Keep It Dirty

Leslie Dowling

My guests share their life journey living functionally and sustainably and the "why" behind their experiences navigating through our ever-changing environment. I share and educate my years of eating clean, the environmental shifts effecting our health, and staying in optimal, mental and physical balance providing tools and tips for rebooting and restoring your physical well-being.

  1. JAN 24

    Healing Beyond the Diagnosis: A Cancer Survivor’s Journey into Functional Nutrition

    In this episode of Keep It Dirty, host Leslie Dowling speaks with Meryl Brandwein, a functional medicine nutritionist and cancer survivor. Meryl shares her personal journey of overcoming Hodgkin's lymphoma and how it led her to explore holistic and functional medicine. The conversation delves into the evolution of Meryl's practice, the importance of bio-individuality in health, and the need for a personalized approach to nutrition. They discuss the challenges patients face in their healing journeys, the influence of family on health choices, and the role of environmental sustainability in wellness. Meryl also shares her passions, hobbies, and future goals in making a greater impact in the field of nutrition and health. Visit My Socials: https://linktr.ee/lesliedowling?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=559a5d08-90e5-466f-b198-f663264af5a8 Visit Meryl's Socials: https://www.instagram.com/rebel.nutritionist/?hl=en https://merylbrandwein.com/ 00:00 Introduction to Functional Nutrition and Wellness 02:26 Meryl's Personal Journey with Cancer and Healing 09:12 The Evolution of Meryl's Practice and Modalities 14:55 The Importance of Bio-Individuality in Health 20:00 The Process of Healing and Patient Readiness 25:58 Family Influence on Health and Nutrition 28:16 Role Models and Influences in Nutrition 30:22 Hidden Hobbies and Personal Passions 32:47 Future Aspirations and Environmental Impact Disclaimer Speak with your physician or other healthcare professionals before taking any medications or nutritional, herbal, or homeopathic supplements The information provided through this podcast is for educational purposes only.  #cancersurvivor #personalizedmedicine #holistichealth #bioindividuality #familynutrition #environmentalsustainability #healingjourney #healthcoaching #functionalnutrition

    42 min
  2. JAN 15

    Beyond the Headlines:Listening to Venezuela's Real Story

    In this episode of "Keep It Dirty," host Leslie Dowling welcomes Traci Prendergast, a fellow alumni from the Functional Nutrition Alliance. The conversation delves into Traci's personal experiences and insights regarding the complex political landscape in Venezuela, shaped by her long-term relationship with her Venezuelan husband. Traci shares her journey from a simplistic understanding of politics to a more nuanced perspective, emphasizing the importance of listening to personal stories rather than relying solely on mainstream narratives. She discusses the historical context of Venezuela's political situation, the impact of Hugo Chavez's policies, and the ongoing struggles faced by Venezuelans today. The episode highlights the need for critical thinking and open dialogue in understanding global issues, particularly in a world where information can often be misleading or oversimplified. Visit My Socials: https://linktr.ee/lesliedowling?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=559a5d08-90e5-466f-b198-f663264af5a8 Questions on doTERRA essential oils/supplements email me directly: ldowliing1999@gmail.com  *Would love your feedback!  Let us know what I can discuss on health related topics via my email below. ldowliing1999@gmail.com Visit Traci's Socials: https://www.instagram.com/tracip_fxnutrition/?hl=en 00:00 Introduction to Functional Thought 01:13 Understanding Venezuela's Political Landscape 06:26 The Complexity of Venezuelan Politics 10:26 The Role of the U.S. in Venezuela 12:24 Global Perspectives and Personal Stories 15:57 Critical Thinking in the Next Generation 18:45 The Importance of Listening 22:26 Connecting Through Shared Stories #venezuela#venezuelan #usvenezuela #hugochavez #venezuelapolitics#venezuelanews #venezuelaserespeta

    29 min
  3. JAN 9

    Life in the Bush: Ethical Hunting, Family, and Conservation in South Africa

    In this episode of Keep It Dirty, host Leslie Dowling interviews Aaron Bulkley, a professional hunter and safari outfitter. Aaron shares his journey from international sports marketing to establishing Africa Hunt Lodge, emphasizing the importance of ethical hunting, community support, and conservation efforts. He discusses the impact of hunting on local economies, safety in South Africa, memorable experiences in the wilderness, and the need for sustainable wildlife management. The conversation also touches on the education of clients about wildlife processing and the daily life of Aaron's family, who actively participate in these experiences. Visit My Socials: https://linktr.ee/lesliedowling?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=559a5d08-90e5-466f-b198-f663264af5a8 Questions on doTERRA essential oils/supplements email me directly: ldowliing1999@gmail.com  *Would love your feedback!  Let us know what I can discuss on health related topics via my email below. ldowliing1999@gmail.com Visit Aaron's Socials: https://www.africahuntlodge.com/ 00:00 Introduction to Sustainable Living and Hunting 02:18 Aaron Bulkley's Journey into Hunting and Conservation 04:55 The Impact of Hunting on Local Communities 07:25 Safety and Misconceptions about South Africa 11:26 Memorable Experiences in the African Wilderness 17:17 Sustainability and Culling in Wildlife Management 21:57 Organizations Supporting Conservation and Education 24:56 A Day in the Life of a Hunting Family 33:25 Fishing as a Passion Beyond Hunting #sustainablehunting #conservation #africa #wildlifemanagement #ethicalhunting #communitysupport #huntingexperience #localeconomies #education #wildlifeconservation

    35 min
  4. 12/31/2025

    Hawaii Trails, Army Training and Gen. Z Wisdom

    In this conversation, Leslie Dowling engages with her son Nick about their generational perspectives on environmental issues, Nick's experiences living in Hawaii, and his life in the Army. They discuss the differences between Gen X and Gen Z, Nick's hiking adventures, surfing challenges, and his military training, all while emphasizing the importance of family connections and enjoying the present moment. Visit My Socials: https://linktr.ee/lesliedowling?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=559a5d08-90e5-466f-b198-f663264af5a8 Questions on doTERRA essential oils/supplements email me directly: ldowliing1999@gmail.com  *Would love your feedback!  Let us know what I can discuss on health related topics via my email below. ldowliing1999@gmail.com 00:00 Introduction to Generational Perspectives 02:09 Life in Hawaii: Adventures and Experiences 07:03 Military Life and Responsibilities 09:14 Reflections on Family and Holidays Disclaimer Speak with your physician or other healthcare professionals before taking any medications or nutritional, herbal, or homeopathic supplements The information provided through this podcast is for educational purposes only.  #militaryfitness #oahu #oahulife #schofield #militarylife #armylife #rotc #genz #genznutrition #wakeforestdemondeacons #militarytraining #hikingadventures #militarymom #armylife #familyconnection #presentmoment #honolulu #genxpodcast #genzpodcast #genzwisdom #familyholiday

    10 min
  5. 12/18/2025

    From Plate to Power: Food as Medicine in a New Generation

    In this episode of Keep It Dirty, host Leslie Dowling discusses the evolution of the podcast and the importance of navigating life through a functional health lens. She emphasizes the need for awareness regarding nutrition, sustainability, and the generational differences in approaching these topics. The conversation highlights the entrepreneurial spirit of Gen Z and the significance of food as medicine, urging listeners to take control of their health and make informed choices. Visit My Socials: https://linktr.ee/lesliedowling?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=559a5d08-90e5-466f-b198-f663264af5a8 Questions on doTERRA essential oils/supplements email me directly: ldowliing1999@gmail.com  The podcast aims to evoke conversation about navigating life through a different lens. Leslie emphasizes the importance of understanding our bodies and the environment. Generational differences in perspectives on sustainability are significant. Gen Z is more entrepreneurial and conscious about sustainability than previous generations. Functional health practitioners focus on individual wellness journeys. Diet should not be a quick fix but a long-term lifestyle change. Awareness of what we consume is crucial for health. Food quality is declining, impacting our health and nutrition. Journaling can help track dietary habits and health changes. The podcast will feature diverse guests to share unique perspectives. DISCLAIMER: Speak with your physician or other healthcare professionals before taking any medications or nutritional, herbal, or homeopathic supplements. The information provided through this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. #foodasmedicine #genz #podcasting #environmentalawareness #environmentalimpact #functionalhealth #genzentrepreneur #sustainableliving #eatorganic #soildepletion *Would love your feedback!  Let us know what I can discuss on health related topics via my email below. ldowliing1999@gmail.com

    16 min
  6. 12/10/2025

    Clean Ingredients, Clear Vision: How Blossom Essentials Is Changing Skincare

    In this episode of Keep It Dirty, host Leslie Dowling speaks with Sarah Valenskiy, founder of Blossom Essentials, about her journey in creating a clean skincare line that caters to individuals with sensitive skin. They discuss the importance of using clean ingredients, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the significance of building a supportive community among women. Sarah shares her personal experiences with allergies and how they influenced her product development, as well as her vision for the future of her brand. Visit My Socials: https://linktr.ee/lesliedowling?utm_source=linktree_profile_sharesid=559a5d08-90e5-466f-b198-f663264af5a8 Questions on doTERRA essential oils/supplements email me directly: ldowliing1999@gmail.com  Contact Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/try_blossom/?hl=en https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahvilenskiy/ https://tryblossom.com/ 00:00 Introduction to Sustainable Living 00:51 Sarah's Journey to Blossom Essentials 04:18 The Importance of Clean Ingredients 08:36 Targeting the Right Audience 12:39 Building a Brand with Integrity 15:46 Finding Inspiration and Motivation 17:20 Navigating Challenges in Business 19:52 Future Goals and Retail Opportunities 23:22 Personal Life and Self-Care 28:57 Connecting with Blossom Essentials #naturalproducts #sciencebacked #cleanskincare #selfcare #blossomessentials #cleanlife #qvcommunity #womenentrepreneurs #communitysupport *Would love your feedback!  Let us know what I can discuss on health related topics via my email below.

    30 min
5
out of 5
37 Ratings

About

My guests share their life journey living functionally and sustainably and the "why" behind their experiences navigating through our ever-changing environment. I share and educate my years of eating clean, the environmental shifts effecting our health, and staying in optimal, mental and physical balance providing tools and tips for rebooting and restoring your physical well-being.