PODCAST · health
Self-Care with Jean
by Jean Edelman
Jean is an inspirational author, speaker and educator - a leader and advocate in these challenging times for physical and mental health while sharing her enthusiasm and passion for mindful living, extreme self-care, nutrition and the pursuit of balance in a busy world. She is an expert in wellness, nutrition and macrobiotic cooking.
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8/13/26: Stretch, Rest, Play, Return to Joy
In this week's episode, we're exploring the quiet, uncomplicated wisdom our pets offer us. Not through language, not through striving, but through instinct and presence. We talk about the wisdom of stretching, the healing power of rest, the nourishment of play, and how our animals return to joy again and again, even after a hard moment. We also talk about connection, the greatest gift our pets give us. They don't care about our inbox or our productivity. They care about our presence. And we need that too. I hope this episode gives you permission to soften a little today. To stretch. To rest before you collapse. To play without needing a reason. Give the new episode a listen this week, and if your pet is nearby, maybe give them an extra cuddle of gratitude. 💚 Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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8/6/26: TCM Late Summer Edition
In this week's episode, we explore what traditional Chinese medicine calls the earth element, the energy of nourishment, digestion, and the center of our being. I share why August can leave us feeling scattered, foggy, or overwhelmed, and how the very foods this season offers us (rice, ginger, sweet potatoes, pears, millet) are exactly what our bodies are asking for. This isn't about restriction or doing it perfectly. It's about relationship. With our bodies, with nature, and with the wisdom that's already inside of us. I'd love for you to sit with this one. Make a cup of tea, find a quiet moment, and press play. And don't forget, this month I'm sharing wonderful late summer recipes as a free download for you. Be sure to grab those too. As I always say, this is Earth School. We're here to learn to love ourselves and love each other. Life comes from us and life is for us.💚 Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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7/30/26: Fire Was Our First Kitchen
In this week's episode of The Kitchen with Jean, we're exploring the ancient ritual of cooking over an open flame, how it evolved into the barbecue traditions we know today — from the slow smoke of Texas to the sizzle of Korean barbecue to the open pits of island cooking — and why gathering around the fire still feeds something in us that hurried, modern meals simply cannot. It's not just the smoke and the caramelization, though those matter too. It's our nervous system softening. It's presence. It's the way no one rushes away from a glowing fire. I hope this episode invites you to slow down this week — maybe light a small fire, roast something simple, and gather the people you love close by. 💚 Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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179
7/26/26: Allowing Ourselves to Smile More
This week's episode is all about — smiling and laughter. Two of the simplest things in the world, and yet they are profoundly healing. We talk about what actually happens inside our body when we smile and when we laugh. We talk about why laughter can coexist with grief, why some of the people who laugh most deeply are the ones who've walked through the hardest things. And we talk about why, somewhere along the way, so many of us adults forgot how to play. Self-care isn't only about managing stress, my friends. It's about remembering how to feel alive. So this week, I invite you to notice what makes your heart feel a little lighter. What makes you smile naturally. What helps you breathe a little deeper. And let's give ourselves permission to welcome more of that — not someday, but now. Come listen in, wherever you get your podcasts. Remember, this is Earth School. We're here to learn to love ourselves and love each other. Life comes from us, and life is for us. I hope you smile more, laugh more, and find more joy in your day. 💚 Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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7/16/26: The Humble Magic of Black Beans
This week, we're gathering in the kitchen to talk about something wonderfully simple: black beans. They're humble. They're affordable. They're ancient. And they've nourished generations across cultures and kitchens for centuries. I wanted to spend this episode reminding us all that the most healing foods are often not extravagant — they're the ones that connect us to earth, to family, to comfort, and to resilience. We talk about why black beans are such nutritional powerhouses — rich in plant-based protein, fiber, iron, magnesium, potassium, folate, and antioxidants — and why their steady, slow-digesting energy is such a gift for our blood sugar and our hearts. I also share why I want to challenge you to try cooking dried black beans from scratch this week, instead of reaching only for the can. There's something deeply grounding about rinsing them, soaking them overnight, and simmering them slowly with onion, garlic, bay leaf, and cumin the next morning. The whole kitchen fills with warmth. And of course, I couldn't leave you without recipes — four of them, including one that might surprise you (hint: brownies 🍫). This episode is really about abundance — not abundance in excess, but abundance as enough. Enough nourishment. Enough comfort. Enough to share. I'd love for you to join me in the kitchen this week. Pour yourself a cup of tea, and let's slow down together. 💚 Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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7/9/26: Finding Your Claires
This week on Self-Care with Jean, we are talking about the Claires — clairvoyance, clairsentience, claircognizance, and clairaudience. Now, before you think this isn't for you, I want you to stay with me. Because this conversation isn't about becoming mystical or extraordinary. It is about becoming present enough to recognize the subtle language of your own inner knowing. Have you ever thought of someone moments before they called? Have you ever walked into a room and immediately felt the tension in it? Have you ever just known something in your gut before there was any evidence of it? My dear friends, that is your intuition. And it has been with you your whole life. What the Claires offer us is simply a beautiful language for the ways intuition already communicates with us. In this episode, we explore each one — clear seeing, clear feeling, clear knowing, and clear hearing — and I share a few gentle practices to help you begin strengthening these gifts with compassion, not pressure. Because here is what I most want you to hear: intuition is not something we acquire. It is something we remember. This week, I am inviting you to slow down, soften, and listen a little more deeply to the wisdom already within you. It has always been there, dear friends. We just have to get quiet enough to hear it. Come listen — I think you'll love this one. 💚 Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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7/2/26: The Magic of Mushrooms
I have been so excited to share this week's episode with you, because we are talking about one of my absolute favorite ingredients in the whole kitchen — mushrooms. I know, I know — maybe you're thinking, mushrooms? But dear friends, stay with me, because these extraordinary fungi are so much more than what we grew up putting on our pizza. They are earthy, grounding, deeply healing, and honestly? They might just change the way you think about food as medicine. This week on The Kitchen with Jean, I'm walking you through the beautiful world of mushrooms — from the familiar button and cremini to the remarkable lion's mane, which supports focus and cognitive health, to the beloved shiitake, which has been studied for immune support for centuries. Each one carries its own personality and its own gift. And then we cook. Together. I'm sharing four recipes that I truly love: 🍄 Smoky Mushroom Bacon — I promise you, this one will surprise you in the best possible way🍄 Creamy Mushroom Soup — comfort in a bowl, pure and simple🍄 Lion's Mane Crab Cakes — a weekend treat that feels special and nourishing all at once🍄 Roasted Mushroom Garlic Toast — weeknight magic with whipped ricotta and arugula What I love most about mushrooms is what they teach us. In the forest, fungi take what has fallen — the decay, the difficult seasons — and transform it into nourishment so new life can grow. And dear friends, we do the same thing. We take our hard seasons, our compost of experience, and slowly, quietly, we turn it into wisdom and compassion. Isn't that beautiful? Come into the kitchen with me this week. Your body — and your spirit — will thank you. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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6/25/26: A Conversation About Your Skin
Have you noticed how summer light is different? It lingers, it stretches, it touches everything a little more directly. It can feel beautiful and energizing — even healing — but it also asks something of us, especially when it comes to our skin. I'll be honest with you. As a teenager, I did not take care of my skin. I was sunbathing with the best of them. But I woke up, and now I am diligent — sunscreen every day, protective clothing, a hat, my sunglasses. We all need our vitamin D, but it's about balance. So in this week's episode, I want to slow this down with you. We'll talk about summer skin care not as a list of products, but as a practice of attention. I'll share five gentle ways to care for our skin this season: how to protect without disconnecting, how to hydrate from the inside out, how to cleanse with kindness, how to create a small evening ritual of repair, and — maybe most important — how to truly listen to what our skin is telling us. Because our skin doesn't need perfection, dear friends. It just needs attention. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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6/18/26: The Summer Kitchen
This week on The Kitchen with Jean, I'm sharing five simple summer recipes — three savory plant-based dishes and two sweet treats — all built around the vegetables and fruits that are at their absolute peak right now. We're talking sun-ripened tomatoes, sweet corn, tender zucchini, golden peaches, and luscious mango. No heavy ovens. No complicated techniques. Just beautiful ingredients, simply prepared, and full of the energy of summer. Here's what's waiting for you in this week's episode: 🥒 Grilled Zucchini with Lemon and Herbs — soft, simple, and bright🍅 Tomato with Garlic and Olive Oil Toss — barely a recipe, completely perfect🌽 Warm Corn and Avocado Bowl — sweet, creamy, and satisfying🥭 Chilled Coconut Mango Bowl — a gorgeous light breakfast or cool evening treat🍑 Grilled Peaches with Maple Syrup Drizzle — a little indulgent, a lot wonderful And as always, all of the recipes are available to download so you can bring them right into your own kitchen. Dear friends, this is a season of ease. Let's honor that. Let's get outside, enjoy the farmers markets, sit at picnics, take in the summer air — and when we do cook, let it be joyful and light. As Dr. Li reminds us — add new fruits and vegetables, keep it simple, and enjoy yourself. 💚 I'll meet you in the kitchen. Have a beautiful, bountiful week. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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6/11/26: Finding Your Essence - Four Ways to Soften the Noise
In this week's episode of Self-Care with Jean, we're talking about how to soften the noise, not the noise from the outside world, but that constant internal hum that can become so familiar we forget what life feels like without it. I'll share four gentle practices to help you find your way back to your essential self. Not rules. Not a long to-do list. Just four small doorways and you can start with just one today. Because here's what I want you to remember: your essence doesn't need to be created. It's already here. The only work is to return to it. As always, I'm so glad you're here. Be gentle with yourself this week. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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6/4/26: Our Heart Needs a Cooling Kitchen
This week in the kitchen, I've been thinking about what it means to tend that fire. Not extinguish it. Not let it rage. But keep it steady, so our joy can glow without burning us out. Because here's what I've noticed, dear friends — and maybe you have too. When the heat rises, whether from the sun, from stress, or from what we're eating, our hearts start to race a little. Our sleep gets restless. Our minds won't quiet down at the end of the day. And the kitchen, as always, has an answer. This week's episode is all about three simple, cooling recipes rooted in the wisdom of TCM that will help you move through June with more ease and balance: 🥬 Bitter Melon with Garlic and Black Beans — a new ingredient that teaches our palate something honest and healing 🥒 Smashed Cucumber with Sesame — June's quiet hero, cooling and hydrating from the inside out 🌱Green Beans with Garlic and Ginger — gentle support for digestion and inner balance I even found a new vegetable for us to try together — just like Dr. Li suggested! So come with an open mind and an open palate, dear friends. This episode is my gentle invitation to ask yourself: Are we eating in a way that cools and calms us? Are we giving our hearts space to rest? Small changes make a huge difference. A cooling salad. A meal eaten slowly. A pause before the next bite. And next week, we are going inward. We'll be talking about finding our essential selves in the midst of life's noise. Quieting the mind, returning to the breath, and coming back to what truly matters. I can't wait to be with you for that one. Until then, eat simply, stay cool, and take care of your heart. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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5/28/26: Your Natural Reset Button
In this new episode of Self-Care with Jean, I'm taking you back to something simple — something that has always been available to us, even when we forget to notice it. The healing sounds of nature. The wind through the trees. The waves rolling in and out. The birds greeting us in the morning. These sounds don't rush us. They don't judge us. They simply exist — and when we truly allow ourselves to listen, something beautiful begins to happen. Our bodies remember how to rest. Our nervous systems are working so hard, dear friends. The notifications, the traffic, the low hum of stress we don't even realize we're carrying. Nature speaks a different language — slower, softer, more rhythmic — and it sends our body the most important signal: We are safe. We can soften now. In this episode, I'll walk you through four gentle practices: How to create a moment of intentional listening How to use nature sounds to anchor your breath How to replace noise with nourishment How to let nature hold you — even briefly You don't need hours in the forest. You don't need a perfect setting. You just need one sound, one breath, and one moment of willingness. That's your self-care this week. And it's so much closer than you think. 💚 Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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5/21/26: The Magic in Your Spice Cabinet
This week, we're spending time together in the kitchen, and we're talking about something small, wonderful, and mighty: spices. Not just for flavor — though the flavor is glorious — but for nourishment, healing, and tradition. When I open my spice cabinet, I see a map of the world. Cinnamon from tree bark, turmeric from a root, cumin from the tiniest seeds. Every jar carries a story. And here's what I want you to remember: these little pinches of goodness are quietly working for you every time you cook with them. Turmeric calms inflammation. Ginger soothes your digestion. Cinnamon supports balanced blood sugar. Garlic has been used for generations to strengthen immunity.💚 In this episode, I also share three simple, nourishing recipes you can download any time — a golden turmeric rice, cozy cinnamon apples, and a spiced lentil soup. Simple, beautiful food that loves you back. If you've ever stood in front of your spice cabinet feeling a little unsure, this episode is my gentle invitation to you: open the cabinet, choose something new, and just try it. Our kitchen doesn't need to be perfect. Our meals don't need to be complicated. Sometimes all it takes is a pinch of something new to bring the joy right back. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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5/14/26: Creating Peace Within
This week on Self-Care with Jean, we're talking about something I know we all long for: peace within ourselves. Not the kind that only shows up when everything is going right — but the deep, steady kind that stays with us even when life feels uncertain, noisy, or hard. In this episode, I'm sharing seven gentle practices to help you return to that peace — again and again, no matter what's happening around you. We'll talk about creating space between ourselves and our thoughts, letting go of what we're holding that we simply don't need right now, coming home to our bodies, and — this one is so important — learning to speak to ourselves with the same kindness we'd offer someone we love. Because here's what I know to be true: peace is not selfish. Peace is necessary. And you don't have to earn it. It's already within you, waiting for just a little space, a little kindness, a little attention. 🎧 Come listen this week — I'd love to walk through this together. 👉 selfcarewithjean.com And next week, we're heading to The Kitchen with Jean to explore the magic of spices — cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, garlic — and the incredible nourishment and healing they bring. Tie on your apron, dear friends. It's going to be a delicious one. 🌿 Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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5/7/26: Tiny Green Magic - How Fresh Herbs Nourish Your Body and Brighten Your Kitchen
Spring is here, the gardens are blooming, and I have something so wonderful to share with you this week — and it may already be sitting right in your refrigerator. I'm talking about fresh herbs. I'll be the first to admit — growing up Italian and Irish, I knew exactly two herbs: parsley and basil. That was it! It wasn't until my macrobiotic and plant-based journey that I discovered the whole beautiful world of herbs waiting for me. And today, I want to open that world for you. In this week's brand new episode of Self-Care with Jean, we're heading back to the kitchen together. I'm sharing the nourishing power of herbs like rosemary, cilantro, sage, thyme, and mint — tiny leaves that have been used for centuries as medicine, as food, and even as currency. And the best part? Getting them into your life couldn't be simpler. I'm sharing two of my favorite easy recipes you can make this week — including a beautiful herb-infused olive oil blend you can keep in your fridge and drizzle on everything, and a simple salad booster that will make your greens come alive with flavor. This is self-care, my friends. It doesn't have to be complicated. It just has to be intentional. Health can be easy. Health does not have to be hard. 🎧 Listen to this week's episode now at selfcarewithjean.com — or find us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeart, and YouTube. And next week, we're talking about creating peace within — through simple shifts in thought, kindness, and presence. Real peace isn't found outside. It's already in us. I can't wait to share that with you. Until then, keep chopping, tasting, and savoring life, dear friend. 💚 Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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4/30/26: Bloom in Your Own Time
This week we're wrapping up April with something I believe so many of us need to hear right now — a gentle invitation to stop pushing and start allowing. We live in a world that rewards striving, achieving, and staying on top of everything. But what if the most powerful thing you could do this week is simply loosen your grip? In this episode, I'm sharing why allowing is not giving up — it's actually one of the most supportive, loving things we can offer ourselves. We'll talk about what allowing really looks like in our daily lives, from the small moments when we catch ourselves rushing, to the bigger places where we're white-knuckling our way through life waiting to feel "okay." I also share a simple heart-centered practice you can try today — no equipment, no expertise needed, just your hand, your breath, and a willingness to ask yourself one quiet question. Because the truth is, dear friends, nothing in nature blooms all at once. And neither do we. You are not late. You are not missing anything. You are simply unfolding, and that is more than enough. Plus, stay tuned for a preview of what's coming next week on The Kitchen with Jean — we're celebrating fresh herbs and I cannot wait to share it with you! Until then, be well. 🌿 Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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4/23/26: Interview Part 4 with Dr. William Li - Why Plants Are the Ultimate Medicine
This week's episode is a JOURNEY—literally and figuratively. We're diving into Part 4 of our conversation with Dr. William Li, physician, scientist, and bestselling author of Eat to Beat Disease and Eat to Beat Your Diet. Here's what you're about to discover: What an incredible journey we've had with Dr. William Li in this fourth and final part of our conversation. I am just so grateful to share this with you. Today, we dove deep into something that's so close to my heart - plant-based eating and food as medicine. You know, about 15 years ago, I made a shift. My family had a lot of heart disease, and I said to myself, "I don't want to go down that path." So I stopped eating dairy, shifted to plant-based foods, and fell in love with beans - all kinds of beans! And cooking! Oh my goodness, cooking is the best self-love we can give ourselves. Dr. Li shared something beautiful with me - in places around the world where people naturally eat healthy, they don't call it "plant-based eating." They just call it regular eating! Isn't that wonderful? They don't have to call out the plants because it's just part of the harmony of living. Here's what really lit me up in our conversation today: Plants are Mother Nature's Pharmacy - and I'm not talking about pharmacy with a "PH," but with an "F"! Dr. Li explained how plants are packed with polyphenols that lower inflammation, boost immunity, and feed our gut microbiome. And remember, my friends, 70% of our immune system lives in our gut! Dr. Li also challenged us to become explorers - like Indiana Jones at the grocery store! Every time you see a plant or vegetable you don't recognize, don't ignore it - lean into it. Pull out your phone, look it up, watch a recipe video right there in the aisle, and dare yourself to try something new every week. Dr. Li's Three Beautiful Takeaways: Health can be easy - it doesn't have to be hard. Take time to eat and savor food that you actually enjoy that is also healthy. Explore your food - dare yourself to try something new, but become informed first. Look it up, watch how to cook it, or order it at a restaurant. View food as medicine - not as a restriction or discipline, but as part of your self-care. Give yourself permission to find foods you enjoy that are also healthy. My beautiful friends, this is what I want you to take with you this week: Cooking whole food is self-love. When we cook for ourselves and our families, they feel the love in that food. Just like our grandmothers - we felt their love in their cooking, and that was part of the healing, the medicine in the food. Remember, digestion begins in our mouth. Take your time. Savor your food. Be mindful. This is Earth School, everyone. We're here to learn to love ourselves and love each other. And what better way to love ourselves than through the food we choose to nourish our bodies? Dr. Li's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DrWilliamLi Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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4/16/26: Interview Part 3 with Dr. William Li - Food, DNA & the Science of Staying Well
This week's episode is a JOURNEY—literally and figuratively. We're diving into Part 3 of our conversation with Dr. William Li, physician, scientist, and bestselling author of Eat to Beat Disease and Eat to Beat Your Diet. Here's what you're about to discover: Dr. Li opens my eyes (and yours!) to the idea that there is no single "superfood" — what's truly super is your own body and its remarkable built-in health defenses. We talk about your blood vessels, your gut microbiome, your DNA, and how everything you eat travels through 60,000 miles of blood vessels to nourish every single cell in your body. Yes, you read that right — 60,000 miles! And wait until you hear the jaw-dropping story about T-Rex blood vessels — I literally could not believe what Dr. Li shared with me about his paleontologist friend and what they found under a microscope. It is one of those moments that reminds you just how miraculous life really is! We also get into something so important — your DNA. Did you know that only 5 to 10% of cancers are genetically driven? That means 90 to 95% are related to environment, diet, and lifestyle — and that means we have power, friends! We can tip the odds in our own favor! Dr. Li shares practical, simple foods you can eat right now to: 🫐 Support healthier blood vessels (hello, blueberries and apples!) 🥑 Boost your immune system (avocado and extra virgin olive oil!) 🍵 Feed your gut microbiome (matcha tea and mushrooms!) 🍉 Protect your DNA from the inside out (watermelon juice as sunscreen — yes, really!) And my favorite part? Dr. Li reminds us that self-compassion is medicine too. Movement, sleep, stress management, laughing with friends, and eating foods you genuinely love — these are the fundamentals of longevity. No crazy supplements required! This is Earth School, my friends. We are here to learn to love ourselves and love each other — and what better way to do that than to nourish our bodies with intention and joy? 🌍💛 Tune in next week for Part 4, where Dr. Li wraps up with the power of plant-based eating, how to explore new foods like an adventurer, and three simple takeaways you can act on starting today! Dr. Li's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DrWilliamLi Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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4/9/26: Interview Part 2 with Dr. William Li - Lessons from the Mediterranean
This week's episode is a JOURNEY—literally and figuratively. We're diving deep into Part 2 of our conversation with Dr. William Li, physician, scientist, and bestselling author of Eat to Beat Disease and Eat to Beat Your Diet. Here's what you're about to discover: Dr. Li takes us from the halls of medical school (where nutrition training is shockingly minimal) to the ancient monasteries of Greece, where he lived like it was the 16th century—and even cooked an Easter feast with a canoe paddle in a pot the size of a hot tub. Yes, you read that right. But beyond the incredible stories, Dr. Li shares profound wisdom about HOW we eat being just as important as WHAT we eat. He reveals why the Mediterranean approach—eating as community, savoring every bite, talking about the food instead of our stress—is a lost art we desperately need to reclaim. You'll learn: ✨ The REAL origin story of "food as medicine" (spoiler: Hippocrates never said it!)✨ Why vegetables should never be a "side dish"✨ How to transform your relationship with eating through mindfulness and community✨ The power of seasonal, local, traditional foods for prevention and healing Ready to slow down and savor? Listen now and let us know what resonates with you! Dr. Li's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DrWilliamLi Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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4/2/26: Interview Part 1 with Dr. William Li - The Science of Mindful Eating
I am so excited to share this very special conversation with you! In this first episode of a four-part series, I sit down with the brilliant Dr. William Li — physician, scientist, and bestselling author of Eat to Beat Disease and Eat to Beat Your Diet — for a conversation that I truly believe will change the way you think about food forever. 🌿 Dr. Li and I connected at the opening of the Edelman Fossil Park Museum in Mantua, New Jersey, and from the moment we met, I knew we were aligned in one powerful belief: food is medicine. In this episode, Dr. Li walks us through something so simple yet so profound — how we eat matters just as much as what we eat. We explore: 🥗 Why nobody ever teaches us how to eat 🧠 The science of eating slowly 🫀 The power of chewing your food and how it activates your mouth's microbiome to produce nitric oxide — naturally lowering blood pressure and releasing your body's own healing stem cells 🌍 Lessons from the world's healthiest cultures, including the Mediterranean and the Blue Zones, and what their traditional eating habits can teach us 🥣 Why savoring your food is not just a pleasure — it's a biological necessity Get your pen and paper ready, dear friend, because Dr. Li drops so much wisdom in this conversation. This is just the tip of the iceberg, and I cannot wait for you to hear what's coming in Parts 2, 3, and 4! Remember — life comes from us and life is for us. Food is medicine. Let's love ourselves, love each other, and start by savoring every single bite. 💛 Tune in next week for Part 2, where Dr. Li takes us on a personal journey to the Mediterranean and a 16th-century monastery kitchen to share how food as medicine became his life's mission. Dr. Li's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DrWilliamLi Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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3/26/26: Behind on Water - Hidden Signs You’re Dehydrated
This week on Self-Care with Jean, I'm talking about one of the most essential — yet most overlooked — pillars of good health: hydration. It's so easy to fall behind when it comes to drinking enough water, especially when life gets busy. But our bodies are constantly sending us signals when we're not drinking enough — from headaches, dizziness, and muscle cramps, to constipation, dry skin, mood swings, and even confusion. Yes, confusion! I walk you through the key signs of dehydration, what's happening inside your body when it's not getting enough water, and — most importantly — simple, practical tips to stay hydrated every single day. From starting your morning with a room temperature glass of lemon water, to infusing your pitcher with fresh fruit, to eating water-rich foods like watermelon, soups, and berries — small changes make a big difference. Remember, just by going about your normal day, your body loses between 8 and 12 cups of water — so we're already behind before we even get started! Drinking water is one of the easiest and most powerful acts of self-care you can give yourself. So please, dear friends — fill up that beautiful glass pitcher, sip throughout the day, and take all the bio breaks you need! Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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3/19/26: The Ancient Secret to Vitality
This week, I'm sharing one of nature's oldest secrets — fermented foods — and why I believe they are truly traditional medicine for the body and soul. From my days studying macrobiotics, I discovered that foods like miso, sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, and tempeh are so much more than a wellness trend. They are living foods packed with probiotics, enzymes, and powerful postbiotics that work quietly and beautifully inside you every single day. I'll walk you through five reasons to invite fermented foods into your daily rhythm — from building a thriving gut garden and boosting your immune system, to lifting your mood and giving you more energy. Did you know that 70% of your immune system lives in your gut? That connection changed everything for me. I'm also sharing my all-time favorite recipe — a traditional miso soup — the very first macrobiotic recipe I ever learned to make. It's warm, grounding, and calming. It's my go-to meal when I come home from a trip or when I'm feeling off and need to come back to center. Remember, dear friends — good health comes one meal at a time, one bite at a time. Let's discover fermented foods together and have fun doing it! Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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3/12/26: Welcome What You Feel
In this episode of Self Care with Jean, I'm sitting down with you to talk about one of the most important — and often overlooked — parts of our wellness journey: honoring our emotions. So many of us have been taught to push our feelings aside, to stay strong, to keep moving. But what happens when we do that? Those emotions don't disappear — they get stuck in our bodies, showing up as tightness in our chest, knots in our stomach, or tension in our throat. Today, I want to help you change that. Together, we'll explore simple but powerful tools to help you feel, acknowledge, and move through your emotions — without judgment. I'll walk you through the power of the pause, how to use movement and journaling to process what you're feeling, and a beautiful technique called RAIN. We'll also talk about how the foods we eat, the environments we're in, and even acupressure and somatic awareness can support our emotional health from the inside out. Remember, dear friends — this is Earth School, and every emotion is a lesson. Let's learn it together. 💛 Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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3/5/26: From Winter Sluggishness to Spring Vitality
Happy Spring, Dear Friends! 🌸 In this episode, I'm welcoming you into my kitchen as we step into March and embrace the beautiful, renewing energy of the season. Just like the daffodils and violets beginning to peek through the ground, it's time for us to bring that fresh, vibrant energy into the way we cook and nourish our bodies. I'm diving into the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and how spring is deeply connected to our liver and gallbladder — the organs that are calling out for a little extra love and attention right now. We'll talk about why bitter and sour flavors are your best friends this season, how they help your liver detoxify, stimulate digestion, and clear the dampness that winter left behind. I'll walk you through the best spring foods to bring into your kitchen — think dandelion greens, arugula, asparagus, fennel, fresh peas, and so much more — along with simple, mindful cooking techniques like steaming and quick water sautéing that honor the light, upward energy of spring. And of course, I'm sharing five beautiful plant-based recipes you can download. But more than the recipes, this episode is really an invitation to slow down, be present, and make your time in the kitchen a mindfulness practice. Because the secret ingredient in every dish? It's always love and intention. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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158
2/26/26: Good Morning, Beautiful - The Power of Positive Self-Talk
In this episode, I'm opening up about something we all struggle with but rarely talk about—that constant conversation we have with ourselves every single day. You know the one I'm talking about. From the moment we wake up to when our head hits the pillow at night, we're our own biggest audience. I'll share a personal moment when I caught myself standing in front of the mirror, about to go down that familiar rabbit hole of negative self-talk. But this time, I stopped. I chose differently. And that simple shift changed everything about my day. Together, we'll explore practical tools you can add to your self-care toolbox: how to catch yourself before the spiral begins, replace criticism with compassion, practice gratitude for your unique strengths, and talk to yourself like you would a dear friend. I'll walk you through my favorite daily peaceful practices—a simple five-minute morning ritual, micro-reflections during the chaos of your day, and an evening wind-down that leaves yesterday's baggage behind. I'll also share a personal trick I use when I catch myself in a negative loop. It's amazing how three breaths focused on something beautiful can completely shift our inner narrative. Remember, this is Earth School, and it's not always kind. But the lesson is love—starting with loving ourselves through the words we choose in our own minds. You are beautiful, and we need you in this world, smiling. Let's change that narrative together. 💙 Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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2/19/26: Nourishing Winter - A Plant-Based Kitchen Guide
It's mid-February, and I want to talk with you about something close to my heart—winter meals that truly nourish us during these cold months. In this episode, I'm sharing why the season matters so much when it comes to what we eat. Drawing from my studies in macrobiotics, I'll explain how our bodies need warm, comforting foods during winter—not heavy, dairy-rich dishes, but meals filled with colorful root vegetables, winter squashes, leafy greens, and protein-rich legumes. I've put together something special for you: a complete week of plant-based meal ideas, including breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner, along with a shopping list and easy-to-follow dinner recipes. We'll explore key principles like using seasonal vegetables, incorporating healthy fats from olive oil and nuts, and adding warming spices like cinnamon, cumin, and cardamom to our cooking. Whether it's a hearty bowl of morning porridge with walnuts and blueberries or a nourishing winter stew, I'll show you how to create meals that support your energy, lift your mood during these shorter days, and keep you feeling satisfied. So grab your apron, and let's spend some time in the kitchen together. I hope you'll experiment, play, and share these warm dishes with the people you love. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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2/12/26: Grief is a River - Navigating Loss With Love and Self-Care
This week, I'm inviting you to slow down and have a cup of tea with me as we talk about grief and missing our loved ones. I'll be sharing a deeply personal story about how I heard those exact words—"have a cup of tea with me"—from our beloved friend who passed five years ago, and how that moment of magic reminded me that our loved ones are still close by if we can just get quiet enough to listen. Together, we'll explore how grief is like a river that flows through us—sometimes quiet, sometimes loud—and why it's so important to honor those moments when the loss feels heavy rather than pushing them away. I'll walk you through seven practical tools for working with grief, from allowing our feelings to creating journals, maintaining routines, and knowing when to reach out for help. I'll also share meaningful ways to stay connected with those we've lost—through everyday actions like cooking their favorite foods, listening to their music, carrying forward their values, and even creating lasting tributes. This episode is about finding the magic in believing, trusting that if we can get quiet enough, we can feel our loved ones around us. So grab your favorite cup of tea, and let's sit together in this sacred space of remembrance and love. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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2/5/26: The Ultimate Guide to Hummus - History, Health & Homemade
This week I'm diving into everything hummus – one of my absolute favorite foods and one of the first things I learned to make during my macrobiotic studies. Did you know that chickpeas, the star ingredient in hummus, were domesticated in the Middle East over 7,000 years ago? We're literally eating ancient history! I'll take you through hummus's fascinating journey from a 13th-century Cairo recipe to the global phenomenon it is today (yes, even chocolate hummus exists!). I'm breaking down all the nutritional benefits packed into this simple dip – from protein and fiber to iron, folate, and zinc. It's the perfect after-school snack for kids or a quick, nourishing bite when you're feeling hangry in the afternoon. I'll share why I encourage you to try making hummus from scratch at least once (an Instapot makes it so easy!), and I'm posting recipes for classic hummus, red pepper hummus, and garlic herb hummus that you can play with. So grab a cup of tea, get cozy in this chilly February weather, and let's explore this wonderful, versatile food together. Trust me, your fridge will thank you for keeping a container of hummus on hand! See you in the kitchen! Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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1/29/26: The Power of Lentils & Legumes - Your Guide to Hearty Winter Cooking
In this episode of The Kitchen, I'm diving deep into the world of hearty soups and stews, and more specifically, the powerhouse ingredients that make them so nourishing—lentils and legumes. I'll be honest with you: when I started my macrobiotic journey, lentils and legumes were completely foreign to me. I had never cooked them, didn't know how to prepare them, and faced quite the learning curve. But now I'm excited to share everything I've learned about why these humble ingredients are so beneficial for our health. We'll explore the four main ways lentils and legumes support our well-being, from cardiovascular health and gut health to blood sugar control and weight management. I'll walk you through the amazing variety of lentils available, from red to black to green, and introduce you to some surprising facts about soybeans (did you know they're a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids?). I know what you're thinking—what about the gas and bloating? Don't worry, I've got you covered with practical tips on how to properly prepare beans to minimize digestive discomfort, including my recommendation for Eden brand canned beans and the traditional method of cooking with kombu. To wrap things up, I'm sharing four delicious recipes you can download: Roasted Butternut Squash and Chickpea Curry, Vegan Lentil Shepherd's Pie, Sweet Potato Black Bean Chili, and a Rich Vegan Bolognese with Lentils, Mushrooms, and Walnuts. Join me in the kitchen as we make these winter months warmer and healthier, one hearty bowl at a time. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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1/22/26: Small Seed, Big Impact - The Sesame Seed Story
In this episode, I'm taking you on a journey through the wonderful world of sesame seeds – a food I discovered during my macrobiotic journey that completely changed how I cook and nourish my body. I'll walk you through the incredible health benefits these tiny powerhouses offer, from supporting our bone health with calcium and magnesium, to protecting our hearts with healthy fats, to something really exciting – helping balance our hormones naturally. Yes, you heard that right! Sesame seeds contain special compounds called lignans that can help with hormonal fluctuations and menopause symptoms. We'll explore the different varieties together – from the mild, creamy white sesame seeds you see on hamburger buns, to the dramatic black sesame seeds with their intense, earthy flavor, and even the buttery golden-brown varieties. I'll share practical ways to incorporate them into your daily meals without overdoing it, because moderation is key. And because I seldom send you away empty-handed, I've included three delicious recipes in the downloads: sticky sesame chickpeas, a basic hummus, and my favorite vegan, gluten-free tahini chocolate chip cookies that are high in protein and absolutely delicious! Join me in the kitchen as we play with these nutrient-dense seeds and discover how they can add depth, flavor, and nourishment to our everyday cooking. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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1/15/26: Finding Balance in 2026 - A Fresh Start
Hello, dear friends! Welcome to 2026! Before we dive into our conversation about balance, I want to share something personal with you that ties into my Ring of Fire episode from January 1st. Throughout my life, I've worked with psychologists and psychiatrists when I really needed help, and I'm never afraid to talk about it or ask for support. Our Ring of Fire practice brings together all those pieces we've worked on throughout our lives—bringing them back with love, non-judgment, and self-care. These pieces make us who we are, making us stronger and wiser. Now, let's talk about balance—our word for the year. When we can balance our emotions, our life, and our schedule, that's the ultimate self-care. I'm going to help you refresh, restart, and renew as we begin this new year together. We'll explore how to set clear, realistic goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely. Remember, it's one moment at a time, one meal at a time, one breath at a time. We'll discuss incorporating movement, prioritizing rest, maintaining good sleep habits, and staying hydrated. We are the caretakers of this beautiful gift—our body. I'll also guide you through taking care of your emotional health through meditation, journaling, and staying connected with healthy boundaries. The beauty of this life is that we get to start fresh every moment of every day. Let's make choices that bring us joy, balance, and peace. Blessings to you, dear friend! Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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1/8/26: Discovering Adzuki Beans - Your New Kitchen Superfood
In this episode, I'm so excited to kick off the new year by introducing you to one of my absolute favorite ingredients from my macrobiotic studies—adzuki beans! These small, reddish legumes from East Asia are about to become your new kitchen best friend. First, we'll take a quick trip down memory lane and recap the six elements of health we explored together last year—from building awareness and commitment to understanding alkaline foods, embracing seasonal eating, learning new cooking methods, and the power of mindful chewing. Then we dive deep into the wonderful world of adzuki beans! I'll share why I've loved these versatile little powerhouses for years, including their naturally mild, nutty, subtly sweet flavor that works beautifully in both sweet and savory dishes. The best part? Unlike other dried beans, their thin skins mean no soaking required—just wash and cook! We'll explore their incredible nutritional benefits: high protein and fiber, 29 different types of antioxidants, essential minerals like magnesium and potassium, B vitamins, and how they Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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1/1/26: Gathering Your Lost Pieces - A Ring of Fire Meditation
In this special episode, I'm sharing a profound meditation that came to me on November 11th, 2025—a journey I call the Ring of Fire Meditation. I believe that throughout our lives, during traumatic or stressful moments, we lose pieces of ourselves. These fragments can be from any age—childhood, our teens, twenties, thirties, and beyond. They remain stuck in those moments, in those interactions, in those places. The goal of this life, I believe, is to gather all these pieces so that we become one whole being with balance, self-love, and self-care. If you're ready to do some work, if you're ready to look at those lost pieces of yourself, then join me as we sit together in the Ring of Fire. In this meditation, I'll guide you to your favorite place where we'll create a huge bonfire. We'll invite all those lost pieces—all those younger versions of ourselves—to gather around the fire. Together, we'll join hands with every piece that shows up, look each one in the eye, and say "I love you" over and over again. As we do this work, as we give love to these missing parts of ourselves, the bonfire will grow smaller, and all the pieces will come back into us as one. We'll become whole again—one adult, one human being on this journey. This meditation may be challenging, and you may not be ready yet—and that's okay. But if you are ready to bring back all your pieces and all that love, I invite you to sit with me in the circle of fire. I wish you blessings, dear friends. I hope this brings you some peace. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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149
12/25/25: From Gratitude to Growth - A Self-Care Ritual for New Beginnings
As we close out 2025 and step into 2026, I'm inviting you to pause with me for some deep reflection and gentle intention-setting. In this special year-end episode, we're going to honor where we've been and lovingly prepare for where we're going. I'll guide you through three powerful reflections: celebrating the growth you've experienced this year (even through the hard moments), honoring what you've courageously released to make space for something new, and recognizing the incredible resilience you've shown just by continuing to show up. Then, we'll set three beautiful intentions together for the year ahead: creating sacred space for stillness in our busy lives, learning to nurture and protect our precious energy, and choosing to lead with love in how we speak to ourselves, care for others, and move through the world. This isn't about perfection—it's about presence. It's about being exactly where you need to be, in your calm, in your strength, and in your open heart. So find a comfortable spot, take a deep breath with me, and let's close this year with gratitude and open the new one with intention. I'm so grateful you're here. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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12/18/25: Lighten Up Your Holiday Table - Plant-Based Dishes That Nourish Without the Guilt
The holidays are almost here, and while I absolutely love this season of connection and celebration, I know how heavy and sluggish all those rich, traditional dishes can make us feel. So this week, I'm inviting you to try something different with me. I'm sharing three of my favorite plant-based holiday recipes that will bring brightness and nourishment to your table without the guilt or heaviness. We're talking roasted winter vegetables with a maple miso glaze (trust me, miso will change your life!), a warm quinoa salad with cranberries and kale, and my absolute favorite—poached pears with cashew cream that's so good, you'll be licking the spoon. These dishes give us the best of both worlds: vibrant flavors and colors that leave us feeling energized instead of weighed down. Because when we eat lighter, we have more energy to be present with the people we love and more gratitude for the food itself. I'm not asking you to overhaul your entire holiday menu—just consider swapping one or two heavy dishes for something that will make you feel better. Small changes make a big difference, friends. Join me in the kitchen as we prepare food with love, care, and mindfulness. Because food is medicine, and it's how we show love to ourselves and our families. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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147
12/11/25: The Kidney Battery: Protecting Your Vital Energy This Winter
In this episode, I'm inviting you to pause with me as we explore winter through the lens of Traditional Chinese Medicine and self-care. I know this time of year feels impossible—the holidays are here, our calendars are packed, and everyone expects us to keep pushing through. But here's what I want you to understand: nature is asking us to do the opposite. The trees are conserving energy, animals are hibernating, and the earth is growing quiet. This is our invitation too. I'm going to be honest with you about what winter really means for our bodies. This is the season of our kidneys—think of them as our internal battery, the deep well of life force that fuels us. And just like you can't fully recharge a battery that's been completely drained, we cannot let ourselves run empty. So I'm sharing practical wisdom with you: how to stay warm (cover your head, neck, and lower back!), what foods will nourish your kidneys (black beans, lentils, warming spices), and why you need to stop drinking ice-cold beverages. I'm also giving you permission—permission to sleep longer, move slower, and say no to over-committing. Most importantly, I'm asking you to find just five minutes, three times a day, for stillness. Because self-care isn't something we do when life slows down—self-care is what keeps us steady when life speeds up. Join me as we honor winter's rhythm together. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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12/4/25: A TCM Approach to Winter Wellness
In this cozy episode of The Kitchen with Jean, I'm inviting you to slow down and embrace winter's gentle wisdom through the lens of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Winter is the season of stillness and deep restoration—a time when nature rests beneath the surface, and we're called to do the same. In TCM, winter is connected to our kidneys, which hold our body's vital energy reserves. That's why I'm sharing three warming, grounding recipes designed to nourish you from the inside out during these colder months. I'll walk you through making a hearty Black Bean and Mushroom Stew that builds inner strength, a comforting Mashed Millet and Cauliflower dish with rich Mushroom Gravy (where I'll introduce you to kuzu, a wonderful Japanese thickener), and a soothing Winter Fruit Compote that feels like a warm hug. But this episode isn't just about recipes—it's about remembering that our food is medicine, energy, and self-care. As we navigate the holiday rush, I'm encouraging you to honor winter's invitation to rest, restore, and realign. Because self-care isn't what we do when life slows down; it's what keeps us steady when life speeds up. Join me in the kitchen, and let's nourish ourselves with warmth and love. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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11/28/25: Walk Your Way to Presence - A Guided Meditation Journey
In this special bonus episode, I'm inviting you to step away from the busyness of life and join me for a walking meditation. This isn't about perfection; it's about practice. Whether you have five minutes or fifty, this walking meditation is a gift you can give yourself anytime you need to reset, restore, and replenish. So grab your walking shoes, and let's take this journey together. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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11/27/25: The Gift of Rhythm - Why Your Daily Rituals Matter Most During the Holidays
In this episode, I'm inviting you to explore something so important as we move into this busy holiday season—keeping our routines. I know how easy it is to let our daily rituals slip away when life gets full of gatherings, travel, and celebrations. But here's what I've learned: our routines aren't rigid rules—they're the gentle rhythm that helps us dance through life with ease. Together, we'll talk about how to hold onto the practices that keep us grounded. I'll share ideas for maintaining your morning rituals, even when you're away from home—maybe it's five quiet minutes of breath, a warm cup of tea, or a simple journal prompt like "Today, I choose...". We'll explore how movement doesn't have to mean a full workout—it could be a brisk walk, stretching before bed, or even dancing in the kitchen while you cook. I'll also remind you about the importance of rest, nourishment, and those precious quiet moments when we reconnect with our inner voice. And yes, we'll talk about boundaries—because it's okay to say no and protect your peace during this season. Remember, self-care isn't something we do when life slows down—it's what keeps us steady when life speeds up. So take a deep breath with me, and let's move through this season with grace, presence, and compassion. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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11/20/25: Baking with Love - Mindful Holiday Desserts
In this special Thanksgiving episode of The Kitchen with Jean, we will explore the sweet side of the holidays - but with a nourishing twist that will love you back. Join me as I share five incredible plant-based dessert recipes that are naturally sweet, made without refined sugar or white flour, because when we choose to bake with intention, we're nourishing instead of just indulging. I'll walk you through my favorite holiday treats: a warming apple crisp with oat and almond toppings sweetened with maple syrup and date paste, a luscious pumpkin chia pudding that gives you all the flavors of pumpkin pie without the sugar crash, a decadent chocolate avocado mousse that's full of healthy fats and antioxidants, beautiful baked pears filled with cinnamon and nuts, and easy no-bake date and nut bites that are perfect for sharing. But this episode is about more than just recipes - it's about creating food with love and intention, honoring our health while we celebrate with others. I'll remind you that the holidays aren't about perfection; they're about connection. Together, we'll take a mindful moment to breathe in gratitude and exhale any guilt or expectations, because when we bake with love, that love comes back to nourish everyone who enjoys our beautiful creations. Come celebrate this season of gratitude with desserts that will make your Thanksgiving extra special - and leave you feeling wonderful about what you've eaten! Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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11/13/25: Mindful Boundaries - Your Holiday Survival Guide
As the holidays approach and our calendars start filling up with endless to-do lists, I know many of you are feeling that familiar pull in every direction. Sound familiar? In this episode, I'm sharing how we can move through this beautiful but overwhelming season with balance, calm, and health in mind, body, and spirit. Because here's the thing - self-care isn't about stepping away from the holidays. It's about showing up for them with presence, love, and a grounded heart. I'll walk you through my five essential practices for holiday wellness: ✨ Protecting our energy through mindful boundaries - learning when to say yes and when it's okay to rest ✨ Nourishing our body and spirit - approaching holiday food with gratitude instead of guilt, and remembering that balance, not perfection, is our goal ✨ Finding stillness in the chaos - creating small pauses throughout our day, whether it's a five-minute walk outside or sitting quietly with our tree lights ✨ Moving with intention - keeping our bodies active in ways that feel good and fit naturally into our holiday rhythm ✨ Choosing joy over perfection - releasing that chase for the "perfect" holiday and instead allowing magic to arise naturally in our simple, beautiful moments Remember, my friends - balance is something we create from the inside, moment by moment, through intention and compassion. Let's give ourselves the gift of rest and presence this season. Take a deep breath with me, and let's care for our beautiful souls together. 💕 Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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11/6/25: Nourishing Thanksgiving - Plant-Based Side Dishes for a Lighter Holiday
In this special Thanksgiving episode, I'm inviting you into my kitchen to explore how we can bring more lightness, color, and nourishment to our holiday table. As we step into the heart of the holiday season, I want to share something close to my heart - ways to create vibrant plant-based dishes that make us feel alive, grounded, and joyful. Because self-care isn't just about what we do after the holidays, it's about how we celebrate in these moments together. Together, we'll start with a mindful breath, releasing any expectations of perfection - because remember, our food doesn't have to be perfect, it just needs to be made with love. I'll guide you through five beautiful dishes that will transform your Thanksgiving spread: Roasted autumn vegetables with a maple balsamic glaze that even veggie skeptics will love Stuffed acorn squash with quinoa cranberry dressing - so beautiful it can serve as a main dish Green beans tossed with almonds and lemon zest for vibrant simplicity Cauliflower mash with garlic and olive oil as a comforting alternative to traditional sides Warm lentil and kale salad with pomegranate seeds for earthy texture and plant-based protein This isn't about perfection or tradition for tradition's sake - it's about being present, feeling gratitude for those with us, and compassion for those who are not. Every dish we make carries love and care, reminding us of our connection to the earth, to each other, and to ourselves. Join me in making our kitchen a place of calm, creativity, and self-care this season. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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10/30/25: Fall Comfort Food Makeover - Plant-Based Edition
In this cozy episode of The Kitchen, I'm inviting you to join me as we reimagine our favorite fall comfort foods in lighter, more nourishing ways. Because here's the thing - comfort food doesn't have to weigh us down or make us feel heavy and sleepy afterward. I'll walk you through transforming classic dishes that feel like a warm hug: we're swapping traditional meatloaf for a protein-packed lentil loaf that still feels like Sunday supper, creating the most amazing loaded sweet potato instead of the usual bacon-heavy baked potato, and making a plant-based mac and cheese that'll have you coming back for seconds. I'm also sharing my secret for incredible vegan crab cakes using hearts of palm and chickpeas - Ric absolutely loves these and asks for them every couple of weeks! And for dessert? We're lightening up apple pie into a gorgeous apple crisp with oats, almond flour, and walnuts that smells absolutely divine. What I love most about this approach is that we don't lose the soul of these beloved dishes - they're still comforting, still delicious, but now they're kinder to our bodies and support our lymphatic and immune systems during the cooler months. Join me in the kitchen as we discover how comfort can be both indulgent and deeply nourishing. Your body will thank you! Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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139
10/23/25: Meditation Anywhere - A Simple Practice for Busy Lives
In this episode of Self-Care with Jean, I'm sharing something really special with you - a short and simple meditation that you can bring into any moment of your day. What I love about this practice is that you don't need any special equipment, a quiet room, or even a meditation cushion. Whether you're walking down the street, sitting at your desk, or even washing dishes in your kitchen, this meditation can be your companion. Together, we'll explore three beautiful elements: presence, breath, and connection to ourselves. I'll guide you through gentle breathing techniques - inhaling for a count of four and exhaling for five - helping you notice the natural rhythm without trying to change it. We'll also practice body awareness, learning to feel our feet meeting the ground as we walk, the support beneath us when we sit, or the warm water on our hands during everyday tasks. I'll share a simple mantra you can use as well. My hope is that you'll discover how meditation doesn't have to be separate from your life - it can be beautifully woven into the little things, offering you moments of peace wherever and whenever you wish. Remember, your breath, your body, and this present moment will always be with you. Be gentle with yourself, and I wish you a wonderful week ahead. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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138
10/16/25: Morning Rituals - The Art of Nourishing Breakfast
In this cozy episode of "The Kitchen with Jean," I'm inviting you into our special corner where we pause, nurture ourselves, and explore how food can bring us comfort and care. Today, we're diving deep into my absolute favorite meal of the day - breakfast! I truly believe breakfast sets the tone for how we feel, our energy, our mood, and even our focus throughout the entire day. When we start our morning with intention, hydration, and nourishment, we create that beautiful foundation of balance for all the hours ahead. I'll be sharing why hydration comes first - even before that morning coffee, dear friends! After a night of rest and natural detoxification, our bodies need that gentle awakening with room temperature or warm lemon water. Then we'll explore three of my favorite fall breakfast recipes that will warm your heart and fuel your body: Pumpkin Spice Overnight Oats - like having pumpkin pie for breakfast! Apple Cinnamon Quinoa Bowl - packed with protein and fiber for sustained energy Savory Fall Veggie Scramble - a nourishing way to get your vegetables in first thing I'll guide you through making breakfast a true ritual of self-care, even if it means getting up a few minutes earlier to create these moments of love for yourself. This is the season of comfort and warmth, and these wonderful breakfasts will steady you for whatever the day brings. Join me as we remember that these small, wonderful acts of love we do for ourselves and our families are so necessary for our body, our energy, and our spirit. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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137
10/9/25: Your Body's Hidden River - Understanding the Lymphatic System
In this week's episode of Self-Care with Jean, I'm sharing something close to my heart - our amazing lymphatic system, the quiet hero working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep us healthy and vibrant. I'll guide you through understanding what our lymph system really is - think of it as your body's gentle cleansing river, carrying away toxins and supporting your immune system every single day. Unlike our heart that pumps blood, our lymph system relies entirely on us - our movement, our breath, and our loving self-care practices. Together, we'll explore five beautiful ways to support this incredible system: gentle movement and mindful breathing, staying hydrated with water and herbal teas, the soothing ritual of dry brushing and lymphatic massage, nourishing our bodies with clean whole foods, and creating space for rest and joyful laughter. I'll also lead you through a simple breathing practice you can do anywhere (except while driving!) - just five minutes of placing your hands on your heart and belly, breathing deeply to support both your nervous system and lymphatic flow. My invitation to you this week is simple: take a short walk, notice your breath, drink water with gratitude, or try dry brushing as a new self-care ritual. These small acts of self-love create huge shifts in how we feel. Remember, dear friends, we're here to learn the lesson of love - and what greater love is there than loving ourselves? Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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136
10/2/25: Aligning with Autumn's Rhythm
In this cozy fall episode, I'm inviting you into my kitchen to explore how Traditional Chinese Medicine can guide us through the seasonal transition from summer to fall. As the leaves begin to fall and the air grows cooler, I want to share with you how we can support our bodies during this time of letting go. In TCM, fall is the season of the lungs and large intestine - organs connected to release, just like the trees releasing their leaves around us. I'll be sharing three nourishing recipes that will warm your heart and support your immune system: Warm Pears with Ginger - A healing treat that brings moisture and calm to dry coughs and scratchy throats, simmered with apple juice, cinnamon, and honey Roasted Root Vegetables with Tahini Drizzle - Whatever vegetables call to your heart - carrots, sweet potatoes, beets - roasted with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary, then finished with a creamy tahini and lemon drizzle Barley and Mushroom Nourishing Stew - A comforting bowl that strengthens digestion and supports your immune system with earthy mushrooms and hearty barley Join me as we slow down, savor the season, and align with nature's rhythms. I'll also share why I find such peace in chopping vegetables at the end of the day - it's my gentle invitation for you to bring mindful moments into your own kitchen. This is your moment of self-care, your time to nourish both body and soul as we embrace the cozy comfort of fall together. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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135
9/25/25: Breathe Easy This Fall: Essential Lung Care for Autumn
In this episode, I'm sharing something close to my heart – how to care for our precious lungs as we move from the warmth of summer into autumn's crisp embrace. As the air turns drier and cooler, our lungs need a little extra love and attention. I'll walk you through three gentle, practical tips that you can start using today: how to humidify and hydrate (both your environment and your body), the power of mindful breathing with a simple 4-4-4 technique that will melt away tension, and why gentle movement – even just 10-15 minutes outside – can work wonders for your respiratory health. But I don't stop there. I'm also sharing some important reminders about protecting our lungs from everyday toxins we might not even think about – from strong perfumes to cleaning products. Remember, dear friends, our lungs are our life force, and they deserve our advocacy and care. Join me for this nurturing conversation about honoring our breath and supporting our bodies through seasonal changes. Because self-care isn't a luxury – it's a necessity, and our lungs are worth every moment of attention we give them. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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134
9/18/25: Warming Up for Fall: A Seasonal Food Transition
In this episode, I'm inviting you to join me in The Kitchen as we gracefully transition from summer's bright, abundant energy into the quieter, more grounding rhythms of autumn. As our days grow shorter and evenings get a touch cooler, I'm sharing why it's time to wind down those cold summer foods and start warming ourselves from the inside out. Drawing from traditional Chinese medicine wisdom, I'll explain why we need to say goodbye to ice cream, iced drinks, and frozen treats as we prepare our bodies for the cooler months ahead. I'm sharing three of my favorite plant-based recipes that beautifully bridge summer's bounty with autumn's comfort: Late Summer Roasted Vegetable Medley - A simple way to use up whatever's left in your fridge, roasted to caramelized perfection Creamy Carrot Ginger Soup - A warming, nurturing bowl that's perfect for your thermos or afternoon reset Baked Apple and Walnut Quinoa Bowl - Sweet, crunchy comfort food that's full of fiber and plant-based protein This episode is all about listening to your body, eating with the seasons, and finding joy in simple, nourishing meals that help you stay centered and grounded as we welcome autumn together. Remember, dear friend - it's time to slow down a little and let each meal be a beautiful act of love and gratitude. Don't forget to grab your free September bonus recipe downloads at selfcarewithjean.com! Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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133
9/11/25: Finding Silence in a Noisy World
In this episode, I'm talking about something we often overlook - our precious, tender ears and the increasingly noisy world we're living in. You know what I've noticed? Everything just seems to be getting louder! From weddings where we're screaming over 10-piece bands to movies that make our ears ring, to the constant hum of traffic, leaf blowers, and construction - our world is literally getting noisier, and scientists have confirmed it. But here's what I want you to understand: this isn't just about hearing loss. When there's too much noise, our bodies go into fight-or-flight mode, our stress hormones spike, and our nervous systems struggle to keep up. That's why I'm sharing three powerful tips to protect your beautiful sense of hearing. First, I'll show you how to create true silence in your day - even just five minutes can give your ears and nervous system the break they desperately need. Then we'll talk about using ear protection creatively (and why it's wisdom, not weakness!). Finally, I'll teach you how to curate your own healing soundscape, from morning birdsong to calming instrumental music. Remember, my dear friends, when our hearing is gone, it's gone - we cannot repair it. So join me as we honor our right to quiet and discover that in our stillness, our deepest wisdom lives. Let's find some peace in this beautiful, noisy world together. This episode is your invitation to pause, to listen to silence, and to love your sensitive ears back to wellness. Visit Jean's website: SelfCareWithJean.com! ----- Subscribe to Jean's podcast updates Ask Jean | Jean's downloads | Book Jean for your next event ----- Follow Jean on Social Media: Instagram | X | YouTube Listen to Jean on your favorite podcast app: Apple | Spotify | iHeart
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Jean is an inspirational author, speaker and educator - a leader and advocate in these challenging times for physical and mental health while sharing her enthusiasm and passion for mindful living, extreme self-care, nutrition and the pursuit of balance in a busy world. She is an expert in wellness, nutrition and macrobiotic cooking.
HOSTED BY
Jean Edelman
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