New Normal Big Life: Functional Medicine and Holistic Health

Antoinette Berrafato: Army Medic, TBI Survivor, and Holistic Health Advocate
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Feeling older than your years? New Normal Big Life explains, in plain language, what may be happening in your body and your options for aches, exhaustion, worries about aging, and more. This functional medicine and holistic health podcast focuses on healthspan: more years with the energy, strength, and independence to do what you love. Whether you’re in your 20s watching your parents slow down or in your 40s feeling burned out, you belong here. Hosted by Antoinette Berrafato, The Wellness Warrior, a former Army medic and traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivor. Guests include MDs, functional medicine physicians, and researchers, plus solo episodes drawn from her medic training and recovery. Together, we explore: Sleep, stress, and nervous system regulationFunctional medicine and holistic nutritionHealthspan and caregiver burnoutSend questions through the listener-message link in the episode notes. Featured ones earn a shoutout. Start here: https://nnbl.blog/podcast/start-here Disclaimer: For informational and educational purposes only. This podcast does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

  1. 1d ago ·  Video

    5 Chronic Fatigue Causes Your Doctor Misses

    Struggling with the bone-deep exhaustion of chronic fatigue, yet all your lab results come back "normal"? Functional medicine expert Dr. Evan Hirsch, "The EnergyMD, joins us to reveal the five hidden categories of chronic fatigue causes that conventional medicine often overlooks. This episode is for anyone who feels dismissed by the healthcare system and is ready to uncover the true root of their symptoms and start the journey back to vitality. Chapters: 00:00:00 - The Toxic Five Thesis 00:00:49 - Welcome And Guest Introduction 00:02:27 - Chronic Fatigue Versus Long COVID 00:04:53 - Why Standard Labs Come Back Normal 00:11:45 - Thyroid Testing And Symptom Clues 00:22:14 - Inflammation As The Symptom Engine 00:30:18 - First Steps For Deep Fatigue 00:35:21 - Mold Exposure And Sick Homes 00:38:07 - Mitochondria And The Cell Danger Response 00:40:10 - The Four-Step Recovery Roadmap 00:49:17 - How To Find Dr. Hirsch 00:49:43 - Sponsor Tea And Medical Disclaimer Find your path to recovery with Dr. Evan Hirsch, MD, and learn more about his work by visiting his website. Connect with Dr. Hirsch: https://fixyourfatigue.com/  After recovering from his own 5-year battle with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, he created the EnergyMD Method, a research-informed, clinically tested 4-step process that addresses the "Toxic 5" real root causes of fatigue. Through his best-selling book, podcast, and virtual program serving clients across the US, Canada, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, he has helped thousands of people around the world recover their energy and return to the activities they love. Here on New Normal Big Life, we believe in empowering you with knowledge. Our host, Antoinette Berrafato, "The Wellness Warrior," used nature therapy, including archery and kayaking, to recover from physical limitations, finding passion, purpose, and people as a recipe for mental health. We want to solve your biggest health challenge. Send us a text DrStellaMD MarketplaceImmune-boosting Premium all-natural supplements Telehealth + wellness consultations Code NNBL 5% BeRootedInRootedIn: Magnesium Cream. Shop Now With My Affiliate LinkReady Hour & My Patriot SupplyBest price on US-based preparedness and long-term storable food. Shop now with my affiliate link.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show New here? Start with our 8‑episode playlist: https://nnbl.blog/podcast/start-here/ Free listener ebooks & guides (newsletter subscribers only): https://nnbl.blog/new-normal-big-life-ebooks-and-guides/ Rebuilding Resilient Lives Uncensored Community: https://rebuilding-resilient-lives.mn.co/share/kNbNMRnkLlpKWjar?utm_source=manual New Normal Big Life streams free in audio and video on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. DISCLAIMER: For informational purposes only, not medical advice. Always consult your own healthcare professional.

    5 Chronic Fatigue Causes Your Doctor Misses

  2. Oct 27 ·  Video

    Dr. Brown Reveals Hidden Endometriosis Symptoms Women Miss

    If endometriosis symptoms like pelvic pain, fatigue, and bloating disrupt your life, you are not alone and this is not normal. Dr. Jeffrey Brown unpacks why endometriosis can start before birth, spread anywhere in the body, and still respond to help you can use today. This conversation is for women ages 20 to 35 navigating painful cycles, endo belly, and hormonal confusion who want clear next steps. Here on New Normal Big Life, we trace how early exposures shape hormones, why lesions grow beyond the pelvis, and where to start for calm and clarity.  Your host Antoinette Berrafato, who used nature therapy (archery and kayaking) to recover from physical limitations, finding passion, purpose, and people as a recipe for mental health, asks listener-submitted questions on endometriosis' origins, spread, and daily relief options. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jeffrey Brown's endometriosis treatment philosophy 00:41 Are These Endometriosis Symptoms Normal 02:42 Early Hormone Warning Signs 05:40 Gut Health And Hormones 10:41 Why Endometrial Lesions Spread Anywhere 16:13 Endometriosis Diagnosis Challenges 17:34 Daily Relief Starting Points 24:29 Endo Belly Explained 34:07 Perimenopause Clues and Why Some Women Don't Experience Menopause 40:59 Hope For Hopeless Days Connect with Dr. Jeffrey Brown Antoinette's top pick for fixing your leaky gut or increased intestinal permeability problem: NOW brand Acacia Fiber made from the sap of the Acacia tree. We want to solve your biggest health challenge. Send us a text DrStellaMD MarketplaceImmune-boosting Premium all-natural supplements Telehealth + wellness consultations Code NNBL 5% BeRootedInRootedIn: Magnesium Cream. Shop Now With My Affiliate LinkReady Hour & My Patriot SupplyBest price on US-based preparedness and long-term storable food. Shop now with my affiliate link.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show New here? Start with our 8‑episode playlist: https://nnbl.blog/podcast/start-here/ Free listener ebooks & guides (newsletter subscribers only): https://nnbl.blog/new-normal-big-life-ebooks-and-guides/ Rebuilding Resilient Lives Uncensored Community: https://rebuilding-resilient-lives.mn.co/share/kNbNMRnkLlpKWjar?utm_source=manual New Normal Big Life streams free in audio and video on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. DISCLAIMER: For informational purposes only, not medical advice. Always consult your own healthcare professional.

    Dr. Brown Reveals Hidden Endometriosis Symptoms Women Miss

  3. Oct 20 ·  Video

    Herbalist Shares How Herbal Medicine Supports Home Recovery Daily

    Wondering if herbal medicine can support your body while you manage a chronic condition with your MD and still feel burned out every day? Clinical herbalist Bonnie D'Arcangelo shares an encouraging framework for home recovery that helps you feel calmer, steadier, and more supported. This episode is for the 40 year old who feels wired but tired, the busy parent, and any listener who wants simple natural steps to try at home. Here on New Normal Big Life, host Antoinette Berrafato brings a root cause lens to daily renewal. You will hear how Bonnie thinks about personalizing herbs for real life, how to build a simple daily rhythm for stress and energy, and what questions to bring to your next appointment so you feel confident and prepared. You will leave encouraged, with language you can use and next steps you can discuss with your own clinician. The best part only lands when you hear how she explains it. Connect with clinical herbalist Bonnie D'Arcangelo. We want to solve your biggest health challenge. Send us a text DrStellaMD MarketplaceImmune-boosting Premium all-natural supplements Telehealth + wellness consultations Code NNBL 5% Ready Hour & My Patriot SupplyBest price on US-based preparedness and long-term storable food. Shop now with my affiliate link.BeRootedInRootedIn: Magnesium Cream. Shop Now With My Affiliate LinkDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show New here? Start with our 8‑episode playlist: https://nnbl.blog/podcast/start-here/ Free listener ebooks & guides (newsletter subscribers only): https://nnbl.blog/new-normal-big-life-ebooks-and-guides/ Rebuilding Resilient Lives Uncensored Community: https://rebuilding-resilient-lives.mn.co/share/kNbNMRnkLlpKWjar?utm_source=manual New Normal Big Life streams free in audio and video on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. DISCLAIMER: For informational purposes only, not medical advice. Always consult your own healthcare professional.

    Herbalist Shares How Herbal Medicine Supports Home Recovery Daily

  4. Oct 13 ·  Video

    The 3-Step Burnout Recovery Plan to Live Authentically

    If you are running on empty and wondering why rest never fixes it, burnout recovery may depend less on doing more and more on living with authenticity. You will hear a simple 3-step approach that helps you spot pressure patterns, reset daily, and protect energy without quitting your goals. This episode is for driven professionals, caregivers, veterans, first responders, and those just entering the workplace who want to stay strong for others without losing themselves. Here on New Normal Big Life, host Antoinette Berrafato sits down with trauma informed coach Kurt Bush of Brimstone Coaching Group and co author of Live Fully, Lead Authentically. Kurt shares why being authentic is not soft, it is the guardrail that keeps stress from turning into shutdown, and how small daily choices protect health, focus, and relationships. Stay through the end, because Kurt walks through the moment his framework clicked in real life, and what to do when old pressures pull you back. Chapters: 00:00 Why authenticity prevents burnout 04:12 High achiever pressure trap 09:40 E plus R equals T 16:25 3 step daily reset 24:10 Imposter pressure at work 31:45 Faith values and alignment 38:20 Next strong step Connect with Kurt Bush here: https://www.brimstonecoachinggroup.com/ We want to solve your biggest health challenge. Send us a text DrStellaMD MarketplaceImmune-boosting Premium all-natural supplements Telehealth + wellness consultations Code NNBL 5% BeRootedInRootedIn: Magnesium Cream. Shop Now With My Affiliate LinkReady Hour & My Patriot SupplyBest price on US-based preparedness and long-term storable food. Shop now with my affiliate link.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show New here? Start with our 8‑episode playlist: https://nnbl.blog/podcast/start-here/ Free listener ebooks & guides (newsletter subscribers only): https://nnbl.blog/new-normal-big-life-ebooks-and-guides/ Rebuilding Resilient Lives Uncensored Community: https://rebuilding-resilient-lives.mn.co/share/kNbNMRnkLlpKWjar?utm_source=manual New Normal Big Life streams free in audio and video on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. DISCLAIMER: For informational purposes only, not medical advice. Always consult your own healthcare professional.

    The 3-Step Burnout Recovery Plan to Live Authentically

  5. Oct 6 ·  Video

    Zeolite Detox: Hidden Toxins Your Doctor Can't Find

    Feeling foggy, inflamed and exhausted while carrying toxins and heavy metals in your brain and tissues, and wondering if zeolite detox can finally help? Founder of Zeolite Labs Jeff Hoyt shares why the body tucks toxins away for short term survival and what has to shift for you to recover and thrive later. This episode is for adults over 40, caregivers, veterans and first responders who want natural health solutions without feeling worse. Here on New Normal Big Life, we go past symptom masking to root cause medicine, nervous system regulation and TBI recovery without medication.  You will hear Jeff unpack why both conventional and natural protocols can leave people sicker, toxins do during a cleanse, and what Herxheimer reactions may signal. He also previews his bind first approach with purified micronized clinoptilolite zeolite plus cellular energizing tools. Chapters 02:15 Body Under Toxic Stress 05:30 Symptoms Are Signals 09:19 Why the Body Stores heavy metals 13:35 Why Protocols Backfire 15:52 Bind First Approach 20:50 Detox Reactions Explained 24:23 Jeffs Path To Zeolite 31:16 Choosing the best quality Zeolite 36:38 Dosing And Daily Use 45:03 Cellular Energy Tools 50:39 Detox As a Lifestyle 54:16 Where To Find Jeff Hosted by Antoinette Berrafato, New Normal Big Life podcast host who used nature therapy (archery and kayaking) to recover from physical limitations, finding passion, purpose, and people as a recipe for mental health.  We want to solve your biggest health challenge. Send us a text DrStellaMD MarketplaceImmune-boosting Premium all-natural supplements Telehealth + wellness consultations Code NNBL 5% Ready Hour & My Patriot SupplyBest price on US-based preparedness and long-term storable food. Shop now with my affiliate link.BeRootedInRootedIn: Magnesium Cream. Shop Now With My Affiliate LinkDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show New here? Start with our 8‑episode playlist: https://nnbl.blog/podcast/start-here/ Free listener ebooks & guides (newsletter subscribers only): https://nnbl.blog/new-normal-big-life-ebooks-and-guides/ Rebuilding Resilient Lives Uncensored Community: https://rebuilding-resilient-lives.mn.co/share/kNbNMRnkLlpKWjar?utm_source=manual New Normal Big Life streams free in audio and video on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. DISCLAIMER: For informational purposes only, not medical advice. Always consult your own healthcare professional.

    Zeolite Detox: Hidden Toxins Your Doctor Can't Find

  6. Sep 29 ·  Video

    5 Step Protocol That Stops Teen Addiction Before Rock Bottom

    If you're worried your child could be heading toward addiction, you may be waiting for a clear warning sign that shows up too late. In this educational episode, drug prevention expert and author Dave Kopeny walks parents through a 5 step protocol for stepping in early, long before rock bottom. This conversation is for parents, grandparents, caregivers, and anyone who loves a teen and wants to protect their mental health before a crisis starts. Dave has spent more than three decades working with adolescents and families. He has served as a school counselor, juvenile probation officer, gang investigator, and private investigator specializing in drug prevention and intervention. He also grew up in a family affected by addiction and has lost family members to it. Today's drug environment is not the one most parents grew up with. Dave explains what has changed, the early signs parents most often overlook, and why the old advice to wait for rock bottom can put a child at serious risk. We also look at how substance use, mental health, and family dynamics feed each other, and at the one thing Dave believes most parents underestimate about their own power to change the outcome. Chapters 1:00Meet Dave Kopeny5:39 How Teens Get Targeted Today11:53 Subtle Signs Parents Miss13:55 Finding The Real Reason Why19:07 Schools, Therapists, And Support Teams24:31 Room Checks And Drug Tests26:26 Why Rock Bottom Is Risky28:52The Tip Of The Spear Plan 35:41Sponsor Break Medicinal Herb Tea 37:28Kratom Sold Like Candy41:22 Carfentanil Narcan And What’s Next45:10 Free Tools Parents Can Use46:50 Connection As Prevention49:17 Closing And Medical DisclaimerYour host, Antoinette Berrafato, used nature therapy through archery and kayaking to recover from physical limitations. She found passion, purpose, and people as a recipe for mental health, and she brings that same practical, root cause lens to every conversation on New Normal Big Life. Resources https://www.davekopeny.com/  asapcommunity.org Buy The Tip of The Spear by David Vieth Kopeny  We want to solve your biggest health challenge. Send us a text DrStellaMD MarketplaceImmune-boosting Premium all-natural supplements Telehealth + wellness consultations Code NNBL 5% Ready Hour & My Patriot SupplyBest price on US-based preparedness and long-term storable food. Shop now with my affiliate link.BeRootedInRootedIn: Magnesium Cream. Shop Now With My Affiliate LinkDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show New here? Start with our 8‑episode playlist: https://nnbl.blog/podcast/start-here/ Free listener ebooks & guides (newsletter subscribers only): https://nnbl.blog/new-normal-big-life-ebooks-and-guides/ Rebuilding Resilient Lives Uncensored Community: https://rebuilding-resilient-lives.mn.co/share/kNbNMRnkLlpKWjar?utm_source=manual New Normal Big Life streams free in audio and video on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. DISCLAIMER: For informational purposes only, not medical advice. Always consult your own healthcare professional.

    5 Step Protocol That Stops Teen Addiction Before Rock Bottom

  7. Sep 22 ·  Video

    Hidden Brain Injury Fueling Addiction, Homelessness, Trauma

    What if addiction, depression, or repeated rehab stays are not willpower failures but signs of an undiagnosed brain injury no one screened for? Certified Brain Injury Specialist (CBIS) Marc McNeice explains how early screening reframes behavior, reduces shame, and opens a clearer path toward healing and stability. This conversation is for veterans, caregivers, first responders, and families supporting someone cycling through addiction, trauma, or mental health systems. Marc brings lived experience and frontline data from more than 300 screens in detox, reentry, and housing programs with a 97 percent positive history rate. He breaks down the difference between traumatic and acquired injury, why childhood impacts echo for decades, and what the NASHIA OBISSS screen surfaces that standard intake misses. Host Antoinette Berrafato, New Normal Big Life podcast host who used nature therapy (archery and kayaking) to recover from physical limitations, finding passion, purpose, and people as a recipe for mental health, adds her own TBI recovery perspective plus the gut brain link that shapes mood and cognition.  Stay through the end for a preview of Part 2, a solo walk through vitamins that support mood after injury. New Normal Big Life streams free in audio and video on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Chapters:  00:00 Welcome MarcMcNeice 01:31 TBI Versus ABI 02:30 Justice Data Point 04:16 Why Injury Hides 09:59 Marc Injury Story 16:03 Screening Gap 20:50 Injury Plus Trauma 22:38 Gut Brain axis 26:33 Acacia Fiber 34:43 Inside OBISSS Screen 41:28 Cost Of Missing It 44:45 Stop The Bleed 48:40 Part 2 Preview 51:29 Hope And Healing Guest: Marc McNeice, CBIS, brain injury specialist and survivor supporting recovery, housing, and reentry programs in Massachusetts. Connect: We want to solve your biggest health challenge. Send us a text DrStellaMD MarketplaceImmune-boosting Premium all-natural supplements Telehealth + wellness consultations Code NNBL 5% BeRootedInRootedIn: Magnesium Cream. Shop Now With My Affiliate LinkReady Hour & My Patriot SupplyBest price on US-based preparedness and long-term storable food. Shop now with my affiliate link.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show New here? Start with our 8‑episode playlist: https://nnbl.blog/podcast/start-here/ Free listener ebooks & guides (newsletter subscribers only): https://nnbl.blog/new-normal-big-life-ebooks-and-guides/ Rebuilding Resilient Lives Uncensored Community: https://rebuilding-resilient-lives.mn.co/share/kNbNMRnkLlpKWjar?utm_source=manual New Normal Big Life streams free in audio and video on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. DISCLAIMER: For informational purposes only, not medical advice. Always consult your own healthcare professional.

    Hidden Brain Injury Fueling Addiction, Homelessness, Trauma

  8. Sep 15 ·  Video

    The Juice Lady Reveals Hidden Truth About Seed Oils

    If you cook with canola, soy or sunflower oil and still battle fatigue, stubborn weight or brain fog, The Truth About Seed Oils reveals a hidden driver most advice misses. In this episode, Cherie Calbom The Juice Lady, shares how to spot hidden oils, what stable fats to keep and how to reset your kitchen with confidence. This conversation is for those with chronic health challenges, women over 40, veterans, caregivers and anyone focused on functional medicine and long term metabolic health who wants steady energy and less inflammation. Way back when Ancel Keys was promoting the lipid hypothesis, Cherie asks, wait a minute, we have eaten butter, eggs, dairy, red meat, beef tallow and lard for centuries. And we never had cardiovascular disease. Why would they suddenly start causing it? You will hear how seed oils moved from industrial waste management to a dominant food commodity, why the lipid hypothesis shaped guidelines even as doubts grew, and why omega 6 overload keeps inflammation high. Cherie Calbom, M.S. in Whole Foods Nutrition from Bastyr University and 11 years of real world experience practicing in these fields, author of 36 books including Juicing for Life, brings decades of clinical and culinary insight. Her new book The Truth About Seed Oils includes a free gift download at thetruthaboutseedoils.com. Chapters 00:00 Opening On Ancel Keys And Traditional Fats 03:15 Meet The Juice Lady And Her Health Journey 07:40 From Industrial Waste To Food Supply 12:30 Heart Healthy Marketing And Suppressed Voices 18:10 Lipid Hypothesis Rise And Fall 24:00 Oxidation, Lipid Peroxides And Cell Stress 30:20 Omega 6 To Omega 3 Imbalance And Daily Symptoms 36:00 Label Reading And Seed Oil Scout Tips 40:30 Healthy Swaps And Juicing Basics Connect With Cherie Calbom Website: www.juiceladyinfo.com Book: www.thetruthaboutseedoils.com IG: @juiceladycherie FB: thejuicelady  YouTube: @theJuiceLadyCherie X: @Juiceladycherie LinkedIn: Cherie Calbom Trinity Wellness We want to solve your biggest health challenge. Send us a text DrStellaMD MarketplaceImmune-boosting Premium all-natural supplements Telehealth + wellness consultations Code NNBL 5% Ready Hour & My Patriot SupplyBest price on US-based preparedness and long-term storable food. Shop now with my affiliate link.BeRootedInRootedIn: Magnesium Cream. Shop Now With My Affiliate LinkDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show New here? Start with our 8‑episode playlist: https://nnbl.blog/podcast/start-here/ Free listener ebooks & guides (newsletter subscribers only): https://nnbl.blog/new-normal-big-life-ebooks-and-guides/ Rebuilding Resilient Lives Uncensored Community: https://rebuilding-resilient-lives.mn.co/share/kNbNMRnkLlpKWjar?utm_source=manual New Normal Big Life streams free in audio and video on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. DISCLAIMER: For informational purposes only, not medical advice. Always consult your own healthcare professional.

    The Juice Lady Reveals Hidden Truth About Seed Oils
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4.7
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About

Feeling older than your years? New Normal Big Life explains, in plain language, what may be happening in your body and your options for aches, exhaustion, worries about aging, and more. This functional medicine and holistic health podcast focuses on healthspan: more years with the energy, strength, and independence to do what you love. Whether you’re in your 20s watching your parents slow down or in your 40s feeling burned out, you belong here. Hosted by Antoinette Berrafato, The Wellness Warrior, a former Army medic and traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivor. Guests include MDs, functional medicine physicians, and researchers, plus solo episodes drawn from her medic training and recovery. Together, we explore: Sleep, stress, and nervous system regulationFunctional medicine and holistic nutritionHealthspan and caregiver burnoutSend questions through the listener-message link in the episode notes. Featured ones earn a shoutout. Start here: https://nnbl.blog/podcast/start-here Disclaimer: For informational and educational purposes only. This podcast does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

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