Shows
Happier & Healthier with NestMetabolism: The hidden link to energy, longevity, and resilienceMetabolism is so much more than just weight—it’s the engine behind our energy, brain function, gut health, and longevity. In this episode, Bridget recaps a powerful talk by Susannah Kerwin, CNP and founder of Tendwell, diving into the hidden ways metabolism shapes our well-being. With metabolic dysfunction on the rise and one in three adults in the U.S. facing prediabetes, it’s clear that supporting metabolism is about more than just diet and exercise. From blood sugar stability to the gut-brain connection, metabolism influences everything from cravings to cognitive function, and even the way our bodies handle...2025-03-1915 minHappier & Healthier with NestBecoming a Mitochondriac – Unlocking Energy & Vitality with Abby KranitzBecoming a Mitochondriac – Unlocking Energy & Vitality with Abby KranitzIn this inspiring episode of Happier and Healthier with Nest, host Bridget is joined by wellness industry veteran Abby Kranitz, who brings over 40 years of expertise in human performance, nutrition, and circadian biology. Alongside Bridget is Kristin Markey, founder of Nest Health Connections, adding her insights to the conversation.Abby shares her personal health journey, the pivotal moments that shaped her career, and the key influences who have guided her along the way. She introduces us to the concept of be...2025-02-0543 min
Unsettling ExtremismExploring Big Questions Through Fiction with Tina MakeretiOn this episode of Unsettling Extremism, we explore how literature can inform our understanding of white supremacy and extremism. I spoke with Dr. Tina Makereti, an award-winning writer who teaches creative writing at Victoria University of Wellington, Te Herenga Waka at the International Insitute of Modern Letters. Learn more about Tina's book The Mires, here. https://ultimopress.com.au/products/the-miresReferences:Clark, B. (2023). Fear: The must-read gripping new book about New Zealand's hostile underworld of extremists. HarperCollins New Zealand.Ebner, J. (2021). Going dark: The secret social lives of extremists. Bloomsbury...2024-12-2049 min
The Family Histories PodcastS08EP07 - 'The Nationalist' with Daniel LoftusIn this final full episode of Series Eight, host Andrew Martin meets Irish genealogist, speaker, occasional podcaster, and Project Infant founder, Daniel Loftus. He asks Daniel how he got hooked on researching his family history, challenges he's faced with DNA testing and adoption, and why he's leading a project that brings Mother and Baby Homes in Ireland under the spotlight.If you’d like to volunteer for Project Infant, you can do so at: https://projectinfant.ie/volunteerTHE LIFE STORY - PATRICK WHELAN Daniel has chosen to tell the lif...2024-12-1747 minHappier & Healthier with NestBrain Health Uncovered: Cognitive ResilienceIn this episode, Bridget recaps an enlightening talk from Abby Kranitz, a true expert with over 35 years in human performance, nutrition, and physiology. Abby shared insights that both shock and empower: dementia cases are soaring, with a new diagnosis every 32 seconds. Despite this crisis, there’s hope—our lifestyle choices can make a lasting impact on brain health.Bridget unpacks Abby’s deep dive into the causes of cognitive decline, from hidden toxins in everyday products to lifestyle factors like processed foods and chronic stress. Abby highlighted the power of neuroplasticity, showing that our brains can continue to gro...2024-10-2925 minHappier & Healthier with NestReduce Stress, Build ResiliencyWelcome back to Happier and Healthier with Nest! Today, I’m recapping an amazing talk by Jill Verchota-Luce, a health management consultant with Marsh McLennan Agency and a registered dietician with a background in functional and integrative nutrition. Jill, who’s certified in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, had some fantastic insights on reducing stress and building resiliency.She started by sharing that we’re more stressed than we were before the pandemic. Over a quarter of adults feel like they could use more support but don’t know where to start. Jill explained that stress is essentially a signal—y...2024-09-1816 minHappier & Healthier with NestFinancial Wellness: Budgeting Essentials!In this episode, Bridget is breaking down the key insights from Nest Health Connection's recent educational talk with Betsy Sklar on financial well-being. Betsy Sklar has over 25 years experience in the corporate world, finance degrees from Harvard and Georgetown, and has been helping people integrate money management skills into their value systems and day-to-day lives. She offered SO many great tips in her talk, and Bridget will recap them all with you in just 20 minutes. Whether you’re new to budgeting or looking to fine-tune your finances, this recap covers everything from tracking expenses to setting financial goals. Discover pr...2024-08-2821 minHappier & Healthier with NestOptimal Nutrition through DigestionIn this episode, host Bridget recaps an educational talk by esteemed Ayurvedic practitioner Alexa Berman. Dive into the world of Ayurveda and discover the secrets to optimal nutrition through proper digestion. Bridget distills Alexa's expert insights on the when, how, and what to eat according to Ayurvedic principles. Learn the importance of recognizing true hunger and maintaining a healthy agni, or digestive fire, to achieve balanced wellness. Whether you're new to Ayurveda or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode offers practical tips and profound wisdom to enhance your digestive health.Alexa's Website2024-07-1917 minHappier & Healthier with NestPractices for Deep RestIn this episode of Practices for Deep Rest, Bridget recaps an insightful talk by Emily Pickett, an Ayurvedic Health Counselor with extensive experience in yoga and embodied well-being. Emily's approach to sleep highlights not only its importance for immune support, muscle repair, and mood regulation but also how to build a sustainable routine to enhance sleep quality.The episode kicks off with a moment of self-reflection, encouraging listeners to consider how they want to feel daily. Emily’s three-part evening routine includes avoiding late-night eating, disconnecting from screens, and engaging in calming activities like gratitude journaling and re...2024-06-2814 minHappier & Healthier with NestMen's Health: Advocating for yourself, asking for support, and honoring the Divine MasculineIn this special episode of Bridget’s Wellness Corner, Bridget recaps an insightful talk by chiropractor and wellness expert Dr. Bryen Bell in honor of National Men's Health Month. Bridget dives into Dr. Bell's key points on men's health, covering essential tips for maintaining physical, mental, and emotional well-being. She emphasizes the importance of men advocating for their own health and shares practical advice on how to stay balanced and proactive.Bridget keeps things light and engaging as she explores how physical, mental, and emotional health are interconnected. She wraps up the episode with a heartfelt reminder to...2024-06-2520 minHappier & Healthier with NestDementia, Alzheimer's, and Taking Care of the CaregiverIn this quick 15-minute episode, host Bridget recaps an educational talk with Kelly Osthoff, Senior director of Programs at the Alzheimer's Association. Bridget will share all that she learned, including the link between dementia and Alzheimer's. She recaps the signs of Alzheimer's like memory loss and confusion, helping listeners know what to watch for. Bridget also offers tips and resources for caregivers, emphasizing the importance of self-care. Finally, she shares easy ways to boost brain health at any age, like staying mentally active, eating well, exercising, and keeping social connections strong. This episode is a handy and supportive guide...2024-05-1716 minHappier & Healthier with NestEmbracing Wellness: Self Transformation + Personal Growth with Coach Jen BeeIn this episode of the "Happier and Healthier with Nest" podcast, your host Bridget welcomes Coach Jen Bee, a transformational life coach with a passion for holistic wellness. Together, they delve into the deep meanings behind wellness, exploring what it truly means to lead a fulfilling and healthy life.Bridget and Coach Jen Bee discuss the journey of starting on a path to wellness, emphasizing the importance of taking that one step at a time, no matter how small it may seem. They share personal anecdotes and insights, highlighting the power of resilience and perseverance in achieving o...2024-05-1022 minHappier & Healthier with NestMidlife Mastery: Unveiling Sue Page's Blueprint for Women's HealthIn this episode, host Bridget shares all she learned after attending Sue Page's discussion on Women's health. Sue, expert in women's health during midlife transitions, focused on the intricate balance between nutrition, exercise, metabolism, and hormonal fluctuations during midlife. Bridget recaps key takeaways, including actionable tips on maintaining a health, interesting facts about metabolism, and Sue's take on hormone replacement therapy. Tune in as Bridget unpacks Sue Page's invaluable advice, offering listeners a roadmap to navigate midlife wellness with confidence and vitality.Sue Page's InstagramSue Page's Website 2024-03-2218 minHappier & Healthier with NestUnveiling Ayurveda: Women's Health with Alexa BermanJoin host Bridget as she sits down with esteemed Ayurvedic practitioner, Alexa Berman. Together, they explore the profound wisdom of Ayurveda, focusing particularly on its invaluable insights into women's health and wellness.Throughout the episode, Bridget and Alexa uncover the fundamental principles of Ayurveda and how they can be applied to enhance women's vitality and balance. From understanding your unique constitution to exploring natural remedies for common health concerns, such as hormonal imbalances, menstrual issues, thyroid disease, and weight loss, this episode covers a wide array of topics relevant to women's health.Listeners w...2024-03-081h 02Happier & Healthier with NestEmbracing Authenticity: Living Your Values with BridgetJoin Bridget in a transformative episode inspired by Sheila Anne Murray, a Certified and Professional Life Coach. Bridget delves into the profound journey of authenticity and values, offering reflective questions to help listeners pinpoint their core principles.Discover the power of aligning actions with your authentic self as Bridget guides you through practical steps to bring your values to life. This episode is a beacon for those seeking a more purpose-driven and fulfilling existence.Tune in for a captivating exploration of authenticity and values, and let Bridget inspire you to live a life that reflects...2024-02-0518 minHappier & Healthier with NestThe Power of Habit & Routine with Kristin MarkeyWelcome to another transformative podcast episode where host Bridget Lavin engages in a captivating conversation with Kristin Markey, the founder of Nest. In this discussion, Kristin generously shares insights into her own personal morning routine, emphasizing the profound power of dedicating just 5 minutes to intentional practices. Discover the magic of embracing short, impactful routines that ebb and flow with the seasons of nature and the unique seasons of your life. Join us as they unravel the secrets to personal and professional growth through small steps, healthy habits, and the adaptable beauty of rituals. Get ready to be inspired and...2024-01-2624 minHappier & Healthier with NestReiki, Energy Healing, and Corporate WellnessWelcome, dear listeners, to another enlightening episode of Happier & Healthier with Nest. Today, we delve into the fascinating world of Reiki and its transformative potential within the corporate landscape. Our guest, Brenda Rowe Plasz, a seasoned Reiki practitioner and advocate, shares her invaluable insights on bringing the healing energy of Reiki into the often bustling and demanding world of corporations. Join our host, Bridget, as she explores with Brenda the history of reiki, what to expect in a session, and what the intersection of energy healing and corporations might look like. Get ready for a captivating conversation that might...2023-12-2223 minHappier & Healthier with NestNavigating Chronic Pain, Functional Movement, and the Mind-Body Connection with Dr. Nikki DorityBridget engages in a profound conversation with the insightful Dr. Nikki Dority, a seasoned physical therapist with a passion for unraveling the intricate connections between our physical bodies and the emotional landscapes within us. Dr. Nikki brings her expertise to the forefront, emphasizing the often-overlooked importance of feeling safe in our bodies, moving the body efficiently, and rebuilding trust as key components in the journey towards healing chronic pain.Nikki introduces listeners to the transformative realms of somatic therapy, functional movement, and internal family systems, shedding light on how these therapeutic approaches can be powerful tools in...2023-12-0130 min