Welcome to the Realfoodology podcast, with your host Courtney Swan. Courtney is a passionate food activist on a mission to heal America’s broken food system. Her show cuts through the noise by tackling the critical issues that impact our health and society as a whole. Each week, join Courtney as she brings together leading voices in food policy, nutrition, sustainability, and wellness to unravel the complexities behind our broken food system, and to simplify how we look at nutrition and food. From debunking misleading health trends to exploring the future of sustainable food systems, Realfoodology equips listeners with actionable insights and empowers them to make informed choices. Whether you’re passionate about healthy living, curious about the politics of food, or simply want to live better, this is your go-to source for conversations that matter. Discover a healthier way to live with Realfoodology. For more info, visit www.realfoodology.com and follow Courtney on Instagram, @realfoodology. NEW EPISODES EVERY TUESDAY
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303: In today’s episode, I’m joined by Justin Gardner, founder of Active Skin Repair, to discuss why so many people are swapping out traditional products like Neosporin for Hypochlorous acid. We break down how Hypochlorous acid supports the body’s natural healing process, why dermatologists have largely moved away from Neosporin, and how this ingredient can be used for everything from cuts, scrapes, bug bites, and sunburns to eczema, acne, and diaper rash. We also discuss the skin microbiome, me...
301: In today’s episode, I’m joined by Dr. Judy Morgan to talk about the truth behind the pet food industry, prescription diets, overvaccination, and what our dogs and cats are actually supposed to be eating. We dive into species-appropriate nutrition, grain-free myths, homemade pet food, vaccine protocols, chronic disease in pets, and why so many common recommendations in conventional veterinary medicine may not actually support long-term health. We also talk about ingredient labels, raw feedin...
300: I’m joined by Jane Emma to talk about something that impacts every single one of us every day: water. We break down what’s actually in our tap water, the difference between filtered and purified water, and why contaminants like chlorine, PFAS, heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, and microplastics are becoming a growing concern. We also talk about reverse osmosis, remineralization, structured water, shower filters, aging pipes, and how to choose a water filtration system that actually works. If y...
299: I’m joined by Dr. Stuart Fischbein to have an honest conversation about modern pregnancy, birth culture, and why so many women feel fearful going into labor. We talk about the rise in C-sections, inductions, epidurals, and the cascade of interventions that can happen in hospital births. Dr. Stu also explains the history behind “geriatric pregnancy,” the differences between midwifery and the medical model, and why informed consent and individualized care matter so much for mothers and babies...
298: I’m joined by Dr. Ben Lynch to unpack a topic that’s widely misunderstood when it comes to health, anxiety, and pregnancy: methylation and the role of folate vs. folic acid. We talk about MTHFR, why some people feel worse on certain supplements, and how common prenatal advice may not work for everyone. This episode explores how to better support your body, your brain, and your future health by understanding what you’re actually taking and why it matters. Topics Discussed: → MTHFR & Meth...
297: I’m joined by environmental toxin attorney Kristina Baehr to unpack a topic that’s far more common - and serious - than most people realize: mold exposure and how it can impact your health, your home, and your rights as a renter or homeowner. We talk about how mold affects the brain and immune system, why it’s so often missed or dismissed, and what to actually do if you suspect your home is making you sick. Kristina also breaks down the legal side of these cases, including tenant rights, la...
296: I’m joined by Emily Stanwyck to dive into the conversations around pregnancy, birth, and the medical system that many women aren’t fully informed about. We talk through topics like Rh factor and RhoGAM, common interventions and testing, and how to approach pregnancy decisions with more clarity and confidence. This episode is all about understanding your options, asking better questions, and feeling more empowered in your care, whether you’re currently pregnant or planning for the future. To...
295: In this solo episode, I’m sharing a personal life update and opening up about a really challenging season. Over the past few months, I’ve been navigating the loss of my mom after her long battle with cancer, while also dealing with a toxic mold situation in our home that led to health concerns and unexpected legal stress. I talk about my mom’s journey, what this experience has taught me about health, faith, and resilience, and what it’s been like processing grief while pregnant. I also shar...
294: In this ask-me-anything episode, I’m joined by my podcast producer Drake Peterson as I answer your questions on fertility, PCOS, pregnancy, and what it really looks like to live a “non-toxic” lifestyle without letting it take over your life. We talk about egg freezing, managing anxiety around toxins, my current pregnancy experience, and the daily choices I actually prioritize (and what I don’t stress about anymore). If you’ve been trying to navigate wellness, fertility, and real life, this ...
Courtney and Hector discuss the pervasive impact of glyphosate, its link to serious health issues, and how agrochemical companies like Bayer are seeking federal immunity despite facing billions in lawsuits. They delve into why farmers are dependent on these chemicals, the critical state of soil health, and how political systems are deeply intertwined with the industry. The episode emphasizes the bipartisan nature of this fight, encouraging listeners to join the DC rally and understand the larger implications for public health and food security.
292: I’m joined by Dr. Ann Shippy to explore a topic that’s often overlooked when it comes to fertility: the role of environmental toxins and how they impact our bodies long before pregnancy. We talk about preconception health, lowering your toxic load, and simple ways to support your hormones and overall well-being. If you’re thinking about having kids—or just want to better understand your body—this episode offers a more holistic approach to fertility and long-term health. Topics Discussed: → ...
291: Fertility has become one of the most requested topics on the show, so in this special Realfoodology compilation episode, I’m revisiting some of the most powerful insights from past conversations with leading fertility experts. You’ll hear highlights from previous episodes covering everything from egg freezing and IVF to genetic factors like the MTHFR mutation, environmental toxins, hormone health, and the key nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy. We also explore how stress, sleep, metab...
290: I’m revisiting my conversation with Dr. Peter McCullough, a cardiologist and founder of the McCullough Foundation, to discuss the research surrounding spike proteins from COVID and mRNA vaccines. We dive into how spike proteins may affect the body, including potential links to blood clots, heart health, and fertility concerns. Dr. McCullough also shares detox strategies that some people - including my husband Hector - have used after vaccination. This is an important discussion about unders...
289: Dr. Josh Axe joins me to explore the powerful connection between ancient wisdom and modern nutrition. We break down the latest U.S. dietary guidelines, why animal fats and extra virgin olive oil are making a comeback, and what the Bible actually says about red meat, alcohol, and balanced eating.We also unpack why carnivore and vegan diets don’t work for everyone, eating to avoid parasites, and what to know about raw milk if you’re curious but cautious. Topics Discussed: → How have the new U...
288: I’m joined by Iman Hasan, host of the podcast “Biohack-it” to talk about something I don’t think we’re discussing enough: the link between healthspan, fertility and women’s health. After losing her mom to cancer, Iman began questioning the medical system and embarked on a mission to understand aging, fertility, and whether menopause can be reversed. We dive into ovarian aging, lipid replacement therapy, functional fertility doctors, and how chronic stress is pushing women into early perimen...
287: I’m joined by Dr. Daniel Pompa, health coach, author, and founder of the Pompa Program, to break down the truth about intermittent fasting, cellular detox, and inflammation. We explore how fasting actually works at the cellular level, what a real feast day looks like, and how toxins, seed oils, and even dental issues can drive chronic inflammation (and bigger health issues down the line). Dr. Pompa also shares how mercury poisoning reshaped his approach to health and why cholesterol is so m...
286. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Natalie Crawford, a board-certified fertility doctor with a nutrition background, to talk about what women aren’t being taught about fertility and hormonal health. She breaks down how to understand your menstrual cycle, and explains the benefits of learning this even before you’re ready to have kids. We also talk about how mindset, lifestyle, exercise and sleep can contribute toward fertility, especially if you’re in your late 30s and 40s. This conversatio...
285: In this episode, I’m joined by Baran Dilaver, cofounder of Wonderfeel Biosciences, to break down one of the most important molecules for aging and longevity: NAD. We talk about what NAD actually is, why it declines as we age, and how that impacts everything from energy and cognition to skin health and sleep. Baran explains the difference between healthspan and longevity, how to spot low-quality or fake NAD supplements, and why going back to nature - not pharmaceuticals - is key for long-ter...
284: In this episode, I’m joined by Louisiana State Senator Patrick McMath, Chairman of the Senate Health and Welfare Committee, to break down one of the most ambitious state-led health initiatives we’ve seen yet. We dive deep into Louisiana’s MAHA bill, SB14, which tackles everything from seed oil disclosures and ingredient regulation to nutrition training for doctors. This conversation is about reframing health, challenging political division, and proving that eating real, nutrient dense food ...
283: UFC World Champion, mother and nutrition activist Miesha Tate is here to talk about what women actually need when it comes to food, strength, and recovery. We break down why calories in vs. calories out doesn’t always work for women, how hormones completely change the nutrition conversation, and why nutrient density matters more than restriction. Miesha shares her journey in a male-dominated sport, how she rebuilt her health and performance after having kids, and what she’s learned about fo...
282: In this episode, I’m joined by Brian Sanders, founder of the Food Lies docuseries, to break down how we ended up trapped in a culture dominated by ultra-processed foods and confusing diet options. We unpack why so many popular diets fail, how to actually find satiety, and what human cultures around the world reveal about the link between plant-based diets and longevity (it’s not what you think). Brian also exposes the truth about seed oils, cholesterol, and why his health markers improved w...
281: Erin W. Martin is an aging expert and advocate for food-based healthcare. I am so excited to have her on the show - we’re going deep into nutrition’s role in longevity, health and wellness, and exploring how programs like FreshRx Oklahoma (which Erin founded) are literally prescribing organic produce to help lower-income families reverse conditions like type 2 diabetes and learn more about nutrition. You’ll hear the latest on health policies nationwide and what you can do to get involved wi...
280: Today I’m joined by Aaron Siri, Managing Partner of the law firm Siri & Glimstad LLP and a leading voice in the vaccine safety movement. He takes an evidence-based approach to the world of vaccinology, and is presenting a practical look at why vaccines have become more like religion than science. You may recognize him from the documentary “An Inconvenient Study” produced by Del Big Tree and the Informed Consent Action Network (ICAN) - now Aaron is answering questions about lawsuits over...
279: Kyle Ponton of The Cold Life is here to break down everything you need to know about the cold-plunge craze. Find out how cold exposure supports inflammation, recovery and mental toughness - Kyle also answers some cold plunge FAQs and offers budget-friendly ways to start. If you’ve been wondering whether cold plunging is worth the hype, this episode is for you. → The Cold Life | The code REALFOODOLOGY gets you $1250 off all Cold Plunges, plus a free maintenance kit and 3-year warranty for $1...
278: Your mitochondria isn’t just the powerhouse of the cell - it’s the CEO holding the key to your longevity. Today I’m joined by dietitian nutritionist Jennifer Scheinman of Timeline Longevity to break down this exciting new area of health science - mitochondrial function and the powerful post-biotic urolithin A. If you’ve been hearing the buzz about mitochondrial health, Mitopure, or longevity therapies, this episode gives you the science and approach behind it all. → Timeline | Timeline is o...
This episode features Hunter Stoler, known as Health with Hunter, discussing his personal transformation and sustainable weight loss strategies. He and Courtney Swan break down common myths about calories, fat, and cholesterol, advocating for a balanced approach that prioritizes nutrient-dense, clean ingredients. The conversation provides practical grocery shopping tips, healthy food swaps, and insights into avoiding ultra-processed foods, empowering listeners to take ownership of their health.
276: Recently, the EPA announced some major rollbacks on chemical regulations, and I am NOT happy about it. I’m breaking down the latest changes and explaining why I’m angry - but not surprised - at how things are going. This is more than just a right or left issue - if we don't stop these chemicals at the source, everybody loses. Topics Discussed: → What are PFAs and why are they dangerous? → How are PFAs contaminating our food and water supply? → What did the recent EPA regulations change? → W...
275: Del Bigtree is an Emmy Award-winning producer and a leading voice in the anti-vax movement as the founder of ICAN (Informed Consent Action Network). His latest documentary, An Inconvenient Study, reveals the shocking truth about unpublished research from Henry Ford Health - and why a study like this has never been done before. I’ve been telling everyone to watch this film - what Del discovered is eye-opening, and more people (especially new parents) need to hear this right now. Topics Discu...
274: Dr. Cameron Chesnut isn’t your typical plastic surgeon. He focuses on a root-cause, functional approach to skin aging. From eliminating microplastics in his operating room to using better-for-you anesthetics, Dr. Chesnut prioritizes long-term health instead of short-term results. We’re getting into Dr. Chesnut’s hot takes, like why he’ll never use filler or implants, and why he’s so selective on the patients he accepts. Topics Discussed: → How does a functional approach to plastic surgery d...
273: What if you could retrain your brain to heal from trauma, anxiety, and stress without medication? That’s Angie Noack’s specialty. She is a licensed professional counselor and neuro-expert who co-founded Braincode Centers, a leading company for brain mapping and neurofeedback therapies. Angie shares her own recovery journey from a traumatic brain injury, explains why SSRIs are just a bandaid on a bullet wound, and offers easy strategies to reduce anxiety, improve focus, and protect your dopa...
