Rooted & Wild

What does it mean to belong when you’ve grown up everywhere—and nowhere—all at once?In this expansive and deeply resonant conversation, we’re joined by Vicki Abadesco, a visionary entrepreneur, nonprofit leader, speaker, coach, and mentor whose life and work are rooted in personal growth, transformation, and global perspective. Raised across Asia, Europe, and North America, Vicki embodies the lived experience of a Third Culture Kid—someone shaped by many cultures, languages, and worldviews, yet often left navigating questions of identity, home, and belonging.Vicki is renowned for her unwavering commitment to empowering others to live purposeful, heart-led lives. Through her organization, Soul Shoppe, she and her team have touched the hearts and minds of more than one million elementary school students with a transformative conflict-resolution and peacemaking curriculum. Her work has helped nurture a generation of emotionally intelligent young people—capable of building strong relationships, resolving conflict with compassion, and fostering inclusive, connected communities.Together, we explore the emotional, psychological, and spiritual terrain of Third Culture journeys—the gifts of adaptability, empathy, and global awareness, alongside the grief, rootlessness, and quiet loneliness that can accompany a life in motion. Vicki shares how growing up between worlds shaped her sense of self, relationships, leadership, and purpose, and how true rootedness doesn’t always come from one place, but from learning how to belong within yourself.This episode is for anyone who has:Grown up internationally or between culturesFelt deeply connected yet perpetually out of placeLearned to read rooms, people, and cultures early in lifeQuestioned identity, home, and where they truly belongIt’s a conversation about liminality, resilience, emotional intelligence, and the beauty of living beyond borders—externally and internally.🔗 Learn more about Vicki and her work:https://www.vickiabadesco.comIf you’ve ever felt like your roots travel with you, this episode will meet you exactly where you are.Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What if the spine isn’t just structural—but central to how the body heals, adapts, and thrives?In this episode of Rooted & Wild, we sit down with Dr. Brad Wolf to explore how chiropractic spinal care can serve as a powerful form of nervous system preservation—and why it plays a critical role in long-term health, resilience, and aging well.Dr. Wolf shares his deeply personal journey, beginning with a childhood marked by asthma, allergies, and chronic immune weakness. From frequent ER visits and inhalers to gasping for air on the soccer field, simply breathing felt like a daily struggle. As a young adult, he searched relentlessly for answers—exploring Tai Chi, yoga, meditation, acupuncture, herbs, Ayurveda, massage, and eventually becoming a licensed bodyworker himself.But it was his first chiropractic adjustment—initially driven by curiosity—that changed everything.As Dr. Wolf began receiving regular chiropractic care, his immune system strengthened dramatically. Illnesses that once lingered for weeks began resolving in days—or even hours. This profound shift set him on a lifelong path, ultimately leading him to earn his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Logan College of Chiropractic in St. Louis in 1996.In this conversation, we explore:The spine’s relationship to the nervous system and immune functionWhy chiropractic care is about preservation—not just pain reliefHow the body can heal without drugs or surgery when interference is removedAging better, living pain-free, and reclaiming agency over your healthWhy modern health culture urgently needs a paradigm shiftWith obesity on the rise, ultra-processed foods everywhere, and medication often used as a first response rather than a last resort, Dr. Wolf makes a compelling case for returning to foundational principles of health—starting with the nervous system.Over the course of his career, he has helped tens of thousands of people avoid spinal surgery, recover from herniated and bulging discs, spinal stenosis, degenerative disc disease, and discogenic pain—and most importantly, get back to truly living.It’s never too late to take control of your health.To age better.To live pain-free.To become the best version of yourself.🔗 Learn more & connect with Dr. Brad Wolf:Website: https://ihealthnc.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@innovationhealth1609YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LivingHealthyForLifeNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovationhealthcharlotte?igsh=MTJlNnp1aG52MndqaA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr🎧 Listen in and discover why chiropractic care isn’t an alternative—it’s essential.Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What if happiness wasn’t a personality trait—or a fleeting emotional high—but a skill your brain can actually learn?In this episode of Rooted & Wild, we explore the neuroscience, psychology, and cultural conditioning behind lasting and permanent happiness with globally recognized speaker, author, and thought leader Valerie Alexander. Drawing from decades of experience across law, tech, storytelling, and leadership development, Valerie breaks down how the brain forms habits of thought—and how those patterns can be consciously rewired.Together, we unpack why so many people feel “stuck” chasing happiness, how unconscious bias and cultural narratives shape our emotional lives, and what science reveals about sustainable joy, fulfillment, and resilience. This is a grounded, intelligent conversation that bridges brain science with real-world application—without bypassing complexity or humanity.Valerie Alexander is a globally sought-after keynote speaker on workplace happiness, inclusive leadership, and the advancement of women. She has delivered transformative talks for Fortune 500 companies, global conferences, and government agencies including NASA, the CDC, the U.S. Naval Academy, and the Air National Guard. Her TED Talk, How to Outsmart Your Own Unconscious Bias, has been viewed over a million times and is used worldwide as a training tool in leadership and education.Before stepping fully into her work on culture and happiness, Valerie built a diverse career as a corporate securities lawyer, investment banker, tech executive, startup founder, and later as a screenwriter and director in Los Angeles. Her creative work includes the Hallmark film Memories of Christmas and multiple award-winning advocacy campaigns supporting marriage equality.She is the bestselling author of Happiness as a Second Language, Success as a Second Language, and How Women Can Succeed in the Workplace, and holds the registered trademark on “…as a Second Language” for self-help publishing. Valerie currently serves as Entrepreneur-in-Residence for Culture, Leadership and Narrative at Launch Fayette in Georgia and sits on the board of the Peachtree City Convention and Visitors Bureau.If you’re curious about how happiness actually works in the brain—and how to make it sustainable—this conversation offers both clarity and hope.🔗 Learn more about Valerie’s work:https://www.speakhappiness.com/https://www.speakhappiness.com/about-valerie/https://www.linkedin.com/in/speakhappiness-keynotespeaker/Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What if healing didn’t require force—only presence?In this episode of Rooted & Wild, we explore sound healing as a channel for tenderness, attunement, and genuine care. Rather than approaching healing as something to fix or override, this conversation invites a softer way of listening—to the body, the nervous system, and the emotional field.Jessica Maria Garcia joins us to share how sound-based practices can support emotional regulation, nervous system balance, and a sense of internal safety. We discuss how vibration reaches places words often can’t, why gentleness is essential in trauma-informed work, and how sound can help release unhelpful patterns while restoring connection and resilience.This episode is an invitation to slow down, soften, and remember that healing can unfold through compassion, presence, and listening.About Jessica:Jessica Maria Garcia is an Advanced Biofield Tuning Practitioner, Associate Counselor, sound healer, Kundalini meditation teacher, and Emotional Empowerment Guide with over 10 years of experience in emotional and energetic wellness. Her work integrates sound-based practices, meditation, and biofield awareness to support emotional regulation, nervous system balance, and personal growth. She is deeply committed to creating safe, supportive environments where individuals can release unhelpful patterns and cultivate greater alignment, resilience, and wellbeing.Learn more at: https://healingforallhumans.com Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What if the same choice that supports your hormones could also help heal the planet?In this episode, I sit down with Sachi Singh, founder of Rootless, to explore the powerful intersection of personal health and environmental regeneration. With over 13 years of experience in international climate change solutions and a Master’s in Environmental Management from Yale University, Sachi knows exactly what we’re up against globally—and where real hope can still be found.That hope, surprisingly, is seaweed.Seaweed is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet and actively regenerates the ecosystems where it’s grown. Yet most of us don’t consume it daily. Through Rootless and its hero product, The Daily Bite, Sachi is changing that—making seaweed accessible, delicious, and deeply supportive of women’s health.Since launching in 2022, The Daily Bites have helped women support hormonal balance, sustain all-day energy, and nurture gut health through a truly food-based supplement. In this conversation, we dive into why hormone health and planetary health are inseparable, how food can be both medicine and climate action, and what it means to care for ourselves during major hormonal transitions—menopause, pregnancy, and beyond—without extracting from the Earth in the process.This is a grounded, hopeful conversation about nourishment, systems change, and remembering that our bodies and the planet thrive best when cared for together.🔗 Learn more about Rootless:www.getrootless.com📸 Follow Rootless on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/get.rootless/📸 Follow Sachi on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/sachisings/Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What if manifestation isn’t about visualization, vibration, or forcing outcomes—but about radical honesty with yourself?In this episode, Showing Up Sober: Why Authenticity Is the Manifestation Portal, we’re joined by Anneka Reece, an Executive Health and Mindset Coach specializing in alcohol-free living and conscious manifestation. Anneka supports clients in releasing alcohol as a coping mechanism and reconnecting with their clarity, power, and purpose—so change isn’t just imagined, but embodied.Together, we explore what it means to walk through discomfort without numbing, to meet despair without bypassing, and to choose presence over escape. This conversation weaves psychology, neuroscience, and energetics into a grounded discussion about authenticity as the true catalyst for transformation.If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s possible to move through life sober—emotionally, mentally, and spiritually—and come out more whole on the other side, this episode is for you.🔗 Learn more about Anneka’s work:https://coachingbyanneka.co.uk🎧 Listen to Anneka’s podcast, The Alcohol-Free Vibes Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-alcohol-free-vibes-podcast/id1606704134Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

The medicine journey may be profound—but what happens after is where real transformation is either embodied… or lost.In this episode of Rooted & Wild, I’m joined by executive transformation coach, bestselling author, and psychedelic integration guide Garet Free to explore the often-overlooked days and weeks following psilocybin-assisted therapy. Together, we unpack what integration actually means—beyond insights, visions, or peak experiences—and how lasting change is built through nervous system regulation, somatic awareness, and grounded daily practice.Garet brings a rare blend of lived experience and professional depth to this conversation. A former paramedic turned healthcare technology executive, he now bridges science and soul through his work at The Resilience Edit, helping high-performing leaders, entrepreneurs, and creatives move beyond burnout, self-doubt, and internal fragmentation. His approach weaves neuroscience, somatic practices, and psychedelic therapy into a framework for sustainable, embodied clarity.We explore:Why the days after a psychedelic journey matter more than the experience itselfCommon integration pitfalls—and how to avoid spiritual bypassingHow to translate insight into action without overwhelming the nervous systemWhat true resilience looks like when it’s lived, not performedHow leadership, purpose, and peace emerge from inner alignmentThis episode is for anyone navigating post-journey terrain—whether you’ve worked with psychedelics personally, support others as a practitioner, or are simply curious about what ethical, grounded integration really requires.Learn more about Garet’s work:🌐 https://www.garetfree.com📘 Buy Garet’s bestselling book, The Imposter Within:https://a.co/d/h3vVnjqRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

As the New Year begins, many people feel motivated to set health goals—but often struggle to maintain them beyond the first few weeks. In this episode, we explore a more realistic and sustainable approach to health goal-setting—one that honors real life, existing responsibilities, and long-term wellbeing.I’m joined by Dr. Melanie Gray, a PhD-prepared nurse, educator, and trauma-informed wellness strategist who helps women and leaders move out of burnout and into grounded, intentional ways of caring for themselves. With more than 25 years of experience in healthcare and higher education, Dr. Gray brings a thoughtful, practical perspective to what it actually takes to create health goals that last.In this conversation, we discuss:Why so many New Year health goals fail—and how to rethink themHow to set goals that are realistic, values-driven, and sustainableLetting go of all-or-nothing thinking around health and habitsBuilding supportive routines that fit your current season of lifeThis episode is for anyone who wants to approach health goals with clarity instead of pressure—and create changes that can truly be sustained over time.About Dr. Melanie GrayDr. Melanie Gray is a PhD-prepared nurse, educator, coach, speaker, and author who helps women, caregivers, and mission-driven professionals heal from burnout by reconnecting with their bodies, boundaries, and inner wisdom. Drawing from decades of experience in healthcare, neuroscience, trauma-informed care, and spiritual insight, she translates complex concepts into simple, real-world practices that support meaningful and lasting change.Free Gift for Listeners🎁 UNBURNT: Break Free from BurnoutAccess Dr. Gray’s free gift for listeners here:https://melanie-s-site-95ba.thinkific.com/courses/unburnt-break-free-from-burnoutConnect with Dr. Melanie GrayWebsite:www.DrMelanieGrayTheConfidenceCoach.comFacebook:https://www.facebook.com/melanie.gray.550422https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577286124894Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/drmelaniewellnesscoach/X (Twitter):https://x.com/MelanietheRNLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmelaniegray/Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What happens when chronic stress quietly rewires our hormones—and we’re told to just “push through it”?In this episode of Rooted & Wild, we’re joined by Eva Angeloff, founder of Women’s Lib, for a candid conversation about stress chemistry, hormonal imbalance, and why so many women are living disconnected from their energy, vitality, and desire.Eva shares the deeply personal moment that sparked Women’s Lib in the summer of 2022—when her own low energy no longer aligned with the demands of daily life. What began as a private reckoning quickly revealed itself as a collective experience. Through intimate and public conversations, Eva discovered that countless women were navigating the same terrain: fatigue, diminished desire, mood shifts, and a quiet resignation that this was “just how it is.”Together, we explore how stress impacts hormonal signaling and why restoring balance requires more than willpower. Eva breaks down the science and intention behind Women’s Lib’s all-natural, research-backed botanical formula, designed to support women at the root level:• Tongkat Ali — supports healthy free testosterone levels by releasing bound testosterone, which may help improve energy, vitality, mood, and intimate desire• Shatavari — an Ayurvedic adaptogen that binds to estradiol receptors to help naturally balance estrogen, supporting mood stability, energy, comfort, and long-term organ health• Epimedium (Horny Goat Weed) — enhances blood flow by gently relaxing blood vessels and smooth muscle, supporting arousal, comfort, and overall reproductive wellnessThis conversation isn’t about quick fixes or forcing outcomes. It’s about understanding the body’s chemistry, honoring stress signals, and reclaiming agency through informed, intentional support.Eva currently lives in Los Angeles with her husband and three children and is on a mission to make women’s hormone health both accessible and normalized—without shame, bypassing, or dismissal.Learn more about Women’s Lib here:https://womens-lib.comRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What if laughter isn’t a distraction from healing—but a doorway into it?In this episode of Rooted & Wild, I’m joined by executive coach, leadership consultant, speaker, and author Rachel Burrfor a conversation that’s equal parts hilarious, honest, and deeply human. With over 20 years of experience working with leaders and organizations—and two master’s degrees in clinical psychology and organizational development—Rachel brings a sharp understanding of human behavior paired with a refreshing dose of humor.We dive into why transformation is rarely tidy, why growth often feels uncomfortable before it feels liberating, and how laughter can soften the nervous system, open perspective, and make real change sustainable. Rachel challenges the myth that leadership—or healing—should look polished, reminding us that authenticity is where true power lives.Rachel is the author of Butterfly Goo: The Down and Dirty Truth of Transformation, a humorous memoir that explores the messy, sticky, very human reality of change. Drawing from her own missteps, triumphs, and “goo-filled” moments, Rachel reframes transformation as something we don’t clean up—but courageously move through. The book blends storytelling, practical insights, and experiential exercises that invite readers to examine where life is working, where it isn’t, and what might be calling for change.If you’ve ever felt stuck in “comfortable discomfort,” afraid to fail, or quietly wondering if you’re enough, this conversation is for you. Because as Rachel reminds us—you don’t get the wings without first going through the goo.Connect with Rachel Burr:📘 Book: https://ButterflyGooBook.net/🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelmburr/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rachel.m.burr.1📸 Instagram: @catamentumRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What if chronic pain, limited mobility, or persistent tension weren’t just muscular issues—but expressions of how your body has adapted to life?In this episode, we explore the art and science of Rolfing® Structural Integration with Aline Wachsmuth, a seasoned bodyworker whose path into healing began through dance, movement, and deep curiosity about the body-mind connection.Aline shares how her early training as a dancer at Florida State University introduced her to Rolfing—an experience that profoundly shifted her awareness of the subtle body and revealed how long-held tension patterns can limit movement and vitality. After dancing professionally in San Francisco, she pursued massage therapy and formal training at the Rolf Institute of Structural Integration, where she began what is now a 15-year Rolfing practice.Still driven by curiosity and clinical precision, Aline expanded her work to include craniosacral therapy and, more recently, Proprioceptive Deep Tendon Reflex (P-DTR), a data-driven functional neurology approach developed by Dr. Jose Palomar. This method allows for highly specific testing and treatment to help reset the nervous system and restore function at a foundational level.We also talk about movement as medicine—Pilates, Gyrotonics, and even ceramics—as pathways to embodiment, regulation, and creativity. Aline offers a refreshing perspective on what it means to work with the body rather than against it.Aline lives with her family in the San Geronimo Valley, just north of the Golden Gate Bridge, where community, movement, and curiosity continue to shape her work.Learn more about Aline and the modalities discussed:www.truebalancerolfing.comhttps://www.pdtrusa.com/https://rolf.org/This episode is for anyone curious about structural integration, nervous system healing, or how the architecture of the body reflects the story of a life lived.Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What if your story isn’t something to fix—but something to listen to?In this episode of Rooted & Wild, we explore transformational story-work as a living, embodied practice for healing, leadership, and reconnection. My guest, Michael Kass, invites us beyond surface-level narrative and into the deeper currents of meaning, identity, and the Sacred that move beneath our stories.Michael Kass is the founder of Story & Spirit and a convening designer, facilitator, consultant, and embodied leadership coach who has spent over 25 years helping individuals and organizations navigate profound transitions. His work spans touring an award-winning solo storytelling show across the United States, guiding teams through moments of rupture and growth, offering breathwork rituals to groups around the world, and coaching founders and multinational CEOs through deep inner and outer shifts.In this conversation, we unpack:What transformational story-work actually is—and how it differs from traditional storytellingHow story lives in the body, the nervous system, and the relational fieldThe role of ritual, breathwork, and embodiment in personal and collective healingWhy reclaiming story is essential for humane leadership and meaningful workMichael is an ICF-Certified Executive Coach, Certified Breathwork Facilitator, author of Story Maps: Wayfinding Tools for the Modern Seeker, and serves on the Board of Directors for Wild Gift. However the work shows up, his devotion remains the same: restoring connection—to self, to one another, and to what is sacred.You’ll also learn why he has a well-known weakness for chocolate and puppies (though, admittedly, not at the same time).Connect with Michael Kass:Website: https://www.storyandspirit.orgPodcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5PEqbjjjA6gkwnMvQiz2bq?si=74c2aaf18f6a4ecbLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelkass1Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Rewiring Fear Into Flow is a conversation about what happens when we stop trying to outrun fear—and instead learn how to work with it.In this episode, we connect with Laurie Clemans, a Certified Life & Leadership Coach (ICF), Certified Meditation Instructor, Professional Clinical Herbalist (RH), healer, channeler, and former corporate branding executive, to explore how fear lives in the body, the nervous system, and our decision-making—and how it can be rewired into clarity, momentum, and flow.Laurie shares how decades in high-level corporate marketing eventually led her to a deeper calling: guiding humans back to the innate wisdom of their own hearts. Together, they unpack practical tools and spiritual perspectives for moving beyond stress, anxiety, self-doubt, and mental overload—without bypassing or forcing positivity. This is about cultivating agency, creating habits that actually stick, and choosing goals that are worth playing for.If you’ve ever felt stuck between knowing what you want and feeling frozen about how to move forward, this episode offers a grounded, compassionate roadmap. Laurie reminds us that every situation is workable—and that fear doesn’t have to be the thing in the driver’s seat.Learn more about Laurie and her work at:👉 https://www.soulessent.comRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What if unresolved health issues weren’t random—but part of a deeper energetic pattern you were born with?In this episode of Rooted & Wild, I’m joined by Leslie McGuirk, an internationally acclaimed astrologer, author, and illustrator whose work is helping restore astrology to its original role as a diagnostic and healing tool.With nearly four decades of experience, Leslie has guided thousands of clients—including creatives, thought leaders, and medical professionals—through what she calls astrological imprinting: a system that reveals the energetic blueprint each person is born with, like a personal owner’s manual. Rather than predicting the future, this approach illuminates patterns in the body, mind, and emotional landscape that can point directly to unresolved or chronic health issues.In our conversation, we explore how astrology can offer insight into physical symptoms, emotional patterns, and long-standing health challenges—especially when conventional approaches fall short. Leslie shares how she translates complex birth charts into clear, practical insights, and why her work is increasingly valued in medical and psychological circles as a complementary lens for deeper healing.We also discuss her book The Power of Mercury (HarperCollins), where she explores how communication style, mental wiring, and nervous system patterns are shaped by Mercury’s placement at birth—and how misunderstanding these patterns can lead to stress, burnout, and imbalance in the body.Leslie’s work bridges ancient wisdom with modern science, blending visual storytelling, intuition, and pattern recognition. As the founder of the Astrology Wisdom Academy and the creator of The Quest for Inspiration—a corporate creativity program taught at five-star spas and global companies—she brings a refreshingly grounded, accessible approach to astrology.From her TEDx Hollywood talk The Importance of Being Wrong to her frequent appearances on Coast to Coast AM with George Noory, Leslie’s mission remains the same: to awaken the intelligence of the heart through the language of astrology—and to remind each of us of the brilliance we were born with.🔗 Learn more about Leslie McGuirk and her work:https://www.lesliemcguirk.comThis episode invites you to rethink astrology not as belief, but as information—and to consider what your body may already be trying to tell you.Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What if pain relief didn’t have to come in the form of pills, dependency, or lifelong side effects?In this episode of Rooted & Wild, we explore reflexology as a powerful, evidence-informed alternative to medication-based pain management with Njideka N. Olatunde, a globally respected naturopath, master reflexologist, and pain relief educator.Dr. Olatunde is the visionary force behind Focus On Healing Wellness Institute and a leading authority on integrating traditional healing practices with conventional medicine for whole-person wellness—mind, body, and emotional health. Her work sits at the intersection of science, culture, and compassionate care.In this conversation, we dive into:How reflexology works through the nervous system to interrupt pain signalsWhy touch-based therapies are being reconsidered amid the opioid crisisThe cultural and historical roots of reflexology and traditional pain careHow reflexology supports chronic pain sufferers without addiction or medication dependencyWhat pain may be communicating beneath the surface—and how the body can be taught to listen differentlyHaving helped thousands of chronic pain sufferers find relief through medication-free, addiction-free methods, Dr. Olatunde offers both clinical insight and a deeply human perspective on healing. This episode is especially relevant for anyone seeking alternatives to pharmaceuticals, practitioners interested in integrative care, or listeners curious about the future of pain management.Learn more about Dr. Olatunde and her work:🔗 https://focusonhealing.com🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/njidekanolatundeThis is a conversation about reclaiming agency, restoring trust in the body, and remembering that healing doesn’t always require numbing—it often requires connection.Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Burnout doesn’t begin in the mind — it begins in the body.In this episode of Rooted & Wild, we explore what it really means to set boundaries that don’t come from force, guilt, or intellectual resolve, but from embodied awareness. My guest, Hollie Rottman, invites us into a deeper conversation about how the body signals “enough” long before burnout takes hold — and how learning to listen can radically transform the way we work, lead, and relate.Together, we explore:Why high-achieving people struggle to set and hold boundariesThe hidden cost of saying yes when the body is already saying noHow the nervous system communicates limits before the mind catches upWhat shifts when boundaries are embodied rather than enforcedSomatic practices for saying no with clarity, compassion, and grounded authorityThis conversation goes beyond mindset work and productivity culture, offering a nervous-system-informed, somatic approach to leadership, self-trust, and sustainable aliveness.If you’ve ever felt exhausted, resentful, or disconnected while doing “all the right things,” this episode is an invitation to come back into relationship with your body — and let it lead.Hollie Rottman is an Executive Coach and Leadership Consultant specializing in burnout prevention, embodied boundaries, and transformative leadership during high-stakes life and career transitions. She supports executives and high-achieving women in reconnecting with their bodies, emotions, and inner wisdom so they can lead and live with clarity, grounded authority, and aliveness.Hollie brings over 20 years of experience designing leadership programs, shaping culture, and building markets across global financial firms, national health initiatives, and nonprofit boards. Her work integrates somatic intelligence with deep organizational insight, helping leaders move beyond reactivity into sustainable, values-aligned leadership.She is a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) through the International Coaching Federation, a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC), and holds a Master’s degree in Human Resources Management. Hollie is also Strozzi Somatics® certified, completed her Internal Family Systems (IFS) training, and is certified in The Leadership Circle Profile. She additionally facilitates healing breathwork through the School of Prana in Lisbon.Through Rottman Consulting, Hollie co-leads pioneering work on generative conflict with her partner, Jim Rottman, combining somatics, leadership development, and relational intelligence to help individuals and teams cultivate trust, resilience, and meaningful impact.Website: https://hollierottman.comPodcast: Feminine Warrior MindsetInstagram & LinkedIn: @hollierottmanRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What happens when you stop numbing… and choose to stay present in the hardest moments?In this deeply honest and compassionate conversation, we explore what Anneka Reece calls the Valley of Despair—that tender, uncomfortable space where growth asks us to feel rather than flee. Together, we unpack how sobriety becomes not just the absence of alcohol, but a profound act of trust in yourself, your emotions, and the unfolding of your life.Anneka shares how alcohol often becomes the biggest—and most overlooked—block to manifestation, intuition, and authentic change. Drawing from psychology, neuroscience, and energetic principles, she explains why avoiding discomfort delays transformation, and how staying with it can radically reshape your relationship with yourself.This episode is for anyone who:Feels stuck between who they’ve been and who they’re becomingIs questioning their relationship with alcoholWants to manifest a more aligned, fulfilling life—without bypassing the hard partsIs learning how to sit with discomfort without self-abandonmentAbout Anneka ReeceAnneka is an Executive Health and Mindset Coach specialising in alcohol-free living and manifestation. With over five years of experience, she supports clients in releasing alcohol as a coping mechanism and reconnecting to their clarity, power, and purpose. Her work bridges psychology, neuroscience, and energetics to help people create sustainable, embodied change.🔗 Learn more about Anneka’s work:https://coachingbyanneka.co.uk🎧 Listen to Anneka’s podcast, The Alcohol-Free Vibes Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-alcohol-free-vibes-podcast/id1606704134If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s possible to walk through despair without numbing—and come out more whole on the other side—this conversation is for you.Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

The Wolf Moon rises tonight.This January full moon—also a supermoon—has long been known as the Wolf Moon, named for the deep winter nights when wolves were heard howling across frozen land, calling to their pack in a season where survival depended on connection, restraint, and listening.In this episode, we explore the history and meaning of the Wolf Moon: who named it, what it signaled for our ancestors, and how it served as a guide through the harshest stretch of winter. This was not a moon of manifestation or momentum—it was a moon of honesty, conservation, and endurance.Together, we reflect on hunger—not just for food, but for rest, truth, belonging, and rhythm in a modern world that rarely slows down. The Wolf Moon reminds us that hunger is not a weakness; it is information. And howling, at its core, is not aggression—it is communication.This episode also includes a guided listening practice, inviting you to pause, tune into your body, and ask what you are truly hungry for right now, where you may need to call out for support, and who belongs in your pack as you move through winter.This is a conversation with the night itself.A moment to stop pushing.A reminder that even in the deepest winter, life is still awake.Release this episode under the Wolf Moon.Listen slowly.And let the dark teach you something ancient.Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Silent Bridges: Men, Intimacy, and Emotional Isolation is a raw and thoughtful conversation with Mark Grayson, exploring the quiet distances many men carry within themselves—and the bridges required to cross them.Mark’s life journey spans small-town Ohio, remote stretches of Central Texas, Ivy League halls at Harvard College and Columbia Business School, and a career at the intersection of media, education, spirituality, and civic life. Beginning in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles, he helped launch and scale impactful organizations including Rabbit Ears, All Kinds of Minds, and Rocket21—initiatives designed to help children imagine meaningful futures.As the Founding Director of Trinity Spiritual Center, Mark has curated deeply human conversations with cultural and spiritual thought leaders—drawing comparisons to Krista Tippett’s On Being. Under his leadership, the Center received two prestigious Constable Grants in its first three years and earned national media attention for its work fostering dialogue, reflection, and connection.Beyond spirituality, Mark is an engaged citizen and advocate. In 2023, he successfully worked with Members of Congress to secure $2.3 million in federal funding for the Lewis-Houghton Civics and Democracy Initiative at the Library of Congress—an innovative, music-driven educational program designed to help teach American history and civics as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026.As a Featured Columnist for The Good Men Project, Mark has published over 50 essays examining masculinity, vulnerability, democracy, purpose, and the emotional lives of men. His work resonated so deeply that it culminated in Getting Naked—a powerful framework for expanding traditional notions of masculinity and inviting men into deeper honesty, intimacy, and connection. This philosophy also lives through his work with The Naked Man Collective:https://www.nakedmancollective.com/In this episode, we explore:Why emotional isolation is so common among men—even those who appear successful and connectedHow vulnerability becomes an act of courage rather than weaknessWhat it truly means for men to be seen, held, and known by other menThe quiet bridges that allow intimacy to re-enter our livesMark lives in Greenfield Hill, Connecticut with his wife, former actress Sarah Houghton, their two sons Parker and Philip, and their very rambunctious Havanese, Phoebe.This is a conversation for men—and those who love them—ready to cross the silence and build something real.Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What if the New Year isn’t asking you to become someone new — but to let go of who you no longer are?In this solo episode, The New Year Shift: Shedding Old Identities, we explore the quieter side of manifestation: release. Letting go of outdated roles, survival patterns, and identities that once kept us safe but now keep us stuck.This is a conversation about authenticity not as a performance, but as alignment. About why grief often accompanies growth. And about the power of standing in the in-between — unfinished, undefined, and deeply honest.If you’re feeling a subtle pull to move on, shed old skin, or live with greater integrity in the year ahead, this episode offers space, reflection, and a grounded reminder that real change begins within.Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What if one of the most overlooked nutrients for thyroid and hormonal health was also one of the most regenerative foods on the planet?In this episode, we’re joined by Sachi Singh, founder of Rootless, for a deep dive into iodine, seaweed, and the powerful intersection of personal health and planetary healing.With over 13 years of experience working in international climate change solutions—and a Master’s degree in Environmental Management from Yale University—Sachi understands both the environmental challenges we face and the systemic gaps in our food system. In seaweed, she found hope.Seaweed is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on Earth, naturally rich in iodine and trace minerals essential for thyroid function, hormone balance, gut health, and sustained energy. It also actively regenerates marine ecosystems where it’s grown. Yet for most people, it’s missing entirely from daily nutrition.Sachi set out to change that through Rootless and their hero product, The Daily Bite—a first-of-its-kind, food-based supplement designed to deliver the hormone-supportive benefits of seaweed in a simple, delicious daily ritual. Since launching in 2022, The Daily Bites have helped countless women support thyroid health, stabilize energy, improve digestion, and navigate major hormonal transitions including menopause, pregnancy, and postpartum.In this conversation, we explore:Why iodine is essential for thyroid and hormonal healthThe hidden consequences of chronic iodine deficiencyHow seaweed supports the endocrine system naturallyThe connection between women’s health, nutrition, and environmental regenerationWhat it looks like to build a better food system—one bite at a timeThis episode is a reminder that nourishment doesn’t have to come at the expense of the planet—and that sometimes, the most powerful solutions are rooted in nature.Learn more and connect with Sachi here:🌊 www.getrootless.com📸 https://www.instagram.com/get.rootless/📸 https://www.instagram.com/sachisings/Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

In this deeply human and illuminating conversation, we sit down with vicki abadesco!, a visionary entrepreneur, nonprofit leader, speaker, coach, and mentor whose life’s work centers on cultivating leadership from the inside out.vicki! shares how true leadership begins with our inner world—how empathy, clarity, and self-connection shape the way we navigate conflict, build relationships, and create meaningful change. Together, we explore the role of the inner child in moments of tension and misunderstanding, and how tending to our earliest wounds can transform them into strengths that support courageous, purposeful living.As the co-founder of Soul Shoppe, vicki! has helped bring empathy-building and conflict-resolution practices into elementary schools across the country. Since 2001, Soul Shoppe has reached over one million students, nurturing emotional intelligence, peacemaking skills, and inclusive communities—one classroom at a time. Through this work, and her extensive experience facilitating teams, circles, and leadership spaces, Vicki! has gained profound insight into what people truly need to grow, thrive, and lead with integrity and heart.Raised in San Francisco as a proud American-born Filipina, vicki!’s leadership is shaped by lived experience, ancestral wisdom, and a lifelong journey of healing and transformation. Everything she offers—workshops, trainings, circles, and coaching—is grounded in the belief that when we deepen our relationship with ourselves, we unlock the ability to create lasting change in our communities and in the world.This episode is an invitation to slow down, listen inward, and rediscover how connection—within ourselves and with others—can turn conflict into a powerful pathway for growth.Learn more about vicki!’s work at:https://www.vickiabadesco.comRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Sex is more than pleasure—it’s connection, communication, and a vital part of human health. In this episode, we explore why sex matters to physical health, mental well-being, and social connection, and how modern medicine is transforming the way we think about sexual health, safety, and prevention.Joining us is Jay K. Varma, MD, a physician, epidemiologist, and public health expert with more than two decades of experience preventing and controlling infectious diseases around the world. From combating Ebola outbreaks in Africa to addressing HIV across Asia and the United States, Dr. Varma has dedicated his career to understanding how invisible forces—microbes, systems, environments, and human behavior—shape both individual health and collective well-being.Together, we unpack how healthy sexual expression supports cardiovascular health, immune function, mental health, intimacy, and resilience—and how fear, shame, and misinformation have too often distorted the conversation. Dr. Varma explains how modern medical advances, including testing, prevention tools, and evidence-based treatments, make it possible to enjoy sex while dramatically reducing—and in many cases eliminating—the risk of infection.This conversation is grounded, science-forward, and deeply human. It offers clear, accurate education without stigma, moralizing, or fear—inviting listeners to rethink sexual health as something empowering, practical, and essential to a thriving life.Whether you’re curious about the science of intimacy, navigating modern relationships, or looking for trustworthy information about sexual health and prevention, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and hope for a healthier, more connected future.Learn more from Dr. Jay K. Varma:Website: https://drjayvarma.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thermometerHQPsychology Today – Fevered Mind: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fevered-mindHealthBeat articles: https://www.healthbeat.org/authors/dr-jay-k-varma/Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Modern men are not broken—but we are often disconnected.- Disconnected from each other.- Disconnected from embodied wisdom.- Disconnected from the kind of community that once taught boys how to become men.In this episode, we explore men’s circles as a forgotten technology—not a trend, not therapy, not performative vulnerability, but a time-tested structure for mutual growth, accountability, initiation, and truth-telling among men.Mikaal Bates shares how his own unraveling led him to discover something modern culture rarely offers men: spaces where men grow together—through honesty, reflection, challenge, and shared responsibility. Not dominance. Not hierarchy. Not isolation. But brotherhood with purpose.This conversation focuses on:• Why men struggle in isolation—and why community is essential• What men’s circles actually do (and what they are not)• How masculine growth happens through witnessing and being witnessed• The role of challenge, accountability, and initiation in men’s development• Why emotional literacy, embodiment, and leadership are learned together• How healthy men’s communities ripple outward into relationships, families, and cultureWe talk about the absence of elders, rites of passage, and shared masculine training—and why so many men feel confused, unanchored, or stalled despite success, spirituality, or self-awareness.Men do not evolve alone.They evolve in relationship with other men.Mikaal’s work centers on creating containers where men can practice being honest, grounded, and responsible together—learning how to relate to themselves, other men, and the world with integrity. From men’s circles and group mentorship to retreats and community-based experiences, this is about rebuilding something humanity has always relied on: men gathering to become more whole.If you are a man craving:• real connection without posturing• growth without performance• brotherhood without shame• leadership rooted in embodiment—or if you’re simply curious about what men actually need from each other— this episode is for you.Learn more about Mikaal’s work at:https://www.mikaalbates.comRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

A Practical Introduction to Āyurveda invites listeners into one of the world’s oldest and most enduring systems of healing—Āyurveda, often translated as “the science of life.” Originating in India over 5,000 years ago, Āyurveda is not simply a medical system, but a holistic philosophy for living in alignment with nature, our bodies, and the rhythms that govern both.At its core, Āyurveda teaches that health is not a fixed state, but a dynamic balance—one shaped by digestion, daily routines, seasonal cycles, emotional wellbeing, and our relationship to the natural world. Rather than treating symptoms in isolation, Āyurveda asks deeper questions: How is energy moving through the body? Where is there excess or depletion? What does this person truly need right now?Listeners will be introduced to foundational Ayurvedic concepts such as the five elements, the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), digestive fire (agni), and the idea that each of us has a unique constitution that influences how we experience food, stress, sleep, emotions, and healing.From this foundation, we then turn to the story of today’s guest, Elizabeth Swamy, whose personal journey with Āyurveda began unexpectedly and evolved into a life devoted to supporting mothers, families, and individuals through deeply nourishing, nature-aligned care.Elizabeth discovered Āyurveda during her yoga teacher training, when a missed class unexpectedly became a turning point. What began as a simple project unfolded into a lifelong path—one that gave language to her lived experience, rooted her in true community (sangha), and reshaped how she understands health, healing, and care.She went on to study at the Kripalu School of Ayurveda, graduating as an Āyurveda Health Counselor, and later trained under Dr. Anusha Sehgal at Boston Ayurveda Inc. Elizabeth earned her Āyurveda Practitioner certification in 2022 and, as of 2025, holds the title of Āyurvedic Doctor.Her work with mothers is deeply personal. After the birth of her rainbow baby, Elizabeth faced her own challenges with postpartum recovery. Receiving profound support from a fellow student and Ayurvedic Doctor transformed her healing journey—and ignited a calling to offer that same level of nourishment and care to other mothers navigating postpartum life.Alongside her Ayurvedic training, Elizabeth holds a Master’s degree in Nonprofit Business from NYU. Her diverse professional background includes medical research at UW–Madison Hospital, Montessori preschool leadership, youth counseling, running a dance company, and teaching yoga. Deeply connected to nature and its rhythms, Elizabeth brings a listening-first, judgment-free approach to her work—meeting each person exactly where they are. She believes we are all works in progress, all striving to live well, and all deserving of care that honors dignity, warmth, and yes—a little queen-level treatment.Elizabeth currently lives in San Jose with her husband, their daughter, and their French bulldog, Pali.Learn more about Elizabeth’s work and offerings:🌿 https://www.vedicwild.com📸 https://www.instagram.com/vedicwildayurveda/Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What does it actually mean to feel alive—not just busy, stimulated, or productive, but deeply present in your own body and life?In this episode of Rooted & Wild, I’m joined by David Brower, an international impresario of live experiences who has made a life’s work out of cultivating presence, intimacy, and aliveness. David is a #1 best-selling author, poet, and speaker whose gatherings blur the line between art and lived experience—inviting people into moments that are connective, immersive, and profoundly human.Together, we explore the science and lived experience of embodied presence: how attention, sensation, and connection shape our nervous system, our relationships, and our sense of meaning. David shares insights from decades of designing experiences that feel like living works of art—spaces where beauty, joy, and authenticity naturally emerge, and where everyday life becomes something worth savoring.This conversation is an invitation to slow down, inhabit your body more fully, and remember that presence itself can be transformative. Not as a performance or practice to perfect—but as a way of meeting life with curiosity, depth, and intention.Learn more about David Brower and his work:🌐 Website: https://davidbrower.com📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidcharlesbrower/💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidcbrower/If you’ve been craving more depth, connection, and aliveness in your day-to-day life, this episode offers both insight and inspiration for returning to what’s already here.Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Christmas has always been a season of warmth, sweetness, and celebration — but long before modern nutrition advice, our ancestors understood something essential: feasting required balance.In this holiday episode of Rooted & Wild, we explore the deep historical and cultural lineage of cinnamon, clove, and ginger — three spices woven into Christmas traditions across centuries, not just for flavor, but for survival.From ancient Egyptian preservation rituals and Roman winter banquets, to medieval monastic kitchens and seafaring ginger tonics, these spices were trusted allies during the coldest, darkest months of the year. They helped stabilize blood sugar, support digestion, improve circulation, and protect the body from the metabolic strain of rich foods and winter stress.This episode blends historic accounts, cultural storytelling, and embodied wisdom, revealing how traditional winter spices supported metabolic health long before calories or insulin were ever measured. You’ll learn why these spices became inseparable from Christmas baking, mulled drinks, and festive meals — and how to use them intentionally today to celebrate without depletion.This is not about restriction.It’s about remembrance.And honoring the wisdom already written into the season.Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

As winter settles in and respiratory illnesses circulate, this episode of Rooted & Wild invites you back to some of the oldest plant allies humans have relied on for protection and breath.In Holiday Respiratory Wellness: Pine, Rosemary, and Cedar as Natural Antimicrobials, David Allen Tracy explores the antimicrobial, antiviral, and respiratory-supportive properties of three powerful botanicals long used across cultures during the cold, dark months of the year.This episode weaves together:The historical and traditional uses of pine, rosemary, and cedar in winter medicineHow these plants support the lungs, sinuses, immune system, and nervous systemThe science behind their antimicrobial and aromatic compoundsPractical ways to work with these herbs at home, including teas, steam inhalations, and seasonal ritualsWhy plant medicine has always been closely tied to the rhythms of winter, rest, and restorationThis is not about fear-based wellness or chasing symptoms—it’s about remembering how to support the body gently, intelligently, and in partnership with nature during a season designed for slowing down.Whether you’re navigating winter congestion, looking to strengthen your immune resilience, or simply wanting to reconnect with plant wisdom during the holidays, this episode offers both practical guidance and a deeper sense of grounding.Settle in, take a breath, and join this seasonal conversation on respiratory health, tradition, and the quiet intelligence of plants.Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

As the wheel of the year turns, Yule and the Winter Solstice invite us into the deepest pause of the calendar—the shortest day and the longest night. Across cultures and centuries, this moment has been honored as a threshold: a time of stillness, reflection, and the quiet promise of returning light.In this episode of Rooted & Wild, David Allen Tracy and Stephanie Ulven explore the ancient history of Yule, the astronomical significance of the Winter Solstice, and how these traditions predate—and later influenced—Christian observances. Together, they unpack church history, theology, and the ways spiritual symbolism was adapted, reinterpreted, and sometimes misunderstood over time.This conversation also gently addresses common misconceptions about faith, religion, and spirituality—where doctrine ends, where personal experience begins, and how different belief systems often speak to the same human longing for meaning, divine guidance, and connection. Grounded, thoughtful, and expansive, this episode invites listeners to step beyond binaries, honor complexity, and reconnect with the wisdom carried in both darkness and light.About David Allen TracyDavid Allen Tracy is a ThetaHealing® Practitioner, Behavioral Consultant, Certified Herbalist, Certified Chef, and Functional Genomics & Nutrition Coach. With a background spanning subconscious healing, plant medicine, nourishment, and behavioral insight, David’s work bridges science, spirituality, and lived experience. Through Rooted & Wild and his holistic practice, he helps people explore healing as a gentle, layered process—one that honors the body, the nervous system, and the deeper stories we carry.About Stephanie UlvenStephanie Ulven is the founder of Equanimity, a healing sanctuary devoted to balance, truth, and energetic restoration. She is a Master Educator in Usui Reiki, Kundalini Reiki, Crystal Reiki, Karuna Ki Reiki, and Sekhem Reiki, as well as a practitioner of EFT Tapping, meditation, sound healing, shamanic energy work, and end-of-life care. With early academic training in psychology and sociology, Stephanie’s path weaves together touch, energy medicine, and compassionate presence—creating spaces where people can release pretense, process emotion, and return to their authentic center.Learn more about Stephanie: https://www.equanimity-wellness.com/Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Discomfort is something most of us are conditioned to avoid. We numb it, distract from it, or push it down—often without realizing how deeply this habit shapes our lives. But what if uncomfortable feelings aren’t obstacles to manifestation… what if they’re the gateway?In this episode of Rooted & Wild, David is joined by Anneka Reece, Executive Health and Mindset Coach specializing in alcohol-free living and manifestation. Together, they explore why staying present with discomfort—rather than numbing or bypassing it—is one of the most powerful tools for personal growth and conscious creation.Anneka shares how alcohol quietly disrupts emotional processing, nervous system regulation, and intuitive awareness, making it harder to move through feelings in a way that supports clarity and aligned manifestation. Drawing from psychology, neuroscience, and energetics, this conversation unpacks how sobriety creates the internal space needed to feel fully, integrate emotions, and respond to life from a grounded, empowered place.This episode is an invitation to stop numbing, start listening, and discover how your uncomfortable emotions may be pointing you directly toward the life you’re trying to create.In this episode, we explore:• Why uncomfortable emotions are essential for manifestation• How alcohol interferes with emotional and energetic processing• The role of the nervous system in feeling, safety, and creation• Sobriety as a tool for clarity, embodiment, and self-trust• Learning to move through discomfort rather than away from itAbout the GuestAnneka Reece is an Executive Health and Mindset Coach with over five years of experience helping clients release one of the biggest manifestation blocks there is—alcohol. Her work integrates psychology, neuroscience, and energetic principles to support alcohol-free living, emotional resilience, and aligned manifestation.Learn more about Anneka: https://coachingbyanneka.co.uk/Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

The holidays can magnify grief in ways no one warns you about. Traditions feel heavier, empty chairs are louder, and the pressure to be joyful can feel impossible when your heart is still learning how to breathe again.In this deeply human and tender conversation, David Allen Tracy sits down with grief educator and author Stacy Parker to talk honestly about what it’s like to move through the holidays after loss—and why there is no “right way” to grieve.Stacy became immersed in the world of grief support after the death of her first daughter, Alyssa, in 1997. Since then, she has dedicated her life to walking alongside others through loss. She and her husband have been long-time leaders with The Compassionate Friends, facilitating their local chapter, co-chairing the 2004 TCF National Conference, and supporting families nationwide. Stacy has also volunteered with Our House in Los Angeles, served as a parent advocate at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital, sat on the board of the Children’s Hospice of America Foundation, and more recently became a grief educator through David Kessler’s grief program.In this episode, Stacy shares:Why the holidays can feel especially destabilizing after lossHow grief changes over time—and why that doesn’t mean it disappearsPractical ways to navigate gatherings, expectations, and emotional landminesPermission to grieve as you are, not as the world expects you to beStacy is also the author of Grief As a Second Language, a powerful guide for learning to live in a world reshaped by loss.This episode is for anyone carrying grief quietly, feeling disconnected during the season, or searching for language and compassion around their pain. You are not broken—and you are not alone.Resources & Links:📘 Grief As a Second Language (Book):https://www.amazon.com/Grief-Second-Language-Guidebook-Living/dp/1725918897💛 The Compassionate Friends:https://www.compassionatefriends.org/🌿 Love, Mama Grief Retreat (1440 Multiversity):https://www.1440.org/events/scotts-valley/love-mama-grief-retreat🤍 Grief Healing Collective with Dr. Laura Berman:https://drlauraberman.com/griefhealingcollective/If this episode resonates, consider sharing it with someone who may be walking through grief this season—sometimes the quietest pain needs the gentlest acknowledgment.Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Who are you being while you’re doing what you’re doing? In this episode of Rooted & Wild, Morgan Goodlander explores the subtle but profound relationship between state of being, consciousness, and impact.Rather than focusing on behavior or outcomes alone, this conversation looks beneath the surface—into presence, perception, and the inner conditions that shape how we lead, relate, and live. Morgan invites listeners to consider how shifts in consciousness alter not just what we do, but the quality, integrity, and resonance of our actions.About the Guest:Morgan Goodlander is the founder of GETI Institute and the creator of Experience Organization™, a framework for understanding how human experience is structured and transformed through awareness. He is an internationally sought-after teacher, speaker, and consultant in personal and organizational development.Morgan brings decades of experience to his work, including 25 years as Director of the Gestalt Institute of San Francisco and three years as co-director of Gestalt training at the Esalen Institute. He has delivered seminars and leadership trainings in 15 countries across the globe. Known for his humor, depth, and precision, Morgan helps individuals and organizations cultivate consciousness that leads to meaningful, sustainable change.Learn more at https://www.geti.instituteRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Self-reflection is often praised as a cornerstone of growth—but what happens when reflection turns into self-attack? In this episode of Rooted & Wild, Morgan Goodlander introduces the provocative concept of Mirrorcidal: the moment when awareness becomes a tool for rejection rather than understanding.This conversation explores how insight, therapy language, and personal development frameworks can unintentionally reinforce shame, judgment, and disconnection. Morgan offers a grounded, compassionate lens for working with awareness in a way that supports dignity, presence, and authentic change—without turning the mirror into a weapon.About the Guest:Morgan Goodlander is the founder of GETI Institute, where he teaches Experience Organization™ and works with individuals and organizations around leadership, consciousness, and human development. He is an active speaker, workshop leader, and consultant whose work spans the United States, Europe, and Asia.With over 40 years in the field, Morgan spent 25 years as Director of the Gestalt Institute of San Francisco and served as co-director of Gestalt training at the Esalen Institute. He has led seminars and trainings in 15 countries and is widely respected for his ability to bring depth, humor, and immediacy to complex psychological and existential material. His work consistently invites people into greater self-contact without self-rejection.Learn more at https://www.geti.instituteRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Why do we keep finding ourselves in the same situations, reactions, and outcomes—despite insight, effort, and good intentions? In this episode of Rooted & Wild, we explore a powerful distinction that gets to the heart of personal and professional transformation: Experience Organization vs. Experience Recurrence.Morgan Goodlander introduces how experience is not something that simply happens to us, but something we actively organize—often unconsciously. When experience remains unexamined, patterns repeat. When it becomes conscious, new possibilities emerge. This conversation dives into how awareness reshapes leadership, relationships, creativity, and the capacity to choose differently in real time.About the Guest:Morgan Goodlander is the founder of GETI Institute and an internationally recognized teacher, speaker, and consultant in personal and organizational development. Through GETI, he teaches Experience Organization™ and leads workshops and leadership programs for individuals and organizations seeking alignment with their deepest values and highest potential.Morgan brings over four decades of experience to his work. He served for 25 years as Director of the Gestalt Institute of San Francisco and spent three years as co-director of Gestalt training at the world-renowned Esalen Institute. He has presented seminars and trainings in 15 countries across the United States, Europe, and Asia. Known for his humor, clarity, and depth, Morgan has a unique ability to evoke moments of genuine insight and transformation in individuals and groups alike.Learn more at https://www.geti.instituteRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What does it actually mean to love through fear—not bypass it, suppress it, or spiritualize it away—but meet it with clarity, courage, and compassion?In this episode of Rooted & Wild, I’m joined by Laurie Clemans, a Certified Life & Leadership Coach (ICF), Certified Meditation Instructor, Professional Clinical Herbalist (RH), healer, mother, and lifelong creative who brings a rare blend of grounded strategy and intuitive wisdom to the conversation.After decades working in marketing and branding for Fortune 500+ companies, Laurie made a bold pivot—devoting her work to helping people reconnect with the innate intelligence of their own hearts. Together, we explore how fear shows up in our bodies, our choices, and our relationships, and how learning to work with fear—rather than against it—can become a powerful catalyst for clarity, agency, and meaningful change.This conversation weaves practical tools, reflective insight, and lived experience as Laurie shares how she guides clients beyond stress, anxiety, negativity, and confusion toward inspired ways forward, sustainable habits, and goals that actually feel worth pursuing.If you’ve ever felt stuck between what feels safe and what feels true, this episode offers a compassionate, actionable path toward loving yourself—and your life—through uncertainty.Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Women’s sexual vitality is deeply connected to energy, emotional health, hormone balance, and nervous system regulation—not just libido alone. In this episode of Rooted & Wild, we explore how targeted plant medicine can support women through midlife transitions with Eva Angeloff, founder of Women’s Lib.Eva shares how her own experience with low energy and diminished desire led her to look beyond the narrative of “this is just aging.” That search opened the door to clinically studied herbs and adaptogens that support the female endocrine system, emotional wellbeing, and sexual vitality—without overriding the body’s natural intelligence.In this conversation, we break down key botanicals used in Women’s Lib, including:Tongkat Ali — traditionally used to support energy, motivation, and hormonal signaling, helping address fatigue and low drive that often accompany midlife stress and hormonal shifts.Shatavari — a revered Ayurvedic herb known for supporting female reproductive health, hormonal balance, lubrication, and emotional resilience, especially during perimenopause and menopause.Epimedium (Horny Goat Weed) — recognized for its role in supporting circulation, arousal, and sexual responsiveness by enhancing blood flow and nervous system communication.Together, these plants are discussed not as quick fixes, but as part of a holistic approach to restoring vitality—supporting the body, emotions, and sense of connection simultaneously.This episode is for women who want a science-informed, plant-based conversation about desire, energy, and emotional health—and for anyone ready to challenge the idea that losing your spark is inevitable.Learn more about Eva’s work and Women’s Lib at https://womens-lib.comRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

In this illuminating episode of Rooted & Wild, we step into one of the oldest and most powerful energetic lineages on the planet: Sekhem Reiki, the Egyptian tradition of light, healing, and divine remembrance. Guided by Master Educator Stephanie Ulven, we explore the origins of this profound healing system and the unique energetic architecture that sets it apart from other Reiki lineages.Stephanie shares how Sekhem/Seichim draws from ancient Egyptian traditions and the vibrational codes associated with this lineage. Together, we dive into how this modality works, why its frequency feels different in the body, and how Sekhem supports emotional clearing, spiritual awakening, intuitive expansion, and deep energetic restoration.Stephanie Ulven is a multidimensional healer, educator, and holistic practitioner whose work is rooted in a rich, global, and deeply diverse lineage of energetic and integrative healing arts. Her journey spans thousands of hours of formal training across Reiki, Egyptian and shamanic energy medicine, sound and meditation therapies, emotional healing modalities, and end-of-life support. Guided by renowned teachers and institutions around the world, Stephanie brings a rare depth, wisdom, and integrity to every healing space she creates.Her foundation in energy work is extensive. She is a Sekhem/Seichim Egyptian Energy Healing Master Educator and Kundalini Reiki Master Educator, both under the mentorship of Professor Krishna N Sharma. She received her Usui Reiki Master Educator and Crystal Reiki Master Educator certifications through Lisa Powers, and trained in Karuna Ki Reiki with Aimee Phlegar. She is also certified as a Chakra & Traditional Seichim Healing Therapist through POBA, giving her a broad and nuanced understanding of the subtle body and its energetic systems.Stephanie’s approach also integrates evidence-based emotional healing modalities. She is an EFT Tapping Facilitator and Coach, trained by psychotherapist Mark Casey, and a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Coach/Practitioner, certified by Priority Academy. These tools allow her to bridge energetic healing with grounded psychological support.Her work expands into meditative and vibrational practices as a Meditation Practitioner/Educator and Certified Sound Therapy & Sound Healing Practitioner, trained through Virtued Academy International.In the realm of natural and ancestral medicine, Stephanie is a Certified Homeopath through Dr. Paul Greham and has trained in shamanic pathways as a Shamanic Holistic Health Practitioner under Rev. Dr. Bonnie Russell, as well as through Shamanic Energy Medicine Journeywork with Silke Schwarzkopf.Her commitment to compassionate care also extends to life’s most tender thresholds. She is trained in End-of-Life Support, Grief Care, and Dissolving the Fear of Death, under the guidance of Fiona Whitmore and Jill Townsend.Across all modalities, Stephanie’s work reflects her devotion to supporting emotional healing, energetic alignment, and spiritual growth. Her practice, Equanimity Wellness, is the home of this integrative tapestry—a place where clients are met with presence, depth, and a level of mastery that is both rare and deeply felt.Learn more about her work at: Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

In this episode of Rooted & Wild, we explore the living intelligence of two powerful plant allies—Kanna and Wachuma—through the lens of transformation, resilience, and embodied leadership with psychedelic guide and executive transformation coach Garet Free.Garet is a bestselling author, former paramedic, and healthcare technology executive turned guide for high-performing leaders, entrepreneurs, and creatives seeking to release burnout, dissolve self-doubt, and rise into clarity, confidence, and authentic happiness. Through his company, The Resilience Edit, he bridges science and soul—blending neuroscience, somatic practices, and psychedelic therapy to create sustainable, integrated transformation.We dive into how Kanna and Wachuma (San Pedro) function not as shortcuts, but as teachers—supporting emotional regulation, nervous system repair, heart coherence, and deep personal insight. Garet also shares the principles behind his bestselling book, The Imposter Within, and how true leadership begins with inner alignment rather than external performance.Through his Rising to Clarity coaching experience and his writing, Garet helps people translate insight into action, embody real resilience, and live with grounded confidence, purpose, and peace.This conversation is for anyone navigating burnout, identity shifts, leadership pressure, or the call toward deeper authenticity—rooted in biology, expanded by consciousness, and stabilized through embodiment.🔗 Learn more about Garet’s work at: https://www.garetfree.comRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What happens when your nervous system is running the show—and the stakes are high?In this episode of Rooted & Wild, we explore what it really means to stay grounded under pressure with executive coach and leadership consultant Hollie Rottman, a specialist in burnout prevention and transformative leadership development. Hollie supports high-achieving women and leaders navigating intense personal and professional transitions—helping them reconnect with their bodies, emotions, and inner wisdom so they can lead with clarity, grounded authority, and aliveness.With over 20 years of experience designing leadership programs, building markets, and shaping culture across global financial firms, national health initiatives, and nonprofit boards, Hollie brings a rare depth of real-world leadership insight paired with deeply embodied practice. Her work uniquely integrates somatic intelligence, nervous system regulation, and emotional literacy as core leadership capacities, shaped in large part by her Strozzi Somatics Certification, which distinguishes her body-centered approach to leadership and presence.In this conversation, we explore:How stress and pressure live in the body—not just the mindWhy burnout is not a personal failure, but a physiological warning systemHow somatic practices create access to clarity, resilience, and grounded decision-makingWhat it truly means to lead from the inside out during times of uncertaintyHollie holds PCC status with the International Coaching Federation (ICF), is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC), and holds a Master’s in Human Resources Management. She is also certified in The Leadership Circle Profile, fully trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) coaching, and is a certified group facilitator in healing breathwork through the School of Prana in Lisbon.Through Rottman Consulting, Hollie also co-leads pioneering work on generative conflict with her partner, Jim Rottman—helping teams move beyond reactivity to cultivate deeper trust, alignment, and collective resilience in service of the world’s most meaningful challenges.This episode is a grounded, practical, and deeply human exploration of how to regulate, reset, and lead with stability when life applies real pressure.Connect with Hollie:Website: hollierottman.comLinkedIn & Instagram: @hollierottmanRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Seaweed may be one of the most nutritionally dense foods on the planet—and one of the most powerful allies we have for both human health and planetary regeneration. Yet for most people, it’s still completely missing from daily nutrition.In this episode we are joined by Sachi Singh, founder of Rootless and creator of The Daily Bite—a first-of-its-kind, food-based seaweed supplement designed to deliver therapeutic, hormone-supportive levels of minerals and phytonutrients in a simple, delicious daily format. With over 13 years of experience working in international climate change solutions and a Master’s degree in Environmental Management from Yale University, Sachi bridges nutrition science, climate systems, and women’s health in a way few voices can.This episode goes far beyond trend-based superfoods and dives into the real biological and ecological power of five critical seaweeds you should be consuming regularly, including:Dulse – rich in potassium and antioxidants that support cardiovascular health and cellular hydrationSea Moss – a prebiotic-rich polysaccharide powerhouse for gut lining repair, microbiome balance, and immune regulationSea Lettuce – dense in chlorophyll, magnesium, and trace minerals that support longevity and mitochondrial functionSugar Kelp – a thyroid-supportive iodine source that plays a key role in metabolic signaling and weight regulationBladderwrack – traditionally used for endocrine balance, detoxification, and hormone supportSachi also unpacks the hormonal intelligence of seaweed, explaining why sea vegetables are uniquely supportive during:Thyroid disorders and metabolic instabilityChronic fatigue and blood sugar dysregulationBut this episode isn’t only about nutrition—it’s about food systems that actively heal the Earth.Seaweed doesn’t just avoid environmental damage—it actively restores ecosystems. Seaweed farms draw carbon directly out of surrounding seawater and air, reduce ocean acidification, regenerate marine biodiversity, and help stabilize coastal environments. In short, seaweed rewilds the ocean while feeding humanity.Since its debut in 2022, The Daily Bite has helped women sustain steady all-day energy, rebuild mineral reserves, stabilize digestion, and re-establish hormonal balance using whole-food seaweed nutrition rather than synthetic isolates. Sachi’s mission is clear: to build a better food system while empowering women to reclaim their health during some of the most powerful transitions of their lives.This episode is for anyone who cares about:Thyroid, gut, and hormone healthClimate-forward nutritionRegenerative agriculture and ocean rewildingWomen’s metabolic and endocrine resilienceBuilding food systems that nourish both people and planetExplore Rootless and The Daily Bite here:https://getrootless.comRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

In this evocative episode of Rooted & Wild, we journey into Healing the Mother Line—a profound exploration of the emotional, ancestral, and societal forces that shape motherhood across generations. Our guest, Kara Dobelis, ARNP, is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner whose trauma-informed, integrative lens brings clarity and compassion to a topic many feel but few can name.For generations, mothers have carried more than children—they have carried expectations. The expectation to be endlessly patient, endlessly available, endlessly strong. The expectation to sacrifice themselves without acknowledgment. The expectation to mother perfectly, even when they themselves were never mothered well. These societal pressures create a silent inheritance—one that molds identity, shapes health, and echoes through the lineage long before a child is born.Within the modern healthcare system, these pressures often intensify. Mothers’ symptoms are frequently minimized or dismissed. Postpartum struggles are underdiagnosed or framed as personal weakness. Women navigating chronic illness, hormonal imbalance, or emotional trauma rarely receive the time, validation, or holistic support they need. Kara has seen this firsthand—from her early days in Critical Care and Surgery to her leadership roles in large healthcare organizations. She watched systems reward efficiency over empathy, productivity over presence, and quick fixes over true healing.Her own health crisis—and the failures of conventional medicine to address it—became a turning point. Integrative medicine finally helped her uncover the deeper layers: nervous system dysregulation, unprocessed trauma, and ancestral patterns quietly living in the body. This revelation now shapes her work at Integrative Family Medicine, where she helps patients connect the dots between inherited wounds, lived experience, and physical symptoms.In this episode, we explore:• How mother-line trauma is passed down emotionally, hormonally, and somatically• The invisible burdens society places on women and mothers• Why so many mothers feel unseen or unsupported in medical spaces• How the healthcare system often reinforces generational patterns of self-abandonment• The initiation of motherhood as a portal for ancestral repair• Practical, compassionate ways to begin healing your mother line—whether you are a mother or notIf you’ve ever felt the weight of expectations you never agreed to carry…If you’ve sensed that your struggles echo those of the women before you…If you are ready to break cycles, reclaim your inner mother, and heal your lineage—this episode is a powerful invitation.Learn more about Kara and her work at:https://www.integrativemediowa.comRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

In this episode of Rooted & Wild, we return to the origins of one of the most influential healing lineages in the world: Usui Reiki. Guided by the luminous presence of Stephanie Ulven, we explore what it truly means to tap into “the original flow” — the pure, unbroken current of universal life force that forms the heart of traditional Usui practice.Stephanie Ulven is a multidimensional healer, educator, and holistic practitioner whose work is rooted in a rich, global, and deeply diverse lineage of energetic and integrative healing arts. Her journey spans thousands of hours of formal training across Reiki, Egyptian and shamanic energy medicine, sound and meditation therapies, emotional healing modalities, and end-of-life support. Guided by renowned teachers and institutions around the world, Stephanie brings a rare depth, wisdom, and integrity to every healing space she creates.Her foundation in energy work is extensive. She is a Sekhem/Seichim Egyptian Energy Healing Master Educator and Kundalini Reiki Master Educator, both under the mentorship of Professor Krishna N Sharma. She received her Usui Reiki Master Educator and Crystal Reiki Master Educator certifications through Lisa Powers, and trained in Karuna Ki Reiki with Aimee Phlegar. She is also certified as a Chakra & Traditional Seichim Healing Therapist through POBA, giving her a broad and nuanced understanding of the subtle body and its energetic systems.Stephanie’s approach also integrates evidence-based emotional healing modalities. She is an EFT Tapping Facilitator and Coach, trained by psychotherapist Mark Casey, and a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Coach/Practitioner, certified by Priority Academy. These tools allow her to bridge energetic healing with grounded psychological support.Her work expands into meditative and vibrational practices as a Meditation Practitioner/Educator and Certified Sound Therapy & Sound Healing Practitioner, trained through Virtued Academy International.In the realm of natural and ancestral medicine, Stephanie is a Certified Homeopath through Dr. Paul Greham and has trained in shamanic pathways as a Shamanic Holistic Health Practitioner under Rev. Dr. Bonnie Russell, as well as through Shamanic Energy Medicine Journeywork with Silke Schwarzkopf.Her commitment to compassionate care also extends to life’s most tender thresholds. She is trained in End-of-Life Support, Grief Care, and Dissolving the Fear of Death, under the guidance of Fiona Whitmore and Jill Townsend.Across all modalities, Stephanie’s work reflects her devotion to supporting emotional healing, energetic alignment, and spiritual growth. Her practice, Equanimity Wellness, is the home of this integrative tapestry—a place where clients are met with presence, depth, and a level of mastery that is both rare and deeply felt.Learn more about her work at: https://www.equanimity-wellness.comRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

What does it mean to embody character—especially when life stretches you, confronts you, or asks you to become a version of yourself you’re still growing into? In this episode, we explore the courage, honesty, and deep self-attunement required to live your values from the inside out.Joining me is Esther Sarlo, the visionary force behind Mynd Myself—a platform created in response to a massive gap in centralized, trustworthy, and truly integrative health information. In a world overwhelmed with noise, contradictory advice, and confusing wellness claims, Mynd Myself exists to give you access to vetted CHI practitioners, credible resources, and a compassionate space where you feel safe, seen, and supported on your healing journey.As the cornerstone of this game-changing health platform, Esther is an entrepreneur, facilitator, speaker, and writer who is fiercely committed to helping people live—and speak—their most authentic lives. She is the catalyst for a movement built around one core truth: Because YOU matter.Together, we dive into character, congruence, integrity, and the inner work it takes to keep showing up as who you truly are.Connect with Esther & Mynd MyselfWebsite & ResourcesEvents: https://www.myndmyself.com/events/Podcast: https://www.myndmyself.com/podcasts/Blog: https://www.myndmyself.com/blogs/LinkedInMynd Myself: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mynd-myself-because-you-matter-441936262/Esther: https://www.linkedin.com/in/esther-sarlo-because-you-matterFacebookMynd Myself: https://www.facebook.com/myndmyselfEsther: https://www.facebook.com/esther.sarlo/Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/myndmyself/YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@myndmyselRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Across generations, men have been taught to stay strong, stay quiet, and stay in control. But those messages come at a cost—disconnection, emotional shutdown, chronic stress, and a crisis of presence that affects relationships, families, and even the health of society itself.In this episode of Rooted & Wild, we sit down with Mark Grayson, a writer, thought leader, and founder of Trinity Spiritual Center, to explore why so many men feel detached from their bodies, emotions, intuition, and authentic inner lives—and what true reconnection looks like. Drawing from his work, his writing, and his upcoming book Getting Naked: A Field Guide for Men, Mark helps unpack both the cultural forces and personal narratives that keep men emotionally armored… and what it takes to lay those layers down.We dive into questions like:• Why do so many men struggle to feel present—in their bodies, relationships, and purpose?• How do early expectations shape emotional withdrawal?• What does healthy vulnerability look like for men today?• How can men reconnect with compassion, intuition, and their internal landscape without abandoning strength?• Why is the crisis of male presence also a crisis of connection in families and communities?This conversation is honest, grounded, and deeply human—offering a framework for understanding masculinity not as a performance, but as an embodied, relational, emotionally intelligent way of moving through the world.About Mark GraysonMark Grayson grew up in a small town in Ohio and in remote parts of Central Texas. He worked his way through Harvard College and Columbia Business School before beginning his career in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles. Over the years, Mark helped launch and scale several innovative organizations, including Rabbit Ears, the education nonprofit All Kinds of Minds, and Rocket21, a digital platform encouraging kids to explore their dreams.As the Founding Director of Trinity Spiritual Center, Mark has hosted widely respected conversations with leading thinkers—earning comparisons to Krista Tippett’s On Being and receiving multiple national recognitions. His civic advocacy has also contributed to the creation of the Lewis-Houghton Civics and Democracy Initiative at the Library of Congress, funded at $2.3 million to support American history education ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary.As a Featured Columnist for The Good Men Project, Mark has authored more than 50 essays exploring masculinity, relationships, and the inner life of men. His forthcoming book, Getting Naked, distills these insights into a practical and compassionate guide for men seeking to expand beyond traditional masculine norms.He lives in Greenfield Hill, CT with his wife, Sarah, their two sons, and their lively Havanese, Phoebe.Explore more of Mark’s work:• Articles for The Good Men Project: https://goodmenproject.com/author/mark-grayson/• Getting Naked on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Naked-Field-Guide-Men-ebook/dp/B0DB3BCBNVRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

When someone you love dies, the world doesn’t just change—it stops. Everything familiar becomes unfamiliar, and the language of daily life suddenly feels impossible to speak. In this episode, we explore those first disorienting days and weeks of grief with guest Stacy Parker, a bereaved mother and longtime grief educator who has spent more than two decades helping families survive the unimaginable.About Stacy Parker:Stacy is a native Californian living in the Los Angeles area with her husband and two children. She became a grief expert after the death of her first daughter, Alyssa, in 1997. Since then, she and her husband have been deeply involved with The Compassionate Friends, facilitating their local chapter beginning in 2000 and co-chairing the 2004 TCF National Conference in Hollywood, as well as assisting with the TCF International Conference in 2012.Stacy has volunteered at Our House Grief Support Center in Los Angeles, served as a parent advocate at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital, and sat on the board for the Children’s Hospice of America Foundation. She is also a certified grief educator through David Kessler’s program, has been a guest on Open to Hope, and is the author of the powerful book Grief As a Second Language.Together, we talk about:• What acute grief does to the brain, body, and spirit• Why nothing feels real—and why that’s normal• How to function when you’re barely surviving• What to do when others don’t know what to say• The earliest steps toward rebuilding a shattered worldIf you’re grieving today, this episode offers compassion, understanding, and a reminder that you don’t have to navigate loss alone.Explore Stacy’s work & grief resources:Book: Grief As a Second Language — https://www.amazon.com/Grief-Second-Language-Guidebook-Living/dp/1725918897The Compassionate Friends — https://www.compassionatefriends.org/Love Mama Grief Retreat (1440 Multiversity) — https://www.1440.org/events/scotts-valley/love-mama-grief-retreatThe Grief Healing Collective — https://drlauraberman.com/griefhealingcollective/Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Modern medicine has dramatically changed how we understand—and often experience—some of the most fundamental processes of life: menstruation, birth, menopause, and death. But in the process, many of the natural rhythms, inner wisdom, and holistic care models have been lost. In this episode of Rooted & Wild, we challenge conventional medical narratives and explore how integrative, trauma-informed care can restore dignity, body-awareness, and holistic support during life’s most transformative transitions.Joining us is Kara Dobelis, ARNP, an integrative family nurse practitioner, trauma-informed clinician, and co-founder of Integrative Family Medicine in Des Moines, Iowa. Kara’s own path—from critical care and surgical nursing, through healthcare administration, to founding a patient-first holistic practice—gave her frontline insight into the gaps in conventional care.With dual master’s degrees in Clinical Informatics and Nurse Practitioner practice, and extensive experience treating chronic illness, complex viral conditions, and immune dysfunction, Kara brings a depth of clinical knowledge and compassion to her work. She specializes in caring for patients who don’t find answers through standard medical protocols: those with chronic fatigue, suspected Lyme disease, EBV, long-term immune suppression, or undiagnosed systemic issues.Kara offers a written and embodied approach to integrative care: trauma-informed intakes, personalized diagnostics, nutritional and lifestyle medicine, IV and NAD+ infusions, herbal and homeopathic support, nervous system regulation, and ongoing follow-up aimed at restoring balance and vitality. Her own healing journey—marked by illness, trauma, and ultimately, resilience—drives her dedication to helping others reclaim their health holistically.In this conversation, we dig into:How modern obstetric and gynecologic practices have shaped our experience of menstruation, birth, menopause, and end-of-life care.What gets lost when birth becomes medical procedure, menopause becomes pathology, and death becomes taboo.The role of integrative medicine in honoring the body’s natural cycles and transitions.What trauma-informed, compassionate healthcare can look like during major life passages.How lifestyle, nutrition, nervous-system care, and personalized medicine can support smoother transitions — on the physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.If you’ve ever questioned the standard narrative around these life stages, or felt like medicine overlooked the deeper truths of your body’s experiences, this episode offers insight, compassion, and a different path forward.Learn more about Kara Dobelis and Integrative Family Medicine:https://www.integrativemediowa.comRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

In a world where true connection is becoming rare, the tables we build—and how we invite people to gather around them—may be one of the most powerful forms of relational wealth we can cultivate. In this intimate conversation, we explore how intentional environments, shared experiences, and the simple act of coming together can nourish belonging, open the heart, and help people flourish.My guest today, David Brower, is an international impresario of live experiences that fuse artistry, intimacy, and inspiration. A #1 best-selling author, poet, and speaker, David creates gatherings that feel like living works of art—immersive, connective, and unforgettable. His events invite beauty, joy, and purpose back into the room, encouraging us to savor the fullness of being alive while forging meaningful bonds with one another. More than entertainment, his work is a catalyst for presence and transformation, reminding us that everyday life can be celebrated as the greatest stage of all.If you’ve been longing for deeper community, richer conversations, or gatherings that feel intentional rather than obligatory, this episode offers both inspiration and practical wisdom for designing spaces where people feel truly seen, held, and connected.Learn more about David’s work at:https://davidbrower.comRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Energy healing is often talked about in vague or mystical terms—but beneath the language and symbolism lies a grounded, deeply human truth: we all carry emotional, physical, and spiritual imprints that shape how we feel, respond, and move through the world. In this episode, we explore the foundations of energy healing and the chakra system with Stephanie Ulven, founder of Equanimity Wellness.Stephanie’s path into this work began long before she knew what to call it. In the early '90s, she studied psychology and sociology, searching for answers about why people feel disconnected from themselves. But it wasn’t until she moved into cosmetology—an unexpected doorway—that she discovered the profound impact of touch, presence, and authentic connection. Clients began asking not just for services, but for what they called a “Stephanie Session”—space to unravel, breathe, and finally feel like themselves again.When the world unraveled during the pandemic, people turned to her not only for comfort but for clarity. She realized that many were carrying emotional and energetic burdens with nowhere safe to process them. Her calling deepened.Today, Stephanie is a Master Educator in multiple energy modalities, including Usui Reiki, Kundalini Reiki, Crystal Reiki, Karuna Ki Reiki, and Sekhem Reiki. Through Equanimity Wellness, she offers a sanctuary for those seeking grounding, emotional release, nervous system regulation, and a return to inner balance. Her work is rooted in understanding the duality of human experience—what we say versus what we truly feel—and guiding clients back to honesty, alignment, and peace.In this episode, we explore:• What energy healing is (and what it is not)• How blocked or overwhelmed energy shows up in the body• The chakra system as a map for emotional and spiritual wellbeing• Why touch, presence, and attunement are powerful tools for healing• How reconnecting to our internal landscape creates resilienceIf you’ve ever felt disconnected, emotionally overloaded, or unsure why your inner world feels so heavy, this conversation brings clarity, compassion, and a grounded understanding of how energy healing supports the whole person.Learn more about Stephanie’s work at Equanimity Wellness:https://www.equanimity-wellness.comRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Manifestation gets talked about everywhere—but few people address it with the clarity, groundedness, and integrity that actually creates change. In this episode, we explore the art of aligned creation with vicki abadesco!, a visionary entrepreneur, nonprofit leader, speaker, coach, and mentor who has dedicated her life to helping people step into purpose with intention, courage, and heart.vicki! is known for her unwavering commitment to personal growth and transformation. Through her organization Soul Shoppe, she and her team have brought conflict resolution, emotional literacy, and peacemaking skills to over one million elementary school students, fostering emotional intelligence and healthy communication in the next generation. Her work has shaped communities, strengthened families, and inspired countless individuals to overcome limitation and live from a truer, more empowered version of themselves.In this conversation, we break down what aligned manifestation really looks like—beyond trends or wishful thinking. We explore how clarity, values, nervous system regulation, and emotional responsibility shape our ability to create a life that feels grounded, purposeful, and deeply connected to who we actually are. vicki! brings decades of wisdom, real-world experience, and her signature joy to help us understand how purposeful creation becomes possible when the inner and outer world come back into alignment.Learn more about vicki abadesco! and her work at: https://www.vickiabadesco.comRooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.

Your immune system is the core of your body’s defense, repair, and resilience — yet most people don’t actually understand how it works or what it truly needs to stay strong. In a world filled with chronic stress, environmental toxins, processed food, disrupted sleep, global travel, and constant exposure to microbes, supporting immune health has never been more essential. But real immunity isn’t about quick fixes or trendy supplements. It’s about understanding how the immune system functions, what weakens it over time, and what actually helps build long-term resilience.In this episode, we explore the science of immune health through a clear, grounded, and highly accessible lens. We dig into the most common questions people ask:• What naturally strengthens the immune system?• What lifestyle factors weaken immunity the most?• How do stress, nutrition, sleep, and environmental exposures impact immune function?• What role do vaccines play in long-term immune resilience?• How do infections, inflammation, and chronic conditions shape the body’s ability to heal?This is an evidence-based, myth-free conversation designed to help listeners understand how their bodies work — and what they can do today to support stronger, smarter immunity.About Jay K. Varma, MDJay K. Varma, MD is a physician, epidemiologist, and public health expert who has spent more than two decades working to prevent and control infectious diseases around the world. From combating Ebola in Africa to controlling HIV in Asia and the U.S., his career has focused on understanding how invisible forces—microbes, systems, and human behavior—shape our health and communities. Through his writing and health practice, he works to help people see how science and everyday life intersect: how our bodies, environments, and choices are constantly in conversation with one another and how the communities we create, the way we interact with animals and the environment, and the systems we build together determine our collective well-being.Learn more about Dr. Jay K. Varma:https://drjayvarma.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@thermometerHQhttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/fevered-mindhttps://www.healthbeat.org/authors/dr-jay-k-varma/Rooted & Wild provides general information for educational and informational purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guest speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of David Allen Tracy. The content shared on this podcast is not intended to replace individualized medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Listeners are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare professionals regarding any medical or mental health concerns.