Vital Roots Podcast

Kara Hanrahan
  • 5.0 (10)
  • Alternative Health
  • Weekly

Welcome to a podcast that challenges the conventional approach to health and explores what it really means to achieve lasting wellness. Hosted by Kara Hanrahan, a nurse practitioner passionate about functional medicine and natural health, this podcast dives beneath the surface of symptoms to uncover the root causes of chronic health concerns and explore the powerful role of nutrition, lifestyle, and natural approaches in restoring balance to the body. From metabolic health and hormones to gut health, inflammation, longevity, and beyond, each episode brings you insightful conversations, practical education, and a fresh perspective on the body's incredible capacity to heal. Because living longer doesn't necessarily mean living healthier. It's not just about extending your lifespan, but maximizing your healthspan, the years you spend feeling vibrant, healthy, and truly living. By understanding your body, addressing underlying imbalances, and building a strong foundation for wellness, you can take an active role in shaping both the quality and longevity of your life. My goal is to educate and empower my listeners, giving them the tools they need to restore their health from the roots up.

  1. Sep 3

    Transformation, trends, and trust in the pet industry with Jess Arrington of Wild Wellness Pet

    Recorded live (and a little unfiltered) from Superzoo 2026, I sit down with Jess Arrington of Wild Wellness Pet (and The Pet Parenting Reset) for a candid conversation about what’s changing in the pet wellness industry... and what definitely isn’t! From the endless sea of probiotics and freeze-dried products to the lack of true innovation, affordability concerns, ingredient transparency, and the growing influence of big business in the pet space, we share what caught our attention on the show floor, what left us underwhelmed, and the products and companies that still have us excited. We also dig into gut health and microbial diversity, fresh and raw feeding, novel proteins, natural pet products, and why knowing who is actually behind the products you buy matters more than ever. But this episode is about more than just Superzoo! As Season 2 of the Raw Remedies Podcast comes to a close, Jess and I reflect on transformation in our own lives and businesses. Jess shares the philosophy behind Wild Wellness Pet and her mission to help pets (and people) reconnect with nature, while I share the evolution of Raw Remedies into Vital Roots Functional Health and my growing mission to bring the same root-cause thinking I've used in animal wellness into human health. It’s an honest conversation about where the holistic pet industry is headed, staying curious, demanding better, and what happens when the path you started on leads somewhere you never expected. Plus, get a sneak peek at what’s coming in Season 3 as the podcast expands beyond pet wellness to explore the health of the humans on the other end of the leash. Connect with Kara: Website: rawremedieshealth.comFacebook: Raw Remedies HealthInstagram: @rawremedieshealthTikTok: @rawremedieshealthNewsletter: https://rawremedieshealth.myflodesk.com/jointhecollectiveConnect with Jess: Website: https://www.thepetparentingreset.com/https://www.wildwellnesspet.com/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/thepetparentingresetInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/thepetparentingreset/https://www.instagram.com/wildwellnesspet/Pet Parenting Reset Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@ThePetParentingResetSponsor: Girls Gone Raw Pet health Use code RAWREMEDIES for 10% off your first order www.girlsgonerawpet.com GGR, founded by my friend Lauren Becks, is a carnivore loving enthusiast whose mission is to bring a species appropriate diet back into every home. Please be sure to check out her small independent business and use the above code for a discount at checkout! Join the Conversation: Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow holistic pet parent or leave a review to help others find Raw Remedies Podcast!

    Transformation, trends, and trust in the pet industry with Jess Arrington of Wild Wellness Pet

  2. Jul 1

    Beyond complete & balanced- the nutrients that truly matter with Kay Stewart

    In this episode, I'm joined by Kay Stewart, RVT, CPCN, educator with the Feed Real Institute, to discuss one of the most overlooked topics in pet health: nutritional deficiencies. Together, we explore the nutrients most commonly lacking in homemade diets, why whole foods work differently than synthetic nutrients, and how simple additions like eggs, fish, organ meats, and variety can dramatically improve health. As a functional medicine nurse practitioner, I also draw comparisons between human and canine nutrition, highlighting how many of the same deficiencies show up in both species through changes in the skin, hair, nails, immune system, and energy levels. In this episode we discuss: Why physical exam findings can reveal nutritional deficiencies before bloodworkThe nutrients most commonly lacking in homemade dietsWhy zinc, manganese, choline, vitamin A, and omega-3 fatty acids deserve extra attentionWhy eggs are one of nature's most nutrient-dense foodsThe importance of liver and why variety matters more than feeding one typeNatural vs. synthetic copper and the controversy surrounding copper storage diseaseWhy fish may be the most powerful addition to your dog's bowlHow omega-3s support the skin, brain, joints, heart, and immune systemWhy puppies have unique nutritional requirementsHow the microbiome begins at birth and why early nutrition mattersBudget-friendly strategies for feeding fresh foodWhy "complete and balanced" starts with nutrient density, not just a spreadsheetPractical ways to introduce more variety into both human and canine dietsDiscounts: Real Dog Box is offering 10 of my listeners a $20 gift card! To enter to win, please join my newsletter and 10 winners will be chosen on 7/1/26.  Connect with Kara: Website: rawremedieshealth.comFacebook: Raw Remedies HealthInstagram: @rawremedieshealthTikTok: @rawremedieshealthNewsletter: https://rawremedieshealth.myflodesk.com/jointhecollectiveConnect with Kay Stewart & Real Dog Box: Website: feedreal.com, feedreal.com/courses, real.dog/karaEmail: kay@feedreal.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/feedrealmovement/https://www.instagram.com/feedrealsummit/https://www.instagram.com/realdogbox/Short Leash Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@FeedReal/podcastsSponsor: My Pet Carnivore Use code RAWREMEDIES for 10% off your first order www.mypetcarnivore.com Ya’ll, definitely consider checking them out. This company is small, independently owned, high quality and extremely generous. They’re a great resource and I love their products, so I’m proud to bring them to your attention! Join the Conversation: Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow holistic pet parent or leave a review to help others find Raw Remedies Podcast!

    Beyond complete & balanced- the nutrients that truly matter with Kay Stewart

  3. Jun 1

    Natural Solutions for Allergies, Ticks, and Whole-Body Wellness with Animal Herbalist Greg Tilford

    In this episode, Animal Herbalist Greg Tilford shares his extensive knowledge of natural healing for animals and humans, emphasizing the importance of supporting immune health, gut microbiome, and holistic approaches to pest and allergy management in combination with selection targeted botanicals to soothe symptoms or repel pests naturally. Discover practical tips, herbal suggestions, and insights into how nature provides powerful solutions to everyday health challenges. This episode highlights how a holistic, nature-based approach can promote better health for animals and humans alike. By understanding and respecting the power of herbs, environment, and energetic health, you can create a resilient foundation for wellness. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to Greg Tilford and his background in herbal medicine 02:30 - Greg’s inspiration for focusing on herbal solutions for animals 05:00 - The connection between animals' herbal use and human medicine 07:15 - The importance of supporting gut health in allergy and disease management 10:00 - How microbiome rehabilitation can address chronic health issues 12:30 - Herbal approaches for seasonal allergies in pets and humans 15:45 - Using herbs like nettle and quercetin to manage inflammation and allergies 19:00 - The impact of environmental toxins and pesticides on health 22:00 - Supporting detox pathways and reducing chemical exposure 25:00 - The role of energetic health and vibrational energy in healing 28:30 - Natural pest prevention through vibrational and energetic methods 32:00 - How diet influences pest resistance and overall health 37:00 - Herbal remedies for external pest control (limonene, calendula, licorice) 40:00 - Tools for tick repulsion and environmental safety (Laleshwa oil) 43:00 - The risks of conventional treatments and antibiotics 47:00 - Understanding Lyme disease  50:00 - Natural herbs like olive leaf and Usnea lichen for broad-spectrum pathogen defense 53:00 - The significance of supportive care over suppression with pharmaceuticals 56:00 - The energy and mindset's role in health and healing 58:00 - How individuals can find Greg’s resources and continue learning 60:00 - Greg’s books, including Herbs for Pets and Edible and Medicinal Plants of the West 62:00 - Final thoughts and emphasizing connection to nature for holistic health Discounts: Animal Essentials is offering listeners an extremely generous 30% off a purchase from June 1st through June 30th 2026. Head to www.animalessentials.com and enter code RawRemedy26 at checkout to get your discount, and don't miss it!  Connect with Kara: Website: rawremedieshealth.comFacebook: Raw Remedies HealthInstagram: @rawremedieshealthTikTok: @rawremedieshealthNewsletter: https://rawremedieshealth.myflodesk.com/jointhecollectiveConnect with Greg Tilford: Website: animalessentials.comSubstack: The Animal Herbalist Gregory Tilford | SubstackSponsor: CBD Dog Health & Mycodog Use code RAWREMEDIES for 15% off your order! www.cbddoghealth.com My sponsor for this episode is CBD Dog Health. They use organic ingredients, clean formulas, third-party testing, and COAs for every batch, as does their sister company, MycoDog. If you’re looking for supplements that prioritize real quality, transparency, and long-term wellness for your pets, I highly recommend checking out CBD Dog Health and MycoDog, because your furry family members deserve the good stuff too! Join the Conversation: Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow holistic pet parent or leave a review to help others find Raw Remedies Podcast!  Honorable Mentions: Animal Essentials – Natural pet supplement company founded by Greg Tilford Animal Herbalist Substack – Greg’s educational newsletter Herbs for Pets by Greg Tilford – Essential herbal resource for pet owners Mountain Rose Herbs – A trusted source for organic herbs and supplements Leleshwa Oil (search for suppliers) – Natural tick repellent, also called Camphor (coming soon from Greg himself!) Ledum (homeopathic remedy, 30c or 200ck) – For tick exposure prevention Microbiome Testing - Animal Biome – Microbiome restoration solutions

    Natural Solutions for Allergies, Ticks, and Whole-Body Wellness with Animal Herbalist Greg Tilford

  4. May 1

    Managing Metabolic Health, Part 3: the Systemic Inferno, with Dr. Chrystyne Olivieri

    In Part 3 of our metabolic health series, I sit down one final time with Dr. Chrystyne Olivieri to connect the dots between blood sugar, insulin, and the full-body consequences of metabolic dysfunction. What starts as a “slow burn” of subtle imbalances can evolve into a systemic inferno of chronic disease, impacting nearly every organ system. In this episode, we explore how chronically elevated insulin and blood sugar contribute to conditions like heart disease, fatty liver, cognitive decline, and even neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s, and often long before standard lab markers show anything is wrong. Be sure to listen to parts one and two if you haven't already!  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Metabolic Health Series 01:29 Understanding High Blood Sugar and Insulin Levels 04:38 The Role of C-Peptide in Metabolic Dysfunction 06:07 The Impact of Gut Health on Metabolism 07:16 Chronic Diseases and the Evolution of Medicine 10:22 The Connection Between Diet and Chronic Illness 12:08 Heart Health: Cholesterol vs. Sugar 14:56 The Misconceptions of Cardiovascular Disease 17:25 Animal Health and Diet: A Parallel Discussion 20:42 The Importance of Nutrition Education 23:34 Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Insulin Resistance 27:35 Understanding Pharmaceutical Data Manipulation 32:44 The Rise of Liver Disease and Its Causes 37:19 Linking Diabetes, Dementia, and Nutrition 44:06 The Importance of Gut Health and Probiotics 49:30 Functional Medicine vs. Conventional Medicine Sponsor: Girls Gone Raw Pet health Use code RAWREMEDIES for 10% off your first order www.girlsgonerawpet.com GGR, founded by my friend Lauren Becks, is a carnivore loving enthusiast whose mission is to bring a species appropriate diet back into every home. Please be sure to check out her small independent business and use the above code for a discount at checkout! Connect with Kara: Website: rawremedieshealth.comFacebook: Raw Remedies HealthInstagram: @rawremedieshealthTikTok: @rawremedieshealthNewsletter: https://rawremedieshealth.myflodesk.com/jointhecollectiveConnect with Dr Olivieri: Email: colivierinp@gmail.comWondering if your metabolic health is up to snuff? Download my checklist and see if you're on the right track, or if there are some changes you could make to improve the metabolic health of you and your furry family members: https://rawremedieshealth.myflodesk.com/metabolicscreeningtool Join the Conversation Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow holistic pet parent or leave a review to help others find Raw Remedies Podcast!

    Managing Metabolic Health, Part 3: the Systemic Inferno, with Dr. Chrystyne Olivieri

  5. Apr 1

    Managing Metabolic Health, Part 2: The Diabetic Fire, with Dr. Chrystyne Olivieri

    In this episode, we continue our metabolic health series and jump out of the frying pan and into the fire of type 2 diabetes. We go deep into the complexities of type 2 diabetes, its subtypes, early warning signs, diagnostic tools, and lifestyle interventions. Dr. Olivieri emphasizes the importance of proactive health measures and understanding the metabolic crisis affecting global health, as well as the need to take action early or risk life-long health risks. Key topics include: -> Subtypes of type 2 diabetes and their characteristics -> Early warning signs and symptoms of undiagnosed diabetes -> Diagnostic tools including A1C, fasting blood sugar, and urine microalbumin -> The impact of diet, weight gain, and insulin resistance -> Lifestyle interventions and dietary changes to prevent and reverse diabetes Chapters: 00:00 Understanding the Global Metabolic Crisis 02:06 Diving into Type 2 Diabetes Subtypes 06:15 The Dangers of Type 2 Diabetes 10:54 Recognizing Early Warning Signs 16:58 The Impact of Diet on Metabolic Health 21:40 Proactive Measures for Diabetes Screening 25:10 Understanding Dysmetabolic Syndrome and Diabetes 27:51 The Dangers of Calorie Restriction 29:40 Nutritional Composition Over Caloric Intake 30:14 Diagnostic Tools for Metabolic Health 34:58 Lifestyle Changes for Diabetes Management 35:56 New Dietary Guidelines and Their Implications 43:52 Actionable Steps for Healthier Living Sponsor: My Pet Carnivore Use code RAWREMEDIES for 10% off your first order www.mypetcarnivore.com Ya’ll, definitely consider checking them out. This company is small, independently owned, high quality and extremely generous. They’re a great resource and I love their products, so I’m proud to bring them to your attention! Connect with Kara: Website: rawremedieshealth.comFacebook: Raw Remedies HealthInstagram: @rawremedieshealthTikTok: @rawremedieshealthNewsletter: https://rawremedieshealth.myflodesk.com/jointhecollectiveConnect with Dr Olivieri: Email: colivierinp@gmail.comWondering if your metabolic health is up to snuff? Download my checklist and see if you're on the right track, or if there are some changes you could make to improve the metabolic health of you and your furry family members: https://rawremedieshealth.myflodesk.com/metabolicscreeningtool Join the Conversation Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow holistic pet parent or leave a review to help others find Raw Remedies Podcast!

    Managing Metabolic Health, Part 2: The Diabetic Fire, with Dr. Chrystyne Olivieri

  6. Mar 1

    Managing Metabolic Health, Part 1: The Insulin Resistance Smolder, with Dr. Chrystyne Olivieri

    In today's episode, I team up with Dr. Chrystyne Olivieri to delve into the critical topic of metabolic health, focusing on insulin resistance and its implications for overall health. We discuss the prevalence of obesity in people and pets, the impact of ultra-processed foods on our health, and the hormonal crises (aka Insulin Resistance) that arise from poor dietary choices. The conversation emphasizes the failure of traditional diets and the importance of behavioral modifications for achieving better metabolic health, as well as some myth busting and scientific study flaws. Dr. Olivieri provides practical advice for listeners to assess their dietary habits and make informed changes to improve their health, with more to come in part 2! Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Metabolic Health and Insulin Resistance 02:51 Understanding Insulin Resistance and Its Impact 05:51 The Role of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome 08:25 The Dangers of Ultra-Processed Foods 11:18 The Hormonal Crisis and Its Effects 14:21 The Importance of Diet in Metabolic Health 17:01 The Transition from Sugar Burner to Fat Burner 20:06 The Challenges of Dietary Changes 22:59 The Importance of Nutritional Education 26:54 Understanding Long-Term Health Studies 33:04 The Role of Lifestyle in Metabolic Health 37:32 Why Diets Fail: The Metabolic Perspective 42:47 The Importance of Sleep and Movement 46:19 Starting Your Journey to Better Metabolic Health Sponsor: My Pet Carnivore Use code RAWREMEDIES for 10% off your first order 👉 www.mypetcarnivore.com Ya'll, definitely consider checking them out. This company is small, independently owned, high quality and extremely generous. They're a great resource and I love their products, so I'm proud to bring them to your attention! Connect with Kara: Website: rawremedieshealth.comFacebook: Raw Remedies HealthInstagram: @rawremedieshealthTikTok: @rawremedieshealthNewsletter: https://rawremedieshealth.myflodesk.com/jointhecollectiveConnect with Dr Olivieri: Email: colivierinp@gmail.comWondering if your metabolic health is up to snuff? Download my checklist and see if you're on the right track, or if there are some changes you could make to improve the metabolic health of you and your furry family members: https://rawremedieshealth.myflodesk.com/metabolicscreeningtool Join the Conversation Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow holistic pet parent or leave a review to help others find Raw Remedies Podcast!

    Managing Metabolic Health, Part 1: The Insulin Resistance Smolder, with Dr. Chrystyne Olivieri

  7. Feb 1

    Sharing culinary secrets and using food as medicine with Scott & Lisa of Woof Creek

    In today's episode, I connect with Lisa and Chef Scot from Woof Creek about their journey through the culinary world and eventual transition into pet nutrition. They discuss the importance of using natural ingredients, the science behind cooking, and the philosophy of sustainability in their products. The conversation also touches on the development of their superfood blends and the significance of bioavailability in nutrition, as well as the challenges of the conventional pet food industry. We leave you with actionable and valuable advice on nutrition and health, and a 20% discount off your first order at Woof Creek Wellness with code RAWREM at checkout! Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background of Wolf Creek 01:04 The Impact of COVID-19 on Their Business 04:28 The Journey into Pet Nutrition 09:29 Scott's Culinary Journey and Passion 16:07 Understanding Natural Flavors in Food 18:41 The Shift Towards Convenience in the Food Industry 22:21 Philosophy of Fresh Ingredients and Real Food 24:20 From Hospitality to Holistic Health 27:12 The Power of Superfood Blends 33:36 Natural Remedies vs. Conventional Medicine 39:04 Living in Harmony with Our Pets 41:33 Sustainable Practices in Pet Nutrition Sponsor: My Pet Carnivore Use code RAWREMEDIES for 10% off your first order 👉 www.mypetcarnivore.com Ya'll, definitely consider checking them out. This company is small, independently owned, high quality and extremely generous. They're a great resource and I love their products, so I'm proud to bring them to your attention! Connect with Kara: Website: rawremedieshealth.comFacebook: Raw Remedies HealthInstagram: @rawremedieshealthTikTok: @rawremedieshealthNewsletter: https://rawremedieshealth.myflodesk.com/jointhecollectiveConnect with Woof Creek: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woofcreekwellness/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woofcreekWebsite: https://www.woofcreek.com/Join the Conversation Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow holistic pet parent or leave a review to help others find Raw Remedies Podcast!

    Sharing culinary secrets and using food as medicine with Scott & Lisa of Woof Creek

  8. Jan 1

    A functional approach to thyroid health for people and pets

    In this solo episode, I go deep into thyroid health, a topic that affects millions of people and pets, yet is often misunderstood and under-addressed. Drawing from functional medicine, nutrition science, and holistic health principles, this episode breaks down how the thyroid works, why dysfunction is so common, and how environmental, immune, and lifestyle factors play a major role. I go into the full thyroid hormone pathway, including the roles of TRH, TSH, T4, T3, reverse T3, and thyroid antibodies, and why focusing on labs alone often misses the bigger picture. I also explore the differences between hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s disease, and autoimmune thyroiditis, and why so many cases go undiagnosed (especially in pets). Finally, I share holistic strategies for thyroid support, including nutrient-dense nutrition, lifestyle considerations, herbs, mushrooms, adaptogens, nutraceuticals, and a discussion of pharmaceutical and glandular options for your more traditional treatments. I even give a few doses for nutraceuticals (for people). Sponsor: My Pet Carnivore Use code RAWREMEDIES for 10% off your first order 👉 www.mypetcarnivore.com Ya'll, definitely consider checking them out. This company is small, independently owned, high quality and extremely generous. They're a great resource and I love their products, so I'm proud to bring them to your attention! Coming Soon: A comprehensive thyroid masterclass covering human and pet thyroid health in far greater depth. Hop on the waitlist to sign up for notifications when it launches here: https://rawremedieshealth.myflodesk.com/thyroidmasterclass Connect with Kara: Website: rawremedieshealth.comFacebook: Raw Remedies HealthInstagram: @rawremedieshealthTikTok: @rawremedieshealthNewsletter: https://rawremedieshealth.myflodesk.com/jointhecollectiveJoin the Conversation Loved this episode? Share it with a fellow holistic pet parent or leave a review to help others find Raw Remedies Podcast!

    A functional approach to thyroid health for people and pets
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About

Welcome to a podcast that challenges the conventional approach to health and explores what it really means to achieve lasting wellness. Hosted by Kara Hanrahan, a nurse practitioner passionate about functional medicine and natural health, this podcast dives beneath the surface of symptoms to uncover the root causes of chronic health concerns and explore the powerful role of nutrition, lifestyle, and natural approaches in restoring balance to the body. From metabolic health and hormones to gut health, inflammation, longevity, and beyond, each episode brings you insightful conversations, practical education, and a fresh perspective on the body's incredible capacity to heal. Because living longer doesn't necessarily mean living healthier. It's not just about extending your lifespan, but maximizing your healthspan, the years you spend feeling vibrant, healthy, and truly living. By understanding your body, addressing underlying imbalances, and building a strong foundation for wellness, you can take an active role in shaping both the quality and longevity of your life. My goal is to educate and empower my listeners, giving them the tools they need to restore their health from the roots up.

Information

  • Creator
    Kara Hanrahan
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    49
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Kara Hanrahan
  • Show Website
    Vital Roots Podcast

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