
The Healing Catalyst
If you’ve ever felt dismissed, confused, or overwhelmed when it comes to your health — you’re not alone. And you don’t have to keep guessing.
Welcome to The Healing Catalyst Podcast, where science meets soul — and healing meets real life.
Hosted by Dr. Avanti Kumar-Singh, a Western-trained physician and lifelong practitioner of Ayurveda, this podcast is your invitation to take your health into your own hands. With over two decades of experience integrating modern medicine and ancient healing traditions, Dr. Avanti is on a mission to change the way we think about health — making it more holistic, more inclusive, and more human.
Each week, you’ll hear conversations with leading experts in integrative medicine and mind-body healing — along with authors, teachers, and thought leaders — to explore what it really takes to cultivate health and longevity.
Dr. Avanti simplifies the science of the core pillars of well-being — gut microbiome, nervous system balance, hormonal regulation, and circadian rhythm — all through the lens of time-tested practices that support the whole person: body, mind, and spirit.
And because women’s health is too often overlooked or misunderstood, she focuses on it here — with real, actionable guidance for navigating burnout, fertility, sexual well-being, perimenopause, and menopause with clarity and confidence.
The Healing Catalyst Podcast is your home for knowledge, tools, and inspiration to stop chasing symptoms, and start living in true health and wellbeing.
New episodes drop on Tuesdays. Follow now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen — and start your journey to empowered, sustainable health.
Latest episodes

May 21, 2024 • 52min
Beyond BMI: Redefining Body Positivity Using a Holistic Approach with Kelsey Ellis
In this episode, Dr. Avanti and body positivity coach Kelsey Ellis discuss the evolution and deeper meaning of body positivity, emphasizing its roots in inclusivity for marginalized bodies. They explore the limitations of BMI as a health indicator and advocate for a holistic approach to health that includes nutrition, movement, mental health, and sleep. Kelsey shares practical steps for fostering body acceptance and self-compassion, encouraging listeners to engage in self-reflection and connect with their inner selves. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding and challenging societal beauty standards, promoting body liberation, and the interconnectedness of individual and collective healing.Today on The Healing Catalyst:Exploring the origins and deeper meaning of body positivityLimitations of BMI as a health measure and the need for a holistic health approachFour pillars of health: Nutrition, movement, mental health, and sleepTips for fostering body acceptance and self-compassionImportance of challenging societal beauty normsConnect with Kelsey Ellis:Instagram: @healthy_with_kelseyWebsite: healthywithkelsey.app/appResources:Pre-order Dr. Avanti’s new book: The Longevity FormulaEnergy Fix Quiz: avantikumarsingh.com/quiz Leave a voice message for Avanti: “Ask Me Anything”Get Dr. Avanti’s Weekly Letter: avantikumarsingh.com/join-my-newsletter Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

May 14, 2024 • 56min
The Healing Power of Story: John Schu on Overcoming Struggles and Inspiring Others
Today, Dr. Avanti engages in a deep and revealing conversation with John Schu, discussing his journey through personal challenges and his transformative relationship with literature and storytelling. John shares poignant insights into his childhood struggles with an eating disorder and how these experiences were channeled into his writing, particularly in his New York Times bestselling book "Louder Than Hunger." They discuss the therapeutic role of narrative in both reading and writing, and how presenting his story in verse format aids emotional processing. John's reflections emphasize the healing power of storytelling and its impact on personal expression and recovery.Today on The Healing Catalyst:John's early influences and his path from reader to writerHow John's eating disorder struggles during his youth shaped his writing and advocacyThe therapeutic power of storytelling in addressing personal traumasInsights from his new book 'Louder Than Hunger'The role of support systems in addressing children's mental health issuesCreative expression as a critical tool for emotional healing and personal growthConnect with John Schu:Instagram: @mrschureadsWebsite: johnschu.comBook: Louder Than HungerResources:The First State of Being by Erin Entrada KellyPre-order Dr. Avanti’s new book: The Longevity FormulaEnergy Fix Quiz: avantikumarsingh.com/quiz Leave a voice message for Avanti: “Ask Me Anything”Get Dr. Avanti’s Weekly Letter: avantikumarsingh.com/join-my-newsletter Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

May 7, 2024 • 57min
Ignite: Breathing Through the Chaos – Mindfulness and Rituals for Managing Stress with Dr. Avanti & Dr. Tanmeet
In another Ignite episode, Dr. Avanti and Dr. Tanmeet delve into managing stress and enhancing mental well-being amidst global challenges. They discuss the importance of recognizing and regulating emotional states through practices like mindful breathing and meditation. The conversation emphasizes establishing personal rituals for stability and making small, actionable steps to cope with stress. They also highlight the necessity of setting boundaries and prioritizing sleep as essential strategies for maintaining mental health.Today on The Healing Catalyst:Practical actionable steps for coping with overwhelming situations and stressImportance of regulating emotions through mindfulness and breathworkThe role of personal rituals in creating a sense of certainty and stability in daily lifeStrategies for managing media consumption to reduce stress and maintain focusThe significance of setting boundaries in conversations to preserve mental well-beingThe critical role of sleep in emotional regulation and overall healthConnect with Dr. Tanmeet Sethi:Website: tanmeetsethimd.com Book: Joy Is My JusticeInstagram: @tanmeetsethimdQuiz: Unlock your Joy Code Listen: Ep. 122. Ignite: Transformative Sleep Habits for Mind and Body with Dr. Avanti & Dr. TanmeetResources:The Book of Boundaries by Melissa UrbanEnergy Fix Quiz: avantikumarsingh.com/quiz Leave a voice message for Avanti: “Ask Me Anything”Get Dr. Avanti’s Weekly Letter: avantikumarsingh.com/join-my-newsletter Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Apr 30, 2024 • 1min
A Gift of Wellness: Book Giveaway!
Dr. Avanti is hosting a special giveaway! Don't miss out—tune in to learn how you can win one of ten books from the incredible integrative medicine and wellness experts who have been guests on the podcast.Resources:Energy Fix Quiz: avantikumarsingh.com/quiz Leave a voice message for Avanti: “Ask Me Anything”Get Dr. Avanti’s Weekly Letter: avantikumarsingh.com/join-my-newsletter Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.This show is produced by Soulfire Productions

Apr 23, 2024 • 55min
Navigating Menopause: An Ayurvedic Journey with Dr. Claudia Welch
In this episode, Dr. Avanti engages Dr. Claudia Welch in an insightful discussion about menopause from an Ayurvedic perspective. Dr. Welch elaborates on menopause as a significant life transition, comparing it to the four stages of life, emphasizing its spiritual, emotional, and physical dimensions. She critically examines hormone therapy, advocating for a personalized and cautious approach and shares Ayurvedic practices and herbal remedies that soothe and balance the symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, sleep disturbance, vaginal dryness, joint pain and weight gain. Their conversation highlights the importance of community support and the role of Ayurveda in navigating menopause effectively.Today on The Healing Catalyst:Menopause as significant life transitionHow to manage menopause symptoms with Ayurvedic practicesCautious approach to Hormone Therapy (HT)The significance of community support during menopauseIntegrating Ayurvedic wisdom with modern medicine to address menopausal challenges Connect with Dr. Claudia Welch:Instagram: @drclaudiawelchWebsite: drclaudiawelch.comBook: Balance Your Hormones, Balance Your LifeOnline Course: Women's Health & Hormones: Hormonal Balance and StagnationMembership: Menopause ChroniclesResources:Energy Fix Quiz: avantikumarsingh.com/quiz Leave a voice message for Avanti: “Ask Me Anything”Get Dr. Avanti’s Weekly Letter: avantikumarsingh.com/join-my-newsletter Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Apr 16, 2024 • 57min
The True Power of Softness and Deepening Connections with Tara Stiles
Today, Dr. Avanti and well-being expert Tara Stiles engage in a profound conversation about the transformative power of softness in both yoga and everyday life. They challenge the societal norms that glorify strength and rigidity, highlighting how softness fosters deeper connections with the self and others, and enhances resilience and well-being. Tara shares personal experiences and her insights from working with thousands of students on integrating softness into practice, revealing its potential to empower and bring ease amidst life's challenges.Today on The Healing Catalyst:Softness as counter to societal norms of strength and rigidityTransformation and connection through softnessIntegrating softness into yoga for enhanced movement and mental stateCommunity’s role in reinforcing softness practiceSoftness leads to empowerment, resilience amid challengesApplying softness beyond yoga for improved lifestyle and relationshipsConnect with Tara Stiles:Instagram: @tarastilesWebsite: tarastiles.comResources:Energy Fix Quiz: avantikumarsingh.com/quiz Leave a voice message for Avanti: “Ask Me Anything”Get Dr. Avanti’s Weekly Letter: avantikumarsingh.com/join-my-newsletter Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Apr 9, 2024 • 54min
Declutter Your Space, Declutter Your Mind: The Feng Shui Way with Dana Claudat
In this episode, Dr. Avanti and Feng Shui Master, Dana Claudat, explore the profound impact of spring cleaning and decluttering through a Feng Shui lens, emphasizing its benefits for mental, emotional, and physical well-being. They discuss the significance of aligning with the energy of spring to rejuvenate and clear spaces, utilizing natural elements and intentional rearrangements to enhance life's flow and vitality. Through personal anecdotes and practical advice, they reveal how such practices can lead to joy, discovery of lost items, and a refreshing sense of renewal.Today on The Healing Catalyst:Exploring the mental, emotional, and physical benefits of spring cleaningHow to apply Feng Shui methods for home arrangement and declutteringPractical decluttering tips to reduce decision fatigueUsing natural elements as enhancers for revitalizing spacesElevating home energy with fragrant flowersThe transformative power of creating space for new possibilitiesConnect with Dana:Instagram: @thetaoofdanaWebsite: fengshuidana.comThe School of Intention Feng Shui Certification Program: https://www.fengshuimagical.com/sign-up-for-school-infoResources:Energy Fix Quiz: avantikumarsingh.com/quiz Leave a voice message for Avanti: “Ask Me Anything”Get Dr. Avanti’s Weekly Letter: avantikumarsingh.com/join-my-newsletter Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Apr 2, 2024 • 1h 5min
Ignite: Transformative Sleep Habits for Mind and Body with Dr. Avanti & Dr. Tanmeet
Dr. Avanti and Dr. Tanmeet delve into the crucial topic of sleep, discussing its mechanics, the impact of light and hormones, and practical strategies for improving sleep quality. They emphasize the importance of syncing with natural light cycles, establishing a consistent bedtime routine, and managing caffeine and alcohol intake. The conversation also highlights the significance of addressing both the mind and heart before sleep, suggesting techniques like progressive muscle relaxation, yoga nidra, and emotional check-ins to facilitate a restful state. They advocate for viewing sleep not as a passive state but as an active process of repair and rejuvenation, emphasizing it as an act of self-care and love.Today on The Healing Catalyst:Understanding REM and non-REM sleep stages The role of sleep for physical and mental repairHow natural light impacts melatonin and cortisol levelsStrategies for calming the mind and soothing emotions before bedtimeThe impact of caffeine and alcohol on sleep qualityCreating consistent pre-sleep rituals that signal the body and mind to wind downViewing sleep as a form of self-care Connect with Dr. Tanmeet:Website: tanmeetsethimd.com Book: Joy Is My JusticeInstagram: @tanmeetsethimdQuiz: Unlock your Joy Code Listen: Ep. 37: “Why Not Me?” Reframing Suffering through GratitudeListen: Ep. 87: Transforming Suffering Into Joy with Dr. Tanmeet SethiResources:Energy Fix Quiz: avantikumarsingh.com/quiz Leave a voice message for Avanti: “Ask Me Anything”Get Dr. Avanti’s Weekly Letter: avantikumarsingh.com/join-my-newsletter Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Mar 26, 2024 • 54min
Breaking Taboos and Bridging Cultures: A Sexual Health Conversation with Kaamna Bhojwani
Today, Dr. Avanti is joined by Kaamna Bhojwani to discuss the often-taboo subject of sexual health, particularly from the perspective of South Asian women. Growing up in a progressive family in Bombay, Kaamna was encouraged to embrace her experiences as normal and safe, a stark contrast to the conservative upbringing common among South Asian immigrants. Kamna discusses the universal challenges and cultural nuances of addressing sexual health, highlighting the importance of education, open communication, and self-exploration. Her work aims to dismantle misconceptions and empower individuals to reclaim their sexual well-being, advocating for a more informed and liberated approach to sexuality across cultures.Today on The Healing Catalyst:Breaking cultural taboos & the need for sex educationThe significance of family attitudes towards sexual healthCommon misconceptions about sexual health across different culturesReclaiming power over your sexualityEmpowerment through sexual wellnessThe importance of open communication about sexual health with partnersConnect with Kaamna:Instagram: @kaamnalive Video blogs: https://www.kaamnalive.com/videosYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/kaamnaliveRecommended book: The Soul of SexResources:Energy Fix Quiz: avantikumarsingh.com/quiz Leave a voice message for Avanti: “Ask Me Anything”Get Dr. Avanti’s Weekly Letter: avantikumarsingh.com/join-my-newsletter Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Mar 21, 2024 • 1h 15min
5 Questions - Embracing Spring: Diet, Cleansing, Allergy Relief, and Morning Rituals
Today launches the "Five Questions" Series, addressing spring-related listener queries with Dr. Avanti and Madeline Reeves. They delve into the transformative power of spring, discussing the significance of aligning lifestyle and dietary habits with the season's energetic shift. They emphasize the importance of lightening the diet, incorporating warm, cooked foods, and engaging in invigorating exercises to shake off winter's heaviness. The conversation also highlights the benefits of morning journaling for setting intentions and fostering self-awareness, alongside practical tips for managing seasonal allergies through Ayurvedic practices. Their conversation highlights the holistic approach to wellness, blending mindful consumption with routines that honor the body's natural rhythms.Today on The Healing Catalyst:Tips for transitioning to spring and daylight savings adjustments for sleepHow to approach Ayurvedic cleansing/digestive restSpring dietary recommendations Natural remedies, supplements, and foods for allergy reliefMindful consumption: approach coffee and other stimulants with consciousnessConnect with Madeline:Instagram: @itsmaddyreevesWebsite: fearlessfoundry.comResources:Dr. Avanti’s 3-Day Energy ResetDivya’s Ayurveda Reset Kit, 15% off with discount code AVANTI15Nasya Oil, Banyan BotanicalsGarshana Gloves, Paavani AyurvedalovesAbhyanga Oil, Banyan BotanicalsRitual Body Oil, SahajanSpices, Diaspora Co.Nasal Sinus Rinse (netipot), NeilmedHazelnut Coffee, FabulaThe Five-Minute JournalListen: 118. Ignite: Bouncing Back When January & February Fall Short - Habit Change with Dr. Avanti & Dr. TanmeetEnergy Fix Quiz: avantikumarsingh.com/quiz Leave a voice message for Avanti: “Ask Me Anything”Get Dr. Avanti’s Weekly Letter: avantikumarsingh.com/join-my-newsletter Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.