Essential Ingredients Podcast

Gut, Food, & Health series "The food that you eat affects everything, including your mental health." —Dr. Edison de Mello What if the key to better mental health was as simple as the food on your plate? Emerging research reveals the profound influence of gut health on cognitive function, mood, and emotional resilience. By nourishing the body, we may unlock the path to nourishing the mind. Dr. Edison de Mello is an integrative medicine specialist and the founder of the Akasha Center for Integrative Medicine. As a physician and psychologist, he has dedicated his career to exploring the intricate connections between physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Tune in as Dr. de Mello shares his insights on leveraging the power of nutrition to support brain health, combat depression, and optimize cognitive performance. Meet Dr. de Mello: Dr. Edison de Mello, MD, PhD is the founder and Chief Medical Officer of the Akasha Center for Integrative Medicine. He is a board-certified integrative physician and a licensed psychotherapist. Dr. de Mello completed his residency at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City, where he trained in a biopsychosocial model and integrated complementary medicine into Family Medicine. Inspired by his grandmother, Nana, who practiced natural healing, Dr. de Mello's approach combines Western and Eastern medicine, focusing on treating the mind, body, and spirit. He has written several articles and contributed to Dr. Andrew Weil's upcoming book on the microbiome and food addiction. Dr. de Mello is also on the advisory board of several organizations and a member of various professional associations. Website Instagram Facebook YouTube X Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 02:16 the Impact of Diet on Mental Health 05:35 Dietary Reboot 08:46 How IV Therapy Works 14:22 Addressing Memory Issues and Depression 19:53 Gut and Mental Health Connection

"There are a lot of no's… you just keep knocking, and you will eventually find the people that believe in what you're doing and not where you are in that exact moment." —Lisette Howard "There's a lot of flash-in-the-pan products out there that hit the market fast as all they're gone… It's really important to know your end game right when you start." —Katy Tucker Feeding our little ones can be a constant battle— between picky palates, busy schedules, and the overwhelming options on grocery shelves. But what if we could provide our kids with snacks that not only satisfy their cravings, but also nourish their growing bodies? The future of kids' food is clean, simple, and deliciously nostalgic. Sunnie is a mission-driven snack brand dedicated to upgrading snack time for busy families. Co-founders Katy Tucker and Lisette Howard are on a mission to provide better-for-you options that never compromise on taste or convenience. Tune in as Justine sits down with Katy and Lisette to discuss their journey in revolutionizing the snack industry, the importance of clean ingredients, and their plans to bring more wholesome choices to families nationwide. Meet Katy: With a background in fashion, Katy Tucker brings a unique perspective to the food industry, focusing on creating products that are not only nutritious but also nostalgic and appealing. As a mother of three, Katy is passionate about empowering parents to make better choices for their children's snacking needs. Through Sunnie, Katy aims to redefine the snack landscape and inspire a healthier future for families. Meet Lisette: With a background in online marketing, Lisette brings a strategic and innovative approach to building Sunnie's brand and reaching health-conscious consumers. As a mother of three, Lisette understands the challenges of finding snacks that both nourish and delight children. Through Sunnie, Lisette is on a mission to provide families with better-for-you options that never compromise on taste or convenience. Connect with Feel Sunnie: Website Facebook Instagram Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook YouTube Episode Highlights: 01:44 Bridging the Market Gap in Kids' Lunch 06:51 Navigating the Business Landscape During COVID 10:31 Pitching and Fundraising Challenges 14:46 Target Partnership 18:56 Distribution and Expansion Plans 24:21 Future Plans for Feel Sunnie

Gut, Food, & Health series Episode Description: "Your taste buds have a different agenda than your mind and your gut. They're not connected in congruence all the time. So what tastes good in your mouth, is not necessarily what your gut or your brain needs." —Dr. Edison de Mello Your gut is the gateway to your overall health and well-being. Did you know that the gut-brain connection can significantly influence your mood, cognitive function, and immune system? Maintaining a balanced gut microbiome is crucial for optimizing both physical and mental wellness. Dr. Edison de Mello MD, PhD, is a renowned expert in the field of integrative medicine. As the Founder and Chief Medical Officer of the Akasha Center for Integrative Medicine, he seamlessly blends cutting-edge Western medical practices with the wisdom of Eastern holistic approaches to provide personalized, comprehensive care to his patients. Discover the profound impact of food on gut health, the challenges of implementing dietary changes, and the importance of tailored solutions as Dr. de Mello and Justine Reichman dive deep into the gut health revolution. Meet Dr. de Mello: Dr. Edison de Mello, MD, PhD is the founder and Chief Medical Officer of the Akasha Center for Integrative Medicine. He is a board-certified integrative physician and a licensed psychotherapist. Dr. de Mello completed his residency at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine at Beth Israel Medical Center in New York City, where he trained in a biopsychosocial model and integrated complementary medicine into Family Medicine. Inspired by his grandmother, Nana, who practiced natural healing, Dr. de Mello's approach combines Western and Eastern medicine, focusing on treating the mind, body, and spirit. He has written several articles and contributed to Dr. Andrew Weil's upcoming book on the microbiome and food addiction. Dr. de Mello is also on the advisory board of several organizations and a member of various professional associations. Website Instagram Facebook YouTube X Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 01:13 Food and Gut Health 04:46 Mindfulness and Food Insensitivity 07:33 Allergy and Intolerance Test 13:59 Tailoring Dietary Advice and Personal Needs 16:45 The Role of Medical Education in Nutrition 20:50 Navigating Global Health

"There are ups and downs through all of that. You have to be prepared for those days when things don't feel like they're moving ahead. And you have to bring the same type of passion, the same drive on either type of day." —John Thorp "You're never trying to get a yes out of anyone you're talking to when you are an early founder; you are trying to get a not, no… If it's getting bad feedback, fix it immediately and go right back. You have the ability to change someone's mind after they've made an opinion." —Buzz Wiggins Sparkling water has become a beloved beverage for its refreshing fizz and health-conscious appeal. Yet, the environmental impact of single-use containers and the lack of customization options have left many consumers seeking a more sustainable and personalized solution. How can we rethink the way we enjoy carbonated drinks? John Thorp and Buzz Wiggins, the co-founders of Aerflo, have dedicated themselves to revolutionizing the sparkling water experience. With their innovative portable carbonation system, they are empowering consumers to take control of their hydration while minimizing waste. Tune in as Justine Reichman sits down with John and Buzz to discuss their entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of building a sustainable product, the far-reaching benefits of their approach to sparkling water, the benefits of having the right co-founder, the lie we were all made to believe about recycling, and more! Meet John: With over a decade of experience as an alternative investment professional, John Thorp brings a strong business acumen and strategic mindset to Aerflo. John is passionate about designing sustainable products that improve the lives of consumers while also reducing environmental impact. Under his leadership, Aerflo has developed innovative carbonation technology and established a unique refill model to move beyond single-use waste. John is committed to building a company that creates positive change through thoughtful, consumer-centric design. LinkedIn Meet Buzz: As a skilled designer and problem-solver, Buzz Wiggins has been instrumental in the development of Aerflo's innovative product design and packaging. Leveraging his expertise in product design and optimization, Buzz has led the team in creating a seamless user experience while also ensuring the environmental sustainability of the Aerflo system. Buzz's creative approach and attention to detail have been crucial in bringing Aerflo's vision to life. LinkedIn Connect with Aerflo: Website LinkedIn Instagram TikTok Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook YouTube Episode Highlights: 02:07 The Inspiration Behind Aerflo 16:33 Challenges and Prototyping 22:10 Business Building Lessons 31:50 Focus on Environmental Impact 34:30 The Lie We Were Made to Believe

Episode Description: "You can't live out your best life and fulfill your passions… if you don't feel good."—Meredith Mann Perimenopause can be a time of profound hormonal shifts, often accompanied by challenges like fatigue, mood swings, and weight fluctuations. What if the key to navigating this transition lies in the power of protein? Meredith Mann, the founder and CEO of The Peachie Spoon, is a holistic nutrition expert and former personal trainer who has dedicated her career to empowering women to achieve optimal health and balance through simple, nourishing recipes and lifestyle strategies. Tune in as Meredith shares her personal journey with insulin resistance, the importance of blood sugar management, her experience and lessons learned from turning her hobby into a business, her insights on supporting perimenopausal women's health and wellness, plus much more Meet Meredith: Meredith Mann is a CPT, holistic nutrition coach, and founder of The Peachie Spoon. Married for 19 years with three teenagers, she loves creating simple, wholesome recipes in her kitchen. She has written two cookbooks, runs the Well Made Academy online course, and has now launched The Peachie Spoon Nutrition Products. Website Instagram Facebook TikTok Pinterest Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook YouTube Episode Highlights: 02:11 Struggling with insulin Resistance and Hypoglycemia 04:40 From Hobby to Business 10:05 Developing and Launching a Product 16:42 Meredith's Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 22:47 Writing and Publishing a Book 26:11 Find the Ideal Recipe for Your Dietary Needs at The Peachie Spoon

"The secret to success is the art and science of growing vegetables online to high-performing academic standards. So we are transforming both the lens of public education and personal eating outcomes." —Stephen Ritz Imagine a classroom where students don't just read about science but experience it firsthand by growing their own food. This isn't some futuristic fantasy— it's the reality created by the Green Bronx Machine, a pioneering program that is transforming public education one school at a time. Stephen Ritz is the visionary behind this game-changing initiative. As an educator, social entrepreneur, and passionate advocate for community empowerment, he has dedicated his life to unlocking the potential of underserved students through the power of hands-on, food-based learning. Listen in as we revisit this classic episode and discover how Stephen's innovative approach is yielding remarkable results, from improved academic performance to greater environmental stewardship and a renewed sense of purpose. Connect with Stephen: Stephen Ritz is a South Bronx educator who believes that students should not have to leave their community to live, learn, and earn in a better one. An internationally acclaimed award-winning educator, Stephen is the author of the best-selling book, The Power Of A Plant, and founder of Green Bronx Machine. Known as "America's Favorite Teacher," Stephen is responsible for creating the first edible classroom in the world, which he has evolved into the National Health, Wellness, and Learning Center. He and his students have grown more than 100,000 pounds of vegetables in the South Bronx. He was a Top Ten Finalist for the Global Teacher Prize, named Global Humanitarian, Food Tank Hero, TEDx Prize Winner, and a Global Food Educator, and has presented at the Obama White House three times. Stephen believes that together, via collaboration, and coalition and get to yes solutions, we can all prosper! Website Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Connect with Green Bronx Machine: Website Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 02:15 Steve's Documentary 04:52 Steve's Impact on Schools 06:29 Green Bronx Machine Curriculum and Accessibility 09:49 The Impact of Green Bronx Machine Programs 10:07 How to Donate to Green Bronx Machine 12:24 Student Success Despite Economic Challenges

"Transparency and authenticity are the new currency. If you don't figure that out, you won't be able to get the purchases because consumers today want to understand what the brand is about … They want to see the humans behind the brand." -Jake Karls Transparency and authenticity are the new currency in today's business landscape. Consumers crave genuine connections with the brands they support, valuing honesty and vulnerability over polished perfection. In a world saturated with noise, the brands that dare to be unapologetically themselves will rise above the rest. Jake Karls is the co-founder of Mid-Day Squares, a modern-day chocolate company redefining the way we indulge. As a passionate advocate for transparency and innovation, Jake has built a brand that prioritizes both functional nutrition and emotional connection. Revisit this insightful conversation as Jake shares Midday Squares' journey of growth, legal challenges, and the power of staying true to your values in a rapidly evolving industry. Connect with Jake: Jake Karls is an actuary turned modern-day Willy Wonka. He co-founded Mid-Day Squares in 2018 along with his sister and brother-in-law. They manufacture the world's first Functional Chocolate Bars: "Everything a chocolate bar isn't, everything a protein bar wishes it was." The social skills he acquired from running run a clothing brand (Chase & Hunter) became a strength for Mid-Day Squares, his role being the Chief Rover Officer and Resident Social-Personality. He makes a noise, builds relationships, and spreads love. Website Podcast Facebook X Instagram LinkedIn Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram X LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 01:26 What's New with Jake? 04:50 Giving the Ownership to the Consumers 08:17 Transparency is the New Currency 10:50 Trust is the Key

"Our mission is to raise healthy animals, to get a healthy product by having healthy soil." —Mandy Schmidt Healthy soil leads to healthy animals, which in turn lead to nutrient-dense, sustainable food. This cyclical relationship holds the key to a more resilient food system. Mandy Schmidt is a 5th generation rancher at Marin Coast Ranch, where she and her family have been raising grass-fed livestock for over 30 years. Committed to regenerative agriculture, Mandy prioritizes land stewardship and species-appropriate diets to produce the highest quality meat. In this episode, Mandy shares the secrets to her family's sustainable ranching practices, from the importance of soil health to the benefits of grass-fed beef and lamb. Tune in as Justine and Mandy talk about the definition of grass-fed vs. grass-finished livestock, the role of soil health in animal and human nutrition, generational knowledge and continuous learning in family farming, transparency and consumer education in sustainable agriculture, and more. Meet Mandy: Mandy Schmidt is a 5th generation rancher at Marin Coast Ranch in West Marin, California. Mandy and her family have been raising grass-fed beef cattle, sheep, and goats on their family ranch for over 30 years. Committed to sustainable and regenerative agriculture practices, Mandy prioritizes soil health and species-appropriate diets for her livestock. As a mother of two, Mandy is passionate about providing nutrient-dense, transparent food options for her community. Mandy leads ranch tours and educational events to connect consumers with the origins of their food. Through her work, Mandy aims to inspire others to make more informed choices about the food they consume and its impact on personal and planetary health. Website Instagram TikTok Facebook Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 01:27 Traditional Livestock Care Methods 03:29 Grass0Fed vs Grass-Finished 07:08 Evolving Conversations About Food 10:34 The Role of Soil Health and Food Quality 14:58 Buying Power and Direct Relationships 18:35 Questions for Informed Choices 22:45 Generational Challenges and Continous Learning 27:10 Transparency and Consumer Education

"It's not that capitalism is out to destroy the environment. It's basically there to make money. And so, if you can replace the mechanism by which it makes money with something that is beneficial for the environment, it'll continue to do that." —Scott "Scotty Claus" Martin Christmas trees are a beloved tradition, but the environmental impact of cutting down millions of trees each year is undeniable. But what if there was a way to enjoy the festive spirit of a Christmas tree without the waste? The answer may lie in the concept of living, rented trees— a sustainable solution that's gaining traction. Scott "Scotty Claus" Martin, the founder of the Living Christmas Company, has dedicated his career to revolutionizing the way we celebrate the holidays. With a background in landscape design and a passion for environmental stewardship, Scotty has been on a mission to change the narrative around Christmas trees and promote a more sustainable approach. Tune in as Scotty shares his inspiring journey of founding the Living Christmas Tree Company, the strategies he's developed to balance business needs with his social mission, the power of changing people's narrative, his broader vision for using social entrepreneurship to drive positive change, plus tips for aspiring entrepreneurs. Meet Scotty: Scott Martin, also known as Scotty Claus, is the founder of The Living Christmas Company. The idea for the company was born from his experience delivering Christmas trees for a local nursery during his Christmas vacation. Scotty Claus was struck by the joy and magic that a Christmas tree brought into homes but also saddened by the sight of discarded trees after the holiday season. This inspired him to create a more sustainable way to celebrate Christmas. In 2008, he founded The Living Christmas Company, which allows people to rent living Christmas trees for the holiday season. After the season, the trees are returned to the nursery, repotted, and cared for until the next year. If a tree becomes too large to be used as a Christmas tree, it is planted in the local community or nearby forests through an Urban Reforestation Project2. Scotty Claus's innovative approach has not only provided an eco-friendly alternative to traditional Christmas trees but has also expanded to include various communities in California, with hopes of reaching environmentally conscious people across the nation Website Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 00:47 The Evolution of The Living Christmas 03:16 Sustainability and Value of Living Christmas Trees 09:23 Navigating Challenges and Expanding Impact 14:46 Social Entrepreneurship 19:09 Tools and Strategies for Success 21:03 Future Goals and Vision 24:19 Tips for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

"A job is a give and take. You give your time, you build momentum, and you build value in the community; but then you also receive financial remuneration. But this is about cooking as well, and the healing component of kitchens." —Kate Rogers "It's not just for a job, it's for the future. These kids are thinking long-term, which is something that is hard to see in the youth." —Nelson German "Just one thing going right can change your life." —Michael Bauer For many young adults facing hardship, the path to a brighter future can seem daunting. But with the right support and guidance, their lives can be transformed in remarkable ways. Empowering at-risk youth to find their passion and purpose is a powerful catalyst for change. Kate Rogers, the founder and executive director of the Sprouts Chef Training Program, has dedicated her career to providing comprehensive job training, mentorship, and financial workshops to empower young adults. Partnering with renowned chefs like Nelson German and Michael Bauer, the program is changing the trajectory of lives, one trainee at a time. Tune in as Justine interviews Kate, Nelson, and Michael to discover the inspiring stories, the program's holistic approach, the long-term impact of empowering at-risk youth through culinary arts, and more. This Giving Tuesday, you can give the gift of opportunity. $5,000 sponsors a life-changing 3-month paid internship through the Sprouts Chef Training Program. And the best part? NextGen Purpose will MATCH your donation, doubling your impact. Donate today and change a life! Meet Kate: Kate Rogers is the founder and executive director of the Sprouts Chef Training Program. Driven by her personal experiences and a deep passion for empowering at-risk youth, Rogers established Sprouts with the goal of providing culinary training and job opportunities to young adults facing hardship. Under her leadership, the program has expanded to multiple cities, partnering with renowned chefs and restaurants to offer comprehensive training and mentorship. Rogers' unwavering dedication to creating positive change in the lives of the program's participants has been instrumental in Sprouts' success and growth. Meet Michael: Michael Bauer is a renowned food writer and restaurant critic. He served as the restaurant critic and food editor for the San Francisco Chronicle for over 32 years, establishing himself as a leading voice in the Bay Area culinary scene. Since leaving the Chronicle, Bauer has dedicated his time to supporting the restaurant industry and giving back to the community. He currently serves on the board of the Sprouts Chef Training Program, where he leverages his industry expertise to help mentor and empower at-risk youth interested in culinary careers. Meet Nelson: Nelson German is the chef and owner of alaMar, a popular restaurant in Oakland, California. With over a decade of experience in the industry, German has established himself as a respected figure in the Bay Area culinary community. In addition to running his own successful restaurant, German has been an active participant in the Sprouts Chef Training Program, serving as a mentor and providing hands-on training to young adults looking to break into the restaurant industry. German's commitment to giving back and supporting the next generation of culinary talent has made him an invaluable asset to the Sprouts program. Connect with Sprouts Chef Training Program: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook YouTube Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 00:17 The Sprouts Chef Training Program 05:46 Meet Nelson 14:45 Changing the Lives of Youths 15:06 Meet Michael 25:09 Giving Tuesday 36:03 Youth Empowerment: Investing on Long-Term Impact