Green Living with Tee

Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes

Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes is a Household Toxins Health Guru with over 40 years of experience researching how everyday chemicals impact your health. She helps you reduce exposure to toxins in personal care products, cleaning supplies, food, and common household items. On Green Living with Tee, you'll discover practical tips for low-tox living, healthy aging, toxin awareness, and creating a cleaner, healthier home. Each episode features conversations with doctors, scientists, and wellness experts who share actionable strategies to reduce chemical exposure, support long-term health, and improve your quality of life. Live Well. Age Well. Be Well. This is the place for clean living, toxin awareness, and healthy aging for Women 50+.

  1. 6d ago

    Dr. John E. Lewis: The Importance of Polysaccharides for Brain Health, Immune Function, and Quality of Life

    This week, Tee is joined by Dr. John E. Lewis, PhD, founder and president of Dr. Lewis Nutrition, clinical nutrition researcher, and author of more than 180 peer-reviewed scientific publications. With a career spanning decades in nutrition, exercise science, and human health, Dr. John has dedicated his life to studying how nutrition can influence aging, cognitive function, and overall wellness. In this fascinating conversation, he shares how his journey from competitive bodybuilding to scientific research led him to discover the powerful role of polysaccharides—complex carbohydrates found in plants such as aloe vera and rice bran. In this chat, Dr. John explains why not all sugars are created equal and breaks down the science behind polysaccharides, which he describes as some of nature's most sophisticated and beneficial compounds. He discusses how these plant-derived nutrients support immune regulation, reduce chronic inflammation, nourish the gut microbiome, and influence cellular communication throughout the body. He also shares why aloe vera has earned the title of "the plant of life" in his research and how both aloe and rice bran have been used for centuries for their healing properties. The conversation also explores Dr. John's groundbreaking research at the University of Miami involving individuals with moderate to severe Alzheimer's disease. He discusses findings that showed significant improvements in cognitive function, reductions in inflammatory markers, enhanced immune function, and increased adult stem cell production. In addition, Dr. Lewis shares his personal journey to a plant-based lifestyle, challenges common misconceptions about nutrition and protein, and explains why he believes food remains one of the most powerful tools available for improving healthspan and quality of life. If you're interested in brain health, healthy aging, nutrition science, and natural approaches to wellness, this episode offers an eye-opening look at emerging research that could reshape how we think about aging and disease prevention. Connect With Dr. John: Website LinkedIn TEDx Talk  Facebook Instagram YouTube  Use Promo Code Tee10 For 10% Off Your First Purchase  Get a free download of Dr. John's first book, "The Complete Nutrition Guide to Cognitive Function," with any purchase.   Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air   The Green Living Gurus' Website  Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook   Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868   DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

    48 min
  2. Jun 29

    Gary Kaplan, DO: How to Boost Longevity and Decrease Chronic Pain & Inflammation

    This week, Tee is joined by Dr. Gary Kaplan, DO. Dr. Gary is the founder and medical director of the Kaplan Center for Integrative Medicine and author of two books, Total Recovery: A Revolutionary New Approach to Breaking the Cycle of Pain and Depression and Why You Are Still Sick: How Infections Can Break Your Immune System & How You Can Recover. A pioneer and leader in the field of integrative medicine, Dr. Gary is one of only 19 physicians in the country to be board-certified in both family Medicine and pain medicine. In this chat, Dr. Gary shares how chronic inflammation, not simply aging itself, is the common thread behind many of today's most common health challenges, including chronic pain, fatigue, autoimmune disease, cognitive decline, and Alzheimer's. Dr. Gary also explains why extending your healthspan matters just as much as extending your lifespan and reveals the often-overlooked factors that quietly accelerate aging. From sleep apnea and periodontal disease to loneliness, visceral fat, mold toxicity, heavy metals, air pollution, and childhood trauma, he discusses how environmental and lifestyle factors affect immune function and long-term health. He also explains why integrative medicine focuses on identifying root causes rather than simply treating symptoms. The conversation also explores practical strategies for reducing inflammation and optimizing longevity, including exercise, Mediterranean-style eating, improving indoor air quality, avoiding toxins and microplastics, supporting sleep, and maintaining strong social connections. Dr. Gary also shares emerging therapies and research surrounding GLP-1 medications, therapeutic plasma exchange, vagal nerve stimulation, statins, senolytics, and acupuncture. If you want to age well, reduce chronic inflammation, and take a proactive approach to your health, this episode offers a fascinating look at the future of longevity medicine. Connect with Dr. Gary: Website Books LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Facebook TikTok Kaplan Clinic Store   Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air   The Green Living Gurus' Website  Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook   Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868 DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

    50 min
  3. Jun 22

    Martha Carlin: The Gut-Brain Connection

    This week, Tee is once again joined by Martha Carlin, entrepreneur, researcher, microbiome advocate, and author of Connected: Love, Loss, and the Unseen Forces Behind Chronic Disease. Martha's journey into health research began after her husband John was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at just 44 years old. Determined to understand why a seemingly healthy, active man developed a neurodegenerative disease, Martha spent more than two decades investigating the links between gut health, environmental toxins, nutrition, and chronic illness. Her work has led her to explore the emerging science behind the gut-brain axis and how the microbiome may influence neurological health. Martha shares the deeply personal story that inspired her new book, explaining how John's diagnosis launched a lifelong quest to uncover potential root causes of Parkinson's disease. She discusses the role of environmental exposures such as pesticides, herbicides, water contaminants, and processed foods, as well as the impact these factors may have on the gut microbiome. Martha explains why the digestive system functions as a communication hub for the immune system, neurotransmitters, hormones, and brain health, and how disruptions in the microbiome may contribute to inflammation, depression, and chronic disease. In this conversation, Tee and Martha explore the growing body of research connecting gut health to Parkinson's disease, mental health challenges, and other chronic conditions. They discuss practical ways to reduce toxic burden, improve water quality, support the microbiome through nutrition, and make healthier lifestyle choices without becoming overwhelmed. Martha also shares insights into detoxification, emotional healing, and the often-overlooked connection between unresolved grief, stress, and physical illness. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the importance of addressing root causes, supporting the body's natural resilience, and empowering individuals to take small steps toward better health.   Connect with Martha: Blog/Substack The BioCollective Instagram BiotiQuest Website   📔 EXCLUSIVE BOOK BONUSES   Pre-order CONNECTED and receive $247 in limited-time bonuses designed to help you apply the action items from Martha:   Get the book + bonuses   Where to order: Amazon (Digital) Barnes & Noble (Paperback)   Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air   The Green Living Gurus' Website Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook   Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868 DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

    38 min
  4. Jun 15

    Barbara Ann Briggs: From Toxins to Balance: Simple Ayurvedic Keys to Natural Health

    This week, Tee is joined by Barbara Ann Briggs, an author, certified consciousness advisor, spiritual teacher, and longtime practitioner of Ayurveda and Transcendental Meditation. Barbara has dedicated her life to studying and sharing ancient Ayurvedic wisdom that helps individuals cultivate greater health, balance, and longevity. Through her work, she teaches practical ways to strengthen immunity, reduce the impact of modern environmental stressors, and reconnect with the body's innate intelligence. Barbara shares her personal journey into Transcendental Meditation and Ayurveda, explaining how both practices transformed her understanding of health and wellness. She discusses Maharishi Mahesh Yogi's revival of Ayurveda and how this ancient system approaches health through the interconnected relationship between consciousness, mind, body, behavior, and environment. Barbara explains why strengthening the body's natural defenses is often more effective than focusing solely on avoiding toxins, and how daily habits can support resilience in an increasingly polluted world. In this chat, Tee and Barbara explore the growing concerns surrounding chemical exposure, environmental toxins, multiple chemical sensitivities, and chronic stress. They discuss why digestion is considered the foundation of health in Ayurveda, how the body's ability to process food and sensory experiences affects overall well-being, and why individual constitutional types influence dietary and lifestyle recommendations. Barbara also shares insights into Panchakarma cleansing therapies, the importance of seasonal routines, and how meditation can help reduce anxiety, improve emotional balance, and support the body's natural healing processes. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the powerful connection between happiness, consciousness, and physical health. Connect with Barbara:  Website Instagram LinkedIn Facebook YouTube Guide to Good Health: 7 Simple Health Hacks A Short Summary of The 7 Simple Health Hacks Podcast   Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air The Green Living Gurus' Website  Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook   Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868   DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

    30 min
  5. Jun 8

    Vincent D'Alessio: Why the Federal Government Is the Most Dangerous Toxin to Us All

    This week, Tee sits down with Vincent D'Alessio, better known online as Guido Vinny, a real estate investor, real estate agent, business owner, and outspoken advocate for personal responsibility. Although he doesn't work in the health industry, Vinnie has spent years researching government regulation, environmental toxins, food safety, and the growing influence of corporate lobbying on public policy. Together, Tee and Vinny explore the role federal agencies such as the EPA and FDA play in regulating chemicals, food additives, and environmental contaminants. They discuss concerns about industry influence, regulatory loopholes, labeling transparency, glyphosate, fragrance chemicals, and the challenges consumers face when trying to make informed health decisions. Throughout the conversation, both emphasize the importance of becoming your own health advocate, paying attention to what you eat, drink, and put on your body, and taking personal responsibility for reducing toxic exposures in everyday life. They also examine how local food systems, consumer awareness, and civic engagement can help individuals regain control over their health and communities. Connect with Vinny:  Instagram X Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air The Green Living Gurus' Website  Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868   DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

    29 min
  6. Jun 1

    Jodi Scott: Plants With Purpose: Rethinking First Aid, Wellness, and Chemical Exposure

    This week, Tee is joined by Jodi Scott, co-founder and CEO of Green Goo, a plant-based first aid and herbal wellness company dedicated to helping people reduce unnecessary chemical exposure in their everyday lives. With a master's degree in health psychology and more than two decades of experience in health and wellness, Jodi combines her passion for holistic health, herbal medicine, and consumer education to empower individuals to make healthier choices for themselves and their families.  Jodi shares the story behind Green Goo's creation, explaining how she discovered that many of the products sitting in her medicine cabinet contained synthetic ingredients she no longer felt comfortable using on herself or her future child. Alongside her sister, an herbalist and midwife, she began formulating herbal remedies using whole-plant ingredients grown in their own backyard. Their mission was simple: create effective first aid solutions that work with the body's natural healing processes while eliminating unnecessary chemicals, preservatives, and endocrine-disrupting ingredients commonly found in conventional products. Tee and Jodi explore the growing concerns surrounding chemical exposure, endocrine disruptors, synthetic fragrances, and the cumulative impact of personal care products on overall health. They discuss how the Industrial Revolution transformed the products we use every day, why chronic skin conditions and inflammation are becoming increasingly common, and how the skin's connection to the nervous and endocrine systems affects everything from sleep and mood to hormone balance and immune function. Jodi also shares practical advice for reducing toxic load through simple product swaps, rebuilding the skin's natural barrier, and embracing the healing power of plant-based ingredients.  Connect with Jodi:  Website  Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Use Promo Code Welcome15 for 15% off Your Order  Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air   The Green Living Gurus' Website  Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook   Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868 DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

    38 min
  7. May 25

    Bracha Goetz: Nourish Your Hungry Soul With Gratitude

    This week, Tee is joined by Bracha Goetz, a Harvard-educated author of 47 children's books and a candid memoir for adults about her journey to joy, Nourish the Soul: Filling the Emptiness Within. Her newest picture books include The Happiness Box and The Mother Who Always Said Yes. After spending two decades trapped in binge eating, restrictive dieting, and a persistent sense of emptiness, Bracha discovered a powerful truth: what we are truly craving is not more food, but lasting spiritual nourishment. Her healing journey led her to explore ancient wisdom and uncover the role gratitude plays in overcoming addiction and restoring joy. Bracha shares how eating disorders and other addictions often stem from a deeper search for pleasure, meaning, and connection. She explains that while food, alcohol, gambling, and other compulsive behaviors may offer temporary relief, they can never fill what she describes as a "spiritual hole." Through practicing gratitude and learning to appreciate the abundance already present in life, Bracha found freedom from her eating disorder and began helping others do the same. She also discusses how gratitude reshapes the brain through neuroplasticity, making it easier over time to focus on what is good rather than what is lacking. Tee and Bracha also explore her transformative concept of the Pleasure Ladder, a five-step framework rooted in ancient wisdom that guides individuals toward deeper and more sustainable forms of joy. The ladder begins with healthy physical pleasures such as nourishing food, movement, music, and time in nature, then progresses through love, meaningful service, creativity, and transcendence. Together, they discuss how these forms of pleasure nourish the soul, reduce the need for addictive behaviors, and help individuals feel more connected to themselves, others, and the greater universe. This uplifting episode offers practical wisdom for anyone seeking to overcome emotional eating, anxiety, depression, or simply live with more gratitude and lasting joy. Connect with Bracha: Website  Books The Pleasure Ladder Free Download   Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air The Green Living Gurus' Website  Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook   Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868 DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

    34 min
  8. May 18

    Leeah Smestad: Conscious Travel in a Toxic World

    This week, Tee sits down with Leeah Smestad, a world traveler, conscious travel advisor, and founder of Newberry Travel. After visiting all seven continents and more than 50 countries, Leeah discovered something many travelers notice but rarely fully understand: chronic digestive issues, migraines, acne, and inflammation often improve dramatically when spending time abroad. What began as personal observations during a trip to Europe eventually became a deeper exploration into how food quality, environmental exposures, and lifestyle habits impact overall health. Leeah shares her personal journey with years of IBS symptoms, migraines, and acne, and how eating fresh baguettes in Paris while feeling symptom-free challenged everything she believed about her body. Together, Tee and Leeah explore the major differences between food systems in the United States and the European Union, including the use of chemical additives, pesticides, and food processing practices. They also discuss how local farmers' markets, whole foods, fermented foods, and lower toxic exposure can significantly support gut health, reduce inflammation, and improve skin and energy. Tee and Leeah also dive into the healing power of slowing down. From eating meals communally in Sri Lanka to using chopsticks in Japan, Leah explains how cultural habits naturally encourage more mindful eating and better digestion. She also shares practical wellness strategies such as traveling with a LifeStraw, sourcing food from local co-ops and farmers markets, and choosing accommodations that support local communities. This episode offers listeners an inspiring and practical look at how adopting global wellness habits can help create better health at home. Connect with Leeah:  Website Podcast Instagram  LinkedIn  Get $200 off any trip spot in 2026 or 2027 using the code TeeTime Mention this podcast and get $50 off a custom trip itinerary   Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air The Green Living Gurus' Website  Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook   Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868 DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

    38 min
4.8
out of 5
26 Ratings

About

Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes is a Household Toxins Health Guru with over 40 years of experience researching how everyday chemicals impact your health. She helps you reduce exposure to toxins in personal care products, cleaning supplies, food, and common household items. On Green Living with Tee, you'll discover practical tips for low-tox living, healthy aging, toxin awareness, and creating a cleaner, healthier home. Each episode features conversations with doctors, scientists, and wellness experts who share actionable strategies to reduce chemical exposure, support long-term health, and improve your quality of life. Live Well. Age Well. Be Well. This is the place for clean living, toxin awareness, and healthy aging for Women 50+.

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