Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable.

Susan Robbins

Join Susan Robbins, the Epigenetic Human Performance Coach, for the "Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable" podcast! We're talking about how our daily lifestyle and environment affect our genes and well-being. Susan explores a personalized way to boost health, not a one-size-fits-all approach. Through interviews with experts and clients, this podcast makes health discussions relatable. Embrace your unique biology, not generic solutions, and uncover the secrets to a healthier life. Let's keep it real, ditch the mask, and live authentically. "Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable." is your simple guide to taking control of your health journey today!

  1. 4d ago

    139. Low Iron? You Might Be Asking the Wrong Question with Morley Robbins

    What if the way we’ve been thinking about iron is missing a much bigger part of the story? Low ferritin, fatigue, anemia, iron supplementation, and infusions are incredibly common conversations in health and wellness, but according to Morley Robbins, we need to be asking a different question: Why is iron dysregulated in the first place? In this episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable., Susan sits down with Morley Robbins, founder of the Root Cause Protocol and author of Cure Your Fatigue, for a deep dive into the relationship between iron, copper, energy production, stress, and genetic expression. Morley challenges many commonly accepted beliefs about iron and explains why he believes bioavailable copper plays an essential role in iron recycling and overall metabolic function. Susan and Morley also explore ferritin, thyroid function, histamine, methylation, vitamin A, parasites, supplementation, mitochondrial health, and why looking at one marker in isolation can lead us down the wrong path. This conversation will challenge what you think you know and, more importantly, encourage you to start asking better questions about what is happening inside your body. In This Episode: Why Morley believes iron dysregulation is often misunderstood as iron deficiencyThe relationship between copper, iron recycling, and cellular energy productionWhy ferritin and other blood markers need to be considered within a bigger pictureHow stress may influence iron regulation, mitochondrial health, and genetic expressionThe connections between copper, thyroid function, histamine, methylation, and vitamin AWhy Susan and Morley believe individualized health requires better questions instead of chasing isolated symptoms RESOURCES: Connect with Morley Robbins: Phone:  847-922-8061 Email: morleyrobbins@gmail.com https://therootcauseprotocol.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therootcauseprotocol/ Articles Mentioned: https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/medical-hypotheses/vol/71/issue/2 Find all of Susan’s Resources and links on LinkTree:  https://linktr.ee/susanrobbins https://healthyawakening.co/2026/09/07/episode139/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

  2. Aug 31

    138. Two Sisters. Shared Genes. Two Very Different Health Journeys Part 2: Leslie's Story

    What happens when you’re doing everything you think is healthy, but your body keeps telling you something is wrong? In Part 2 of this special sister series, Susan sits down with Leslie to share her deeply personal journey from exhaustion, weight gain, brain fog, hormone struggles, and constant self-diagnosing to finally understanding what her individual body needed. Leslie had spent years immersed in natural health, researching symptoms and trying to make informed choices. But by the time she came to Susan, she was exhausted, taking two- to three-hour naps, struggling to think clearly, gaining weight despite her efforts, and navigating hormone therapy that wasn’t addressing the complete picture- and making things worse. By looking at Leslie’s genetics, labs, lifestyle, stress response, metabolism, hormones, and nutrition together, they uncovered connections that had previously been missed. Today, Leslie is 37 pounds down, no longer relying on daily naps, has significantly more energy, and feels like she has her life back. Her story is a powerful reminder that knowing what is generally “healthy” is not the same as knowing what is healthy for YOU. In This Episode: Why years of researching and self-diagnosing her health eventually left Leslie exhaustedHow hormones, insulin resistance, thyroid function, stress, and genetics were contributing to her symptomsWhy foods and habits considered “healthy” weren’t necessarily supporting Leslie’s individual biologyHow personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes helped her lose 37 pounds without starving herselfWhy maintaining her progress through an incredibly stressful month became one of her biggest measures of successHow her energy, digestion, daily routines, and overall quality of life have transformed RESOURCES: Connect with Leslie Adamson: https://trinityanchoredformation.com/ Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes:  https://healthyawakening.co/2026/08/31/episode138/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

  3. Aug 24

    Ep 137. Two Sisters. Shared Genes. Two Very Different Health Journeys Part 1: Pam's Story

    At 64, Pam has lost 45 pounds without a GLP-1, but that is only one part of her transformation. For years, Pam knew something wasn’t right. She was gaining weight, exhausted, frustrated, and tired of trying things that simply weren’t working. She and her husband had reached a point where they were sick of feeling stuck and didn’t know what else to do. But Pam’s story began to change when the focus shifted away from yet another generic plan and toward understanding what was actually happening inside her body. In Part 1 of this special two-part series, Susan sits down with Pam and her sister, Leslie, to share the raw, real story behind their health transformations. They explore how genetics, labs, stress, metabolism, digestion, and lifestyle helped uncover pieces of their health that had previously been missed, including genetic lipid risks such as Lp(a) and phytosterolemia. In this episode the focus is on Pam. This conversation is about much more than a number on the scale. At 64, Pam has lost 45 pounds, feels dramatically better, and has changed the trajectory of her health by learning how to work with her individual biology. Her story is a powerful reminder that feeling better is possible at any age, and that sometimes the answer isn’t trying harder, but finally understanding what your body needs. In This Episode Why Pam felt exhausted, frustrated, and stuck after repeatedly trying to improve her healthHow personalized testing revealed genetic and metabolic factors that helped explain what was happeningWhat Pam learned about Lp(a), phytosterolemia (ABCG8 genes), stress, digestion, and their impact on her individual health risksWhy weight loss became a by-product of helping her body function better rather than the only goalThe lifestyle and nutrition changes that helped Pam lose 45 pounds at age 64Why feeling seen, heard, and understood can completely change someone's health journeyCome back next week for Part 2, where Pam’s sister Leslie shares her own very different journey, from overwhelming fatigue, weight gain, hormone struggles, and years of trying to figure out her health on her own to finally understanding what her body needed. Two sisters, shared genetics, but two distinctly individual and impactful health stories that will inspire you. RESOURCES: Connect with Pam Fowler: https://galenoiabrainwellness.com/ Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes:  https://healthyawakening.co/2026/08/24/episode137/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

  4. Aug 17

    136. MTHFR: Fact vs. Fiction and What Your Genetics Actually Mean

    MTHFR may be one of the most talked-about and misunderstood genes in the wellness world. Depending on where you get your information, you may have been told that an MTHFR variant is responsible for everything from fatigue and brain fog to poor detoxification, hormone issues, fertility challenges, and chronic disease. You may have even been told you need a specific supplement, detox protocol, or diet simply because of one genetic result. But your biology is far more complex than one SNP. In this solo episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable., Susan Robbins is breaking down the facts and fiction surrounding MTHFR. She explains what the MTHFR gene actually does, the difference between a genetic variant and a mutation, and why having an MTHFR variant does not mean your methylation is "broken." Susan also explores folate versus folic acid, methylfolate supplementation, detox claims, MTHFR-specific diets, and why looking at genetics without considering labs, symptoms, lifestyle, environment, and the rest of your genetic pathways can lead to unnecessary fear and one-size-fits-all recommendations. This episode is about replacing fear with context so you can use your genetics as information, not as a prediction of your future. In This Episode: What MTHFR actually is and its role in folate metabolism and methylationWhy having an MTHFR variant is not the same as having a disease or diagnosisThe difference between folate, folic acid, and methylfolateWhy an MTHFR variant doesn't automatically mean you need methylfolate or another supplementHow genes such as DHFR and other pathways add important context to MTHFRWhy genetics should be considered alongside labs, symptoms, nutrition, sleep, stress, movement, environment, and health history RESOURCES: DNA Decoded: The Truth About Genetic Testing & What You Need to Know https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dna-decoded-the-truth-about-genetic-testing-what-you/id1736527617?i=1000700566833 Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes:  https://healthyawakening.co/2026/08/17/episode136/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

  5. Aug 3

    135. Why Balance May Be the Most Overlooked Key to Healthy Aging with Karen Harbour

    When people think about longevity, they often focus on nutrition, supplements, strength training, or cardio. But there's another piece of the puzzle that's just as important, and it's often overlooked: balance. In this episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable., Susan Robbins sits down with fitness professional and Balero Board creator, Karen Harbour to explore why balance is one of the most powerful predictors of long-term health, mobility, and independence. Karen shares how decades of experience in the fitness industry, combined with her own passion for functional movement, led her to create a simple, accessible way for people to improve balance, stability, and confidence. Together, Susan and Karen discuss why balance begins declining earlier than most people realize, how it affects everything from injury prevention to athletic performance, and why training balance should become part of everyone's wellness routine—regardless of age or fitness level. In this episode: Why balance is one of the most overlooked pillars of longevity and healthy agingThe four essential components of balance: stability, agility, strength, and enduranceHow improving balance can reduce the risk of falls, injuries, and loss of independenceWhy functional movement and unilateral training are key for recovery and everyday lifeSimple ways to incorporate balance training into your daily routine without spending hours in the gymHow building balance today can improve confidence, mobility, and quality of life for years to come RESOURCES: Connect with Karen Harbour: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/baleroboard/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenharbour/ Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes:  https://healthyawakening.co/2026/08/03/episode135/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

  6. Jul 27

    134. Imposter Syndrome: How to Stop Doubting Yourself and Start Living Authentically with Anne Larsen

    Have you ever felt like you're not qualified enough, smart enough, or experienced enough to step into the life you're meant to live? Whether it's launching a business, starting a new career, speaking up, or simply allowing yourself to be seen, imposter syndrome has a way of keeping us stuck. But what if the voice telling you you're "not enough" isn't the truth? In this episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable., Susan Robbins welcomes back relationship and behavioral change specialist Anne Larsen for an eye-opening conversation about imposter syndrome and the hidden ways it shapes our careers, relationships, health, and identity. Together, they explore why so many people struggle with self-doubt, how comparison and perfectionism keep us from living authentically, and why understanding your biology and nervous system can help you move beyond fear. This is a powerful conversation about embracing vulnerability, quieting your inner critic, and giving yourself permission to show up as your authentic self. In this episode: What imposter syndrome really is, and why it affects far more people than you might thinkHow self-doubt, comparison, perfectionism, and fear of being "found out" keep people stuckThe connection between imposter syndrome, the nervous system, and chronic stressWhy understanding your unique biology can help you embrace your authentic strengthsPractical strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome and building self-trustHow vulnerability, self-awareness, and authenticity can transform your relationships, career, and overall well-being RESOURCES: Connect with Anne Larsen: annelarsenconsults@gmail.com Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes:  https://healthyawakening.co/2026/07/27/episode134/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

  7. Jul 20

    133. Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The Food That Talks to Your Genes

    Is extra virgin olive oil really as healthy as people claim? Or has it become another nutrition trend surrounded by conflicting opinions? In this solo episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable., Susan Robbins explores the science behind one of the most researched foods in the world: extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). Drawing from years of reviewing DNA reports, biomarkers, epigenetic testing, and current research, Susan explains why EVOO continues to stand out as one of the few foods she consistently recommends across a wide range of clients. She also breaks down common myths about dietary fat, cooking with olive oil, cholesterol, and why personalized nutrition will always matter more than following the latest diet trend. Whether you're trying to support heart health, reduce inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, or simply make more informed food choices, this episode will help you understand why food is more than fuel, it's information that influences how your body functions every single day. In this episode: Why extra virgin olive oil continues to stand out across genetics, biomarkers, and nutrition researchThe connection between EVOO, inflammation, insulin sensitivity, cardiovascular health, and healthy agingWhy personalized nutrition is more effective than following one popular dietThe truth about cooking with extra virgin olive oil and whether it really is stable when heatedHow your genes influence the way your body responds to different dietary fatsPractical tips for choosing a high-quality extra virgin olive oil and incorporating it into your daily routineIf you've ever wondered whether olive oil deserves its reputation as one of the healthiest foods you can eat, this episode offers a practical, science-backed perspective that may change the way you think about one simple ingredient. RESOURCES: Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes:  Oxidative Stress Episode: https://healthyawakening.co/2025/12/19/episode102/ Cholesterol Episode: https://healthyawakening.co/2026/03/16/episode115/ https://healthyawakening.co/2026/07/20/episode133/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

  8. Jul 13

    132. Healthy Skin Starts From Within with Samantha Dench

    Healthy skin isn't created by expensive creams, complicated skincare routines, or the latest beauty trend. It's a reflection of what's happening inside the body. In this episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable., Susan Robbins sits down with licensed esthetician, Functional Medicine Practitioner, and founder of Skin Deep Aesthetics & Wellness, Samantha Dench, to explore the powerful connection between skin health and whole-body wellness. Together, they discuss how gut health, hormones, stress, sleep, nutrition, genetics, and lifestyle all influence the health and appearance of your skin. From acne and rosacea to eczema, premature aging, and perimenopause, Samantha explains why lasting skin health begins by addressing the root causes instead of simply treating symptoms. Susan and Samantha also dive into today's biggest skincare debates, including sunscreen versus sunblock, the rise of aggressive skincare routines among younger generations, the impact of processed foods on aging, and why personalized health is essential for achieving healthy, resilient skin. This conversation is filled with practical takeaways that will change the way you think about skincare and remind you that your skin is often one of the body's first signals that something deeper deserves attention. In this episode: Why healthy skin starts with gut health, hormones, and lifestyleThe connection between stress, the nervous system, and common skin conditionsHow nutrition influences acne, rosacea, eczema, and premature agingThe truth about sunscreen, sunblock, and healthy sun exposureWhy perimenopause and menopause dramatically change skin healthSimple lifestyle habits that support healthy skin from the inside out Learn more about Samantha Dench: Samantha Dench is a licensed esthetician, functional medicine practitioner, entrepreneur, and educator with over two decades of experience helping clients achieve clear skin from the inside out. As the founder of Skin Deep Esthetics + Wellness, she addresses the root causes of skin issues by understanding the connection between internal wellness and external beauty. Samantha blends functional medicine with esthetics to empower clients and professionals alike to view the skin through a whole-body lens. Her focus is on women suffering from perimenopause and autoimmune conditions. Her work includes gut testing, customized nutrition and lifestyle plans to help her clients look and feel their absolute best at any stage of life. She’s also the creator and host of The Functional Aesthetician Podcast, where she shares insights on how gut health, nutrition, hormones, and lifestyle impact skin health. When she’s not working, this single mom of three finds balance in walks, baths, journaling, and spending time with her kids. RESOURCES: Connect with Samantha Dench: Website: www.skindeepil.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skindeepil Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skindeepIL/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@skindeepil YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@skindeepil Episode shownotes: https://healthyawakening.co/2026/07/13/episode132/ Connect with Susan: https://healthyawakening.co/ Visit the website: healthyawakening.co/podcast Find listening links here: https://healthyawakening.co/links P.S. Want reminders about episodes? Sign up for our newsletter, you can find the link on our podcast page! https://healthyawakening.co/podcast

4.7
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Join Susan Robbins, the Epigenetic Human Performance Coach, for the "Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable" podcast! We're talking about how our daily lifestyle and environment affect our genes and well-being. Susan explores a personalized way to boost health, not a one-size-fits-all approach. Through interviews with experts and clients, this podcast makes health discussions relatable. Embrace your unique biology, not generic solutions, and uncover the secrets to a healthier life. Let's keep it real, ditch the mask, and live authentically. "Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable." is your simple guide to taking control of your health journey today!

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