Gutsy Talks

Rachel Larsson

Welcome to Gutsy Talks—the space for real, unfiltered conversations about healing your gut, calming your mind, and learning to love food again. Whether you're just starting your gut health journey or you’ve been on this path for a while, I’m here to share insights and honest, ah-ha moments that can help transform your health.Join me, Rachel Larsson (she/her), your host, naturopath and nutritionist, as I chat with top health experts and thought leaders from around the world. Together, we’ll dive into the latest in holistic and scientific approaches to gut health and explore the deep connections between your gut and overall well-being. No fluff, just real talk on what it truly takes to feel empowered, healthier, and more in tune with your body.

  1. FEB 4

    Episode 27: Mould & Mycotoxins: Hidden Triggers Behind Chronic Illness with Dr. Jill Crista

    In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Jill Crista, a pioneering naturopathic doctor, best-selling author, and one of the world’s leading voices in mould and mycotoxin-related illness. Dr. Jill has helped thousands of people reclaim their health after exposure to mould, and is deeply passionate about educating both practitioners and the public on this often-missed root cause of chronic illness. Her mission is to elevate the wellbeing of the planet by supporting the healing of its inhabitants and that starts with understanding the environments we live in. In this episode, we unpack the hidden and often misunderstood world of mould, mycotoxins, and Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS). If you’ve ever felt unwell without clear answers, or suspect your environment may be impacting your health, this conversation could change the way you think about healing. In this episode, we chat about: What mould illness and CIRS actually areThe difference between mould allergy and mould biotoxin illnessWhat mycotoxins are and the health risks they poseWhy some people are affected by mould exposure while others aren’tWhat happens in the body when exposed to mould and mycotoxinsCommon signs and symptoms of mould-related illnessHow mould exposure impacts gut healthThe link between mould, fungal and yeast infectionsWhat defines a water-damaged building and what can grow inside oneOther microbial issues beyond mould that may affect healthWhen mould remediation is truly necessaryCommon misconceptions around mouldThe best ways to test for mould in the home and in the bodyHow to prevent mould growth in the homeDIY cleaning methods vs professional cleaning vs full remediationWhat belongings are safe to take if you need to leave a mould-affected homeHow mould illness is treated and cutting through online misinformationDr. Jill’s #1 tip for anyone impacted by mould Rachel’s (she/her) details: Ready To Take Your Next Step To Support Your Gut? Follow Rachel on Instagram HERE Watch the FREE Masterclass 'How To Overcome Bloating and IBS Naturally & Eat Your Favourite Foods Without Fear' HERE  Check out the range of FREE gut health resources HERE  Work with Rachel HERE  Connect With Dr Jill (she/her) Visit Dr Jill's website Connect with Dr Jill on Instagram Disclaimer: The information provided on Gutsy Talks is for education and informational purposes only. It is not provided nor intended to substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event you have questions or concerns about your health.

    1h 3m
  2. JAN 21

    Episode 26: Master Your Mind-Gut Connection Through Hypnotherapy with Natalie Gardner

    In this episode, I’m joined by Natalie Gardner, a psychotherapist, hypnotherapist, and biofeedback practitioner with a strong focus on the gut–brain connection. Natalie is the founder of Altramind Hypnotherapy and works closely with people experiencing anxiety, digestive symptoms, and nervous system dysregulation, often using gut-directed hypnotherapy as a core part of her work. In this episode, we explore how hypnotherapy can reduce gut symptoms by regulating stress responses, supporting the vagus nerve, and helping people understand the powerful connection between their thoughts, emotions, nervous system, and digestive health. If you’ve ever wondered whether your sensitive gut could be supported through the power of the mind, this conversation is for you. In this episode, we chat about: What gut-directed hypnotherapy is and how it differs from traditional hypnotherapyHow a hypno-psychotherapist works with clientsThe gut–brain axis and its role in conditions like IBSHow stress and emotional experiences impact gut healthWhat’s happening in the brain and body during gut-directed hypnotherapyThe role of the autonomic nervous system and vagus nerveGut conditions and symptoms that may benefit from hypnotherapyHow hypnotherapy compares to approaches like the low FODMAP diet for IBSHow long it takes to see results and whether benefits lastDigital hypnotherapy platforms vs in-person sessions — benefits and limitationsWhat to look for in a qualified hypnotherapy practitionerSimple self-help tools to start calming the gut–brain connection todayNatalie’s #1 piece of advice for supporting gut health and nervous system regulation Rachel’s (she/her) details: Ready To Take Your Next Step To Support Your Gut? Follow Rachel on Instagram HERE Watch the FREE Masterclass 'How To Overcome Bloating and IBS Naturally & Eat Your Favourite Foods Without Fear' HERE  Check out the range of FREE gut health resources HERE  Work with Rachel HERE  Connect With Natalie (she/her) Visit Natalie's Website  Connect With Natalie on Facebook, Youtube and Linkin.bio Disclaimer: The information provided on Gutsy Talks is for education and informational purposes only. It is not provided nor intended to substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event you have questions or concerns about your health.

    54 min
  3. 11/12/2025

    Episode 25: 10 Gut-Friendly Tips for Socialising and Traveling with IBS with Rachel Larsson

    Social events and travel should be fun, right? But if you’re living with IBS, they can feel more like a minefield of stress, bloat, and food fear. In this solo episode, I’m sharing 10 practical, gut-friendly tips to help you feel more confident, in control, and at ease when you're eating out, attending events, or packing your bags for a trip. Because with the right strategies, it is possible to enjoy yourself without flaring up your symptoms. This isn’t about restriction or staying home, it's about preparation, mindset, and knowing your body. Whether you're heading to a dinner party or planning a weekend away, this episode will help you build a toolkit of supportive habits to protect your gut and your peace of mind. In this episode, I chat about: What to eat before you go so you’re not starving or tempted by trigger foodsSmart hydration strategies that help digestion (and avoid bloating)Nervous system hacks to calm pre-event anxiety and reduce flaresWhy bringing your own snack can be a game-changerHow to move after meals to support smoother digestionLow-FODMAP alcohol options (and what to steer clear of)The power of an “exit plan” when you need to step away without guiltMindset shifts to reduce food pressure and enjoy connectionGentle gut supports to ease symptoms before and after eventsHow to reflect without judgment so every event becomes a learning opportunityWhether you’ve been caught out before or just want to feel more prepared and confident, this episode is your go-to guide for navigating social life and travel with IBS—without fear, flares, or food anxiety. 🥳 SPECIAL OFFER – LIMITED TIME ONLY FOR MY GUTSY TALKS COMMUNITY!  Ready to finally beat the bloat and feel confident in your body again? Join Bloated to Body Confident my signature gut healing course, and get 10% OFF for a limited time! Use the following codes at check out  👉GUTSY10 if you're choosing the instalment plan, or  👉10GUTSY if you're choosing the pay-in-full option. Rachel’s (she/her) details: Ready To Take Your Next Step To Support Your Gut? Follow Rachel on Instagram HERE Watch the FREE Masterclass 'How To Overcome Bloating and IBS Naturally & Eat Your Favourite Foods Without Fear' HERE  Check out the range of FREE gut health resources HERE  Work with Rachel HERE  Disclaimer: The information provided on Gutsy Talks is for education and informational purposes only. It is not provided nor intended to substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event you have questions or concerns about your health.

    21 min
  4. 10/29/2025

    Episode 24: Breaking the Binge-Restrict Cycle Through Healing With Stefanie Michele

    If you’ve ever felt out of control around food, stuck in the binge–restrict cycle, or burdened by body shame — you're not alone. And you’re not broken. Today’s guest is Stefanie Michele, a Binge Eating Recovery Coach who combines lived experience with an impressive toolkit of professional training. As an Intuitive Eating Counselor, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Somatic Experiencing Therapist, and Occupational Therapist, Stefanie supports people to break free from binge eating, regulate their nervous systems, and reclaim peace with food and their bodies. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who’s felt stuck in disordered eating patterns, even if you’re not sure what to call it. In this episode, we chat about: The difference between comfort eating, binge eating, and binge eating disorderRoot causes of binge eating (beyond just willpower or emotional eating)What happens in the body during a binge: physically, chemically, and emotionallyThe role of trauma, stress, and nervous system dysregulationSubtle signs your relationship with food may not be healthyMental vs. physical restriction and how both fuel the binge cycleWhat intuitive eating really is (and how it differs from mindful or clean eating)First steps to break the binge–restrict cycleHow somatic practices and intuitive eating support lasting healingRelearning hunger, fullness, and satisfaction cuesNavigating therapeutic diets (like low FODMAP) without reigniting restrictionInner critics, perfectionism, guilt and the role of self-compassion in recoveryOne small, powerful step for anyone feeling stuck or hopeless Rachel’s (she/her) details: Ready To Take Your Next Step To Support Your Gut? Follow Rachel on Instagram HERE Watch the FREE Masterclass 'How To Overcome Bloating and IBS Naturally & Eat Your Favourite Foods Without Fear' HERE  Check out the range of FREE gut health resources HERE  Work with Rachel HERE  Connect With Stefanie (she/her) Visit Stefanie’s website Connect with Stefanie on Instagram Disclaimer: The information provided on Gutsy Talks is for education and informational purposes only. It is not provided nor intended to substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event you have questions or concerns about your health.

    58 min
  5. 10/15/2025

    Episode 23: The Infant Microbiome: Milk, Microbes & More with Dawn Whitten

    The first 1000 days of life — from conception to around age two — are now recognised as one of the most critical windows for shaping long-term health. And at the heart of that conversation? The infant microbiome. Today’s guest, Dawn Whitten, is a naturopath, herbalist, and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant with over 20 years of clinical experience in perinatal and early life health. She’s a leading educator, researcher, and clinician dedicated to helping both parents and practitioners understand the microbiome, breastfeeding, and maternal wellbeing on a much deeper level. Whether you’re navigating this season of life yourself, supporting others through it, or simply curious about the foundations of health, this conversation is packed with science-backed insights and practical takeaways. In this episode, we chat about: Why the first 1000 days are so foundational for lifelong healthHow early microbiome disturbance can influence long-term outcomesHow the infant microbiome is seeded and shaped at birthImpacts of vaginal birth vs. C-section on microbiome developmentThe practice of vaginal swabbing for C-section babiesKey stages of microbiome development in infancyDifferences between infant and adult microbiomesThe breastmilk microbiome — what it is and why it mattersBreastfeeding vs. formula feeding and the effects on microbiome diversitySurprising factors that can disrupt an infant’s microbiomeHow to support recovery post-antibiotic use and prevent ongoing gut disruptionWhat to consider before giving probiotics or prebiotics to babiesDawn’s #1 piece of advice for supporting a healthy infant microbiome Recommended Resources  Australian Breastfeeding Association Rachel’s (she/her) details: Ready To Take Your Next Step To Support Your Gut? Follow Rachel on Instagram HERE Watch the FREE Masterclass 'How To Overcome Bloating and IBS Naturally & Eat Your Favourite Foods Without Fear' HERE  Check out the range of FREE gut health resources HERE  Work with Rachel HERE  Connect With Dawn (she/her) Work with Dawn Visit The Microbiome Restoration Centre website Connect with Dawn on Instagram Disclaimer: The information provided on Gutsy Talks is for education and informational purposes only. It is not provided nor intended to substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event you have questions or concerns about your health.

    55 min
  6. 10/01/2025

    Episode 22: What Your Poo Says About Your Gut Health with Rachel Larsson

    Ever stared down at the toilet bowl and thought… “Is that normal?” If so, this episode is for you. Today, I’m taking you on a deep dive (pun intended) into one of the most underrated yet powerful tools for understanding your gut: your poo. From sticky floaters to rabbit pellets, mucus, blood, and everything in between—we’re covering it all. Because what ends up in the toilet tells you so much more than you think. Whether you're dealing with constipation, diarrhoea, or just want to understand what a healthy bowel movement actually looks like (hint: it’s not just about going every day), this episode will help you decode the signs your gut is sending. In this solo episode, I explore: What the Bristol Stool Chart can (and can’t) tell youThe truth about diarrhoea and constipationHow to tell if your bloating is really due to a motility disorder, food intolerance, or poor fat absorptionRed flag symptoms you should never ignoreThe most overlooked reasons your stool looks… strangeMy favourite at-home test to assess gut motilityWhy some poos float, some sink, and what that says about your digestionWhen you need a gastroenterologist—and when a pelvic floor physio, naturopath or nutritionist might help moreWhy laxatives and anti-diarrhoeals aren’t the real solution and what to do insteadYour stool is a mirror of your internal health. It’s not something to be ashamed of, it’s something to learn from. This episode will help you understand what’s normal, what’s not, and what your body might be trying to tell you, so you can stop guessing and start healing. 🥳 SPECIAL OFFER – LIMITED TIME ONLY FOR MY GUTSY TALKS COMMUNITY!  Ready to finally beat the bloat and feel confident in your body again? Join Bloated to Body Confident my signature gut healing course, and get 10% OFF for a limited time! Use the following codes at check out  👉GUTSY10 if you're choosing the instalment plan, or  👉10GUTSY if you're choosing the pay-in-full option. Rachel’s (she/her) details: Ready To Take Your Next Step To Support Your Gut? Follow Rachel on Instagram HERE Watch the FREE Masterclass 'How To Overcome Bloating and IBS Naturally & Eat Your Favourite Foods Without Fear' HERE  Check out the range of FREE gut health resources HERE  Work with Rachel HERE  Disclaimer: The information provided on Gutsy Talks is for education and informational purposes only. It is not provided nor intended to substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event you have questions or concerns about your health.

    36 min
  7. 09/17/2025

    Episode 21: Starting Solids, Allergies & Gut Health With Luka McCabe

    In this episode, I’m joined by Luka McCabe, founder and director of Boob to Food, and best-selling author of Milk to Meals. With a background as a registered midwife and nurse, Luka blends expert clinical knowledge with her own experience as a mum of three to guide caregivers through one of the most important (and overwhelming!) stages of parenting: introducing solids. Luka created Boob to Food to inspire, educate, and empower parents to feel confident about their baby’s transition from milk to meals. Today, she’s here to break down everything from allergy prevention to baby-led weaning vs. spoon-feeding, all through the lens of gut health, immune development and real-life practicality. In this episode, we chat about: How long breastfeeding is recommended for gut and allergy supportThe “gut-immune window” and ideal timing for starting solidsDevelopmental signs of readiness beyond just ageHow solids timing impacts allergy riskThe latest research on early allergen introduction (like peanuts, eggs, dairy)How to safely introduce allergenic foods and respond to reactionsThe difference between CMPA, CMPI, soy allergy and food intolerancesFirst foods that support microbiome diversity and gut healthBaby-led weaning vs. spoon-feeding — how to choose what’s right for your babyWhether to offer a wide variety of foods early or keep it simpleOutdated myths still circulating about food introduction and gut healthSupportive advice for first-time parents feeling overwhelmedLuka’s #1 message for parents navigating solids, gut health and allergies Rachel’s (she/her) details: Ready To Take Your Next Step To Support Your Gut? Follow Rachel on Instagram HERE Watch the FREE Masterclass 'How To Overcome Bloating and IBS Naturally & Eat Your Favourite Foods Without Fear' HERE  Check out the range of FREE gut health resources HERE  Work with Rachel HERE  Connect With Luka (she/her) Visit The Boob To Food website Connect with Luka and Boob To Food on Instagram Disclaimer: The information provided on Gutsy Talks is for education and informational purposes only. It is not provided nor intended to substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event you have questions or concerns about your health.

    48 min
  8. 09/03/2025

    Episode 20: Histamine, Hormones & Hidden Symptoms With Sage King

    In this episode, I’m joined by Sage King — a Naturopath, Nutritionist, educator, and advocate shaking up the world of inclusive reproductive healthcare. Sage offers evidence-based, trauma-informed naturopathic care with a deep commitment to creating safe, accessible spaces for LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and sex worker communities. Sage brings a broad, nuanced lens to complex health topics, and today we’re diving into one that’s often overlooked: the connection between hormones and histamine. If you’ve experienced symptoms like PMS, migraines, or anxiety that don’t seem to fit the usual hormonal picture, this episode may give you the missing piece of the puzzle. In this episode, we chat about: What histamine is and its roles beyond allergic reactionsHow histamine is produced and regulated in the bodyHistamine intolerance, sensitivity, excess and MCASCommon symptoms of histamine issues and why they’re often misdiagnosedThe gut microbiome’s influence on histamine levelsHow oestrogen and histamine interactThe role of histamine in reproductive health conditionsWhether to target histamine, oestrogen, or both in treatmentThe pros and cons of antihistaminesTesting challenges around histamine intoleranceHow diet, supplements and herbs can helpPractical tips to manage symptoms while waiting for supportSage’s #1 piece of advice for navigating hormonal and histamine issues Rachel’s (she/her) details: Ready To Take Your Next Step To Support Your Gut? Follow Rachel on Instagram HERE Watch the FREE Masterclass 'How To Overcome Bloating and IBS Naturally & Eat Your Favourite Foods Without Fear' HERE  Check out the range of FREE gut health resources HERE  Work with Rachel HERE  Connect with Sage (she/her) Connect with Sage on Instagram Work with Sage Disclaimer: The information provided on Gutsy Talks is for education and informational purposes only. It is not provided nor intended to substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event you have questions or concerns about your health.

    51 min

About

Welcome to Gutsy Talks—the space for real, unfiltered conversations about healing your gut, calming your mind, and learning to love food again. Whether you're just starting your gut health journey or you’ve been on this path for a while, I’m here to share insights and honest, ah-ha moments that can help transform your health.Join me, Rachel Larsson (she/her), your host, naturopath and nutritionist, as I chat with top health experts and thought leaders from around the world. Together, we’ll dive into the latest in holistic and scientific approaches to gut health and explore the deep connections between your gut and overall well-being. No fluff, just real talk on what it truly takes to feel empowered, healthier, and more in tune with your body.