Green Glow Lifestyle

What would you do if your husband had a stroke at age 37? For Allie Essig, the answer became clear: transform her family’s future through the power of plants.
In this deeply personal and uplifting episode, Allie—mom of six, fitness instructor, and founder of Plant Whys—shares how a sudden health crisis led to a lifestyle overhaul. She opens up about how faith, food, and family intersected on her journey to healing, and how she now empowers others through simple, delicious, and doable plant-based meals. Her story is one of hope, creativity, and unwavering love.
🔥 Why You Should Listen
Hear how Allie helped her husband reverse stroke symptoms and reclaim his health
Learn easy food swaps that make plant-based eating family-friendly (black beans for beef, chickpeas for chicken!)
Get inspired by how faith and nutrition came together in Allie’s healing journey
Discover how she feeds a family of 8 without stress or overwhelm
Learn why perfection isn’t required—just progress and love
Find out how Allie makes brownies with beans (and what not to do with tofu!)
Explore the importance of emotional eating, habits, and the deeper “whys” behind our choices
Tap into the joy of cooking, community, and self-care through Allie’s empowering story
To Connect with Aliwebsite: https://www.plantwhys.com/
YouTube and IG: @plantwhys
Inspirations for today’s episode:
How Not To Die”- Dr. Michael Greger.   https://nutritionfacts.org/book/how-not-to-die/
 

"Understanding cellular processes can help us engage better with our health."
 
In this solo episode, Kylie Buckner, RN, explores the powerhouse mineral calcium—its many roles in the body, how to get enough from plant-based foods, and why it's essential for women’s health, especially after 40. Building on last week’s conversation about vitamin D, this episode dives deep into calcium’s impact on bone strength, nerve function, and long-term wellness.
 What You’ll Learn:
Why calcium is more than just a bone builder
The role of calcium in muscle function, heart rhythm, and neurotransmission
What happens when your dietary calcium is too low—including how your body pulls from bone reserves
The link between phosphorus levels and hidden bone loss
Common symptoms of calcium deficiency (and when to check your levels)
Top plant-based sources of calcium and how to optimize absorption
Why vitamin D, magnesium, and vitamin K2 are critical for calcium to work
The best types of exercise to support bone density and reduce fracture risk
Medications and lifestyle factors that can decrease calcium absorption
How to build a food-first, supplement-smart strategy for lifelong bone health
👟 Bonus Tip: Learn how to pair calcium-rich meals with movement and sunshine for a truly integrative approach to aging strong.

“Understanding what we put in our bodies is crucial.”
Episode Summary: Vitamin D & Women's Health
In this solo episode, Kylie Buckner, RN, dives into the essential role of vitamin D in women’s health and overall well-being.
💡 What You’ll Learn:
Why micronutrients—especially vitamin D—are vital for women’s health
The connection between vitamin D and hormonal balance
How vitamin D supports immune function and bone strength
Common signs of vitamin D deficiency
Ways to get vitamin D through sunlight, food, and supplements
Why it's important to test your levels regularly
Practical tips for boosting your vitamin D intake through self-care and nutrition
Tune in to feel empowered, informed, and inspired to take charge of your health—one micronutrient at a time.
Subscribe for more tips on women's wellness
 
Check out our website: www.greenglowlifestyle.com

Breaking the Rules of Diabetes
"Find your jam, find your place."
In this inspiring episode, Kylie and Lauren celebrate a major milestone: Lauren’s feature on the cover of Ride High, an international cycling magazine.
🔹 Behind the scenes of Lauren’s Ride High magazine feature  
🔹 How indoor cycling became her healing ground for life challenges  🔹 The connection between lifestyle medicine, nutrition, and exercise  🔹 Building a supportive fitness community  
🔹 Reflections on grief, legacy, and growing a food forest
Enjoy our powerful conversation about purpose, movement, and what it means to truly ride high—on the bike and in life.
Check out Lauren’s article in Ride High magazine here:
https://ridehighmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/RH-24-PDF-for-upload-FINAL-250425.pdf
Visit Lauren's Website here:
http://laurenplunkett.com
Our favorite sketches from “The Delicious Dish” on SNL
https://youtu.be/bPpcfH_HHH8?si=f7XnMsJzrOi2ITEu
https://youtu.be/F_tVJ2rHHSA?si=_CgGBPhhs8PSdK5d
 
As always, connect with us here:www.greenglowlifestyle.com
IG @greenglowlifestylepodcast
YOUTUBE: @greenglowlifestyle
FB: @greenglowlifestyle

“Cook Once, Eat Twice….”
In this heartwarming episode, Kylie and Lauren sit down with whole food, plant-based chef Stefanie Dougherty to explore the art of joyful, intentional cooking. From her journey transitioning from a meat-based diet to plant-forward living, Stefanie shares how food became a pathway to wellness, connection, and creativity.
✨ Why tune in:
Discover how to create a recipe portfolio and simplify meal planning
Learn how to cook mindfully—even in small spaces
Get inspired to involve your family in the kitchen
Embrace seasonal, local foods for optimal flavor and nutrition
Hear real talk on overcoming resistance from loved ones
Whether you're a kitchen newbie or a seasoned plant-based foodie, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered to bring more presence, purpose, and pleasure to your plate.
Connect with Stefanie @greensagelife on YouTube, Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook 
Find out more on her website at greensagelife.com
Download YOUR copy of Stefanie’s FREE ‘Quick Dinners eBook” here: https://www.greensagelife.com/quick-dinners-ebook
Visit Stefanie’s Amazon Store: 
https://amzn.to/4jGopHm

Heal from the inside out—boost energy, balance hormones, and fight inflammation naturally!
In the Green Room today, Dr. Monisha Bhanote joins us for an inspiring and insightful conversation. She shares her integrative approach to health and the powerful connection between our cells, our gut, and our overall well-being.
We cover topics like:
Why understanding cellular health is essential for long-term wellness
How pathology helps uncover the root causes of disease
The critical role of gut health in aging, inflammation, and mental health
Actionable tips from her book, The Anatomy of Well-being
How hormonal changes—especially estrogen—impact women's health
How to avoid information fatigue and focus on what matters
The benefits of connecting with nature and practicing intentional living
Why retreats can be a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery
Dr. Bhanote offers simple, empowering steps you can start using today to elevate your health from the inside out.
✨ Tune in and learn how to take charge of your wellness journey—with more clarity, intention, and joy. ✨
 
Connect with Dr. Bhanote:
https://www.drbhanote.com/
Book a discovery call: 
Become a patient
Join a retreat: https://www.drbhanote.com/retreats
 
Follow Dr. Bhanote on FB, IG, YouTube, Pinterest:  #cellcare
Get Her Book: The Anatomy of Wellbeing: https://www.drbhanote.com/the-anatomy-of-wellbeing
 
Connect with Kylie and Lauren:
www.greenglowlifestyle.com
email Kylie: Kylie@greenglowlifestyle.com
email Lauren: Lauren@greenglowlifestyle.com
IG: @greenglowlifestylepodcast
YouTube: @Greenglowlifestyle

Kylie and Lauren explore the concept of 'food noise,' a term that describes the mental and emotional distractions related to food choices.
Disclaimer
FOOD NOISE is not a formal diagnosis it is a common experience, especially for those struggling with weight management or eating disorders.
This discussion includes:
the emotional context of food noise
the relationship with appetite and diabetes management
the impact of GLP-1 medications on food-related thoughts
how 'food noise' affects our relationship with food
taking control of personal eating habits and the role of lifestyle changes in managing food-related challenges
The conversation emphasizes the importance of addressing emotional triggers and developing strategies to manage food noise effectively, including lifestyle changes and seeking professional help when necessary.
The conversation also highlights the significance of nutrition in weight management, particularly in the context of medications like GLP-1 inhibitors. Lastly, they stress the value of support and community in the journey towards better health and wellness.
 
The Pleasure Trap, Drs. Alan Goldhamer and Doug Lysle: https://a.co/d/2bfBKOn
SHOW NOTES:
www.greenglowlifestyle.com
IG: @greenglowlifestylepodcast
FB: @greenglowlifestyle
 
Link and summary:
 “What Is Food Noise? A Conceptual Model of Food Cue Reactivity” (2023) https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10674813/#sec4-nutrients-15-04809
For more information CHECK OUT the Glow Getter Digest 
https://www.greenglowlifestyle.com/ 
 

Lauren and Kylie discuss the challenges of maintaining wellness while traveling. They share personal experiences and practical tips for healthy eating on the road, including planning meals, finding local grocery stores, and making smart choices at airports and restaurants.
What you'll hear more of: 
the importance of nutritional integrity and preparation
strategies to ensure travelers return feeling refreshed and healthy
creative snack ideas that help to maintain wellness while away
how to stay active and enjoy local culture
tips on healthy eating and mindset shifts for post-vacation wellness.
The episode concludes with exciting plans for future content and a call to action for listeners to engage with their journey.RESOURCES:www.greenglowlifestyle.comIG @greenglowlifestylepodcastEmail us:Kylie@greenglowlifestyle.comLauren@greenglowlifestyle.comWild Atlantic Cycling: https://www.wildatlanticcycling.com/
 

What is the value of trying new things and maintaining a positive mindset while navigating our 40s?
Join Lauren and Kylie as they explore the themes of spring, motivation, community, and the importance of active living in significant ways:
Seasonal changes inspire movement and connection
The significance of mindset shifts in overcoming decision fatigue
The power of accountability in achieving fitness goals
The benefits of staying active as we age and embracing challenges
celebrating milestones through community wellness events
The health benefits of an active lifestyle for both humans and pets
The significance of support and encouragement in achieving personal goals.
 
Hey listeners! This week, we challenge you to step out of your comfort zones and embrace new experiences. 
GET - YOUR - GLOW - ON. 
 
Show Notes:
www.greenglowlifestyle.com
IG: @greenglowlifestylepodcast
 
Email Kylie kylie@greenglowlifestyle.com
Email Lauren Lauren@greenglowlifestyle.com
 

Kylie and Lauren welcome Brenda Davis RD, a trailblazer in plant-based nutrition, to discuss her journey as a dietitian, the importance of staying active, and the evolving role of dietitians in promoting health and sustainability.
Brenda shares her personal experiences, insights on nutrition, and the significance of community in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
This conversation also includes:
the evolution of plant-based nutrition.
addressing controversies surrounding dairy.
the role of research in validating plant-predominant nutrition.
the significance of educating children about healthy eating, and the influence of younger generations in shaping future dietary practices.
Brenda also shares her transformative journey in the Marshall Islands, where she led a lifestyle intervention trial aimed at combating the high rates of diabetes. She discusses the challenges faced, the cultural perceptions of health, and the significant improvements observed in participants' health through a plant-based diet and lifestyle changes. The conversation emphasizes the importance of nutrition, particularly fiber, and the need for ongoing education and support in health initiatives.
 
Show Notes:
www.greenglowlifestyle.com
IG @greenglowlifestylepodcast.com
 
Connect with Brenda Davis- www.brendadavisrd.com
Recommended Books:
Nourish
Becoming Vegan
John Robbins: Healthy at 100- https://www.johnrobbins.info/
Dr. Michael Klaper- https://www.doctorklaper.com/