Having worked more than 15 years as a personal trainer and strength coach, Ochsner Health physician assistant Chris Mercadel knows a thing or two about what it takes to meet fitness goals. He joins me to discuss why and how we derail our fitness journey, and tips on how to break the cycle of self-sabotage. Links: Ochsner Sports Medicine Institute | link here About Chris | link here Certifications to look for: ACSM | American College of Sports Medicine NSCA | National Strength & Conditioning ...
Aug 13, 2020•1 hr 10 min
Ann Maloney has been writing and editing stories about food for more than 25 years, including her current role as food writer and recipes editor for The Washington Post. She joins me to share an inside look at food writing, from how story topics are conceived and researched to the process of recipe testing. She also shares insights into what she’s learned along the way about positivity and perseverance. Links: How to make substitutions for spices, herbs, dairy and meat in your everyday cooking |...
Aug 06, 2020•1 hr 8 min
FUELED is all about helping you live your healthiest, strongest life possible. Of course, wellness isn't limited to humans, so this week, we’re focusing on our furry friends. Dr. Matthew Levy of Levy Veterinary Hospital joins us to share his guidance and approaches to pet nutrition. He provides tips on treats, supplements, toxic human foods to avoid and how to read pet nutrition labels. Links: WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines | link here Pet Nutrition Alliance (Calorie calculator, DareToAsk too...
Jul 30, 2020•1 hr 11 min
Your step-by-step guide to breakfast, including a cereal upgrade and dozens of fast & nutritious breakfast options. Links: Molly on WGNO: 7 ways to add more protein into breakfast | link here Molly in NOLA.com: Navigate the cereal minefield | link here Kay’s Naturals is offering a 30% discount with NOLA2020 at checkout at KaysNaturals.com. Western Bagel Co’s Perfect 10 Protein Bagel | link here CSPI’s Nutrition Action newsletter | link here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.f...
Jul 23, 2020•37 min
Dave’s Killer Bread has become a cult favorite across America, attracting both health-conscious consumers as well as those who root for second chances in life. This week on FUELED, I’m joined by the company’s Brand Manager, Cristina Watson, who shares what goes into creating such a wholesome, nutritious product as well as some of the brand’s latest innovations. LINKS Dave’s Killer Bread (DKB) Links: Second Chance Employment | link here DKB Foundation | link here Toaster Talk e-newsletter: Link t...
Jul 16, 2020•49 min
Entrepreneur, author and co-proprietor of world-renowned restaurant Commander‘s Palace Ti Martin knows well what it means to adapt and evolve during periods of crisis, whether it’s a hurricane or global pandemic. This week on FUELED, she shares her experiences and insights on how we can turn times of adversity into opportunities to learn, grow and become better versions of ourselves, and why allowing ourselves to be uncomfortable is a necessary element of transformation. LINKS www.CommandersPala...
Jul 09, 2020•1 hr
One of the biggest hesitations people have around starting a ketogenic diet is the concern that the diet can lead to dangerous levels of high cholesterol. This week on FUELED, I delve deep into the connection between keto and cholesterol, what lab results really tell us and how we can keep our cholesterol levels in check. LINKS Molly’s keto podcast with Dr. Ethan Weiss, link here Contact for Molly’s team of Registered Dietitians at Ochsner Fitness Center: nutrition@ochsner.org Find an RD in your...
Jul 02, 2020•30 min
If we can’t travel as we would like, at least cooking allows us to bring the culture of the world into our own homes. In this episode, we’ll be talking about three traditional products of Italy – Parmigiano Reggiano, traditional Balsamic vinegar and extra virgin olive oil – that truly give any Italian dish an authentic touch. I'm joined by experts and producers in each of these items to better understand why these staples are the soul of Italian cuisine and how we can use them to up our culinary...
Jun 25, 2020•1 hr 6 min
Working 24/7, your brain is always “on,” controlling everything you do, from your breathing and heartbeat to your movements and thoughts, even when you’re sleeping. This means your brain requires a constant supply of fuel, which comes from the foods you eat. Put simply, this “fuel” can directly affect the structure and function of your brain and, ultimately, your mood. This week, I share the latest research in nutritional psychiatry, including how and why food directly impacts our mood and our m...
Jun 18, 2020•31 min
People have been drinking tea for thousands of years, and for good reason; there’s plenty of evidence that shows drinking tea regularly can have a lasting impact on our wellness. This week on FUELED, I’m joined by Mimsie Ladner, founder of artisan tea brand Gachi, to delve into the surprising world of tea. Learn about tea’s hidden health benefits, fascinating history and brewing dos and don'ts. Links/Additional reading: Shop Gachi tea: www.gachitea.com Use code FUELED to get free shipping on you...
Jun 11, 2020•1 hr 5 min
Every parent wants their kids to grow up feeling positive about their body and comfortable in their own skin. And for the most part, this positivity starts at home. Dr. Shannon Caspersen, psychiatrist and assistant professor at Weil Cornell Medical College, joins me to discuss the power of our words and our behaviors, as well as strategies we can use to ensure the kids in our lives understand that their shape and size does not define their self-worth. Links: Dr. Shannon Caspersen’s website: www....
Jun 04, 2020•1 hr
From Greek to Icelandic, Bulgarian to plant-based and everything in between, here’s a rundown of the common yogurt options on grocery store shelves. Learn how they're alike and different, the health benefits they offer and creative ways to add more probiotic-rich yogurt into your diet. Benefits of going Greek + Icelandic: Most have 2x protein than ‘regular’ yogurt, with a fraction of carbs and sugar Rich in probiotics; Low in lactose Good source of calcium and vitamin D 6-ounce carton has potass...
May 28, 2020•43 min
From avocados to breakfast cereal, nearly every food we eat uses industry-funded research in their marketing messages. Marion Nestle has dedicated her career to researching and exposing the business model of the U.S. food industry. This week on FUELED, she shares insights that will shock and enlighten you. Links: Expert interview with Marion Nestle Professor Emerita of Nutrition, Food Studies, and Public Health at NYU. Food Politics Blog, link here Food Politics – 2002, revised edition 2007, 10t...
May 21, 2020•1 hr 5 min
Founder + CEO Billy Bosch joins me for a very candid talk about the evolution of ICONIC Protein. He shares an inside look at what it's like to build a national brand from the seed of an idea, including product innovation, funding and bringing the brand to the market. Billy shares hard lessons learned, what he would do differently and his strategies for purposeful and continued growth, both personally and professionally. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices...
May 14, 2020•1 hr 12 min
Surprising everyday things that interfere with our memory – and what we can do about it. Expert interview with Dr. Allen Towfigh, medical director of New York Neurology & Sleep Medicine. More about Dr. Allen Towfigh, link here Related: Molly’s article, 11 changes to make right now to fight Alzheimer's disease Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
May 07, 2020•51 min
Quarantining has fueled a baking boom, with many trying their hand at the art of baking bread – and for good reason. In times of uncertainty and change, hobbies like baking allow us to see a project fully from beginning to end, with a defined, finished product that’s also wonderfully delicious. We’re joined by two expert bakers: Carolyn Ketchum of the blog All Day I Dream About Food and expert baker in all things low carb and gluten free, and Morgan Angelle, head baker at New Orleans-based Belle...
Apr 30, 2020•1 hr 1 min
We use the word ‘wellness’ a lot, but the term can mean very different things to different people. This week, I discuss what I typically refer to as the “5 key pillars of wellness,” and how prioritizing them in our lives is more essential now than ever before. I also offer guidance for establishing sustainable behaviors around nutrition, sleep, stress management and movement that can be used far beyond coronavirus quarantine for lifelong wellness and health. Links: Molly’s article: Eating Meatle...
Apr 23, 2020•44 min
Frances Frei is fearless in speaking the truth in a way that is direct, impactful and memorable, yet also incredibly kind. She has developed a blueprint for leadership to help others reach their fullest potential in our presence, and even more importantly, in our absence. A Harvard Business School professor and adviser to hundreds of organizations including Uber and WeWork, Frances shares her research and insight for building effective communication, trust, and belonging - even, and especially -...
Apr 16, 2020•1 hr 25 min
Fred Rogers (of "Mister Rogers' Neighborhood" fame) encouraged us in times of tragedy to "Look for the helpers. You will always find the people who are helping." This week, we do just that by seeking positivity and finding inspiration in the ways those in the community have responded to the coronavirus crisis. We’re joined by three artisans and entrepreneurs to get a glimpse into how they're making big changes in the way they do business to help those who need it most. Links: www.porch-jam.com w...
Apr 09, 2020•59 min
As we settle into the new normal, it’s more essential than ever that we prioritize well-being in our own lives. This includes sticking to a daily routine that encompasses stress management, movement, sleep and – of course – nutrition. We’re also joined by child psychologist Dr. Jill West, who provides guidance on talking about the coronavirus with kids and strategies to combat cabin fever. Links: Combatting Cabin Fever A Live Home Safari from the Cincinnati Zoo each day at 3pm EDT, link here 30+...
Apr 02, 2020•54 min
An up-close look at how fear and self-doubt can hold us back from success – or worse – prevent us from even taking the first step. As we all settle into a new normal, Warren Fitzmorris, Mental Performance Coach with Ochsner Health, shares strategies to face fears head-on and how to view setbacks as part of our growth process, not failure. [Inside Tip: Looking for an immediate release? Warren leads us through guided mindfulness in the last 5 minutes] Links: Contact Warren: warren.fitzmorris@ochsn...
Mar 26, 2020•1 hr
I’m joined by magazine editors Melanie Warner Spencer + Ashley McLellen to hear their take on the first half of #AlcoholFreeFor40. Their experiences, their strategies for success, and their fab finds in the mocktail (or “zero-proof cocktail”) arena, plus why they’re considering extending beyond 40 days. LINKS Melanie + Ashley’s #AFF40 blog: MyNewOrleans.com | link here Alcohol Free For 40 website | link here Try Dry smartphone App | link here The Sober Curious Movement, NPR segment| link here Ze...
Mar 19, 2020•1 hr 11 min
Two of my favorite fellow registered dietitians join me for an hour of insight into the mind of a nutritionist, sharing inspiring stories of success, our top recs for food + drink, and hilarious stuff that also drives us a bit crazy. Links: Ochsner Blog: 5 Reasons to Meet with an RD - link here Contact Alexis Weilbaecher, LDN, RDN & Lauren Hulin, LDN, RDN at Nutrition@Ochsner.org Ochsner Fitness Center, link here Follow Lauren on social: @LiveWellWithLauren Learn more about your ad choices. ...
Mar 11, 2020•1 hr
Curious about Impossible versus Beyond Burger and the other plant-based options? Sure, they're meatless, but does meatless necessarily make it better for you? I weigh in with the facts + comparisons, along with the results of our official taste test results, including how they measure up to an all-beef burger. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mar 05, 2020•38 min
Tired? Sluggish? You must have adrenal fatigue! Dr. Lynnette Nieman of the National Institutes of Health joins me to discuss why it's critical to go beyond the label of adrenal fatigue and explore other reasons you may feel run down. Links: Harvard Health | Is Adrenal Fatigue Real? Link here Endocrine News | Adrenal Fatigue - link here National Institutes of Health, meet Dr. Nieman, link here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices...
Feb 27, 2020•43 min
An inside look at food + nutrition in schools with expert Emily Chatelain, founder + CEO of School Food & Wellness Group. What's allowed in schools, what's not, and what we can all start doing right now to improve the quality of kids' nutrition + wellness. Links: School Food & Wellness Group, link here Three-O’Clock Project, links here and here Lunch Lady Land - SNL with Chris Farley + Adam Sandler, link here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices...
Feb 20, 2020•55 min
Food writer, Lorin Gaudin and I discuss how to order healthfully — even in the most exotic of restaurants. From Vietnamese to Greek to Mexican, we cover it all. Links: Follow Lorin Gaudin on social: @NolaFoodGoddess Eat Fit nonprofit restaurant initiative of Ochsner Health, link here Download the FREE! Eat Fit smartphone app for restaurant nutrition, recipes + more 5 Dining Out Guides: Molly's top recs for a variety of global cuisines, link here Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone....
Feb 13, 2020•1 hr 16 min
Alcohol scientists and physicians explain how alcohol impacts our anxiety, sleep, inflammation and more, along with proven strategies to make your #AlcoholFreeFor40 Challenge as easy as possible: how to get through those ‘witching hours’ of habit, dealing with temptation, people who pressure, and tools for success. Expert interviews with Dr. James Garbutt, adjust professor of psychiatry at UNC and Dr. Dave Galarneau, board-certified psychiatrist and Dr. Doug Alexander, 2nd-year psychiatry reside...
Feb 06, 2020•1 hr 11 min
An #AlcoholFree self-experiment to capture a true picture of what happens to our body, mind and spirit. What the 40-day Challenge entails, what benefits you'll see, and key strategies to make the #AlcoholFreeFor40 Challenge easier than you might think possible. Extras: www.AlcoholFreeFor40.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jan 30, 2020•47 min
Consider this your own personal toolkit to develop a customized nutrition plan, including what types of foods are best to eat, how much of each, and when. To Determine Calorie Intake Calories: Goal body weight x 10 = number of calories daily Note: x12 if moderately active 3-4 days a week; x14 if very active 5-6 days a week Protein: 0.5 to 1 gran per pound of goal body weight = goal for grams of protein daily Carbohydrate: 0.5 to 1 gram per pound of goal body weight = goal for grams of carbohydra...
Jan 23, 2020•43 min
