Crunchy Stewardship

Katie Fiola Jones & Chrissy Rombach
  • 5.0 (3)
  • CHRISTIANITY

In this podcast we are taking a deep dive into what it means to steward our lives as God originally intended for us with the resources that God has given us. We will look at topics like food, medicine, finances, mental health and lots more through a natural lens with a biblical foundation. 

  1. 1D AGO

    From Birth Control to Broken Plans: The Heartbreak and Hope of Infertility

    Welcome back to Crunchy Stewardship. Today, we are stepping away from our usual lighthearted banter to share something deeply personal. This episode kicks off our brand new, multi-part series on Fertility. But before we get into the science, hormone tracking, and holistic health in future episodes, we knew we had to start with the posture of our own hearts. In this incredibly raw and vulnerable episode, Chrissy and Katie open up about their personal fertility journeys. They share the unseen heartbreak of waiting, the frustration of unexplained symptoms, and what it looks like to wrestle with God when your deepest desires are met with silence. From navigating PCOS and naturopathic healing to surviving sepsis and making life-altering medical decisions, this episode is a testament to the fact that even in our darkest wilderness, God is still good. In this deeply personal episode, we share: A Genesis Revelation: A beautiful realization about the creation story, and how God provided light before He ever created the sun.Chrissy’s Journey: The frustrating aftermath of hormonal birth control, discovering insulin resistance and PCOS, and finding hope (and healing) through a naturopath and Maca root.Katie’s 40-Month Wilderness: The pain of unexplained infertility, battling depression and anger, and ultimately finding peace in surrendering the dream of biological children.Malakai’s Miraculous Birth: The traumatic reality of contracting sepsis, the ECMO machine that saved Malachi's life, and Katie's heartbreaking decision to have a life-saving hysterectomy.The Ultimate Sacrifice: How the story of Abraham and Isaac, along with our own earthly trials, give us a humbling glimpse into the agonizing sacrifice Jesus made for us on the cross.Resources mentioned: Book: The Garden, the Curtain and the Cross (A wonderful Easter book for kids!) - https://amzn.to/4lqsi5e Supplement: Maca Root (Used by Chrissy for PCOS/Hormone balancing) Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to Crunchy Stewardship 00:53 Random Revelation: The Light Before the Sun 09:53 Fertility Journey Kick Off 12:49 Chrissy's Fertility Journey 20:34 Katie's Fertility Journey 40:32 Malakai's Birth Story 44:54 Future Fertility for Katie 46:35 Finding Reconcilliation in the Journey 49:36 God Uses Infertility to Strengthen Our Faith 56:15 God Is With Us in the Journey Remember, whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Connect With Us: Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

    1h 6m

  2. MAR 6

    25 Habits for Good Energy: What it Takes to Get and Stay Healthy

    Welcome back to Crunchy Stewardship! In this episode, Chrissy & Katie dive into a full review of the trending book, "Good Energy" by Dr. Casey Means. They break down the central thesis of the book: that metabolic health is the root of almost all chronic disease. They discuss the "25 Habits" outlined in the book—from nutrition and movement to sleep and environmental toxins—and share which habits they are adopting (and which ones they are struggling with). Plus, Chrissy shares a Random Revelation about how your sense of smell impacts your digestion, and they debate whether cold plunges are actually worth the misery. In this episode, you'll learn: Smell & Digestion: Why getting rid of synthetic fragrances might help your body process food better.Book Review: Why we give Good Energy a high rating (but recommend skipping the last chapter).The "Big 3" to Avoid: Refined sugar, refined grains, and industrial seed oils.Metabolic Habits: The importance of protein, fiber, and "eating the rainbow."Movement & Sleep: Why walking after meals and consistent wake times matter.Navigating Social Situations: How to politely decline the Pepsi and the church snacks.Resources mentioned: Book: Good Energy by Dr. Casey Means - https://amzn.to/3Mgj3HLDocumentary: Breaking Big Food  https://amzn.to/4ameB3jPrevious Episode: Real Bread Revolution  - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2467060/episodes/17167392Previous Episode: The Myths of Seed Oils - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2467060/episodes/17325956 Previous Episode: The Water Episode - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2467060/episodes/17075688Previous Episode: Sleep is Healing Time - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2467060/episodes/18645131App: Google Gemini (Katie uses for food journaling)Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Crunchy Stewardship 01:19 Life Updates 05:09 Random Revelation: The Impact of Smell on Digestion 09:55 Fragrance-Free Living and Health Tips 13:48 Book Review: Good Energy by Casey and Callie Means 19:52 Personal Health Journeys and Natural Remedies 29:00 The Power of Diet and Lifestyle Changes 34:02 The Impact of Sugar on Pain 34:21 Casey Means' Health Philosophy 35:09 Political Landscape and Health 36:47 Nutrition Guidelines from Casey Means 44:35 Movement and Sleep Habits 47:37 Meal Timing and Environmental Factors 50:57 Toxins, Nature, and Mental Health 52:38 Personal Reflections and Final Thoughts Connect With Us: Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

    1h 8m

  3. FEB 27

    Sleep is Healing Time: Reclaiming Your Rest

    Welcome back to Crunchy Stewardship! In this episode, Katie and Chrissy brave the winter weather (and the broken windshield wipers) to talk about one of the most underrated pillars of health: Sleep. But first, Katie shares a "Random Revelation" from her holistic dentist about why snacking all day might be ruining your teeth—and your gut. Then, the ladies dive deep into the science of sleep. They discuss the scary reality of what happens when you don't get enough rest (did you know lack of sleep can mimic diabetes?), and why we need to shift our mindset from "bedtime" to "healing time." From Scandinavian sleeping tricks to the debate over sound machines, they cover the practical, natural, and biblical ways to steward your rest. In this episode, you'll learn: The 2-Hour Rule: Why spacing out your meals is crucial for your dental and gut microbiome.The Diabetes Connection: How getting only 6 hours of sleep can lead to insulin resistance.Habit Stacking: Practical ways to signal to your body that it's time to wind down (like taking out your contacts!).Sleep Sanctuary: Tips for setting the perfect temperature, lighting, and air quality in your bedroom.Natural Sleep Aids: Why we love Magnesium (and are cautious about Melatonin), plus a list of foods that naturally boost your sleep hormones.Resources mentioned: Resource: The Secret to a Good Night's Sleep (Melatonin Info)Product: Earthley Wellness Good Night Lotion (Magnesium)Book: Good Energy by Dr. Casey Means - https://amzn.to/3NZBKzT Book: Atomic Habits by James Clear - https://amzn.to/4ccfUmE Book: The Biblio Diet - https://amzn.to/4r1TV6r Air Filter: Jasper Air Purifier - https://jaspr.co/ Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to Crunchy Stewardship 03:13 Random Revelation: Meal Spacing Benefits 10:51 Fasting and Its Benefits 13:53 The Importance of Sleep 15:34 Personal Sleep Experiences 19:19 Sleep Schedules for Kids 24:12 The Struggles of Sleep Deprivation 31:10 Sleep Is "Healing Time" 36:25 Being Overtired 38:07 The Risks of Poor Sleep 42:04 Lifestyle Changes for Better Sleep 47:03 Habit Stacking for Better Sleep 52:38 Setting the Perfect Sleep Ambiance 01:04:27 Natural Sleep Aids and Nutrition 01:10:59 Foods That Boost Melatonin Production Remember, whether you eat or drink (or sleep!), do it all for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31).  Connect With Us: Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

    1h 14m

  4. FEB 20

    The Personal Care Audit: Fragrance, Parabens, and Products We Actually Use

    Welcome back to Crunchy Stewardship! In this episode, Chrissy and Katie dive into the often overwhelming world of personal care products. Before they get into the suds and scrubs, Chrissy shares a "Random Revelation" about "Movement Snacks"—a simple way to combat the dangers of sitting all day (even if it means doing pushups in your office cubicle!). Then, the ladies head to the bathroom cabinet to discuss what we are actually putting on our skin. They break down the specific ingredients you should avoid, why "silky smooth" textures and bubbles might actually be harmful, and share the specific brands they use—from shampoo bars to beef tallow moisturizers. In this episode, you'll learn: Movement Snacks: Why 30 seconds of activity is better than a food snack for your energy levels.The "Big 3" Ingredients to Avoid: Understanding Dyes, Parabens/Phthalates, and "Fragrance."The "Bath & Body Works" Effect: Why synthetic chemicals are used to make scents last longer and textures feel smoother.Navigating the Aisles: How to use apps like Switch Natural and EWG to scan your products.Product Reviews: Honest thoughts on HiBar, Attitude, Dr. Bronner’s, and Tallow-based skincare.The Sasquatch Confession: Why clean beauty routines sometimes mean shaving less often!Resources mentioned: Cleaning Products Episode: App: Switch Natural (Ingredient Scanner) - https://www.switchnatural.com/switch-natural-app App: EWG Healthy Living - https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ App: Bobby Approved - https://www.flavcity.com/bobbyapproved/ Shampoo: HiBar Shampoo Bars - https://amzn.to/49Iqije Shampoo: Attitude Living - https://amzn.to/3YSYAvb Shampoo: Acure - https://amzn.to/3NxIsg7 Body Wash: Dr. Bronner’s Peppermint Soap - https://amzn.to/49T7a27 Skincare: Rowe Casa Organics - https://oken.do/0brrt9fh Face Wash: Garnier Micellar Water - https://amzn.to/3LDaOVN Sleep/Wellness: Earthley Wellness Magnesium Cream - https://amzn.to/4qwedEN  Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to Crunchy Stewardship 01:27 Random Revelation: Movement Snacks 09:07 Personal Care Products Overview 12:20 Guidelines for Choosing Personal Care Products 16:30 Why Harmful Ingredients Are Used 23:15 How to Find Non Toxic Products 31:34 Shampoo Recommendations 33:29 Ever-Changing Product Formulas 37:07 Exploring Shampoo Options 39:18 Conditioner Challenges 41:49 Body Wash Preferences 45:04 Lotion and Moisturizer Choices 53:44 Face Wash 58:25 Lip Care and Final Thoughts Connect With Us: Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

    1h 3m

  5. FEB 13

    Living in a Microwave? Practical & Free Ways to Reduce EMF Exposure

    In this episode, Katie and Chrissy reunite to tackle a topic that is invisible but everywhere: Electromagnetic Frequencies (EMFs). From cell towers to the phone in your pocket, we are constantly exposed to radiation. But instead of living in fear, the ladies break down exactly what EMFs are and share simple, budget-friendly strategies to mitigate them in your home. Plus, they kick things off with a Random Revelation about the brand new "Food Pyramid" that is flipping the script on nutrition! In this episode, you'll learn: The New Food Pyramid: Why the government's new "Real Food" guidelines are a huge win for holistic health (and how they differ from the carb-heavy 90s pyramid).EMF Basics: Understanding the difference between ionizing radiation (X-rays) and non-ionizing radiation (Wifi/Bluetooth) and why both matter.The "Distance" Factor: Why keeping your phone just a few inches away from your body can drastically reduce exposure.Medical Scans: When to ask for an MRI instead of a CT scan, and why you should still ask for the lead apron at the dentist.Sleep Sanctuary: How to turn your bedroom into a low-EMF recovery zone without spending a dime.The Bluetooth Debate: The risks of wireless earbuds and smarter alternatives.Resources mentioned: The New Food Pyramid: Realfood.govResource: Tech Wellness (Great for low-EMF product swaps)Resource: Environmental Working Group (EWG) Guide to Cell PhonesGadget: TriField EMF Meter - https://amzn.to/4qkFR7RPhone Case Brand: Defender Shield - https://amzn.to/49BOd3IPhone Case Brand: SafeSleeve - https://amzn.to/49yvXrZ Chapters 00:00 Living in a Microwave? Practical & Free Ways to Reduce EMF Exposure 00:33 Introduction and Weather Update 01:10 Random Revelation: New Food Pyramid 02:56 Impact of the Old Food Pyramid 06:36 Personal Experiences with Diet Changes 11:45 Main Topic Introduction: EMFs 13:26 Understanding EMFs and Their Impact 22:58 Does Reducing Exposure Make A Difference? 27:29 How Much Radiation Are YOU Exposed To? 32:24 Practical Tips to Mitigate EMF Exposure 37:31 Phone Cases and EMF Exposure 38:39 A Family Story: X-rays and Leukemia 40:46 X-rays, MRIs, and Radiation Exposure 48:22 Day-to-Day EMF Reduction Tips 52:07 Bluetooth and EMF Concerns 55:03 Setting Up a Low-EMF Home 01:05:02 Unexpected Benefit From Limiting EMF Exposure Remember, whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31) Connect With Us: Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

    1h 7m

  6. FEB 6

    Cold vs. Flu: What’s the Difference and How Do We Treat It Naturally?

    Welcome back to Season 2 of Crunchy Stewardship! In this premiere episode, Katie and Chrissy kick off the new year with a fresh look at winter wellness. They discuss the fascinating connection between your gut and your brain, break down the actual differences between a cold and the flu, and share why they ditch conventional treatments like Tamiflu and Red Gatorade. Instead, they offer a toolkit of natural, budget-friendly remedies to help your family fight sickness while honoring your body’s natural healing ability. In this episode, you'll learn: The "Second Brain" concept: How your enteric nervous system impacts your mood and immunityThe difference between Influenza (Flu) and Coronaviruses (Cold) and how to spot themWhy they avoid Red Gatorade and Tamiflu (and what they use instead)Specific natural remedies including: Menthol crystals, onion water, miso soup, and the "Special Drink" recipePrevention strategies involving cod liver oil, sleep, and avoiding porkResources mentioned: Book: Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price - https://amzn.to/45M45iS Book: The Forgotten Home Apothecary - https://amzn.to/49OMU2ABook: Ancient Remedies by Dr. Josh Axe - https://amzn.to/4qgf7W9Book: The Biblio Diet - https://amzn.to/3Zb9nRiProduct: Menthol Crystals - https://amzn.to/4sAJQi5Bone Broth Brands: Kettle and Fire / Pacific Organic FoodsVitamins: Ancient Nutrition (Immune Support) - https://amzn.to/4qEXdMu Chapters: 00:00 Welcome to Crunchy Stewardship 00:33 Season Two Kickoff 02:16 Random Revelation: The Second Brain 04:02 The Importance of Gut Health 05:13 Western A. Price and Nutrition 09:44 Flu vs. Cold: Understanding the Differences 23:24 Natural Remedies for Common Illnesses 31:14 Favorite Store-Bought Broth Brands 32:55 Benefits of Bone Broth 34:48 Natural Remedies for Cold Symptoms 36:45 Homemade Remedies for Throat Phlegm 41:56 The Power of Oregano Oil 44:38 Parasites and Pork: A Surprising Connection 48:45 Staying Healthy During Cold and Flu Season Remember, whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God (1 Corinthians 10:31). Connect With Us: Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

    57 min

  7. 12/05/2025

    Your Guide to Crunchy Living: Best Resources of 2025

    In our final episode of 2025, we're sharing our favorite crunchy resources to help you continue your health journey over the winter break! From podcasts to books to websites, we've compiled everything you need to keep learning about natural living, non-toxic products, and biblical stewardship of your health. Podcasts We Recommend: Modern Ancestral MamasWise Traditions with Hilda Latа GoreCulture Apothecary by Alex ClarkDr. Josh Axe PodcastBooks to Read: Eat Dirt by Dr. Josh Axe - https://amzn.to/3MhE3xf Ancient Remedies by Dr. Josh Axe - https://amzn.to/3MF3ed8 The Forgotten Home Apothecary - https://amzn.to/4pPwrAsFeeding You Lies by Vani Hari - https://amzn.to/48zdQSf The Biblio Diet by Jordan Rubin & Dr. Josh Axe - https://amzn.to/4rC9uT6 Nourishing Traditions by Sally Fallon Morell - https://amzn.to/3KhNlc6 Mind Your Body by Nicole Sachs - https://amzn.to/4iBWqce Good Energy by Casey Means - https://amzn.to/3YfHMOp Bad Therapy by Abigail Shrier - https://amzn.to/3MbA5q3 Turtles All the Way Down (Anonymous) - https://amzn.to/48CEMRi Helpful Websites & Apps: Minimalist Baker (recipes) - https://minimalistbaker.com/ EWG (Environmental Working Group) - http://ewg.org/ Bobby Approved App Seed Oil Scout (SOS App)MAHA Action (mahaaction.com) - https://mahaaction.com/ Chapters:  00:00 Welcome to Crunchy Stewardship 00:37 Random Revelation: The Truth About Ascorbic Acid 07:35 Navigating Healthy Living and Faith 15:21 Podcast Recommendations 22:50 Book Recommendations 36:12 Resources and Websites for a Healthier Lifestyle Plus: We share about helpful Facebook groups for crunchy living, homeopathy support, and state-specific natural living communities. We'll be taking a break to plan for 2025, but we'd love to hear your feedback! Join our Facebook group "Crunchy Christian Mamas on a Budget" or send us an email with your thoughts on the podcast. See you next year! Connect With Us: Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

    48 min

  8. 11/28/2025

    Crunchy Christmas: Healthy Alternatives To Make The Season Bright

    Welcome to our Crunchy Christmas episode! As we head into the holiday season, we're sharing practical ways to celebrate Christmas without all the toxins that typically come with it—from scented candles and fake snow to sugar-laden treats and synthetic decorations. In this episode, we cover: Natural ways to scent your home Real vs. fake Christmas trees: what's actually healthier?Healthier holiday baking tips and dairy-free alternativesThoughtful, crunchy gift ideasVoting with your dollars and making intentional purchasing decisionsMost importantly: keeping Jesus at the center of ChristmasPlus, we share our personal Christmas traditions, dairy sensitivity discoveries, and why this season is about so much more than presents and parties. We pray this episode brings you joy and practical wisdom as you create a healthier, more intentional Christmas celebration for your family! Chapters:  00:00 Welcome to Crunchy Stewardship 01:19 Chrissy's Random Revelation: Menthol Crystals 05:16 Katie's Health Journey and Conspiracies 10:58 Crunchy Christmas Traditions 14:46 Real or Fake Tree? 21:14 Natural Ways to Scent Your Home 26:51 Christmas Memories and Dairy-Free Treats 29:31 Exploring Dairy Sensitivities and Alternatives 33:01 Holiday Baking Tips and Tricks 37:33 Thoughtful and Crunchy Gift Ideas 39:57 Voting With Your Dollars 42:48 Crunchy Christmas Present Ideas 48:47 The True Meaning of Christmas Connect With Us: Join Our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/crunchychristianmama Follow us on Instagram @crunchystewardship FREE How to Afford Non-Toxic Living Workbook: https://crunchystewardship.com/how-to-afford-non-toxic-living

    55 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

In this podcast we are taking a deep dive into what it means to steward our lives as God originally intended for us with the resources that God has given us. We will look at topics like food, medicine, finances, mental health and lots more through a natural lens with a biblical foundation. 

Information

  • Creator
    Katie Fiola Jones & Chrissy Rombach
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    38
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Crunchy Stewardship
  • Show Website
    Crunchy Stewardship