Episode 77 of New Normal Big Life Podcast a solo episode featuring the biophilic design benefits on your mental health

Biophilic Design Benefits: Can It Reset Your Nervous System at Home?

The biophilic design benefits for your nervous system are real but most people are still living in spaces that actively keep them stuck in stress. This episode breaks down whether your home environment is working for your healing or against it. If you're exhausted by stress-management tips that never seem to stick, this conversation was made for you.
Episode 72 of New Normal Big Life Podcast Your mattress as a nervous system reset

The Hidden Mattress Trap Disrupting Your Nervous System

Nervous system regulation doesn't just happen during your breathwork or morning walk, it happens overnight, while you sleep. And if the surface you're sleeping on is creating pressure buildup, heat, or subtle disruption, your body cannot fully shift into the recovery it needs. In this episode of the New Normal Big Life Podcast, professional mattress tester Derek Hales brings real data, thermal imaging, motion transfer testing, and 500 mattresses reviewed to a conversation most wellness plans never have. He connects sleep surface performance directly to nervous system recovery, caregiver resilience, and long-term health. Whether you're a caregiver running on fumes, a veteran whose body has taken years of hard use, or someone who has tried everything and still wakes up unrested, this episode was made for you. The answer might be simpler than you think, and harder to ignore once you hear it.
New Normal Big Life Podcast episode 70 with longevity medicine practitioner, Dr Darren Clair, MD

The Longevity Habits Your Doctor Never Told You About

Most people leave a doctor's appointment with a new prescription and the same unanswered question: why is this happening to me? In Episode 71 of the New Normal Big Life Podcast, Dr. Darren Clair, MD, a physician with 24 years in proactive health, answers that question directly. And his answer is not what most patients expect. Dr. Clair has spent decades watching the same pattern repeat inside conventional medicine: patients managing symptoms, not preventing them. High blood pressure normalized. Morning pain accepted. A growing list of prescriptions that nobody questions. He questions them. The conversation he has with his patients, the one about why the body breaks down and what can actually change it is not a conversation most people ever have with their doctor. This episode is where that conversation starts.
Outdoor therapy graphic by New Normal Big Life - Live Strong, Explore Boldly, Be Ready Podcast

Outdoor Therapy: Modern Life Is Making You Sick

In a world dominated by screens and stress, reconnecting with nature through outdoor therapy offers profound healing. Trees release phytoncides and terpenes that boost immunity and reduce inflammation, while magnesium from natural sources supports muscle function and heart health. Foraging for wild edibles provides nutrient-dense foods absent from modern diets, and consuming grass-fed game, such as deer, mirrors ancestral eating patterns that were associated with fewer chronic diseases. Wild-caught fish from kayaking adventures deliver omega-3s for brain health, cold exposure builds resilience, and earthing grounds the body against oxidative stress. We’re talking holistic health. Adventurers become stewards, maintaining trails and preventing wildfires, fostering deeper bonds with the natural world. We unpack these principles of outdoor therapy as a practice.
Dr Stella Immanuel

Dr Stella Immanuel: Take Back Your Health

Dr. Stella Immanuel, MD, a globally recognized Texas physician known for advocating early COVID-19 treatments, helping thousands, shines a light on healthcare system failures. In a healthcare system plagued by inadequate nutrition training, heavy pharmaceutical influence, and the erosion of independent medical practices, patients often feel dismissed and underserved. She urges a shift toward personal responsibility, research into options, and an embrace of holistic wellness through diet, exercise, and natural remedies such as moringa, ginger, and lemongrass. She breaks down the science of nutraceuticals in a riveting podcast episode.
Forgive to Heal No Reconciliation Needed Graphic By New Normal Big Life Podcast

Forgive to Heal: No Reconciliation Needed

Forgiveness isn’t about pretending harm never happened or forcing a relationship back together. Bestselling author and forgiveness mentor Katharine Giovanni teaches a clear, step-by-step process that clears the mental and physical triggers hijacking your life, without minimizing pain or requiring trust. Start small, set firm boundaries, and watch old wounds lose their power. Your nervous system calms. Joy returns. Real freedom begins when the past stops controlling your present.
AI generated image for illustration purposes

Forever Chemicals in food Contamination – PFAS Part 2 of 3

The peanut butter recall discussed in part-one of this series serves as a gateway to a more insidious threat: not just visible contaminants or bacterial invaders, but invisible "forever chemicals (PFAS)" that persist in our bodies and environment indefinitely. Enter the Simply Orange Juice lawsuit, a class-action battle exposing how even seemingly wholesome products can harbor toxins.
Dr. Stella Immanuel MD

Empowering Wellness: Dr. Stella Joins New Normal Big Life as a Sponsor

In today's health landscape, Dr. Stella Immanuel emerges as a beacon of empowerment, blending natural remedies with allopathic medicine to treat root causes. Her DrStellaMD Marketplace, now sponsoring the New Normal Big Life Podcast, offers immune-boosting protocols, nutraceutical supplements, and telehealth services. "True wellness is the foundation of freedom," Dr. Stella asserts. Experts note that nutraceuticals prevent chronic diseases and enhance immunity. This partnership is about empowering wellness in your life. Discover DrStellaMD as your trusted resource.
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The Misandry Trap: Millions of Women Are Sabotaging Love

In February, social media transforms into a relentless hall of mirrors, reflecting glittering engagement rings, elaborately staged proposals, and perfectly curated family moments. As you scroll, a deep ache settles beneath your ribs, not mere envy, but a profound physiological response. The comparison trap triggers your nervous system, interpreting those highlight-reel images as evidence that you're lagging, unsafe, or somehow unchosen. This isn't a personal failing; it's a common reaction amplified by algorithms designed to showcase idealized romance, especially around Valentine's Day. Research and mental health insights confirm that such exposure heightens feelings of loneliness, inadequacy, anxiety, and depression for many, as the curated perfection distorts reality and fuels self-doubt. Yet there's hope amid the distortion. Recognizing this dynamic is the first step toward breaking free. We're here to guide you beyond the illusions toward authentic connections, genuine self-worth, and the real, lasting love you deserve.
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Digital Minimalism: Is Tech Destroying Your Relationships?

Are your devices helping you, or holding you back? In 2026, digital minimalism is more than a buzzword; it's a survival skill. Kelsey L. Green, a strategist in the digital minimalism movement, explains why boundaries with tech are essential for mental health and real connection. Our devices are designed to keep us hooked, trading creativity and presence for constant novelty. Green recommends simple, powerful shifts: set a nightly tech curfew, silence nonessential notifications, and challenge yourself to a monthly screen-free day. These habits reclaim your focus, deepen sleep, and make room for richer relationships. Digital minimalism isn’t about rejecting technology, it’s about using it on your terms, so you can live with more clarity and calm.
AI Fitness Insights Graphic

Unlock Your Health with Personalized Wearables

In 2026, health data drives decisions, wearables like smartwatches and rings offer AI-powered insights into your body's rhythms. From tracking heart rate variability to biomarker analysis, these devices personalize wellness. But choosing the right one depends on your lifestyle. Urban dwellers benefit from seamless app integration, while rural individuals need robust offline capabilities. When making a buying decision, consider lifestyle issues like connectivity, battery life, and data privacy. Privacy experts caution that while these tools empower individuals, safeguarding personal information is crucial. This guide helps you navigate options to become a smarter healthcare consumer. keep reading for our free one-page downloadable personalized wearable buying guide at the end.
50% to 805 of people abandon their dream cabin. Graphic

Why Most People Quit Cabin Living: How To Beat The Odds

Thinking about a cabin, RV, or rural living, you're not alone. 75% of Gen Z and millennials would buy a tiny home, cabin, or rural property. Yet the hard truth from builders, realtors, and online communities is that 50 to 80% of people abandon the dream before they ever move in. I refuse to be one of them. After four progressive moves that finally landed me in my cabin in the woods, I discovered exactly why most people quit and how to make sure you don't. These are the 13 realities I had to master to turn my daydreaming sketch into my rural address.
The New Normal Big Life Podcast ‘Heal, Thrive, Adventure: Your 2026 Reset,’ FREE e-book cover photo

Heal, Thrive, Adventure: Your 2026 New Year Reset

The New Normal Big Life ‘Heal, Thrive, Adventure: Your 2026 Reset,’ FREE e-book isn’t just a podcast year-end recap, it’s about your wellness journey — and it’s a battle plan. Our ‘Heal, Thrive, Adventure: Your 2026 Reset,’ is a wellness revolution distilled into an official companion e-book, and it’s 100% free.
Woman receiving a facial

Shocking Root Causes of Skin Flares

Your skin is more than just a surface — it’s a window into your overall health. From stubborn acne to itchy eczema, skin conditions are increasingly common, sending millions to dermatologists each year. But what’s driving this rise, and how do men and women differ in their skin struggles? Certified Physician Assistant Kerry Jenkins, a functional medicine expert with 25 years in dermatology, joins us to uncover the root causes of skin issues and offer long-term solutions. In this article, we’ll explore the most prevalent skin conditions, their causes, and how lifestyle, environment, and the gut microbiome play critical roles in skin health. Whether you’re battling breakouts or premature aging, these insights will empower you to take control. So, let’s learn together.
Dr. Alex Hilario

Three Secrets to Better Health

Can three simple strategies unlock a healthier you? Dr. Alex Hilario, a celebrated chiropractor from Westchester County, New York, believes so. With over 21 years of experience, he’s helped hundreds of thousands live pain-free. This former powerlifter—who held 13 US Powerlifting Association (USPA) state records—recently overcame a kidney transplant, thanks to his sister, and is back treating patients and training. In this episode, Dr. Hilario shares three keys to better health: chiropractic care, nervous system optimization, and avoiding the pitfalls of medications and poor posture.
Coach Rob Wheeler

Turn Pain into Progress Through Mindset

Imagine hitting rock bottom — post-traumatic stress gripping your nights, obesity weighing down your days, a divorce shattering your world. That’s where Coach Rob Wheeler found himself after a decade in the Navy and years as a federal police officer. But he didn’t stay there. Through raw discipline and a mindset forged in fire, he built BattleFitted, coaching men, with lessons for us all, to transform suffering into strength. In this episode of the New Normal Big Life Podcast, Coach Rob reveals how a battle-fitted mindset isn’t about avoiding pain — it’s about wielding it as a weapon for growth. If trauma, failure, or stagnation holds you back, Coach Rob’s story proves one shift can rewrite your life. Let’s learn how.
Functional medicine expert Leigh Brandon

Unlocking Relief: Overcome Chronic Pain Today

Imagine this, every day, over 1 billion people worldwide battle chronic pain, a silent epidemic robbing them of joy and vitality. In America alone, more than 50 million adults suffer, including over 8 million veterans. But what if pain isn't inevitable? In this article, Leigh Brandon — functional medicine practitioner, helps you uncover the root causes and empower you to heal through biomechanics, nutrition and nervous system regulation. Get ready for life-changing insights that could set you free.
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Unleash Your Inner GOAT: Fitness and Longevity

Imagine defying age, shattering limits, and thriving like never before. In The Goat Within, expert fitness coach Timothy Ward reveals how he transformed hundreds of lives — from pro athletes to 80-somethings, through his battle-tested Fitness Quadrant System™. Drawing on 30 years of triumphs and setbacks, Ward shares science-driven strategies to boost strength, extend vitality, and ignite joy, at any age. Discover how one pivotal hurdle reshaped his approach, plus actionable hacks backed by experts. Ready to unlock your peak potential? This isn't just fitness — it's your roadmap to a longer, healthier, and happier life.
Kelly Tuttle Author - After the Crash

Invisible Wounds: Healing After TBI

After a 2015 car crash, Kelly Tuttle, a neurology nurse practitioner, traded her stethoscope for a patient’s chart, grappling with a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Her book, After the Crash, illuminates the hidden struggles of TBI survivors — cognitive fog, emotional volatility, and societal misunderstanding. Unlike visible disabilities, TBIs often leave survivors looking “fine” while battling memory loss or fatigue. Tuttle’s journey reveals coping strategies like structured routines and self-advocacy, urging families, friends, and employers to offer patience and accommodations. “You look the same, so nothing’s wrong,” many TBI survivors are told, highlighting the stigma of invisible disabilities. Through resilience and support, survivors can rebuild a “new normal.” This article explores Tuttle’s insights, expert advice, and practical tools to empower TBI survivors and their communities to navigate recovery with hope and understanding, transforming invisible wounds into stories of strength.
Surviving Your Hospital Stay by Dr. Julie Siemers

Hospital Safety: Trust but Verify

Hospitals are trusted sanctuaries, yet hidden risks lurk within. Medication errors, misdiagnoses, and varying safety standards can jeopardize lives. Dr. Julie Siemers, a nurse educator with 45 years of experience, reveals that only 9% of new nurses are fully competent for safe practice. Patients must advocate for themselves, checking hospital safety grades on hospitalsafetygrade.org and choosing collaborative physicians. Understanding your rights — like refusing treatments or escalating concerns, empowers better outcomes. Preparation, from advance directives to bringing an advocate, is crucial. With staffing shortages and complex systems straining healthcare, informed patients fare best. As Dr. Siemers advises, “A healthy dose of skepticism” can save lives. Equip yourself with knowledge to navigate hospitals safely, it’s not just about trust; it’s about survival.
Functional Medicine Expert Dr Kevin Smith

The Root Cause of Chronic Illness

Why are Americans increasingly plagued by chronic illness? Dr. Smith contrasts conventional medicine, which often masks symptoms with drugs, against functional medicine’s quest for root causes. “Ninety percent of mysterious ailments are autoimmune,” he notes, linking issues like Hashimoto’s or rheumatoid arthritis to gut dysfunction and inflammation. Blood sugar imbalances, including type 3 diabetes tied to Alzheimer’s, reflect lifestyle and hormonal chaos. Veterans face unique challenges, with poor nutrition from MREs fueling pain and gut issues. Functional medicine’s comprehensive tests and personalized plans—like diet changes and supplements—offer hope. Patients like Cindy Tedrow, who reversed 44 years of pain, testify to its power. “I’m off most prescriptions,” shares Ellie A, highlighting remission through holistic care. This approach empowers wiser healthcare choices.
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Your Grip Strength Could Save Your Life

Did you know your handshake might predict how long you’ll live? Studies reveal that grip strength isn’t just about strong hands—it’s a window into your overall health. Research shows a 5-kilogram, about an 11 pound drop in grip strength raises your risk of death by 16%. Why? It reflects muscle health, heart function, and even brain vitality. “Grip strength is a simple yet powerful indicator of longevity,” says Dr. Darryl Leong, a lead researcher in a 2015 Lancet study. From fighting frailty to spotting heart issues early, this easy test could be a game-changer. Want to live longer and better? Let’s explore how grip strength can be your secret weapon for a healthier future—and what you can do to boost it starting today.
Rooted In Magnesium-Infused cream

Magnesium: The Mineral Transforming Lives

Magnesium, an unsung hero, fuels over 300 bodily reactions, from heart health to stress relief. Magnesium expert, Natalie Jurado, founder of Rooted In, found freedom from anxiety, insomnia, and pain through topical magnesium. “It transformed my life,” she says, inspiring her mission to share this mineral’s power. Cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson calls magnesium “essential for heart health,” helping regulate rhythms, blood sugar, and reduce inflammation. Up to 80% of people may be deficient, facing issues like depression, migraines, insomnia, or muscle cramps. For women over 40, magnesium eases menopause symptoms, boosts energy, and supports bones. Choosing the correct type of magnesium matters. Real stories, Natalie’s and mine, highlight its impact. Dive into magnesium’s science and practical tips to unlock a vibrant, healthier you. Join us to explore this game-changing mineral.
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The Gut Health Crisis in America

Your stomach churns, energy tanks, you find yourself lying on the bathroom floor holding your stomach because it’s the only thing that makes you feel okay, and you’re not alone. In the United States, 60 to 70 million people grapple with digestive disorders, from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and irritable bowel disorder (IBD), to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Specialists say, chronic gut issues can trigger anxiety and depression U.S. veterans face a particularly tough battle. Gastrointestinal issues account for over 500,000 annual visits to Veterans Health Administration (VHA) facilities. In fact, Joe, an Iraq war, Marine Corps veteran reached out to me on X for help with this important topic. Globally, the numbers are staggering — over 3 billion people suffer from gut-related issues. Let’s unpack gut health and how to fix it naturally.
A young woman picking dandelions

Turn Weeds into Wellness: Dandelion Gummies

Pesky dandelions clogging your yard? Turn them into delicious, health-packed gummies! These vibrant weeds, paired with raw, local honey, create a nutrient-rich treat that’s fun to make and bursting with benefits. Dandelions offer vitamins A, C, and K and antioxidants, supporting liver health and fighting inflammation. Raw honey, a natural healer, boosts immunity and soothes digestion. “Dandelions are a nutritional powerhouse,” says dietitian Nancy Geib, RD, LDN. Backyard forager Sarah T. raves, “These gummies are my kids’ favorite healthy snack!” You can transform nature’s gifts into chewy treats with a simple recipe. Grab pesticide-free dandelions, local honey, and gelatin, and whip up a batch in under an hour. Ready to unlock nature’s sweet secret? Dive into our guide and start crafting your own dandelion gummies today — your body and taste buds will thank you!
A graphic of a glowing brain surrounded by leaves and vitamins

Vitamins That Transform Your Mental Health

Struggling with anxiety or low mood? While conventional medicine often leans on pharmaceuticals, emerging research highlights the power of vitamins and minerals in supporting mental health. B-Complex vitamins, Vitamin C, and magnesium can reduce stress and improve cognition, while Vitamin D and omega-3s boost serotonin, easing depression. GABA and L-Theanine promote relaxation, mimicking anti-anxiety meds without the side effects. Experts like Dr. Uma Naidoo emphasize nutrition’s role in mental wellness, advocating for bioavailable supplements. Avoid triggers like poor sleep or stimulants and build a supportive community to enhance these benefits. Discuss these natural options with your doctor to complement traditional treatments and reclaim your mental clarity. Dive into our full guide for actionable insights!
A man standing and shooting a bow with a man in a wheelchair also shooting a bow

Archery: Rewiring Brains, Reclaiming Lives

After a traumatic brain injury (TBI), I doubted archery could help. My VA occupational therapist insisted it could rewire my brain, sharpen focus, and boost memory. Thirty days later, I was driving, reading, and conversing again! Archery isn’t just a sport, it’s therapy for those on the autism spectrum, with cognitive challenges, ADD and ADHD, or battling neurodegenerative diseases. Dr. John Ratey says, “Exercise like archery stimulates neurogenesis,” rebuilding neural pathways. It’s also outdoor exercise and face-to-face connection, vital for mental health. Now, I shoot my 75 pound, Browning compound bow to stay calm and for hunting, a survival skill. Veterans and neurodiverse folks, join me! My upcoming video series will teach you archery basics — choosing equipment, stance, and shooting a bow. Get outside, connect, and heal your brain. Follow my journey and discover how archery can transform lives, one arrow at a time.
woman using her mobile phone while holding paper cup

Virtue Signaling: Loneliness Psyop Exposed!

Is virtue signaling tearing us apart? Social media trends, like white women vowing to shun white men, signal more than just moral flexing. They hint at a loneliness epidemic sweeping America and the West. Virtue signaling, defined as publicly showcasing moral superiority for clout, might be a psyop fueling division. The DSM-5 links self-hatred, including racial or gender rejection, to disorders like depression, worsening mental health for individuals and families. Stats show singlehood rising — 45% of white women aged 25-34 are unmarried, compared to 38% of white men and 50% of non-white men. This trend shrinks dating pools, amplifying isolation. Experts warn of a hidden agenda: lonely, angry people are easier to manipulate. “It’s a vulnerability exploit,” says psychologist Dr. Jean Twenge. Could this be intentional? Read on to uncover the truth and strategies to fight back, without demonizing anyone.
Senior black man receiving physical therapy

Dopamine Agonists and ‘Deviant’ Side Effects

Dopamine agonists help millions manage Parkinson’s and restless leg syndrome (RLS) by mimicking dopamine to control movement. But there’s a catch—uncontrollable impulses like hypersexuality, gambling, and pedophilia can upend lives. Studies show Parkinson’s patients and RLS patients on these drugs face impulse control disorders (ICDs). Claire flashed strangers; Sarah racked up $30,000 in debt—both unaware of the risks. A 2003 GSK report hinted at “deviant” side effects, yet warnings lagged. Dr. Valerie Voon says overstimulation of reward pathways blurs judgment. Stigma hides the scale, and patients often miss the memo. The fallout? Emotional ruin and legal trouble. Are these meds a miracle or a minefield? The stakes demand scrutiny.
bee sipping nectar on flower during daytime

Bees Dying: Food Crisis Looms!

Farmers and gardeners are sounding the alarm: bees are vanishing. Last summer, I watched bees repeatedly crash into my cabin and drop dead — a haunting sign of trouble. Experts warn this decline threatens our food supply. “Bees pollinate 70% of the world’s crops,” says Dr. Dave Goulson, a bee biologist. Without them, fruits, vegetables, and nuts could disappear, spiking prices and starvation risks. Possible culprits? Pesticides, habitat loss, and even cloud seeding—where chemicals like silver iodide, used to boost rain, may poison bees. Northern Hemisphere crop yields are already shaky, with farmers reporting lower harvests. Backyard growers can fight back by planting bee-friendly flowers and ditching chemicals. “Every garden counts,” insists beekeeper Sarah Ellis. Let’s act now — our plates and planet depend on it.
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Unmasking Food Villains: Are You Eating Danger?

What’s hiding in your food? In the U.S., dangerous ingredients like potassium bromate and Red Dye No. 3 — banned in Europe and Canada — sneak onto your plate. They’re linked to cancer, hormone problems, and kids’ hyperactivity. Food labels don’t always tell the full story. “Natural flavors” might mean MSG, giving you headaches. “Color added” could be dyes messing with your child’s focus. The FDA lets companies self-approve these as “safe,” unlike stricter rules abroad. Our “dirty dozen” list — like BHA, titanium dioxide, and trans fats — shows what to avoid. Check the front, sides, and fine print of packages. The CDC urges label reading, but you’ve got to be a detective. Take charge — know what’s safe, ditch the junk, and protect your family’s health today!
A woman wearing Y-Age® patchs

Glutathione: Understanding the Body’s Master Antioxidant

Glutathione is so important to your good health that it's found in nearly every cell in your body. It helps to neutralize free radicals and detoxify harmful chemicals in the environment, the processed foods you eat, the water you drink, and the household and health and beauty products you use. It also supports immune function and reduces inflammation. Glutathione and the building blocks for making glutathione naturally are found in foods and light therapy.
Graphic depicting one in five millennials report having no friends, 56% of Gen Zers report loneliness in the past twelve months, and 5% of seniors are depressed. Credit NNBL.Blog

America’s Hidden Crisis: The Mental Health Epidemic

Recent research highlights five key issues affecting the mental health of American families: economic strain, limited access to mental health services, social isolation, divorce, and cultural or political division. These issues can also lead to feelings of hopelessness or despair. Here are strategies to protect yourself and your loved ones from "deaths of despair."
An aromatherapy essential oil diffuser and a bottle of eucalyptus and rosemary essential oils sitting on a nightstand for a nighttime nervous system reset

Essential Oils to Combat Aerosol Viruses

Most people living in cities spend 90% of their time inside buildings, where they're surrounded by viruses, bacteria, molds, and other microbes. Scientific reports published by the NIH show essential oils can reduce the amount of virus by 53%. This group of organisms, called the indoor microbiome, mostly comes from us and our pets, but also includes microbes from outside that we bring in, water from our plumbing, soil, and from the air conditioning or heating systems.