Turmeric and Tequila™

KO Alliance, LLC

Turmeric and Tequila is graceful disruption . We are a community of varsity humans questioning reality as we know it and proving it possible that seemingly opposing things can harmoniously coexist, in this world and within ourselves. It's all better together. Reality is nothing more than applied meaning, so let's break though society's antiquated implied rules and expectations and break into authentic self-expression to see what's possible for personal, professional, and worldly positive change. Join me and my guests as we share our purpose seeking journeys chasing the pull from within of success, failure, and truth- with self-expression, mental/physical health, entrepreneurship, diversity, and community as the foundations of the mission… we are challenging status quo one gracefully disruptive conversation at a time. You will be inspired to be you and chase the dream, even if it doesn't make sense to the rest of the world- it will soon. The Mission: To inspire positive radical social evolution. Host: Kristen M. Olson, D1 collegiate athlete, 5X CrossFit Games competitor (2nd, 2011 #team), 25+ yrs of entrepreneurship + Coaching, 3 rescue pups (royalty). Works hard, plays harder.

  1. 2D AGO

    287. Breathwork, Frequency & Healing: How Love Tuner Is Changing Mental Health & Nervous System Regulation

    "Your breath is the remote control to your nervous system — and when you regulate your breath, you regulate your life." -Sigmar What if the most powerful healing tool you have… is your breath? In this episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, Kristen sits down with Sigmar Berg, founder of Love Tuner, to explore how breath, frequency, and nervous system regulation can transform mental health and performance. After navigating his own experience with trauma and stress-related health challenges, Sigmar became deeply committed to creating accessible healing tools. The result: Love Tuner, a wearable breathwork tool tuned to 528 Hz — often referred to as the "frequency of love." Designed to help regulate the nervous system, reduce stress, and restore coherence, Love Tuner is now used by athletes, executives, wellness practitioners, and high performers worldwide. In this conversation, Kristen and Sigmar dive into: The origin story of Love Tuner How trauma impacts the nervous system The science and symbolism behind 528 Hz Breathwork for emotional regulation and stress reduction Why simple daily practices outperform complex wellness routines The intersection of science, spirituality, and performance For mission-driven leaders, athletes, and high achievers, this episode is a powerful reminder: sustainable performance begins with nervous system regulation. Healing doesn't have to be complicated. Sometimes it starts with one intentional breath. Time Stamps: 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Sigmar Berg 02:51 – Sigmar's Personal Journey Through Trauma 09:10 – Stopping to breath, frequency and vibration 14:45 – What Is 528 Hz & Why It Matters- community 20:30 – Breathwork & Nervous System Regulation 26:10 – Performance, Recovery & Emotional Resilience 30:40 – Mental Health & Simplicity in Healing 31:34:00 – Final Takeaways Sigmar Berg is the founder of Lovetuner, a mindfulness tool that has been featured in outlets like CNN, LA Times and Buzzfeed for its power of aligning you with the 528hz frequency, the "vibration of love". Sigmar's approach combines ancient wisdom with modern science, offering a unique perspective on using sound vibrations and breathwork to cultivate inner peace and well-being. Lovetuner.com // @lovetuner Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE  MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

    32 min
  2. FEB 4

    286. Stem Cells, Regenerative Medicine & the Responsibility of Healing with Dr. Joy Kong

    "True healing happens when science, responsibility, and humanity come together." Dr. Joy Kong What if healing required both cutting-edge science and deep personal responsibility? In this episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen M. Olson sits down with Dr. Joy Kong, regenerative medicine physician, UCLA-trained triple board-certified anti-aging specialist, and Stem Cell Doctor of the Decade (2021). Together, they unpack the truth about stem cell therapy, regenerative medicine, intentional healing, and why modern healthcare often misses the whole human. Dr. Joy shares her powerful personal journey—from growing up in China during the Cultural Revolution to witnessing holistic healing firsthand, to becoming a leading voice in regenerative medicine. This conversation explores where Eastern and Western medicine meet, how patients can advocate for themselves, and why healers have a responsibility to stay curious, ethical, and open-minded. This episode is for anyone navigating chronic pain, longevity, performance, or simply wanting to understand what's possible when science and humanity work together. Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to Turmeric & Tequila™ 02:30 – Dr. Joy's early life & roots in holistic healing 06:45 – Eastern vs. Western medicine: where things break down 11:30 – What stem cells actually are (simple explanation) 18:45 – Regenerative medicine for injury, pain, and longevity 27:30 – Medical conditioning, fear, and misinformation 35:00 – The responsibility of doctors as healers 44:10 – Why patients must build their own healthcare team 53:20 – Ethics, curiosity, and the future of medicine 01:02:00 – Defining success, peace, and intentional living 01:09:00 – Where to find Dr. Joy & closing reflections Dr. Joy Kong is a regenerative medicine physician and author whose journey began in China during the Cultural Revolution. After overcoming early adversity and an abusive relationship, she came to the United States, where she became a UCLA-trained, triple board-certified anti-aging specialist. She was named Stem Cell Doctor of the Decade 2021 for her pioneering work. Dr. Joy is the President of the American Academy of Integrative Cell Therapy and author of the award-winning memoir Tiger of Beijing. @Dr_joy_kong // https://joykongmd.com/ Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com  Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE   MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

    51 min
  3. JAN 7

    285. Year in Review 2025 and Year in Preview 2026

    "This year didn't knock me out all at once — it chipped away at me. And somehow, that's what taught me surrender, trust, and confidence." -Kristen Olson "I don't need to have the whole plan — I just need the courage to keep showing up, trusting the work, and letting the next step reveal itself." -Ashley Knight Every year, we sit down for one of our most meaningful conversations of the entire season — our annual Year in Review and Year in Preview, and for the seventh year running, I'm joined by the one and only Ashley Simone Knight . This episode isn't about perfection or polished highlight reels. It's about real reflection, honest growth, deep gratitude, and setting intentions for what's next — personally, professionally, and spiritually. Together, Ashley and I unpack what 2025 actually looked like behind the scenes: the breakdowns, the breakthroughs, the lessons in timing, confidence, surrender, community, and what it really means to keep showing up when you're tired but still called. We talk about: Why 2025 felt like a year of being broken down — and rebuilt The power of confidence after doing the work Letting go of control and learning to surrender without quitting The role of community, mentors, and chosen family Navigating career uncertainty, relationships, and self-trust Why "being yourself" is not easy — but it's valuable How rest, fun, and alignment are non-negotiables moving into 2026 As we look ahead, we share what we're hoping for in 2026 — not rigid goals, but intentions rooted in peace, flow, abundance, love, health, and clarity. If you're closing out a year feeling exhausted but hopeful… If you're entering a new season unsure but still willing… If you need a reminder that you're not behind — you're becoming… This episode is for you. Here's to reflection, release, and what's next. DOWNLOAD The 2025/2026 Goals and Intention Sheet HERE Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro Welcome back to Turmeric & Tequila® + why this annual tradition matters 03:45 – Why We Do This Episode Every Year Reflection as a leadership tool + seven years running with Ashley Simone Knight 08:30 – 2025 in One Word (Confidence, Surrender, Timing) How the year broke us down — and rebuilt us stronger 15:10 – When Life Chips Away at You (Not One Big Crash) Burnout, exhaustion, and the slow drip effect of hard seasons 22:40 – Gratitude Check: People Who Carried Us in 2025 Friends, mentors, community, chosen family, and unseen support systems 30:15 – Grief, Growth & Letting Yourself Be Supported Navigating loss, asking for help, and receiving instead of powering through 38:50 – Community Is the Constant CrossFit, movement, dance, routine, and showing up even when it's hard 46:20 – 2026 Word + Intention Confidence, surrender, flow, and trusting what's being built 55:10 – The Letter to Your Younger Self Blind faith, courage without a roadmap, and honoring who you've always been 1:03:40 – Career, Identity & Self-Worth Interviewing, rejection, references, and remembering who you are 1:12:30 – Charging for What Comes Easily to You Why your gifts still deserve value — even if they feel natural 1:19:50 – Personal & Professional Growth in 2026 Boundaries, clarity, peace, and leaning into aligned opportunities 1:27:10 – Work-Life Balance, Rest & Fun Moving away from grind culture toward sustainability and joy 1:33:40 – Money, Love & Alignment Why flow creates abundance (without forcing it) 1:39:00 – Closing Reflections Showing up, trusting timing, and walking forward together Ashley Simone Knight is a trusted voice, longtime collaborator, and recurring guest on Turmeric & Tequila. Known for her honesty, depth, and grounded perspective, Ashley brings thoughtful insight into personal growth, professional evolution, relationships, and navigating life's transitions with clarity and courage. @theashleysimone For seven years running, Ashley has joined Kristen for their annual Year in Review + Year in Preview conversation — a tradition rooted in reflection, truth, laughter, and growth. Her ability to articulate the in-between seasons of life makes her a powerful and relatable voice for anyone learning how to surrender, rebuild, and move forward with confidence. Kristen M. Olson is the founder and host of Turmeric & Tequila, a top-ranked podcast in the top 2% globally. A lifelong athlete, performance coach, entrepreneur, and speaker, Kristen is known for blending real conversations with leadership, wellness, mindset, and human connection. @madonnashero Through Turmeric & Tequila, Kristen creates space for honest dialogue around growth, resilience, and what it really takes to live aligned — both personally and professionally. Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

    1h 58m
  4. 12/16/2025

    284. 2025 Holiday Gift Guide: KO's Top Picks

    "Don't just give stuff—give gifts that elevate people, spark joy, build skills, and align with your values." — Kristen Olson Welcome to the first annual KO's Favorite Things Holiday Gift Guide — a curated, mission-driven list of wellness, fitness, lifestyle, and mindset gifts that KO personally uses, loves, and endorses (not paid ads!). In this episode, Kristen breaks down her top intentional gift ideas across fitness, recovery, skincare, nutrition, mindfulness, local Colorado businesses, and more. This guide focuses on purposeful, meaningful gifting—supporting mission-driven brands, investing in yourself, and elevating the people you love with items and experiences that spark wellness, confidence, community, and joy. Featuring: -Local Colorado gems -Small businesses -Female founders, veteran-owned brands & mission-led creators -Fitness & recovery staples KO uses every week -Mental health & self-regulation tools -Coaching & personal development gift ideas Whether you're shopping for family, friends, athletes, entrepreneurs, parents, your CrossFit crew… or yourself — this episode delivers intentional, values-based gift inspiration for 2025 and beyond. LINKS TO ALL FEATURED COMPANIES (AND DISCOUNTS) HERE:) TimeStamps: 00:00 – Turmeric & Tequila show intro + music 00:31 – KO welcomes you + introduces "KO's Favorite Things" / Holiday Gift Guide 01:07 – Why intentional, mission-driven gifting matters (supporting local + values-based brands) 02:43 – How the list works (quick, tight list – not Oprah-level, price ranges, everyday-use items) 03:00 – Gift A: Colorado Clownfish Swim School – life skills through sports, drowning prevention, private lesson packages, Black Friday/year-long options 05:11 – Gift B: Declan James Watches – Navy SEAL–inspired, legacy brand, donation to Navy SEAL Foundation, KO's dad's retirement watch 06:40 – Gift C: Legion Athletics – why KO finally chose a supplement partner, science-backed formulas, KO's KOFIT code, protein/recharge/pre-workout bundles 07:44 – Gift D: Anaconda Braces – jiu-jitsu–born functional braces KO uses for CrossFit, ACL history, sizing tips & durability 09:34 – Gift E: NutriLax Fiber – gut health, microbiome support, travel staple, staying regular & full, wellness routines 11:09 – Gift F: Element 26 – grips, belts, accessories; why quality gear matters in training & competition 12:40 – Gift G: KO's Amazon Storefront – curated list of everything KO really uses (home, beauty, fitness, dog, hot tub life) 13:49 – Gift H: KO Alliance Performance Coaching – coaching spots opening for 2026, goal-setting, core values, varsity human training 15:48 – Gift I: AAFE Aesthetics (Kaitlyn) – science-based aesthetics, microneedling, Botox, peels, feeling refreshed going into the new year 17:01 – Gift J: Bladium CrossFit – KO's home gym, community pillar, memberships, intro classes, CrossFit myths, why community matters 18:28 – Gift K: Love Tuner – breathwork & 528hz meditation device KO uses on dog walks, nervous system regulation, mental health tool 19:11 – Gift L: Jackie Miller Nutrition Coaching – KO's only nutrition coach, whole-human approach, January programs, leveling up nutrition 20:00 – KO on not "just giving stuff": gifts that build skills, spark joy, support health, wellness, community & values 20:55 – Listener CTA: share fave holiday workouts, foods, wellness hacks & best gifts + episode wrap Kristen M. Olson ("KO") is a performance coach, entrepreneur, 5x CrossFit Games athlete, and host of the Turmeric & Tequila™ podcast—ranked in the top 2% globally. A lifelong leader and former Division-1 athlete, KO brings her signature blend of grit, humor, and "varsity human" energy to every space she steps into. She's the Founder of KO Alliance, a culture-marketing and strategic partnership consultancy and pup mom of 3! Her mission: empower mission-driven humans to question a better way, build community, and show up as their whole, authentic selves. @madonnashero @koalliance @turmerictequila Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

    24 min
  5. 12/09/2025

    283. The Future of Gut Health: Jordan Dozzi-Perry & Repose Health

    "If you give nature—within your own body—the right preconditions, it finds a way to thrive." — Jordan Perry In this episode, KO sits down with Jordan Perry, founder of Repose Health, a groundbreaking, integrative therapy designed to heal the gut at the root cause — not just manage symptoms. From navigating seven years of chronic illness to building a science-backed system that has helped people with IBS, Crohn's, eczema, chronic fatigue, food sensitivities, UTIs, and more, Jordan shares the full origin story behind his innovative approach. We dive into: The real role of the gut microbiome in immune health, mental clarity & inflammation Why gut issues often show up only after deeper dysfunction has already begun How the Repose system combines prebiotics, probiotics, spore-based biotics, gut-lining repair, suppository therapy, hydration, self-massage, and breathwork to create whole-system healing Why suppository-based therapy is common internationally — and why the U.S. is late to the conversation How breathwork and somatic regulation support digestive healing and nervous-system balance Why your gut may actually be your first brain — not your second What the future of personalized gut health, microbiome testing & metabolite-driven solutions looks like Jordan is currently piloting clinical programs and connecting directly with people searching for answers after years of feeling dismissed by traditional healthcare. His mission is simple: help people get their lives back. If you've struggled with chronic digestive issues, fatigue, food sensitivities, or unexplained inflammation — or you're just curious about the next frontier of wellness — this conversation is a must-listen. Time Stamps: 00:00 – Welcome to Turmeric & Tequila + sponsor shout-outs 01:10 – Introducing guest Jordan "Dozzi" Perry of Repose Health 02:00 – Jordan's upbringing: Italian restaurant roots, community, nature & creativity 04:10 – How his personal health crash led to a 7-year struggle with chronic symptoms 07:20 – Discovering the microbiome and the scientific breadcrumb trail that changed everything 09:00 – Building the first version of the Repose Health kit — and why it worked when nothing else did 11:40 – Why chronic disease isolates people + the emotional/mental toll of poor gut health 13:00 – What Repose actually is: capsules, lining repair, suppository therapy, breathwork + why it's different from probiotics 18:20 – Why suppository-based therapy matters + why other countries use it more 20:00 – Who Repose Health is for: IBS, Crohn's, eczema, chronic constipation, fatigue, food sensitivities, UTIs & more 23:10 – The gut-brain connection + why digestive issues often show up after deeper problems begin 25:30 – Breathwork, somatic healing & nervous system regulation as part of real recovery 27:00 – Your "first brain": why the gut is the true engine of human behavior & cognition 30:00 – Microbiome individuality vs. universal needs of the gut lining 33:00 – The future of gut health: personalized testing, metabolites & next-gen therapies 35:00 – Jordan on being early in the movement + how Repose is entering clinical pilot studies 37:00 – How listeners can learn more, reach out, and explore whether Repos is right for them   Jordan Dozzi- Perry: Jordan is the founder of Repose Health, a novel integrative digestive health therapy born of his own personal health journey. His self-directed research revealed to him how the gut microbiome and one's inflammation status both play critical roles in immune health and general resilience, inspiring his innovative therapeutic program that addresses root cause. With training in both science and fine art, he blends academic rigor with storytelling from his work in documentary film. When he's not building gut-health solutions or making inspiring media, you'll find him gardening, surfing, or exploring mountains by foot or splitboard. www.repose.health https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-dozzi-perry-b64655215/?skipRedirect=true @repose.health T&T DISCOUNT CODE: T&TKOA15%   Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE   MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

    39 min
  6. 12/03/2025

    282. What Every Leader Needs for 2026: Dr. Greg Stewart

    "True leadership isn't about control—it's about connection, trust, and showing people what's possible when you lead with purpose." -Dr. Greg Stewart In this inspiring episode of Turmeric & Tequila, host Kristen Olson (KO) sits down with Greg Stewart, a seasoned leader, entrepreneur, and coach known for his integrity-driven approach to business and community building. Together, they explore what it means to lead with purpose, build trust in teams, and stay grounded while pursuing ambitious goals. Greg shares powerful insights on balancing business success with personal growth, the value of showing up authentically, and why leadership rooted in service and connection drives long-term results. Whether you're an entrepreneur, athlete, or someone striving to lead from the heart, this episode will remind you that leadership starts from within. Tune in for lessons on authenticity, mentorship, and the human side of success. Time Stamps: 0:00 – Intro and welcome with KO 2:15 – Greg's journey into leadership and entrepreneurship 7:40 – Lessons from early experiences and the foundation of trust 12:30 – The importance of community and connection 18:00 – Leading through change and challenges 25:10 – Mindset shifts for long-term success 31:45 – Greg's advice for mission-driven leaders 38:00 – The power of authenticity in business and life 42:00 – Closing thoughts and where to connect with Greg   Dr. Greg Stewart: Dr. Greg Stewart is a full-time telehealth counselor, executive coach, and consultant. He has a BA in Organizational Leadership, a Master of Divinity, a MA in Counseling, and a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision. His dissertation was The Relationship of Emotional Intelligence to Job Satisfaction and Organizational Commitment. He is the author of I3: Unlock the Inner Strength Behind Your Negative Emotions. https://www.becomingmore.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dr.gregstewart/   Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE   MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

    44 min
  7. 11/25/2025

    281. ER Go-Bag Guide (Rhabdo Story Pt. 3)

    "You don't have to get ready if you stay ready — and this checklist is one small way to protect your mindset when the unknown hits." -Kristen Olson In Part 3 of the Rabdo Podcast Series, KO breaks down something athletes never think about until it's too late: what to pack when an unexpected visit to the ER turns into days in the hospital. After 25+ years in fitness, multiple competitions, and countless injuries, KO had never been to the ER — until rhabdo hit out of nowhere. And walking in unprepared made an already stressful experience even harder. This episode is your clear, calm, practical checklist for what to bring to the ER or urgent care if there's even 1% chance you may be admitted. From the must-have essentials (ID, charger, long cord) to the comfort items that protect your mental health (hoodie, pillowcase, headphones), KO shares what she wishes she knew going in — informed by her own 11-hour ER wait and five-day hospital stay. You'll also hear: – Why athletes, parents, coaches, and fitness humans should keep this checklist ready – What mistakes KO made (and how they made everything harder) – Mindset strategies for staying composed during medical uncertainty – Why simple comfort items impact recovery more than you think – How to advocate for yourself and manage the overwhelm This episode pairs with: • Part 1: Medical breakdown of rhabdo with expert Steve • Part 2: KO's personal rhabdo story and recovery timeline If you've ever walked into urgent care "just to check something," this episode might save you hours of stress. Stay ready so you don't have to get ready. Sponsors: • Colorado Clownfish Swim School – Life skills through sports, water safety training for all ages, and deep focus on drowning prevention in 2026. Amazing private lesson holiday packages. • Declan James Watches – Local, veteran-owned, and donating 10% to the Navy SEAL Foundation. Time Stamps: 00:00 – 00:27 — Welcome to Turmeric & Tequila™ + intro 00:27 – 00:40 — Part 3 of the Rabdo Series intro 00:40 – 01:25 — Recap: Part 1 (expert breakdown) + Part 2 (KO's rhabdo story) 01:25 – 02:20 — Why this ER checklist matters for athletes, parents & coaches 02:20 – 03:20 — KO's first-ever ER visit: walking in unprepared 03:20 – 04:40 — Sponsor: Colorado Clownfish Swim School 04:40 – 05:25 — Sponsor: Declan James Watches 05:25 – 06:45 — The mental game: composure and competitor mindset 06:45 – 08:10 — Essentials: ID, insurance, phone, charger, long cord 08:10 – 09:45 — Comfort wear: hoodie, layers, slip-on shoes, socks 09:45 – 11:10 — Overnight items: toiletries, wipes, deodorant, dry shampoo 11:10 – 12:30 — Food + hydration: snacks, electrolytes, fiber, keeping regular 12:30 – 14:00 — Medical intel: meds list, family history, info doctors need 14:00 – 15:30 — Tech + entertainment: earbuds, books, tablets, logins 15:30 – 17:00 — Emotional comfort: blanket, pillowcase, stuffed animal 17:00 – 18:15 — Practical adds: notebook, pen, sanitizer, small tote 18:15 – 19:40 — Quick "grab & go" hospital bag recap 19:40 – 20:45 — The mindset piece: gratitude, reassurance, staying grounded 20:45 – 21:15 — Final reminders: stay ready so you don't have to get ready 21:15 – 22:00 — Sponsor thank-yous + closing   Kristen Olson — lifelong athlete, performance coach, and host of Turmeric & Tequila™ — shares her real-time wisdom from an unexpected ER visit and hospital stay after being diagnosed with rhabdo. This episode is the ultimate hospital-readiness checklist for athletes, parents, coaches, or anyone who values preparation, mindset, and keeping your composure under pressure.   Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE   MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH   #ERChecklist, #HospitalBag, #AthleteLife, #RabdoRecovery, #CrossFitLife, #FitnessSafety, #EmergencyPrep, #HealthTips, #PodcastEpisode, #TurmericAndTequila, #StayReady, #MindsetMatters, #WellnessJourney, #HealthAndFitness, #AthleteMindset, #GratitudePractice, #WhatToPack, #LifeSkillsThroughSports, #ColoradoClownfish, #DeclanJamesWatches, #PerformanceCoach

    22 min
  8. 11/18/2025

    280. From CrossFit to the ER: My Rhabdo Story and the Power of Awareness

    "I've trained harder, pushed further, and partied bigger — but this was the perfect storm that reminded me: health is wealth. You can't pour from an empty cup." -Kristen Olson In this candid solo episode, Kristen Olson, host of Turmeric & Tequila™, opens up about her unexpected journey from the CrossFit competition floor to a four-day hospital stay with rhabdomyolysis (rhabdo) — a rare but serious condition caused by overexertion. Kristen breaks down what led to the diagnosis, how her competitive mindset both helped and hindered her recovery, and the gratitude and life perspective that emerged through the experience. From balancing fitness, entrepreneurship, and mental endurance, to finding calm in chaos, this episode is a raw reminder to listen to your body, protect your health, and stay grateful even in the tough moments. Plus — a shout-out to Colorado Clownfish Swim School and Declan James Watches, two local mission-driven sponsors supporting the T&T community! Time Stamps: ·  00:00–01:15 | Welcome to Turmeric & Tequila + sponsor shoutouts (Colorado Clownfish Swim School, Declan James Watches) ·  01:15–03:00 | Recap: What rhabdo is and why every athlete should know about it ·  03:00–08:00 | Kristen's athletic background: D1 athlete, CrossFit Games competitor, and "varsity human" mindset ·  08:00–14:00 | The Fossil Games workout: 100+ pullups, dehydration, and the "perfect storm" ·  14:00–21:00 | Post-competition celebrations and early warning signs (swelling, fatigue, cramping) ·  21:00–31:00 | The ER experience — waiting, diagnosis, and gratitude for healthcare ·  31:00–36:00 | Lessons in mindset: calm under pressure, gratitude, and recovery perspective ·  36:00–End | Takeaways for athletes, entrepreneurs, and anyone pushing their limits Kristen M. Olson is a lifelong athlete, entrepreneur, and performance coach based in Denver, Colorado. She's the founder of KO Alliance, LLC, a consulting agency specializing in culture marketing and strategic partnerships, and host of Turmeric & Tequila™, a globally ranked top 2% podcast exploring mindset, mission, and modern leadership. A former Division I athlete at George Mason University and 5x CrossFit Games competitor, Kristen blends the worlds of wellness, business, and human optimization with humor, authenticity, and heart. @madonnashero @KOAlliance @TurmericTequila   Connect with T&T: IG: @TurmericTequila Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com Host: Kristen Olson IG: @Madonnashero Tik Tok: @Madonnashero Website: www.KOAlliance.com WATCH HERE   MORE LIKE THIS: https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF   https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

    32 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
60 Ratings

About

Turmeric and Tequila is graceful disruption . We are a community of varsity humans questioning reality as we know it and proving it possible that seemingly opposing things can harmoniously coexist, in this world and within ourselves. It's all better together. Reality is nothing more than applied meaning, so let's break though society's antiquated implied rules and expectations and break into authentic self-expression to see what's possible for personal, professional, and worldly positive change. Join me and my guests as we share our purpose seeking journeys chasing the pull from within of success, failure, and truth- with self-expression, mental/physical health, entrepreneurship, diversity, and community as the foundations of the mission… we are challenging status quo one gracefully disruptive conversation at a time. You will be inspired to be you and chase the dream, even if it doesn't make sense to the rest of the world- it will soon. The Mission: To inspire positive radical social evolution. Host: Kristen M. Olson, D1 collegiate athlete, 5X CrossFit Games competitor (2nd, 2011 #team), 25+ yrs of entrepreneurship + Coaching, 3 rescue pups (royalty). Works hard, plays harder.