Crunchy Stewardship

Katie Fiola Jones & Chrissy Rombach

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. 17H AGO

    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
  2. 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
  3. 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
  4. 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
  5. 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
  6. 11/21/2025

    What to Prioritize First in Your Crunchy Journey with Anna McLaughlin

    After spending $20,000 trying to fix her family's health issues, Anna McLaughlin learned a powerful lesson: striving and fear never lead to healing. Join us as Anna shares her journey from corporate lawyer to homeschooling mom, and how she went from doing ALL the crunchy things to finding peace in what really matters. We take a biblical approach to the overwhelming question: 'Where do I start?' Hint: it begins with abiding in the Father, not frantically searching for the next supplement or solution. In this episode, we discuss: Anna's journey down the crunchy rabbit hole and what she learnedWhy striving and control can actually hinder our healingThe free tools God has already given us How to set a health budget with your spouse and move forward as a teamThe courage to wait on the Lord instead of constantly doingPractical steps for prioritizing what matters most for your family's healthResources Mentioned: Anna's Podcast: Overwhelmed to Overcomer (available on all podcast platforms and YouTube) https://open.spotify.com/show/5G6UwkBk5iyfec2gr5XhED?si=34d43ced0b1f4ffe Katie's Guest Episode on Overwhelmed to Overcomer https://open.spotify.com/episode/4EXP70osa4jzvQJwQCtTMG?si=f7jMLx3WSOe9YcxxZ40E-AFree Guide: Overwhelmed to Overcomer - https://subscribepage.io/from-overwhelmed-to-overcomerBook: The True Vine by Andrew Murray https://amzn.to/48rIXQNNACD (National Academy of Child Development): Miracles of Child Development - free audio resource on parenting and disciplineConnect with Anna: YouTube: @sheconsidersafieldConnect 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 12m
  7. 11/07/2025

    Simple, FREE Steps to Reduce Toxins in Your Home

    In this SOLO episode, Katie shares practical, free ways to reduce your toxin load and support your body's natural detoxification pathways. Building on last week's Toxin Bucket Theory discussion, she dives into actionable steps you can take today—without spending a dime—to live a healthier, less toxic lifestyle. In this episode, you'll learn: What iatrogenesis is and how it relates to our health journeysFree ways to reduce toxin inflow in your home (VOCs, cleaning products, EMFs, and more)How to support your body's natural detox pathways through sleep, stress management, and movementWhen it's worth investing money in your non-toxic journeyResources mentioned: Book: Bad Therapy: Why the Kids Aren't Growing Up by Abigail Shrier - https://amzn.to/4qLyMxLBook: The Anxious Generation - https://amzn.to/4qI4hsBBook: The Body Keeps the Score - https://amzn.to/47DlFHzKatie's YouTube Channel: Faith & Finances - https://www.youtube.com/@KatieFiolaJones EMF Protection: Defender Shield - https://amzn.to/47JrnGCEMF Protection: Safe Sleeve - https://amzn.to/4ooWgXLPrevious Episode: Introduction to the Toxin Bucket Theory - https://open.spotify.com/episode/01kKmputcsWUDf43y8die6?si=kKOvxig-TU2TvVDCqaikYg Previous Episode: Minerals in Water - https://open.spotify.com/episode/3mHAIW8Nzkg1rio6P13WZn?si=6SrmyZH2SdKqpAqk5yAy-g Katie's Free Budgeting Resources - https://kingdomimpactworkshops.com/budget-planner-optinChapters:  00:00 Welcome to Crunchy Stewardship 00:44 Podcast Updates and Chrissy's Mission Trip 02:47 Listener Engagement and Feedback 05:01 Random Revelation: Iatrogenesis  15:50 Understanding the Toxin Bucket Theory 29:26 Hidden Dangers on Your Shoes 31:07 Importance of Dust Removal 32:35 Reducing EMF Exposure 42:38 The Impact of Blue Light 44:06 Supporting Detoxification Pathways 44:32 The Role of Sleep in Detoxification 45:38 Managing Stress for Better Health 48:17 The Power of Hydration and Movement 51:03 Investing in a Non-Toxic Lifestyle 53:28 Budgeting for Healthier Choices Remember, stewarding our health is an act of worship. Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and taking care of them honors God! 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
  8. 10/31/2025

    Beyond Genetics: How Your Toxin Bucket Affects Chronic Illness

    In this episode, we dive deep into the "toxin bucket" theory and explore how managing your daily exposures might be your best defense against chronic illness. We discuss epigenetics—the idea that while you can't change your genes, you can influence whether they "turn on" and lead to disease. Join us for a room-by-room tour of hidden toxins in your home, from paint and flooring to personal care products and cleaning supplies. We'll talk about your body's natural detox systems (liver, spleen, colon, and more) and practical ways to support them. Chapters:  00:00 Welcome to Crunchy Stewardship 00:38 Random Revelation of the Week: Contagion Theory 09:47 Deep Dive: The Toxin Bucket 32:50 Identifying Toxins in Everyday Life 33:52 Detoxifying Your Home: Room by Room 46:38 Practical Tips for Reducing Toxins Resources Mentioned: 🎙️ Wise Traditions Podcast (Mark Gober on contagion theory) Episode on Contagion Theory https://open.spotify.com/episode/48c0a838pJ6lxv495o8cNx?si=yrQUKii_QXqeFx96Y3zIiAHis Book: An End to Upside Down Medicine: https://amzn.to/49vnw2d The Weston A. Price Foundation: https://www.westonaprice.org/🎨 ECOS Paints (Low/Zero VOC Paint) Website: https://www.ecospaints.net/🧼 Dr. Bronner's (Natural Soap Alternatives) Hand Soap: https://amzn.to/3JvFPd9 Bar Soap: https://amzn.to/4qBX655  Key Takeaways: Your toxin bucket represents your body's total toxic loadFocus on what you can control: food, personal care products, and cleaning suppliesSupport your body's natural detox organsSmall switches make a big impact over timeRemember: You can't eliminate every toxin, and that's okay! Your body is designed to detox. Start with easy wins and don't let overwhelm stop you from taking action. 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

    1 hr

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 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.