Shows
Crunchy StewardshipYour Guide to Crunchy Living: Best Resources of 2025In our final episode of 2025, we're sharing our favorite crunchy resources to help you continue your health journey over the winter break! From podcasts to books to websites, we've compiled everything you need to keep learning about natural living, non-toxic products, and biblical stewardship of your health.Podcasts We Recommend:Modern Ancestral MamasWise Traditions with Hilda Latа GoreCulture Apothecary by Alex ClarkDr. Josh Axe PodcastBooks to Read:Eat Dirt by Dr. Josh Axe - https://amzn.to/3MhE3xf Ancient Remedies by Dr. Josh Axe - https://amzn.to/3MF3ed8 The Forgotten Hom...
2025-12-0547 minCrunchy StewardshipCrunchy Christmas: Healthy Alternatives To Make The Season BrightWelcome to our Crunchy Christmas episode! As we head into the holiday season, we're sharing practical ways to celebrate Christmas without all the toxins that typically come with it—from scented candles and fake snow to sugar-laden treats and synthetic decorations.In this episode, we cover:Natural ways to scent your home Real vs. fake Christmas trees: what's actually healthier?Healthier holiday baking tips and dairy-free alternativesThoughtful, crunchy gift ideasVoting with your dollars and making intentional purchasing decisionsMost importantly: keeping Jesus at the center of ChristmasPlus, we share our personal Christmas traditions, dairy sensitivity dis...
2025-11-2854 minCrunchy StewardshipWhat to Prioritize First in Your Crunchy Journey with Anna McLaughlinAfter spending $20,000 trying to fix her family's health issues, Anna McLaughlin learned a powerful lesson: striving and fear never lead to healing. Join us as Anna shares her journey from corporate lawyer to homeschooling mom, and how she went from doing ALL the crunchy things to finding peace in what really matters. We take a biblical approach to the overwhelming question: 'Where do I start?' Hint: it begins with abiding in the Father, not frantically searching for the next supplement or solution.In this episode, we discuss:Anna's journey down the crunchy rabbit...
2025-11-211h 12Crunchy StewardshipSimple, FREE Steps to Reduce Toxins in Your HomeIn this SOLO episode, Katie shares practical, free ways to reduce your toxin load and support your body's natural detoxification pathways. Building on last week's Toxin Bucket Theory discussion, she dives into actionable steps you can take today—without spending a dime—to live a healthier, less toxic lifestyle.In this episode, you'll learn:What iatrogenesis is and how it relates to our health journeysFree ways to reduce toxin inflow in your home (VOCs, cleaning products, EMFs, and more)How to support your body's natural detox pathways through sleep, stress management, and movementWhen it's wort...
2025-11-0756 minCrunchy StewardshipBeyond Genetics: How Your Toxin Bucket Affects Chronic IllnessIn this episode, we dive deep into the "toxin bucket" theory and explore how managing your daily exposures might be your best defense against chronic illness. We discuss epigenetics—the idea that while you can't change your genes, you can influence whether they "turn on" and lead to disease.Join us for a room-by-room tour of hidden toxins in your home, from paint and flooring to personal care products and cleaning supplies. We'll talk about your body's natural detox systems (liver, spleen, colon, and more) and practical ways to support them.Ch...
2025-10-311h 00Crunchy StewardshipCrunchy Travel Hacks: Hotels, Restaurants & AirportsJoin Katie and Chrissy as they record together in person for the first time! In this episode, we share practical tips for maintaining your health while traveling—from bringing your own breakfast to navigating restaurant menus and minimizing toxin exposure in hotel rooms.Got a trip coming up or love to travel? This episode is for you!In this episode, we discuss:Bringing your own food while traveling (oatmeal, coffee, and more)How to order healthy meals at restaurants when nothing on the menu worksThe best types of restaurants for clean eating (Mediterranean, salad sp...
2025-10-2452 minCrunchy StewardshipThe Unfiltered Update: Sugar Detox, Toxic Paint & DIY Cough DropsJoin Chrissy and Katie for a very real life update episode! In this candid conversation, the cousins dive into what's really happening behind the scenes of their crunchy journeys.Chrissy shares her intensive 6-month gut reset program with a naturopathic doctor—complete with dramatic sugar withdrawals, surprising food discoveries (yes, even sushi has sugar!), and the emotional rollercoaster of preparing her body for pregnancy naturally. Meanwhile, Katie opens up about the chaos and decision fatigue of renovating their new 2.5-acre homestead, from researching non-toxic paints to learning that LED lights might be affecting more than just your ci...
2025-10-1757 minCrunchy StewardshipBuilding Your Immune System Naturally: Fighting Colds and Flu Without MedicineAre you tired of reaching for the medicine cabinet every time cold and flu season hits? In this episode, Katie and Chrissy explore how to build a robust immune system naturally—the way God designed it to work.We dive into the science behind immunity, why our obsession with hand sanitizer might be doing more harm than good, and how gut health is the foundation of a strong immune system. Plus, we share practical natural remedies you can use when illness strikes, from bone broth to eucalyptus oil.In This Episode:Why microplastic exposure fr...
2025-10-031h 04Crunchy StewardshipFat: Friend or Foe? Separating Biblical Wisdom from Modern MythsFor decades, we've been told that fat is the enemy - but what if we've been wrong this whole time? Chrissy and Katie challenge conventional wisdom about dietary fat, exploring why our bodies actually need quality saturated fats to thrive. From biblical references the "fat of the land" as God's portion, to the science of how fat affects brain function and hormones, this episode will change how you think about fat in your diet.Random Revelation of the Week: Chrissy discovered the ultimate natural cleaning solution using baking soda, Dr. Bronner's castile soap, and hydrogen...
2025-09-261h 05Crunchy StewardshipAdmittedly Unqualified: But Let's Talk About Alcohol AnywayChrissy and Katie are back with their most honest episode yet - a candid conversation about alcohol from two cousins who openly admit they know very little about drinking! With Katie's last drink being in June and Chrissy having maybe one or two glasses of wine per month, they bring you a refreshingly research-based (rather than experience-based) discussion on alcohol and health.From biblical wine at Jesus' first miracle to Paul's advice to Timothy about using wine for stomach troubles, they explore what Scripture actually says about alcohol consumption. But don't worry - they also dive into...
2025-09-1940 minCrunchy StewardshipSpilling the Tea on Tea: Quality, Benefits, and What to AvoidNot all teas are created equal! In this episode, Chrissy and Katie dive deep into the world of tea, exploring why quality matters when it comes to what you're steeping in your cup. From the hidden dangers of microplastics and bleached tea bags to the deceptive marketing of "natural flavors," they break down what to look for (and what to avoid) when shopping for tea.Discover the incredible health benefits of various teas including elderberry, chamomile, dandelion, and turmeric, plus in this week’s Random Revelation, learn why the wise men's gifts of myrrh and frankincense were fa...
2025-09-1254 minCrunchy StewardshipThe Coffee Chronicles: Exploring Benefits, Myths, and AlternativesJoin Katie and Chrissy as they dive deep into America's second-most consumed beverage - coffee! In this candid conversation, the cousins share their personal coffee origin stories, from Chrissy's desperate seventh-grade all-nighter to Katie's college social awakening with "fufu drinks."In this episode, you'll discover:How coffee actually works in your brain (hint: it's not giving you energy the way you think)The surprising connection between mouth breathing and cavities in this week's "Random Revelations"Why coffee releases dopamine and creates those cozy social moments we craveThe hidden toxins in conventional coffee and how...
2025-09-0556 minCrunchy StewardshipWhy You Might Be Dehydrated Despite Drinking Water All DayThink drinking lots of water means you're well-hydrated? Think again. In this eye-opening episode, we dive into why you might actually be dehydrated despite chugging water all day long, and reveal what your body really needs to stay properly hydrated. Plus, tune in to our two new segments that we have added to the beginning and end of the podcast! Chrissy’s very first Random Revelation might send your head spinning! In This Episode:Our Daily Drink Routine: From morning lemon water with cayenne pepper to electrolyte strategiesThe Hydration Truth Bomb: Why water alone doe...
2025-08-2953 minCrunchy StewardshipClean Living Made Easy: Natural Solutions for Every RoomReady to ditch the toxic chemicals and create a healthier home environment? In this episode, Katie and Chrissy dive deep into the world of cleaning products - from the hidden dangers lurking in conventional cleaners to simple, affordable alternatives that actually work.We cover everything you need to know about transitioning to non-toxic cleaning, including why it's often the second step people take after switching to healthier food choices. You'll learn about the balance between staying clean and not over-sanitizing (spoiler: your immune system needs some exposure to build strength!), plus discover why that dust in your...
2025-08-221h 00Crunchy StewardshipGoat Cheese Hunt, Cold Plunge Fail, and Beaver Butt TeaIn this episode, we're switching things up and sharing how we're actually living out all the crunchy things we talk about! Katie's on a mission to find local goat cheese (spoiler: it's harder than finding goat milk), Chrissy discovers why cold plunges aren't for every body type (hello, exhaustion hangover), and we dive into some shocking truths about what's really in your tea bags. From quail eggs to red light therapy price tags, we're giving you the real, unfiltered update on our non-toxic journey - including all the wins, fails, and "wait, THAT'S what natural flavoring is made from?!"...
2025-08-1553 minCrunchy StewardshipThe Sugar-Disease Connection: How Sugar May Be Causing Chronic IllnessIn this episode of Crunchy Stewardship, cousins Katie Fiola Jones and Chrissy Rombach dive into the topic of sugar and its significant impact on health. We discuss how sugar is the enemy to our health due to its addictive nature and its role in various chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and even cognitive diseases like Alzheimer's. They highlight how sugar is pervasive in modern diets and the importance of avoiding it at all costs, especially for children. This episode explores alternative natural sweeteners such as honey, monk fruit, and maple syrup, and coconut palm sugar which...
2025-08-0845 minCrunchy StewardshipThe Cookware Conundrum: Choosing Safe and Sustainable Kitchen ToolsIn this episode of Crunchy Stewardship, cousins Chrissy Rombach and Katie Fiola Jones dive into the topic of non-toxic and safe cookware to promote overall health and wellness. They discuss the potential hazards of common materials such as non-stick coatings, plastics, and aluminum, highlighting the importance of making informed choices about what we use in our kitchens. They recommend alternatives like stainless steel, cast iron, glass, and ceramic, while also providing the best tips for finding affordable options.. Join the conversation about how to make your kitchen healthier without breaking the bank by logging onto their Facebook Group, Crunchy...
2025-08-0152 minCrunchy StewardshipFrom Farm to Table: A Guide to Finding Local Organic ProduceJoin Katie Fiola Jones and Chrissy Rombach on the latest episode of Crunchy Stewardship as they discuss the journey of finding local organic produce and meats. Learn about the benefits of sourcing your food from local farmers, how to vet your sources, and why shopping at farmer's markets can be both cost-effective and nutritionally superior. Tune in for practical tips, personal stories, and a deep dive into the value of supporting your local community, all while honoring God through stewarding your health. Don't forget to subscribe and join our Facebook group, Crunchy Christian Mamas on a Budget, for more...
2025-07-2547 minCrunchy StewardshipNurturing Your Roots: Gardening Tips for a Healthier LifestyleIn this episode of Crunchy Stewardship, cousins Chrissy Rombach and Katie Fiola Jones delve into the practicalities of gardening, emphasizing cost-effective methods to cultivate your own produce. They share their personal gardening experiences and discuss how the journey to healthier, organic food can often start with an expensive switch at the store but can become more affordable by growing your own. Chrissy and Katie offer valuable tips on utilizing resources like Facebook Marketplace, seed swaps, and library seed banks to keep initial gardening costs low. They also discuss the importance of nutrient-rich soil, hydroponics, and methods to maintain a...
2025-07-1843 minCrunchy StewardshipUnlocking the Power of the Sun: A Guide to Vitamin D and Sunscreen UseIn this episode of Crunchy Stewardship, cousins Katie Jones and Chrissy Rombach explore the significance of Vitamin D and sun exposure for overall health. They detail the synthesis of Vitamin D in the body and discuss the importance of cholesterol in this process. The hosts also focus on the pros and cons of sunscreen usage, the types of sunscreens to choose for minimal toxicity, and the controversial topic of sunglasses potentially causing more sunburn. They emphasize the interconnectedness of diet, sun exposure, and health, and caution against over-reliance on supplements. Throughout the discussion, they highlight practical steps for maintaining...
2025-07-1141 minCrunchy StewardshipHealthy Eating as Spiritual Worship with Dietician Abby CogginsIn this episode of Crunchy Stewardship, host Chrissy Roach interviews dietician Abby Coggins. They discuss integrating Christian faith with nutrition, focusing on how to honor God through food choices and physical health. Abby shares her journey from culinary school to becoming a dietician and explains how her faith guided her career choices. The conversation covers practical advice on meal planning, overcoming unhealthy relationships with food, understanding fad diets, and the role of supplements. Abby emphasizes the importance of gratitude and stewardship in improving health. Episode Takeaway: In this episode, featuring Ch...
2025-07-0438 minCrunchy StewardshipDitch the Insurance: A Deep Dive Into Health Cost Sharing ProgramsIn this episode of Crunchy Stewardship, hosts and cousins Katie Fiola Jones and Chrissy Rombach explore alternatives to traditional health insurance, including Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM) and Crowd Health. They discuss the financial benefits, differences in coverage, and their personal experiences with these health cost-sharing mechanisms. Katie shares her positive experiences with CHM and her considerations about switching to Crowd Health, while Chrissy weighs the pros and cons of leaving traditional health insurance. The episode provides a detailed comparison of costs, how each model handles expenses, and their alignment with Christian values. They also touch on topics like direct...
2025-06-2745 minCrunchy StewardshipStewarding Health Costs: Understanding Alternatives to Traditional InsuranceIn this episode of the Crunchy Stewardship podcast, cousins Chrissy Rombach and Katie Jones discuss the high costs of healthcare and methods to manage these expenses effectively. They explore traditional health insurance, explaining premiums, copays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket maximums. They highlight issues within the system, such as the rising costs influenced by both providers and insurance companies. They introduce alternative healthcare strategies, focusing on non-traditional health insurance options like Christian Healthcare Ministries and Crowd Health. The episode covers their personal experiences with these health cost-sharing programs, emphasizing their benefits, such as significant discounts for self-pay patients and no network...
2025-06-2043 minCrunchy StewardshipThe Myths of Seed Oils: Why Margarine and Vegetable Oil Might Be Harming Your HealthIn this episode of Crunchy Stewardship, cousins Katie Jones and Chrissy Rombach delve into the controversial topic of seed oils. The hosts clarify what seed oils are, their chemical properties, and the health implications of consuming them. They discuss the history and political landscape that led to the widespread use of seed oils and contrast them with more stable, healthier fats like butter, tallow, and coconut oil. The episode provides practical advice on choosing and using healthier oils, the significance of cold-pressed oils, and tips for integrating these into daily life. Chrissy and Katie also share personal anecdotes, book...
2025-06-1339 minCrunchy StewardshipWhat's So "Essential" About Essential Oils?In this episode of Crunchy Stewardship, cousins Chrissy Rombach and Katie Jones explore the significance and uses of essential oils from both a biblical and practical perspective. They discuss the origins of essential oils, their historical and spiritual context, and provide a list of oils mentioned in the Bible. The hosts share their personal experiences and the medicinal benefits of various essential oils like lavender and peppermint for stress relief, migraines, and treating fevers. They also emphasize the importance of choosing high-quality oils and avoiding synthetic products. Practical applications of essential oils in daily life, from personal care routines...
2025-06-0643 minCrunchy StewardshipWhat Does "Crunchy" Even Mean? (And How Crunchy Are We?)Ever heard the term "crunchy" and wondered what it actually means? Join cousins Chrissy and Katie on this episode of Crunchy Stewardship as they pull back the curtain on the world of natural, holistic living. We're defining what "crunchy" means to us – a lifestyle focused on stewarding our spiritual, mental, emotional, financial, and physical health to honor God – and why it's more of a spectrum than a strict label.From birthing choices and organic eating to homemade cleaning products and natural remedies, we share our personal journeys and reveal just how "crunchy" we actually are. Plus, get read...
2025-05-3041 minCrunchy StewardshipThe Real Cost of Unwellness: Why Prevention is an Act of StewardshipThis podcast episode of Crunchy Stewardship features cousins Katie and Chrissy diving into the significant monetary and intangible costs associated with unhealthy lifestyles, drawing on research and personal experiences. They explore how chronic diseases burden individuals and the healthcare system financially, while also highlighting the impact on mental, emotional, and social well-being. The conversation then shifts to the cost benefits of embracing a healthier, more natural way of living, grounded in biblical principles, and offers practical, budget-friendly strategies like reducing alcohol and tobacco, incorporating free physical activity, and prioritizing whole, nutritious foods. Katie and Chrissy also share personal anecdotes...
2025-05-2347 min