Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable.

Susan Robbins
  • 4.7 (10)
  • Alternative Health
  • Updated Weekly

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. 2d ago

    128. Genetic Based Lipid Disorders You Need to Know About: Part 2 Lp(a) with Dr. Tom Dayspring

    In Part 2 of this special two-part series on genetic lipid disorders, Susan Robbins welcomes back renowned lipidologist Dr. Tom Dayspring for an eye-opening discussion on Lipoprotein(a), often written as Lp(a), one of the most common yet overlooked genetic cardiovascular risk factors in the world. While many people focus on standard cholesterol numbers, Dr. Dayspring explains why Lp(a) deserves far more attention and why major cardiovascular organizations now recommend that every person be tested at least once in their lifetime. Together, Susan and Dr. Dayspring break down the science behind Lp(a), how it differs from traditional cholesterol markers, and why elevated levels can significantly increase the risk of atherosclerosis, stroke, and aortic valve disease. They discuss the role genetics play in determining Lp(a) levels, why lifestyle changes remain important even when they do not directly lower Lp(a), and how advanced testing can provide a more complete picture of cardiovascular risk. This conversation also tackles common misconceptions surrounding cholesterol, statins, and influencer-driven health advice. Dr. Dayspring shares practical guidance on what to do if you discover you have elevated Lp(a), how to advocate for yourself within the healthcare system, and why understanding your unique biology is essential for protecting long-term health. In this episode: What Lipoprotein(a) or Lp(a) is and why it mattersWhy Lp(a) is one of the most common genetic lipid disorders worldwideThe connection between elevated Lp(a), heart disease, stroke, and aortic valve diseaseWhy every person should consider being tested for Lp(a) at least onceHow genetics determine Lp(a) levels throughout lifeThe difference between Lp(a), LDL cholesterol, and ApoBWhy standard cholesterol testing may miss important cardiovascular risk factorsThe role of oxidized phospholipids in cardiovascular diseaseIf you've ever been told your cholesterol is "normal" but still have a family history of heart disease, stroke, or unexplained cardiovascular events, this episode offers critical information that could help you ask better questions, pursue the right testing, and become a stronger advocate for your own health. Learn more about Dr. Tom Dayspring on the website shownotes! https://healthyawakening.co/2026/06/15/episode128/ RESOURCES: Connect with Dr. Tom Dayspring X: https://x.com/drlipid https://familyheart.org/ https://healthyawakening.co/2026/06/15/episode128/ 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

    1h 35m

  2. Jun 8

    127. Genetic Based Lipid Disorders You Need to Know About: Part 1 Phytosterolemia with Dr. Tom Dayspring

    In this episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable., Susan Robbins is joined by renowned expert lipidologist Dr. Tom Dayspring for Part 1 of a special two-part series on genetically driven lipid disorders. Together, they explore phytosterolemia (formerly known as sitosterolemia), a little-known but potentially serious genetic condition that affects how the body absorbs and processes plant sterols. While often overlooked in conventional healthcare, this disorder can contribute to elevated cholesterol markers, cardiovascular risk, xanthomas, kidney issues, and other health concerns when left undetected. Dr. Dayspring breaks down the complex science of cholesterol absorption, plant sterols, and the ABCG5 and ABCG8 genes in a way that is easy to understand. Susan shares what she has observed through years of genetic testing and coaching, including how frequently she is seeing these gene variants appear in practice and why many people are being missed by standard testing. This conversation highlights the importance of personalized medicine, advanced lipid testing, and understanding the unique ways genetics can influence long-term health outcomes. In this episode: What phytosterolemia is and why it is often missedThe difference between cholesterol and plant sterolsHow the ABCG5 and ABCG8 genes regulate sterol absorptionWhy some people absorb significantly more cholesterol than othersThe connection between plant sterol hyper-absorption and cardiovascular disease riskWhy standard cholesterol testing may miss important cluesThe role of sitosterol and campesterol testingHow phytosterols can impact cell membranes, kidneys, joints, blood cells, and other tissuesThe difference between heterozygous and homozygous loss-of-function gene variantsWhy many patients are told their cholesterol is "fine" when deeper issues may existThe importance of ApoB, non-HDL cholesterol, and advanced lipid testingWhy some cholesterol-lowering therapies work better than others depending on geneticsHow lifestyle, nutrition, and personalized interventions can support lipid healthWhen to consider working with a lipid specialist If you have a family history of heart disease, unexplained cholesterol elevations, or have been told your numbers are "normal" despite ongoing concerns, or if use of statins hasn’t helped yu, this episode offers valuable insight into a genetic factor that is rarely discussed but can have a significant impact on long-term health. Learn more about Dr. Tom Dayspring on the website shownotes! https://healthyawakening.co/2026/06/08/episode127/ RESOURCES: Connect with Dr. Tom Dayspring X: https://x.com/drlipid https://healthyawakening.co/2026/06/08/episode127/ 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

    1h 20m

  3. Jun 1

    126. Blue Light, Melatonin & The Modern Sleep Crisis with Sam Nahna

    Blue light is everywhere… but most people have no idea what it’s actually doing to their bodies. In this episode of the Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable podcast, Susan sits down with Sam Nahna from Block Blue Light to unpack the real science behind blue light exposure, circadian rhythms, melatonin production, sleep disruption, and why modern lighting may be affecting your health more than you realize. From doom scrolling at night to overhead LED lights, Sam explains how constant exposure to artificial blue light impacts sleep quality, recovery, focus, mood, and long-term wellbeing. The conversation dives into the differences between clear, yellow, amber, and red blue light blocking lenses, why cheap “blue light glasses” often don’t work, and how to create a more sleep-supportive environment without completely disconnecting from modern life. Susan also shares her own experience using red light glasses and how dramatically they’ve helped her wind down, improve sleep quality, and support her natural rhythms during longer summer evenings. This episode is packed with practical, easy-to-understand information for anyone struggling with sleep, screen fatigue, nighttime stimulation, or feeling “wired but tired” at the end of the day. Key Takeaways: What blue light actually is and how it affects the body and brainWhy artificial light exposure at night disrupts melatonin and circadian rhythmsThe difference between clear, yellow, amber, and red blue light blocking lensesHow poor sleep impacts recovery, mental health, hormones, and overall healthSimple ways to reduce blue light exposure and create a healthier nighttime environmentConnect with Sam Nahna + Block Blue Light: Website: https://www.blockbluelight.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blockbluelight_official/ Learn more about Sam Nahna: At BlueBlockLight, we create research-backed products designed to support health, circadian biology, and light-conscious living. Sam has been with the company since its early stages and has become a leading product expert in the field of blue light mitigation and blue light blocking technology. His expertise spans the science of artificial light exposure, circadian health, sleep optimization, and the practical application of blue light blocking solutions in everyday life. Working closely across product development, education, and marketing, Sam specializes in translating the technical and scientific side of light biology into practical, real-world strategies people can actually use. He is known for his deep understanding of how different wavelengths of light impact human physiology and how targeted light environments can support better sleep, recovery, energy, and long-term health. RESOURCES: Connect with Sam Nahna: Website: https://www.blockbluelight.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blockbluelight_official/ https://healthyawakening.co/2026/06/01/episode126/ 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

    50 min

  4. May 25

    125. Fear-Based Nutrition and Food Myths with Dr. Gil Carvalho

    In this episode of Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable., Susan Robbins sits down with physician, researcher, and science communicator Dr. Gil Carvalho for a powerful conversation about nutrition misinformation, influencer-driven fear, and what the science actually says about cholesterol, saturated fat, seed oils, oats, and popular diet trends. Dr. Gil Carvalho, founder of the Nutrition Made Simple YouTube channel, is known for breaking down complex health research into practical, understandable information without the fear tactics and sensationalism that dominate so much of the wellness world. Together, Susan and Dr. Gil unpack some of the biggest myths circulating online, including the idea that “higher cholesterol is always better,” that oats are harmful, and that seed oils are toxic. They also discuss why individualized health matters, how genetics influence risk factors like ApoB and Lp(a), and why lab work should guide decisions more than viral social media claims. This episode is a grounded, evidence-based conversation designed to help listeners think critically, ask better questions, and become stronger advocates for their own health. In this episode: Why high cholesterol should not automatically be dismissed as “healthy”The difference between cholesterol levels, ApoB, particle size, and Lp(a)How misinformation spreads through influencer cultureWhy oats are not the “worst breakfast you can eat”The truth about seed oils and inflammationHow genetics impact cardiovascular risk and dietary responsesWhy one-size-fits-all nutrition advice often backfiresThe importance of personalized nutrition and individualized lab workWhy fear-based wellness messaging can create more harm than goodHow social media oversimplifies complex health topicsThe role of lifestyle, stress, sleep, movement, and environment in long-term healthWhy learning to interpret science critically matters more than following trends Dr. Gil Carvalho Gil Carvalho is a Portuguese physician, research scientist, and science communicator known for his work in nutrition, longevity, and evidence-based health education. Born in Portugal, he earned his MD from the University of Lisbon and later obtained a PhD in Biology from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), where he trained under pioneering geneticist Seymour Benzer. Carvalho's research spans genetics, molecular biology, nutrition, behavior, aging, and neuroscience, with contributions including the identification of genetic and nutritional mechanisms underlying longevity; his work has been cited over 4,130 times as of 2023 according to Google Scholar. He has collaborated with neuroscientist Antonio Damasio on neural signal transmission and the basis of interoception, and his publications appear in prestigious outlets such as Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences and Nature Methods. In addition to his academic career at the University of Southern California, Carvalho is a prominent science communicator, founding the YouTube channel Nutrition Made Simple in 2018, which has amassed over a million monthly viewers by simplifying complex dietary science for lay audiences. He contributes to organizations including the Institute of Limbic Health, and his expert insights have been featured in media like Quanta Magazine and ScienceDaily. Carvalho has received awards such as the DeLill Nasser Award for Professional Development in Genetics and a Mathers Foundation grant, underscoring his impact in bridging clinical practice, rigorous research, and public health education. RESOURCES: Connect with Dr. Gil Carvalho: Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@NutritionMadeSimple twitter.com/NutritionMadeS3 facebook.com/DrGilCarvalho tiktok.com/@nutrition.made.simple instagram.com/gilcarvalho.md https://healthyawakening.co/2026/05/25/episode125/ 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

    59 min

  5. May 18

    Ep 124. Detox Culture: Is It Helping You or Harming You?

    This episode of the Everyday Epigenetics: Raw. Real. Relatable. podcast takes a hard look at one of the biggest trends in the wellness world: detox culture. Susan Robbins shares a raw and deeply honest perspective on the fear-based messaging surrounding parasites, mold, heavy metals, cleanses, and “toxic overload,” while explaining what true detoxification actually looks like inside the body. From harsh protocols and supplement overload to the nervous system’s role in health, this conversation challenges the idea that more detoxing always equals better wellness. Susan also dives into the genetics behind detox pathways, including MTHFR, COMT, PEMT, GST genes, inflammation markers, bile flow, and histamine responses. She explains why personalized health matters, why one-size-fits-all detox programs can backfire, and how stress, sleep, nutrition, circadian rhythm, and emotional safety often play a much bigger role in how the body functions than another cleanse ever will. This episode is a reminder that the body already knows how to detox when it has the right support, nourishment, and stability. In this episode: Why the detox industry often profits from fearThe difference between true toxic overload and depletionHow the body naturally detoxifies through the liver, kidneys, gut, skin, and lymphatic systemWhy harsh cleanses can create more stress on the bodyThe truth about parasite cleanses, binders, colonics, and juice detoxesHow chronic stress impacts detox pathways and hormone balanceWhy genetics like MTHFR, COMT, GST, PEMT, IL6, and TNF-alpha matter in personalized healthThe connection between histamine, sulfur pathways, glutathione, and detox symptomsHow nervous system regulation impacts healing and detoxificationWhy lifestyle rhythms, sleep, meal timing, and stress management matter more than most people realizeHow Susan uses epigenetics and PH360 health types to personalize detox supportThe importance of building resilience instead of living in fear around health RESOURCES: Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes:  Shop the products: http://healthygut.com/healthyawakenings (this link will provide you a special discount!) https://healthyawakening.co/2026/05/18/episode124/ 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

    1h 12m

  6. May 11

    123. The Science of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and Red Light Healing with Alan Trim

    Hyperbaric oxygen therapy has been around for centuries, but only recently has it started gaining attention for its powerful role in recovery, performance, longevity, and chronic illness support. In this fascinating episode, Susan sits down with Alan Trim, co-founder of Oxidise Wellness Lab, to unpack the science behind hyperbaric oxygen therapy and red light therapy, and why these technologies are becoming game changers for everything from elite sports recovery to neurological health and cancer support. Alan shares his deeply personal story of battling severe insomnia and how hyperbaric oxygen therapy became the turning point that changed his life. Together, Susan and Alan explore how oxygen under pressure impacts inflammation, brain health, recovery, mitochondrial function, and overall resilience. They also dive into the importance of lifestyle foundations, the future of wellness technology, and how to safely navigate the growing world of hyperbaric and red light therapy options. In this episode: What hyperbaric oxygen therapy actually is and how it worksThe connection between oxygen, inflammation, and healingHow hyperbaric therapy supports recovery, brain health, and performanceThe role of red light therapy in mitochondrial health and collagen productionWhy athletes are using these technologies for recovery and enduranceThe impact of hyperbaric therapy on chronic illness and cancer supportWhat to look for when choosing a hyperbaric or red light therapy providerWhy lifestyle still remains the true foundation of health optimizationAlan Trim Bio Alan Trim is the co-founder of Oxydise and Oxydise Wellness Lab, a UK leader in hyperbaric oxygen therapy and advanced red-light technologies. He is a passionate advocate for how these modalities can help in elite sports performance, longevity optimisation, and chronic illness recovery. He has worked with high profile clients including Strictly's Gorka Marquez, Premier League footballers Anthony Elanga and Ola Aina and boxers Joseph Parker and Ben Whittaker. Alan is an International Board of Undersea Medicine qualified professional and has overseen deployment and use of hundreds of hyperbaric and wellness systems across the UK. He is known for translating cutting-edge science into practical systems that enhance recovery, improve cognitive clarity, boost athletic output, and support long-term health resilience. RESOURCES: Connect with Alan Trim: www.oxydise.co.uk https://alantrim.com/ https://www.instagram.com/alan.trim/ https://healthyawakening.co/2026/05/11/episode123/ 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

    43 min

  7. May 4

    122. Root Causes of Chronic Illness in Kids with Dr. Somer DelSignore

    This episode goes straight to the root of what is happening beneath chronic illness in children, and it is far more complex than a single diagnosis or quick fix. In this conversation, Dr. Somer DelSignore joins Susan Robbins to explore the real drivers behind immune and neurological dysfunction in kids. From hidden infections and toxin exposure to nutrient depletion and chronic stress, this discussion connects how everyday lifestyle patterns shape long term health. It challenges the habit of chasing symptoms and instead brings attention to patterns, history, and the deeper factors that build over time. What makes this episode powerful is how grounded and practical it feels. You will hear how modern life, including screen time, poor sleep, and highly processed food, keeps kids in a constant stress response and how that shows up in ways many parents miss. The conversation brings clarity without making things complicated. It highlights how small, consistent changes can shift a child’s health in a meaningful way and why prevention starts earlier than most people realize. In this episode: Why chronic illness in children is rarely caused by one single factor and how multiple stressors build over timeThe impact of hidden infections on inflammation, behavior, focus, and common misdiagnosesHow sleep, nutrition, and daily habits directly influence immune strength and brain functionWhat a constant stress response looks like in children and how it affects growth, mood, and focusSimple ways to support your child’s nervous system, detox pathways, and overall health without overwhelm Dr. Somer DelSignore Bio Dr. Somer DelSignore is a pediatric board-certified provider who blends integrative pediatric care with evidence-based medicine to address the root causes of immune and neurological dysfunction. Trained at the University of Pennsylvania and SUNY Upstate and further mentored in integrative medicine, Lyme, and PANS, she is known for highly personalized, research-driven treatment plans for children. Dr. DelSignore is an ILADS Member, a MAPS Fellow, and holds a Fellowship with the American Academy of Ozone Therapy. Her holistic 10-key approach emphasizes nutrition, environmental factors, and mental health, reflecting her commitment to whole-child care. She is the founder of Hudson Valley Integrative Health, where she helps families find clarity, hope, and a better quality of life.   RESOURCES: Connect with Dr. Somer DelSignore: Website: https://hudsonvalleyintegrativehealth.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nylymesandpans/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nylymesandpans/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/somerdelsignorekidslyme/ https://healthyawakening.co/2026/05/04/episode122/ 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

    1h 8m

  8. Apr 27

    121. More Exercise Isn’t Making You Healthier, Here’s Why

    Episode Show Notes We’ve been taught to believe that more exercise equals better health, stronger bodies, and faster results. This episode challenges that belief in a big way. Susan breaks down how pushing harder and training longer can actually backfire, leading to chronic inflammation, disrupted recovery, and even long-term health consequences that often go unnoticed. This conversation goes deeper than surface-level fitness advice. It connects the dots between genetics, lifestyle, and training patterns to show why two people can follow the exact same workout plan and experience completely different outcomes. From inflammatory gene responses to stress hormone regulation and recovery capacity, your body has a unique threshold, and ignoring it can quietly work against you. Susan also walks through how overtraining shows up beneath the surface, even when you feel “fine.” Blood markers, nervous system dysregulation, sleep disruption, and metabolic shifts all play a role in whether your body is adapting or breaking down. The goal isn’t to stop moving, it’s to train with precision, honoring your body’s rhythms, recovery needs, and individual design. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a new lens on exercise, one that prioritizes alignment over intensity, and sustainability over burnout. Because real progress doesn’t come from doing more. It comes from doing what actually works for your body. In this episode: Why too much exercise can trigger chronic inflammation and slow recoveryHow genetics influence your response to stress, training, and inflammationThe role of stress hormones like cortisol in overtraining and burnoutKey gene variants (like COMT, IL-6, TNF-alpha) and what they mean for your bodyHow different health types respond to exercise, and why personalization mattersThe hidden signs of overtraining, even when you feel “healthy”Blood markers to watch for (fasting insulin, triglycerides, CRP, glucose)How chronobiology (timing) impacts performance and recoveryWhy recovery, not intensity, is where real progress happensHow to train smarter by aligning with your body’s natural capacity RESOURCES: Find all of Susan’s Resources and links in the show notes:  Shop the products: http://healthygut.com/healthyawakenings (this link will provide you a special discount!) https://healthyawakening.co/2026/04/27/episode121/ 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

    48 min
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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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