Kava and Kettlebells

In this episode of Kava and Kettlebells, we share an honest update on our Whole30 elimination phase and what we actually learned about gut health, skin issues, energy, and training performance.This was not about doing Whole30 perfectly or following rules just to follow them. We used it as a tool to identify food triggers, reduce inflammation, and better understand how our bodies respond when certain foods are removed and slowly reintroduced.We talk about:• Using Whole30 as an elimination diet rather than a reset• Gut health, IBS, and what changed when dairy was removed• Perioral dermatitis, skin flare-ups, and food triggers• Training performance, energy levels, and under-fueling• Why we did not complete a strict 30 days and what we would do differently• Reintroducing rice, beans, grains, and dairy without shocking the system• Listening to your body instead of following nutrition dogmaIf you are considering Whole30 or any elimination diet, this episode offers a realistic look at what worked, what did not, and how to approach it in a sustainable way.Let us know if you have tried Whole30 or an elimination phase and what you learned from it. You can find us on Instagram @kava_kettlebells for questions and continued conversation.

In this episode of Kava & Kettlebells, we sit down with Ben McQueen, founder of Karuna Kava Bar, to talk about life after alcohol, the power of traditional kava, and why real human connection matters more than ever.Ben shares his journey from alcohol addiction to discovering kava as an alternative that helped remove cravings without replacing one dependency with another. We dive deep into the kava world, including traditional kava vs extracts, the ethics of sourcing, community building, harm reduction, and why people are craving spaces that offer connection without alcohol.This conversation goes far beyond beverages. It is about recovery, culture, mental health, and building spaces where people feel seen, safe, and welcome.If you are sober-curious, exploring alcohol alternatives, or interested in the future of non-alcoholic social spaces, this episode is for you.Try Traditional Kava from Karuna KavaWebsite:https://karunakava.com/Use code KETTLEBELL for 20% off your orderFollow Karuna Kava on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/karunakava/?hl=en@KarunaKava

What if your shoulder pain isn’t coming from your shoulder? 😲 In this episode, movement expert and physical therapist Eileen Kopsaftis drops game-changing insights on how pain in the body is often misdiagnosed, and how fixing the real root cause (like your ankle!) can resolve years of chronic discomfort.We dive into:• Why treating symptoms doesn't work• The shocking truth about shoulder, back, and knee pain• How everything in your body is connected• How to assess your body in under 30 minutes• Eileen’s advice for lifelong mobility and pain-free living**Whether you're a coach, athlete, or just tired of chasing pain, you need to hear this.**🔗 Connect with Eileen:🌐 Website: https://havelifelongwellbeing.com/🧠 Free Assessment + Movement Classes: https://mwpprivateclub.com/📺 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/EileenKopsaftis📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EileenKopsaftisOfficial💬 Drop your thoughts in the comments! Have YOU ever been surprised by the true cause of your pain?#PainRelief #BodyMechanics #MobilityTraining #EileenKopsaftis #FunctionalFitness #InjuryRecovery

Think you have a slow metabolism? It might actually be *under-fueled* — not broken.In this episode, we break down why **tracking macros isn’t restriction — it’s awareness**. You’ll learn how to build a stronger, healthier metabolism without starving yourself or chasing the next fad diet. If you’ve been stuck in the cycle of under-eating, over-exercising, and still not seeing results… this is your roadmap out.🎯 You'll learn:• Why “skinny” doesn’t always mean healthy • How eating more (strategically) can *fix* your metabolism • What macros actually are — and how to use them • How to fuel your body for strength, energy, and long-term healthThis isn’t about chasing aesthetics. It’s about building a body that *works* — not one that’s constantly running on empty.👋 I also share part of my own journey — from being 96 lbs and constantly fatigued, to finally lifting, fueling up, and feeling strong in my body again.---🧠 Want coaching or help with your nutrition? → IG @Kava_Kettlebells 🔔 Subscribe for more no-BS fitness & metabolism education.💬 Drop a comment: Have you ever tried tracking macros? What surprised you most?

You’re not broken, you're just overwhelmed by a wellness industry that profits from confusion. In this episode, we sit down with John Engelen, holistic health OG and founder of Joburg Meats, to talk real food, common sense, and the truth about what actually works.🚨 Get 15% off at checkout at www.joburgmeats.com👉 Use discount code: Heidi15🎙️ What We Talk About:• Why the “health” industry keeps people sick, tired, and confused• The power of real food and small wins over extreme diets• How school lunches are rigged—and what we can do about it• John’s personal journey from macrobiotics to meat-based healing• Why anecdotal evidence does matter (and why you shouldn’t ignore your own body)If you’re tired of overhyped bio-hacks, influencer routines, and food fear porn, this one’s for you. It’s time to get back to what works.👀 Watch, share, and drop your thoughts in the comments.💬 What’s one simple change that helped your health the most?🔗 Visit Joburg Meats → https://www.joburgmeats.com💸 Use code “Heidi15” for 15% OFF your order🔔 Don’t forget to:👍 Like the video📢 Share with a friend who needs to hear this✅ Subscribe for more interviews that cut through the noise

Why CBD Is More Than a Trend—And How This Founder’s Pain Sparked a MovementIn this powerful episode, we sit down with the founder of Flock & Field Naturals to hear how Big Pharma failed him, and how that pain led him to build a clean, ethical, and high-quality CBD and wellness brand that's changing lives one drop at a time.We dive deep into:His personal health journey and the wake-up call that sparked everything 💥Why CBD isn’t just hype — it’s healing (when it’s done right)What ingredients to avoid in your skincare and supplements (real talk)How his brand is bridging the gap between wellness and educationThe upcoming Flock & Field retreat, adaptogen drinks, and more for 2026 👀If you’ve ever felt let down by conventional medicine or wondered if there’s a better way — this one’s for you.👇 Connect with Flock & Field Naturals:🌿 Website: https://flockandfieldnaturals.com📲 Instagram: @FlockAndFieldNaturalsDM them to find a local store near you — or just learn more about what makes their formulas actually different.🛠️ Want to Support the Show?✅ Like✅ Subscribe✅ Drop a comment — What’s your experience with CBD or clean products?#CBD #Wellness #BigPharma #FlockAndField #NaturalHealing #Podcast

This week, we’re sipping different and showing you how to serve up Kava mocktails that your friends, family, and even your skeptical uncle will love. No booze, no hangover, just good vibes and chill holiday cheer.Whether you're celebrating sober, sober-curious, or just want a break from the booze, these recipes are a vibe. And we’ve partnered with some amazing Kava brands to hook you up with discounts you don’t want to miss.🛍️ Featured Kava Brands + Discounts🟢 Fiji Vanua Kava🛒 https://fijivanuakava.com/🍫 Chocokava on sale Thanksgiving week📸 IG @fijivanuakava🟣 KavaHol🛒 https://www.kavahol.com/💸 Use code KETTLEBELLS for 10% off📸 IG @kavahol☕ Kava Barista🛒 www.kavabarista.com/kettle🎁 25% off Mocha Collection with code KBHOLIDAY🗓️ Valid through the end of 2025📸 IG @thekavabarista🧘‍♂️ Karuna Kava🛒 https://karunakava.com/💸 Use code KETTLEBELL for 20% off🗓️ Valid through 12/25/2025📸 IG @karunakava👋 Stay Connected📲 Follow us on Instagram: @Kava_Kettlebells 💌 Want more booze-free content, mocktail recipes, and kava tips? Hit that subscribe and turn on notifications.This holiday, skip the booze, not the party.🎄 Let’s pour a shell and spread some cheer.

💩 POOP WARNING!If you’ve ever tried kava and thought, “Wait… is my gut supposed to feel like this?” — you’re not alone. In this video, we spill the tea (or should we say root?) on the real digestive side effects of drinking kava. From personal experiences to gut health insights, this one gets... messy.👉 Watch till the end for tips on how to enjoy kava without wrecking your stomach.🎯 What We Cover:0:00 – Why we’re talking about this (don’t judge us)1:45 – What is kava?3:12 – The “oh crap” moment (literally)6:00 – Gut health + kava: science or BS?9:30 – How to avoid the 💩 side of kava12:00 – Final thoughts + your stories🔥 Let’s Connect:📸 Instagram:@kava_kettlebells💬 Drop a comment below: Have you had a “kava cleanse” moment?👊 Like, Subscribe, and Hit the Bell if you like real talk and raw reactions.And remember… trust your gut. Even when it’s angry.

From Team USA Bobsledder to brain injury survivor — this is William Person’s powerful story of loss, healing, and hope.After nearly a decade competing at the highest level, repeated head trauma left William battling confusion, depression, and cognitive decline. Misdiagnosed and left without answers, everything changed when he discovered hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) — a treatment that helped him regain clarity, energy, and purpose.Now, William is on a mission to help veterans, athletes, and others, heal from the hidden toll of head trauma and CTE — at no cost to them.👉 Donate to William’s GoFundMe:Help fund free HBOT treatments:🔗 https://gofund.me/93ff9c6e🧠 In This EpisodeThe untold reality of CTE and micro-concussions in sportsWhy so many athletes and veterans are misdiagnosed with mental health disordersHow hyperbaric oxygen therapy can restore brain functionWilliam’s near-death experience — and what brought him backHis mission to build recovery centers that change lives🙌 Follow William PersonFacebook: facebook.com/william.person.792233Instagram: @willp1234567YouTube: @braininjurysurvival🥥 Follow Kava & KettlebellsInstagram: @kava_kettlebells🎙️ Hosted by Heidi & Charles HatleyWellness • Recovery • Real Conversations

In this episode, we sit down with Douglas LaRose — Executive Director of the Kava Coalition, humanitarian worker with 15 years of experience in global conflict zones, and one of the original voices in the modern kava movement.We dive into:🌱 The mission of the Kava Coalition⚖️ Why kava is being banned or regulated in states like New York🌺 The cultural roots of kava across the Pacific🛑 Misconceptions, FDA skepticism, and the fight to protect kava’s reputation💬 Kava vs. alcohol — healing, community, and mental wellness🌍 The future of kava: farming, supply chain struggles & global demand🤝 How YOU can join and support the Coalition📚 Resources & Links MentionedKava Coalition Website:🔗 https://www.kavacoalition.org/Kava Coalition Instagram:📸 @kava_coalitionhttps://www.instagram.com/kava_coalition/Douglas LaRose (Executive Director):📸 @kavadouglashttps://www.instagram.com/kavadouglas/Kava & Kettlebells Podcast:📸 @kava_kettlebellshttps://www.instagram.com/kava_kettlebells/

This episode is all about feeling healthy, happy, and free — even while on vacation. We’re diving into how to enjoy your time away without sabotaging your momentum, your mindset, or your energy.Whether you're trying to stay consistent with your habits or simply avoid the post-trip crash, we’re sharing real talk, practical tips, and a bit of our own experience in the water (literally).✨ You don’t have to choose between discipline and pleasure — there’s a way to do both.In this episode, we cover:How to enjoy food, rest, and adventure without guiltThe mindset shift that helps you avoid the “all or nothing” trapSimple routines that keep you grounded while travelingWhy joy and flexibility are actually part of a healthy lifestyle

Two military veterans. One mission: Replace booze with botanicals.In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Bob and Mikey — two former service members leading a powerful movement to rethink how veterans (and civilians) unwind, heal, and connect. From combat zones to conscious consumption, their journey into terpene-infused beverages and plant-based alternatives is changing the game.🎙️ What you’ll learn:• What *terpenes* actually are — and why they matter • Why alcohol might be holding back your healing • How plants are helping vets reconnect, recover, and thrive • The science behind mood, memory, and aroma • How to be intentional with functional plant-based drinks Whether you're sober curious, plant-curious, or just ready to ditch the hangover... this convo will open your mind.

Seven years ago, our family’s life changed forever. While driving with our two young kids, our car went under a semi and was completely crushed. No one should have survived… but somehow, we did.In this video, we share the full story of the accident, the recovery that followed, and how it transformed everything about the way we live today. From Heidi’s traumatic brain injury and weeks in neurological rehab, to the role fitness played in her recovery, this experience is one of the reasons we don’t drink alcohol, why we turned to kava instead, and why we continue to make health and family our top priorities.If this story resonates with you, we’d love to hear from you in the comments. Thank you for supporting us as we share not just our journey, but the lessons we’ve learned along the way! 🙏

Heidi & Charles sit down with Chris Kratom, the owner of NuWave Botanicals and the Elixir Lounge Kava Bar in Houston, TX. Chris was one of the first vendors to really bring kratom to the US in a large capacity and did so with absolute quality and transparency in mind. Chris has been in the industry for a very long time and has a WEALTH of knowledge on the kratom industry as a whole. Don't miss the one, some very good info packed in here...

What happens when you mix nightlife culture, bold flavors, and a whole new way to unwind? Meet some of the founders of Thom Fun’s Original — the creators behind what might just be the sexiest drink you’ve never tried. In this episode, we dive into how they started, what makes their beverages unique, and why more and more people are reaching for them instead of alcohol.Whether you’re into innovative drinks, fascinating founder stories, or just curious about what’s next in nightlife, you’ll want to listen until the end.👉 Check them out: https://www.thomfunsoriginal.com/📸 Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thomfunsoriginal/

Heidi & Charles give their thoughts on the recent hearing about the recommended scheduling of 7-OH, the synthetic compound derived from kratom. We give our thoughts on scheduling vs. regulating, the implications of both, and overall the impact this has on the botanical space.

Are you stuck in a cycle of emotional eating—and you don’t even know why?In this episode, we break down why emotional and mindless eating happens, how to identify your personal triggers, and simple, powerful tools to start breaking free from the loop—without guilt or shame.👉 Whether you’re stress-eating at night, bingeing after a bad day, or reaching for food when you’re not even hungry, this video is for you.WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:✅ Why emotional eating isn’t about willpower✅ How to identify what you’re really feeling before you eat✅ Tools to break the cycle (without giving up your favorite foods)✅ How alcohol and poor sleep sneak into the loop too✅ The one mindset shift that changes everything🎧 Listen. Reflect. Take back control.You deserve a relationship with food that’s rooted in self-awareness—not shame.🙌 Follow us on IG: @Kava_KettlebellsWe post more mindset tips, workouts, and raw, real conversations about food, fitness, and mental health.

Heidi & Charles dive into when is the best time to drink kava. Before you think, "all the time", hear us out! Kava is a tool, and depending on what you want from it, can be the perfect thing for the perfect time!

Heidi & Charles break down some of the things in the gym NOT to do so you don't become "that" person. Gym etiquette is a must, and being respectful to others in the gym makes it a more inviting and welcoming space. So listen up, and join us on this one!

Heidi & Charles bring Eddie Anaya onto the show, owner of Island Kava Co. This episode hits different! We go into some hard truths about why high performers should be the ones drinking kava, the alcohol culture in America, and being an entrepreneur while serving in the military. Give this one a listen asap!

Heidi & Charles record an episode on site at Kava House Brand kava bar in St Pete at their Hwy 19 location. This episode features 3 separate interviews with staff and brand contributors. In those interviews, we cover what the brand stands for, the kava bar scene itself, and the community aspect that kava & kratom is bringing to the local community.

Heidi & Charles talk about a lifestyle topic we frequently get asked; how do we maintain a vibrant and healthy marriage? Despite what society says, we think its pretty damn easy. Listen as we break down something personal to us outside of the usual kava & fitness!

Heidi & Charles dropped a new kratom intro episode for YouTube, but we got you on audio! We talk a little more on its forms, and also touch upon 7OH and how its misguiding potential users!

What does it take to lead with discipline, train like your life depends on it, and live every day like someone’s watching?In this powerful episode, we sit down with Manny Lamson, a U.S. Air Force officer and 1st Form fitness coach, to talk about what it really means to live with purpose, and build habits with programs such as 75 hard.We get into leadership, physical training, mental toughness, and why ignoring the opinions of others is a superpower.Whether you’re chasing excellence in the gym, in your career, or in how you show up for others—this one will hit home.

Heidi & Charles break down their staple supplements in this episode. We go over the vitamins, minerals, and extra supplements we have year round and why we choose to use them. Hopefully this helps cut through some of the BS out there in the supplement space!

Heidi & Charles discuss the idea of leaving the "average" lifestyle and leveling up in all areas of life, such as fitness & health, and why you need to leave the naysayers behind you. This might ruffle some feathers, but you know what we are about - real talk!

Heidi & Charles give some reasons why a kava bar isn't always the answer, and how you can make kava at home yourself for cheaper and with better quality control and personalization. Additionally, we talk about how some kava bars may not just fit your vibe and thats okay!

Heidi & Charles sit down with Rajiv, the founder of Kava Vinaka, to explore his incredible journey from Fiji to founding one of the most trusted kava companies in the U.S.Rajiv shares what it was like growing up in Fiji, moving to America at 13, and how his love for kava evolved into a full-blown passion and business. We dive into the roots of traditional kava culture, how it’s shared communally in Fiji, and how that experience compares to the vibe of modern American kava bars.

Heidi & Charles explore the popular Cali Sober trend, but also take a look at the upcoming "Florida Sober" term as well, and what both mean. We talk perspective on sobriety, cannabis, and how kava & kratom fit into the discussion as well!

Heidi & Charles welcome Douglas La Rose onto the podcast, whom you might have known as the Kavasseur, a long time reviewer and kava industry OG who has now stepped into the role of executive director at the Kava Coalition. We talk kava transparency in the industry, the growth of American kava culture, and the future of where this plant is headed!

Heidi & Charles talk about one of our favorite topics.. SLEEP! Building healthy sleeping habits & focusing on enhancing sleep is the ultimate cheat code in life, and we go over some tips and concepts that can help you fix & improve your snooze time.

Heidi & Charles talk about their personal views on what they do to rest and recovery while reaching their fitness goals. We talk training, nutrition, sleep, supplementation, and of course how kava plays a role into bouncing back bigger, faster, and stronger!

Heidi & Charles welcome Karsten Williams, 7x American Ninja Warrior National Finalist onto the show to talk all things about ninja training, building a community around this style of fitness, building Ninja Project, and of course about some kava & kratom!

Heidi & Charles discuss why the Veteran community needs to discover kava and its benefits. Additionally, we speak to how military members who are currently serving could benefit from kava, and additionally first responders. High stress, traumatic jobs like these impact in ways that are different than normal life, and kava can support dealing with issues that arise in these communities.

Heidi & Charles bring Tessa, owner of Lumenade kratom beverages, and Ashley, owner of Alchemist Kava Bar on the show to talk about the phenomena of the "mommy wine culture". This is the concept thats pushed in movies, pop culture, and social media that encourages moms to reach for the bottle of wine to "fit in" with the mom club.

Heidi & Charles bring Lisa Lozada on the show, owner of The Swim Gym Southwest FL. We talk about her journey as a business owner, CPT, homeschooling, and being an advocate for a alcohol free lifestyle.

Heidi & Charles bring back some more talk on kava and how it can help enhance those intimate moments with your partner. While we have touched on this before, we wanted to bring it to life for YouTube, so listen again and see what nuggets we touch on this time!

Heidi & Charles take a look at the most common side effects of consuming kava, whether in the form of capsules, extracts, or the traditional drink. We talk about our anecdotal experiences, what research says, and how to mitigate the mild sides that kava may bring.

Heidi & Charles give the YouTube audience an overview of what kava is, and we have the audio here for you! While we have done "what is kava" episodes way back when, this is a good revisit of what this wonderful plant does!

Heidi & Charles dropped their FIRST YouTube episode today! This is the audio only version of that episode, where we do a re-introduction to ourselves, Kava & Kettlebells, and what to expect moving forward!

Heidi & Charles give an emotionally charged take on censorship in the botanical space, namely for kratom but also potentially kava. We also give thoughts on how a lot of health & wellness items are also pushed away and why this is a bad thing. Also, we give updates on our YouTube launch!

Heidi & Charles welcome Wray Payne on the show, who is the owner of Tortuga Beverage Co. Tortuga makes kratom, kava, D9, and blue lotus canned beverages with all natural ingredients and nano extract technology. Wray comes from a brewing background, along with hemp industry experience, that all came together when he decided to embark on a botanical beverage company!

Heidi & Charles talk all about creatine on this episode, including the physical and mental benefits of supplementation. We also talk a bit about our East Coast FL kava trip and an exciting kava bar experience "first" for Charles!

Heidi & Charles welcome Josh Sutherland on the show, owner of Pure Infinity Botanicals, one of the largest kratom & kava companies in the United States. Josh gives us his story on how we built the business from $500 to what it is today, and also blows the lid on the kratom industry and how synthetic extracts are pushing out the natural form on the plant.

Heidi & Charles welcome Tea Time, a family owned kratom beverage company onto the show today! We have Steve & Brandon, the father and son duo who started the business, along with their Texas sales rep Bennie talk all things Tea Time. Hear about the story behind the company, what they are doing, and where they are going!

Heidi & Charles celebrate their 100th episode of Kava & Kettlebells podcast!! We talk about why we started the show, why we keep going, and some future plans.

Heidi & Charles welcome Miriam onto the show, who owns Maine's first kava bar, Lava Kava! Miriam is a FL native who moved to Maine on a nursing assignment and after seeing the absence of kava bars, decided to open her own!

Heidi & Charles talk about the concept of calories in vs. calories out, and where it's not always that simple. We talk metabolism, types of food, how to track your calories, and things to look out for!

Heidi & Charles welcome John & Sarok on the show, owners of Mad Hatter kava bars located in the Phoenix metro area! Arizona holds a special place in our heart and we love having kava bar owners from our hometown in Phoenix on the show to share their journey.

Heidi & Charles give some updates on their Hurricane Milton experience, and why they choose to drink kava during stressful experiences vs. other botanicals!