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and disclaimer 00:26 Continuing our autoimmune series 00:51 Understanding Hashimoto's Disease 02:40 Symptoms and diagnosis of Hashimoto's 07:50 Hashimoto's causes and triggers 12:29 Treatment Options 13:27 Symptom management with lifestyle changes 18:31 Tracking and monitoring your health 21:43 Community Support For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/ Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie’s book on the Carnivore diet!  https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/ Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

    23 min
  6. JAN 14

    Is it possible to work out with chronic illness? Tips and tricks to get back into the gym SAFELY!

    In this episode of the CIRS Group podcast, hosts Barbara and Jacie dive into the complex topic of working out while dealing with Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). They discuss the challenges, benefits, and strategies for maintaining a workout routine despite the debilitating symptoms that CIRS can cause, such as fatigue, joint pain, and hypometabolism. Listeners are advised to consult their healthcare practitioners for personalized advice. Additional insights include using AI for creating custom workout plans, tracking progress, and when to hire a professional to help you. Tune in for practical advice, personal experiences, and motivation to help you navigate your fitness journey alongside CIRS. 00:00 Introduction and disclaimer 01:23 How CIRS affects your ability to exercise 02:32 Benefits of exercise during CIRS treatment 04:36 Slowly ramp up exercise to avoid Push and Crash 07:07 Using AI and professional help for fitness plans 08:15 How Barbara got back into exercise after surgery 10:20 Getting started is the hardest part 12:17 Tracking progress, using apps or AI, and when to hire a coach 16:08 The best workout to do is the one you'll actually do and enjoy! 17:37 Everyone is different! For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com HELPFUL LINKS! Dr. Stuart McGill's website: https://www.backfitpro.com/ Barbara's PT that built her post-surgery workout program: https://www.d1physicaltherapy.com/ Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/ Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie’s book on the Carnivore diet!  https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/ Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

    19 min
  7. JAN 7

    Is it mold illness or CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome)? And does it matter?

    For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com In this episode of The CIRS Group podcast, Barbara and Jacie delve into the distinctions between mold illness and CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome). They clarify the confusion surrounding these terms, which are often used interchangeably online, and emphasize the importance of understanding the Shoemaker Protocol for those genetically predisposed to CIRS. They'll cover how to find out if you have the genetic markers associated with CIRS, how to get properly diagnosed so you don't waste time and money on the wrong treatment, and why generic mold detox methods may not be sufficient for CIRS patients. They'll also discuss the hidden dangers of antifungal agents and the importance of targeting specific biotoxins in treatment. This episode is a valuable resource for those seeking clarity and effective treatment options to heal from chronic illness. For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro and disclaimer 01:44 Understanding mold illness vs CIRS 03:12 Why your genetics matter, and how to diagnose CIRS 04:58 Why some people get sick and others don't 06:25 Shoemaker Protocol vs. Mold Detox Protocols 07:00 Pros and Cons with Dr. Neil Nathan or Dr. Jill Cresta protocols 11:09 Importance of accurate testing for diagnosis 13:58 Taking the right binders and treating MARCoNs 16:43 Tracking symptoms, hormones, and bloodwork during treatment 19:28 Azole (antifungal) treatment 22:48 Why we warn people against mainstream mold doctors 23:52 Final Thoughts and Resources For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com Genetic test for CIRS: https://www.lifeextension.com/lab-testing/itemlc100087/hla-dr-mold-genetic-test Our episode on urinary mycotoxin tests: https://youtu.be/qWIIBaMybFA?si=gY6w_JmuuPn1pdOk MARCoNs test: https://www.microbiologydx.com/order-collection-kits Study showing antifungals or -azoles causing brain atrophy (search the text using control + F for 'antifungal' or 'atrophy'): https://www.oatext.com/metabolism-molecular-hypometabolism-and-inflammation-complications-of-proliferative-physiology-include-metabolic-acidosis-pulmonary-hypertension.php Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/ Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie’s book on the Carnivore diet!  https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/ Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

    25 min
  8. 12/31/2025

    What the future holds for The CIRS Group in 2026

    Join us at https://www.thecirsgroup.com/ Sign up for our next live Q&A webinar: https://thecirsgroup.kit.com/2025ama It's the last 2025 episode of The CIRS Group podcast! Hosts Jacie and Barbara share their exciting plans for 2026, including upgrades in podcast quality, fun new merchandise, and including more expert-led classes within the membership. They also talk about personal updates, including Barbara's upcoming wedding and health treatments, and Jacie's insights on nervous system regulation. Join the conversation about their goals for the new year by commenting below what YOU want to see in 2026 from TCG. The CIRS Group plans to continue providing valuable resources and support, so thank you for watching and supporting this channel! TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Intro and disclaimer 00:30 Poop talk 01:41 Improved production quality and content! 03:13 Transcripts, Printables, worksheets, and more! 04:19 Merchandise! Want some merch? 05:42 Expert Workshops and CIRS Group membership benefits 07:48 Email newsletters and Q&A webinars 09:35 CIRSx 2026 11:13 Barbara's personal updates and 2026 plans 15:00 Jacie's personal updates and 2026 plans 15:56 Nervous System Regulation insights 17:02 Jacie's word for the year: Stewardship 20:36 Final thoughts and encouragement For more information and support, join us at https://thecirsgroup.com Sign up for our next live Q&A webinar: https://thecirsgroup.kit.com/2025ama Order Jacie's book! The 30 Day Carnivore Bootcamp: https://a.co/d/7MgHrRs The CIRS Group: Support Community: https://thecirsgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecirsgroup/ Find Jacie for carnivore, lifestyle and limbic resources: Jacie’s book on the Carnivore diet!  https://a.co/d/8ZKCqz0 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladycarnivory YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LadyCarnivory Blog: https://www.ladycarnivory.com/ Find Barbara for business/finance tips and coaching: Website: https://www.actlikebarbara.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/actlikebarbara/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@actlikebarbara Jacie is a Shoemaker certified Proficiency Partner, NASM certified nutrition coach, author, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a business and fitness coach, CIRS and ADHD advocate, writer, speaker, and a big fan of health and freedom. Together, they co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis and treatment.

    23 min
5
out of 5
21 Ratings

About

CIRS, or Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, can happen to 25% of the population and is usually triggered by a biotoxin in the environment, like mold, red tide, lyme (tick bite), and even some medical interventions. Those with CIRS are susceptible to these toxins and cannot clear them on their own. Thankfully, treatment is possible, but given that people suffering with CIRS have difficulty processing new information, we created The CIRS Group and now, this podcast, to help people better understand and identify this treatable illness. Jacie is a 3 year carnivore, certified nutrition coach, and carnivore recipe developer determined to share the life changing information of carnivore and CIRS to anyone who will listen. Barbara is a wealth and wellness coach, 2 year carnivore and a big fan of health and freedom. Along with Jacie, she co-founded The CIRS Group, an online support community to help people that are struggling with their CIRS diagnosis.

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