Shows
Inspirations by NancySpring is Here: How to Reboot Your Energy and Wellness“It’s spring again. I can hear the birds sing again. See the flowers start to bud. See young people fall in love.” – Erma Bombeck Winter blues dragging you down? You’re not alone—but brighter days are ahead! In this refreshing solo episode of Inspirations by Nancy, host Nancy O. explores how to make the most of the seasonal shift from winter to spring. Whether you're a busy parent, wellness enthusiast, or simply looking to reset, Nancy offers practical, doable tips for boosting your mood, energy, and overall health. Tune in and get inspired to step into spring feeling refreshed and...
2025-04-2214 min
Inspirations by NancyCooking with Nancy O: Fast, Fresh, and Full of Flavor: Smoothie Recipes for a Healthy Glow“You don't have to cook fancy or complicated masterpieces—just good food from fresh ingredients.” – Julia ChildSummary:Feeling overwhelmed by your extra garden greens? Don’t toss them—blend them! In today’s episode of Cooking with Nancy O, Nancy and her husband Rick share three delicious, nutrient-packed smoothie recipes using produce straight from their tower garden. From a detoxifying green smoothie to a surprisingly sweet avocado blend and the indulgent Blueberry Blast, this episode is packed with tips, laughter, and wellness wisdom.Watch the magic happen on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@nancysurbantowerfarmOrder your Tower Garden today! https://nancyocares.co...
2025-04-1514 min
Inspirations by NancyExpert Interview: The Gut Health Epidemic: What the Doctors Aren’t Telling You with Marc McLean"Gut health is at epidemic levels these days. It affects so many people, it is the #1 reason for hospitalizations in the US.” - Marc McLean Episode Summary:🔥 Gut health is at crisis levels—but the answers may not be what you think. 🔥In this episode of Inspirations by Nancy, Marc McLean shares his powerful journey of overcoming severe gut health issues, from an unexpected IBS diagnosis to years of struggling with digestive disorders. His story is one of resilience, research, and discovery—diving into how nutrition, emotional health, and even dental fillings played a crucial role in his recovery. Join us as we disc...
2025-03-0431 min
Inspirations by NancyCooking with Nancy O: The Perfect Winter Salad: Cozy, Crunchy, and Oh-So-Delicious!"I eat salads occasionally just to remind my body that I’m in charge." – UnknownEpisode Summary:Who has time to cook? Let’s make something fast, healthy, and delicious!Winter doesn’t have to mean heavy meals! In this episode, we’re making a delicious Winter Salad using fresh greens from our very own Urban Tower Garden. With a mix of tart apples, crunchy pecans, dried cherries, and a homemade creamy maple dressing, this salad is packed with flavor, texture, and nutrition. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for meal prepping, and a great alternative to fast food when you're short...
2025-02-2513 min
Inspirations by NancyExpert Interview: Can Stem Cells Reverse Alzheimer’s? Darlene Green’s Inspiring Journey"As caregivers, we live in constant worry. Finding hope changes everything.” - Darlene Green Episode Summary:What if the answer to Alzheimer’s was hiding in plain sight? Darlene Green’s life changed forever when her husband was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s. Faced with no clear solutions, she embarked on a relentless search for hope—leading her to an unexpected discovery: stem cell activation patches. In this powerful episode, Darlene shares her caregiving journey, the science behind this groundbreaking approach, and how it’s transformed their lives. Could this be the future of brain health? Tune in to hear her incredibl...
2025-02-1843 min
Inspirations by NancyCooking with Nancy O: Family Friendly Comfort Foods with a Twist"Food tastes better when you eat it with your family." – Unknown Episode Summary:What do you do when your zucchini grows an inch a day? You turn it into delicious creations the whole family will love!"Join Nancy O and her sidekick (and husband) Rick as they whip up healthy, mouthwatering recipes straight from their thriving tower garden. From zucchini-infused potato pancakes to a fast and flavorful meatloaf, this episode is packed with kitchen tips, family stories, and creative ways to use fresh produce. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just looking for new ways to elevate your cooking, this epi...
2025-01-2817 min
Inspirations by NancyFresh, Fast, and Sustainable: The Future of Urban Gardening“Those magazine dieting stories always have the testimonial of a woman who wore a dress that could slipcover New Jersey in one photo and thirty days later looked like a well-dressed thermometer..” - Erma BombeckEpisode Summary:What if you could grow your own fresh, nutrient-dense produce right in your home – with no digging or weeding required?Fresh, fast, and sustainable—meet the aeroponic tower garden! In this episode, we unveil the incredible technology behind these vertical gardens that grow plants faster, increase yields, and reduce environmental impact. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a curious beginner, this is your guide to revol...
2025-01-0914 min
Inspirations by NancyBlack Gold: The Future of Better Soil, Urban Composting, and a Better Environment with Cathy Nesbitt"People don't buy solutions. They don't buy what they need. They buy what they want...” - Cathy Nesbitt Episode Summary:Transform food waste into black gold with Cathy Nesbitt’s indoor composting secrets!In this episode of Inspirations by Nancy, we welcome Cathy Nesbitt, founder of Cathy’s Crawly Composters, as she unpacks the fascinating world of indoor composting with worms. Learn how you can turn kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich compost, improve soil health, and reduce your carbon footprint—all from the comfort of your home!Discover how worms can revolutionize waste management and create healthier, more sustainable gardens. Cathy’s passion f...
2024-11-2636 min
Inspirations by NancyCooking with Nancy O: Fall Comfort Pumpkin Chili: Easy, Healthy, Holiday-Ready"I come from a family where gravy is considered a beverage." - Erma BombeckEpisode Summary:Transform your fall dinners with this savory pumpkin chili recipe! Join Nancy and Rick as they share a cozy, hearty pumpkin chili recipe perfect for the season. Learn how to adapt it using what you have on hand, savor the health benefits of pumpkins, and pick up tips for prepping ahead for Thanksgiving. This episode is filled with laughter, love for pumpkins, and practical cooking advice.Order your Tower Garden today!https://nancyocares.com/a-healthier-you/ In This Episode:How to substitute ingredients based on what's a...
2024-11-2413 min
Inspirations by NancyCooking with Nancy O: Guilt-Free Fall Cookies"Never eat anything you can’t pronounce." - Erma Bombeck Episode Summary:In this engaging conversation, Nancy and Rick share their love for pumpkins, discussing their experiences growing them, the joy of visiting pumpkin patches, and the excitement of creating healthy pumpkin recipes. They explore the versatility of pumpkins in cooking, from cookies to stews, and emphasize the importance of using fresh ingredients. The couple also shares tips on preserving carved pumpkins and invite listeners to share their own pumpkin recipes.Order your Tower Garden today!https://nancyocares.com/a-healthier-you/ In This Episode:Pumpkins are a versatile ingredient in cooking.Usin...
2024-10-2311 min
Inspirations by NancyFrom Dreams to Reality: The Inspiring Journey to 50 Episodes and MoreEpisode Summary:Celebrating 50 episodes of heartfelt stories, valuable lessons, and incredible guests! In this special milestone episode, Nancy celebrates her 50th podcast episode, reflecting on the amazing guests she has interviewed and the life-changing experiences shared on Inspirations by Nancy. From learning the wonders of worm composting (also known as "black gold") to embarking on the journey of opening her aeroponic tower farm, Nancy shares heartfelt stories of personal growth, friendship, and her passion for health, wellness, and gardening.Whether it’s sharing tips for a healthier lifestyle, learning how to relax, or gardening for wellness, Nancy’s podcast brings list...
2024-10-1508 min
Inspirations by NancyCooking with Nancy O: Flavor-Packed Tomato Tarts Fresh from the Garden"I’m not a glutton - I am an explorer of food." - Erma Bombeck Episode Summary:Indulge in the flavors of France with this exquisite Classic Ratatouille recipe straight from Nancy’s Tower Garden!In this culinary journey, Nancy and Rick bring the rustic charm of Provence to your kitchen, where fresh vegetables are transformed into a harmonious medley of tastes and textures. Whether you're an experienced chef or a novice cook, with this quick and easy recipe you’ll create a masterpiece showcasing the best of seasonal produce that not only delights your taste buds but also impresses your fa...
2024-10-0813 min
Inspirations by NancyTitle: Expert Interview: The Doughnut Diaries: Dieting Myths and Guilt-Free Eating with Rachel Lavin"We are our own worst enemies.” - Rachel Lavin“You also need to trust your body that it knows when to eat, when you're hungry, when you're full, when a food does or does not agree with you, your body will tell you.” - Rachel Lavin Episode Summary:In this enlightening conversation, Rachel Lavin shares her journey of overcoming body image struggles and the societal pressures surrounding food and nutrition. She discusses her book, “The Doughnut Diaries”, which reflects her relationship with food and self-acceptance. Rachel emphasizes the importance of trusting our bodies, understanding hunger signals, and moving away from diet myths...
2024-09-2629 min
Inspirations by NancyCooking with Nancy O: Classic Ratatouille: Elevate Your Cooking with French Elegance"A friend doesn't go on a diet because you are fat." - Erma Bombeck Episode Summary:Indulge in the flavors of France with this exquisite Classic Ratatouille recipe straight from Nancy’s Tower Garden!In this culinary journey, Nancy and Rick bring the rustic charm of Provence to your kitchen, where fresh vegetables are transformed into a harmonious medley of tastes and textures. Whether you're an experienced chef or a novice cook, with this quick and easy recipe you’ll create a masterpiece showcasing the best of seasonal produce that not only delights your taste buds but also impresses your famil...
2024-09-1711 min
Inspirations by NancyExpert Interview: Bringing Taboo Topics Out in the open: Innovative Self-Care from Peri to Post Menopause with Amita Sharma“We, women, have a habit of holding on to our thoughts and never voicing our opinion with the fear of, oh, I'm going to hurt someone.” - Amita Sharma“The reason I'm emphasizing the pedi menopause is because at that time, your hormones are going to start going down and you as a woman better pay attention to that.” - Amita Sharma Episode Summary:Navigate hormonal and life transitions with confidence and grace! In this week's episode, Nancy is joined by Amita Sharma, a leading expert in menopause, perimenopause, and women's sexual health. Amita shares her expertise on hormone therapy, nutrition...
2024-08-2935 min
Inspirations by NancyCooking with Nancy O: Sweet and Savory Strawberry Bites and Delectable Fruit Pizza"Have you any idea how many children it takes to turn off one light in the kitchen? Three. It takes one to say 'What light?' and two more to say 'I didn't turn it on.’ " - Erma Bombeck Episode Summary:Join Nancy and Rick for a delightful episode featuring their homegrown strawberries from their tower garden. Learn about the nutritional benefits of strawberries, including their high vitamin C content and essential minerals. Get step-by-step instructions on making delicious strawberry bites with brie cheese and a delectable oatmeal cookie-based fruit pizza topped with cream cheese, yogurt, and fresh fruits. Nancy als...
2024-08-1313 min
Inspirations by NancyExpert Interview: Rising Above Trauma: John Lawyer's Transformation from Soldier to Spiritual Guide"We're the balance of the universe ourselves. And we get to decide. If we look at the dark or look at the light, we can choose to walk that great path in the middle balance. But look at the light" - John Lawyer Episode Summary:How do we navigate the spiritual path in the modern age?In this episode of Inspirations by Nancy, John Lawyer shares his profound story, of transitioning from his military career to becoming a spiritual leader. John discusses the challenges and impacts of his extensive military service, including deployment and the struggle with PTSD. He reflects on...
2024-08-0726 min
Inspirations by NancyCooking with Nancy O: Parmesan Spaghetti Squash Bake: A Simple and Nutritious Meal“Like religion, politics, and family planning, cereal is not a topic to be brought up in public. It's too controversial." - Erma BombeckEpisode Summary:Quick, nutritious meals made simple with spaghetti squash!Join Nancy as she whips up a quick and nutritious spaghetti squash meal that doesn't skimp on flavor or health benefits. Discover the rich vitamin and mineral content of spaghetti squash and learn how to use it as a tasty pasta substitute. Nancy provides step-by-step guidance on seasoning, baking, and even suggests pairing it with homemade sauce and your choice of cheeses. Perfect for busy lifestyles, this dish ca...
2024-07-3108 min
Inspirations by NancyHealthy Living: Cultivating the Garden of Your Dreams“The grass is always greener over the septic tank.” - Erma BombeckEpisode Summary:Have you ever imagined your dream garden? What would it look like? In this episode, Nancy delves into the reality of bringing that dream to life. She shares her journey with gardening expert Matthew Mayhues, exploring landscape design and plant selection. Nancy discusses incorporating edible plants like fruit trees and a pumpkin patch, and exciting future plans for a chicken coop and a treehouse for her grandkids. She highlights the joy of sharing fresh harvests with loved ones and the tranquility of relaxing in a beautiful garden. Tune...
2024-07-1713 min
Inspirations by NancyCooking with Nancy O: Refreshing Summer Fruit Salad In Minutes with Homegrown Ingredients“Why take pride in cooking, when they don't take pride in eating?" - Erma BombeckEpisode Summary:What tastes better in the summer than fresh fruit?Join Nancy and Rick as they dive into the joys of gardening and savoring the flavors of summer. In this episode, they celebrate the delicious produce and herbs they've grown in their tower garden, focusing on homegrown strawberries and a versatile lime fruit salad recipe.Discover the unique flavors that different varieties of basil and mint can bring to your dishes. Learn how to grow strawberries indoors on towers or incorporate them into your flower be...
2024-06-2612 min
Inspirations by NancyFrom Stress to Calm: Transforming Lives with HypnotherapyEpisode Summary:In this episode of Inspirations by Nancy's podcast, hypnotherapist and yoga teacher Matt Dixon joins to discuss the transformative power of hypnotherapy and yoga. The conversation covers the differences between entertainment hypnotism and therapeutic hypnotism, focusing specifically on stress, anxiety, and confidence. Matt explains how combining elements of yoga and hypnotherapy enhances the efficacy of both practices. He also touches on techniques for addressing stress and anxiety, building confidence, and the power of words and self-talk. Matt shares practical insights, including breath work, body language strategies, and the importance of being present. Additionally, he promotes upcoming workshops in...
2024-06-1237 min
Inspirations by NancySpring Cleaning: Decluttering the Mind and the Home“No one ever died from sleeping in an unmade bed.” - Erma Bombeck Episode Summary:Spring cleaning isn't just for our homes; it's also about rejuvenating our minds and nurturing a healthy body. By decluttering our surroundings and embracing positive thinking, we can cultivate a peaceful and uplifting mindset. Negative thoughts and words can shape our lives, so it's essential to shift our thinking and use positive language. This change in perspective can lead to a happier, healthier life. Additionally, prioritizing our physical health through activities that make our bodies feel vibrant is key. Spring cleaning our homes, minds, and bodie...
2024-06-0411 min
Inspirations by NancyCooking with Nancy O: Effortless Hawiian Kebobs: A Summer Mealtime Favorite“Kids are without doubt the most suspicious diners in the world. They will eat mud (raw or baked), rocks, paste, crayons, ballpoint pens, moving goldfish, cigarette butts, and cat food. Try to coax a little beef stew into their mouths and they look at you like a puppy when you stand over him with the Sunday paper rolled up." - Erma Bombeck Episode Summary:This week, join Nancy and Rick as they share their quick and easy recipe for summer kebabs that the whole family will love! Between kids' sports games, family gatherings, and sunny days out, finding time to pre...
2024-05-2809 min
Inspirations by NancyExpert Interview with Jimmy Clare: Rising Above: How to Succeed with Autism"I admit there's a lot, there's some days where it's tough being an entrepreneur, but it's like, what day is not tough?" - Jimmy Clare Episode Summary:Jimmy Clare, a motivational speaker, autism advocate, author, and founder of Crazy Fitness Guy, shares his inspiring story of overcoming challenges and bullying. He discusses his journey from being told he wouldn't amount to anything to becoming a successful entrepreneur and college student. Jimmy talks about his experiences with bullying and how it motivated him to become a motivational speaker. He also shares his unique sense of humor and the importance of having mu...
2024-05-0846 min
Inspirations by NancyCooking with Nancy O: Tower-to-Table Tacos: Sweet & Savory Breakfast Creations“The term 'working mother' is redundant." - Erma Bombeck Episode Summary:In this week’s cooking show, Nancy and Rick demonstrate how to make delicious strawberry and savory breakfast tacos using fresh produce from their tower garden. They highlight the crispness of freshly picked celery and the vibrant colors of their garden-grown strawberries, basil, kale, and more. Nancy and Rick cover two types of delicious tacos, a sweet strawberry taco with cinnamon cream cheese, yogurt, and honey filling wrapped in a lightly browned tortilla, emphasizing the option to include basil for added flavor. Additionally, they showcase a savory variation featuring scram...
2024-04-3014 min
Inspirations by NancyExpert Interview with Paul Zolman: Love in Practice: Transforming Anger into CompassionEpisode Summary:Paul Zolman, author of The Role of Love, shares his personal journey from a childhood of abuse and anger to a life of love and transformation. He created a paradigm shift using the principles of love languages and developed a method to practice and demonstrate love in everyday life. Paul's method involves rolling a dice with love language icons and practicing the love language that comes up each day. This simple tool helps break the cycle of anger and negativity and fosters positive relationships. Paul is also implementing this method in schools to promote a loving and compassionate...
2024-04-1637 min
Inspirations by NancyCooking with Nancy O: Bake it Healthy: Nancy’s Grandkid-Approved Zucchini Brownies“If you can't make it better, you can laugh at it." - Erma Bombeck Episode Summary:Join Nancy and Rick in a delightful episode of Cooking with Nancy as they unveil a nutritious yet indulgent treat: zucchini brownies! These delectable delights aren't just kid-approved; they're bursting with vitamins and minerals, making them a guilt-free pleasure for the whole family. Dive into the versatility of zucchinis and discover how they elevate dishes with their nutritional value.In this episode, Nancy shares her time-tested recipe for zucchini brownies, guiding you through each step with ease. Learn about the health benefits of cocoa powd...
2024-04-0214 min
Inspirations by NancyHealthy Living: The Joys of Spring: Easter, Gardening, and Clean Eating“Worry is like a rocking chair: it gives you something to do but never gets you anywhere” - Erma Bombeck Episode Summary:Join Nancy in this uplifting episode of Inspirations by Nancy as she welcomes the joys of Easter and the fresh beginnings of spring. Delve into Nancy's cherished family traditions and discover the beauty of gardening and clean eating. As Nancy and her husband embark on their Easter celebration, they find solace and joy in tending to their garden, nurturing new life and reconnecting with nature. From planning flower beds to cultivating a pumpkin patch, cherry trees, and an apple...
2024-03-2712 min
Inspirations by NancyCooking with Nancy O: Fresh and Delightful: Mandarin Orange Salad & Protein Cookie Dough Bites“The Rose Bowl is the only bowl I've ever seen that I didn't have to clean." - Erma Bombeck Episode Summary:Join Nancy O in this week's episode as she takes you on a culinary journey featuring fresh ingredients and delicious recipes. Nancy shares her secrets to creating a vibrant Mandarin Orange Salad using nutrient-rich spinach and arugula from her tower garden. Learn how to whip up a homemade dressing and plate your salad like a pro. Plus, Rick showcases his recipe for Protein Cookie Dough Bites, packed with healthy ingredients and irresistible flavor. Tune in for a mouthwatering episode fill...
2024-03-1913 min
Inspirations by NancyExpert Interview with Lynne Bowman: Effortless, Healthy Weight Loss"You have to have real food. The trick is making it easy." - Lynne Bowman Episode Summary:Brownies for Breakfast? You bet!Our guest this week is Lynne Bowman, an expert in healthy eating and author of "Brownies for Breakfast." Lynne shares her keys to effortless weight loss and vibrant health. Nancy and Lynne discuss the significance of nutrition, movement, sleep, and emotional well-being. Swapping stories on the challenges of maintaining a sugar-free lifestyle, the benefits of quitting sugar, and Lynne’s experiences managing type 2 diabetes. Tune in to explore the detrimental effects of processed foods and sugar on health and g...
2024-03-1247 min
Inspirations by NancyCooking with Nancy O: Summertime Spice: Zesty Jalapeno Peach Salsa Perfection“The odds of going to the store for a loaf of bread and coming out with just a loaf of bread are three billion to one." - Erma Bombeck Episode Summary:Discover your new summer go-to!Join Nancy as she demonstrates how to whip up a tantalizing jalapeno peach salsa using garden-fresh ingredients straight from the tower. Learn expert tips for serving and storing this versatile recipe, guaranteed to steal the spotlight at any family gathering! Check out Nancy’s YouTube page to see the full cooking show and get even more out of this episode! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v...
2024-03-0513 min
Inspirations by NancyExpert Interview with Barb Nelson: Harvesting Happiness with a Waste-Free, Nutrient-Rich Kitchen"Once you get a spice in your home, you have it forever. Women never throw out spices. The Egyptians were buried with their spices. I know which one I'm taking with me when I go." - Erma Bombeck Episode Summary:This week Nancy welcomes Barb Nelson as her guest, an established businesswoman in the Saint Louis area, recognized for running multiple DMVs and managing a virtual assistance business, Beacon Virtual Assistance. They discuss Barb's various business undertakings and her involvement with the charitable organization, Dogs on Duty, where she helps conduct therapeutic interactions between dogs and various people who benefit f...
2024-02-2128 min
Inspirations by NancyHealthy Living: The Power of Clean Eating and Small Steps to Make Dramatic Changes“Worry is like a rocking chair: it gives you something to do but never gets you anywhere” - Erma Bombeck Episode Summary:Who wants better sleep, more energy, and a faster recovery time?This week Nancy shares her personal story about starting a program called Juice Plus, a health product that provides essential nutrients from fruits and vegetables. Nancy details the benefits her and her family experienced from clean eating, such as improved energy levels, better sleep, overall health, and faster recovery from surgeries. Nancy explains how they got started with their aeroponic tower garden and how it has become a fun...
2024-02-1314 min
Inspirations by NancyCooking with Nancy O: Fired-Up Flavor: Brats for Every Occasion“If a man watches three football games in a row, he should be declared legally dead." - Erma Bombeck Episode Summary:Are you ready to tailgate?Get ready to elevate your tailgate experience with Rick and Nancy's mouthwatering bratwurst recipe! Join them as they reveal their secret to crafting irresistible brats infused with a medley of peppers. Nancy shares her expert techniques for keeping the brats moist and flavorful, along with her signature pepper topping and vinaigrette dressing to complement the dish. Get ready to be the star of the tailgate with these flavor-packed brats! Check out Nancy’s YouTube page t...
2024-02-0616 min