Advertise on podcast: The Healthspan Collective

In this episode of The Healthspan Collective, host Nicole Doran sits down with Lindsay Dahl, Chief Impact Officer at Ritual and author, to explore the realities of clean living, product transparency, and environmental health. Lindsay shares her journey from environmental advocacy to shaping policy and driving meaningful change within the wellness and supplement industry. Throughout the conversation, Lindsay addresses the overwhelm many people feel around toxic chemicals in everyday products and offers clear, practical steps to simplify clean living without fear or perfectionism. From safer choices in the kitchen and bedroom to debunking common myths in the clean beauty and wellness space, this episode empowers listeners to make informed decisions — while highlighting how transparency, regulation, and conscious consumer behavior work together to create a healthier future. What We Cover: 🧪 How to simplify clean living without overwhelm 🌍 Lindsay’s path from policy advocacy to wellness leadership 🏠 Practical guidance for reducing toxins at home 💊 How Ritual is reshaping the supplement industry Chapters: 00:00 – Hidden Chemical Exposure in Everyday Products 01:11 – Lindsay’s Path Into Clean Living Advocacy 02:50 – Why Awareness Around Toxins Is Rapidly Growing 03:38 – Balancing Clean Living With Real Life 07:17 – How to Prioritize Safer Products at Home 14:07 – Clean Living With Kids and Families 17:55 – Cookware, Food Storage, and Kitchen Safety 21:53 – Fast Fashion, Consumption, and Environmental Impact 25:03 – Common Misconceptions About Clean Living 32:32 – Simple, Sustainable Tips for Healthier Choices

In this episode of The Healthspan Collective, host Nicole Doran sits down with Baya Voce, a couples practitioner and specialist in relationship repair, for a deep and compassionate conversation on what it truly takes to sustain healthy, long-term partnerships. Baya shares her extensive experience helping couples navigate conflict, repair emotional ruptures, and move through the natural cycles of connection and disconnection with greater awareness and care. Throughout the episode, Baya breaks down the phases of relationship growth, from the honeymoon stage to interdependence, and explains why repair work is more important than perfection. She also explores the emerging role of MDMA-assisted couples therapy, emotional regulation, and communication skills that foster safety, trust, and intimacy. This episode offers grounded, practical wisdom for anyone seeking deeper connection and more resilient relationships. What We Cover: 💞 The cycle of connection, rupture, and repair in relationships🧠 Emotional skills that support long-term partnership health🔥 Navigating conflict with curiosity, compassion, and clarity💊 MDMA-assisted couples therapy and its therapeutic potential Chapters: 00:00 – Why Relationship Repair Matters More Than Perfection01:48 – Rethinking the Relationship Models We’re Taught04:21 – The Cycle of Connection, Disconnection, and Repair07:03 – From Merging to Interdependence: How Relationships Evolve08:41 – Disillusionment, Grief, and Emotional Maturity18:06 – Real-Life Stories of Repair and Relational Insight28:05 – Practical Tools for Navigating Relationship Ruptures30:12 – Co-Regulation, Presence, and Emotional Safety38:05 – Exploring MDMA-Assisted Couples Therapy48:46 – What Sustains Love Over the Long Term

In this episode of The Healthspan Collective, host Nicole Doran sits down with Shirah Benarde, co-founder of NightCap, a purpose-driven brand created to help protect people from drink spiking and promote safer social experiences. Shirah shares the powerful story behind NightCap’s creation, rooted in real-world experiences, advocacy, and a desire to empower individuals with practical tools for safety and peace of mind. Throughout the conversation, Shirah opens up about building a mission-led company, navigating entrepreneurship as a woman, and the intersection of wellness, safety, and social culture. From innovation and education to resilience and impact, this episode highlights how thoughtful design and intention can drive meaningful change — while reminding us that personal safety is an essential part of overall wellbeing. What We Cover:💡 Turning lived experience into meaningful innovation👩‍💼 Building a purpose-driven brand as a female founder🌍 Social wellness, empowerment, and harm prevention✨ Redefining wellness to include safety and autonomy Chapters: 00:00 – The Reality of Drink Spiking and Why It Matters00:36 – Meet Shirah Benarde and the Mission Behind NightCap01:29 – How NightCap Was Born: From Idea to Impact01:56 – Expanding the Product Line and Reaching New Audiences05:49 – Early Support and Momentum from Florida State University11:23 – The Road to Shark Tank30:28 – The Impact of Shark Tank and Brand Growth33:32 – Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Founder Challenges41:52 – Self-Care, Wellbeing, and Staying Grounded53:29 – Future Goals, Vision, and Lasting Impact

In this episode of The Healthspan Collective, host Nicole Doran sits down with Dr. Sarah Berry, Chief Scientist at ZOE and professor of nutritional science at King’s College London, for a data-driven conversation on some of the most debated topics in modern nutrition. Together, they unpack the myths surrounding seed oils, menopause, and food processing, offering clarity in a wellness landscape often clouded by misinformation. Throughout the episode, Dr. Berry shares research-backed insights into how different bodies respond uniquely to food, why seed oils are often misunderstood, and how menopause can shift metabolism, satiety, and energy needs. With nuance and evidence at the forefront, this conversation empowers listeners to move beyond fear-based nutrition and toward balanced, personalized approaches that support healthspan and long-term wellbeing. What We Cover: 🧪 The truth about seed oils and common nutrition myths 🧠 How social media influences food fear and confusion 🥗 Food processing, blood sugar, and metabolic health 🌸 Menopause, metabolism, and navigating hormonal change Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Meet Dr. Sarah Berry 02:01 – Debunking the Biggest Seed Oil Myths 05:21 – Why Processing and Quality Matter 09:56 – Nutrition Myths and Fear-Based Advice 21:43 – How to Choose the Right Oils and Fats 34:18 – The Food Matrix: Why Structure Changes Everything 40:19 – Blood Sugar, Fats, and Metabolic Responses 45:09 – Managing Hunger, Fullness, and Satiety 52:40 – Menopause and Shifts in Metabolism 01:12:55 – Tracking Symptoms and Practical Takeaways

In this episode of The Healthspan Collective, host Nicole Doran sits down with Rod Stryker, founder of Tantra Yoga Alchemy, to explore the profound connection between yoga, the nervous system, and holistic wellbeing. Rod shares his lifelong journey with yoga, beginning at just seven years old, and how an early fascination with movement evolved into a deep devotion to yoga philosophy, meditation, and self-realization. Throughout the conversation, Rod unpacks the transformative power of visualization, the integration of yoga and Ayurveda, and the mind body complex as a pathway to balance and vitality. From understanding doshas and daily practices to redefining tantra, love, and compassion, this episode offers timeless wisdom on how ancient practices can support modern life, longevity, and inner fulfillment. What We Cover: 🧠 How visualization impacts the nervous system and mental health🧘 Rod Stryker’s lifelong journey with yoga and meditation🌿 Integrating Ayurveda and understanding doshas for balance⚖️ Practical tools for aligning mind, body, and energy Chapters: 00:00 – The Power of Visualization and Inner Balance 00:31 – Meet Rod Stryker: A Life Devoted to Yoga 01:28 – Rod’s Journey Into Yoga Philosophy 06:16 – How Modern Yoga Evolved 10:05 – Yoga as a Holistic Mind Body Practice 21:17 – Ayurveda and Understanding Your Dosha 32:40 – Applying Ayurvedic Wisdom to Daily Life 47:33 – Love, Compassion, and the Heart of Yoga 49:51 – Tantra Explained: Origins and Meaning 58:48 – Daily Mindfulness and Meditation Practices

In this episode of The Healthspan Collective, host Nicole Doran sits down with Tim Spector, Professor at King’s College London and co-founder of ZOE, to explore the fascinating world of gut health and personalized nutrition. Tim discusses how our gut microbiome impacts everything from metabolism to immunity, revealing eye-opening findings from his research — including why identical twins can have dramatically different gut profiles and how individualized our nutritional needs truly are. Throughout the conversation, Tim breaks down the power of dietary diversity, the benefits of fermented foods and polyphenols, and why fiber is one of the most underrated tools for long-term health. He also debunks major nutrition myths surrounding carbs, seed oils, keto, and carnivore diets, offering a refreshingly evidence-based perspective. Packed with practical guidance, this episode empowers listeners to make informed choices that support gut health, longevity, and overall wellbeing. What We Cover: 🦠 How the gut microbiome shapes health and disease 🥗 Personalized nutrition and why “one-size-fits-all” doesn’t work🌱 Plant diversity, fermented foods & polyphenols for longevity ❌ Debunking popular diet myths (keto, carnivore, carbs, seed oils) Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Gut Health & the Microbiome 00:43 – Meet Tim Spector: Researcher, Author & Innovator 01:38 – How the Gut Microbiome Influences Whole-Body Health 03:35 – Personalized Nutrition: Understanding Your Unique Needs 06:23 – How Dietary Changes Shape Your Microbiome 14:25 – Fermented Foods, Polyphenols & Building Diversity 28:18 – Modern Diets & Their Hidden Challenges 36:47 – How Food Risk Scales Help Us Make Better Choices 38:23 – Myth-Busting: Are Carbs Really the Problem? 45:46 – Fiber vs. Protein: What Your Gut Actually Wants

Follow us on Instagram to see who will be on the podcast next: https://www.instagram.com/healthspancollective/ In this episode of The Healthspan Collective, host Nicole Doran sits down with Jennifer Roman-Matito, co-founder of Mother’s Milk, a wellness-forward canned cocktail brand built for people who love to celebrate without compromising their health. Jennifer shares how she and her partner made the leap from corporate careers to entrepreneurship, creating a clean, coconut water–based cocktail designed to bring transparency and intention to the alcohol industry. Throughout the conversation, Jennifer opens up about navigating a male-dominated space, the challenges and breakthroughs of startup life, and how wellness remains central to both her lifestyle and her brand. From ingredient integrity to the rise of sober-curious culture, this episode highlights the future of conscious drinking and what it takes to build a mission-driven company without losing the joy of a good party. What We Cover: 🍹 The story behind Mother’s Milk and clean-label cocktails💪 Building confidence and community as female founders🌴 Why coconut water is the hero ingredient in their formula📖 Transparency in labeling, ingredients, and manufacturing Chapters:00:41 – Meet Jennifer: Co-Founder of Mother’s Milk01:04 – How Mother’s Milk Was Born04:19 – Female Founders Navigating a Male-Dominated Industry13:03 – Signs, Synchronicity & Entrepreneurial Leap Moments20:00 – Ingredient Integrity: Transparency in Manufacturing24:43 – Sober Curious Culture & The Low-ABV Trend28:02 – Building Mother’s Milk & “Pinch Me” Milestones31:16 – Future Plans, Growth & Dream Collaborations33:55 – Advice for Women Ready to Start Something Big

In this episode of The Healthspan Collective, host Nicole Doran sits down with Vince Dickson, a New York–based breathwork and performance coach who helps individuals ranging from high-performing entrepreneurs to people navigating life’s most pivotal moments. Vince shares the powerful story of his own transformation, from the intensity of startup culture to discovering breathwork as a pathway to clarity, healing, and inner peace. Throughout the conversation, Vince unpacks the profound connection between breath, emotional states, and the subconscious patterns that shape our lives. He explains how breathwork can release limiting beliefs, expand self-awareness, and support the body through somatic healing. From practical daily techniques to deeper spiritual insights, this episode offers a grounded yet expansive look at how conscious breathing can radically shift your well-being, resilience, and sense of purpose. What We Cover: 🌬️ The science and spirituality behind transformative breathwork🧠 How breath influences emotional regulation and mindset💫 Releasing limiting beliefs through somatic healing practices🧘 Practical breathwork tools for daily grounding and energy Chapters: 00:00 – The Illusion of Control & Opening Reflections00:48 – Meet Vince Dickson: Breathwork and Performance Coaching01:45 – Vince’s Path From Startups to Self-Discovery04:45 – How Breathwork Heals and Transforms Lives13:07 – Somatic Breathwork Techniques for Emotional Release17:18 – Breath, Emotion & the Mind-Body Connection23:37 – Practical Breathwork Tools for Daily Life30:42 – The Spiritual Dimension of Breathwork40:57 – Breath Regulation & Foundational Techniques48:55 – Designing a Morning Breath Practice for Energy & Calm

In this episode of The Healthspan Collective, host Nicole Doran sits down with Carly Walker, an intuitive soul guidance coach, to explore the transformative power of intuition, manifestation, and spiritual alignment. Carly shares her unique approach to intuitive coaching, guiding clients to reconnect with their inner wisdom, release limiting beliefs, and create lives rooted in purpose and authenticity. Throughout the conversation, Carly opens up about her own journey, from motherhood to entrepreneurship, revealing how she balances personal growth with life’s many roles. She offers actionable tools for grounding, setting boundaries, and cultivating trust in the intuitive process. This heartfelt and insightful discussion reminds us that true wellness begins within, through presence, alignment, and belief in what’s possible. What We Cover: 🌟 The foundations of intuitive soul coaching and spiritual growth 💫 The step-by-step process of manifestation and alignment 🧠 How belief systems shape transformation and healing 🌱 Grounding practices for clarity and calm Chapters: 00:00 – Guided Visualization for Grounding 00:56 – Meet Carly Walker: Intuitive Soul Coach 03:44 – Understanding Intuitive Soul Guidance 18:39 – Manifestation & Energy Alignment 29:10 – Balancing the Spiritual and Material Worlds 42:07 – Intuition, Boundaries & Navigating Readings 45:08 – Healing, Chronic Stress & Personal Growth 48:22 – Expanders & Transformational Leadership 54:14 – Manifestation Techniques & Positive Projection 01:09:13 – Motherhood, Business & Intuitive Decision-Making

In this episode of The Healthspan Collective, host Nicole Doran sits down with Karen Michelle, a trainer and certified nutrition coach, for a powerful conversation on building a truly sustainable approach to health and wellness. KM breaks down the fundamentals of nourishment, sleep, movement, and mindset... offering practical, grounded guidance for anyone looking to elevate their vitality and long-term well-being. Throughout the episode, KM shares her philosophy on balanced nutrition, strength training for women, and the healing power of simple daily habits like walking and rest. She also dives into the influence of social media trends, the role of supplements, and the importance of surrounding yourself with a supportive community. With honest insight and empowering tools, KM reminds us that wellness is a lifestyle built from intention, consistency, and self-belief. What We Cover: 😴 Why sleep and recovery are the foundation of real health🥗 The truth about nutrition, processed foods, and supplements🧠 The mindset shift that transforms wellness journeys🌱 Holistic habits for longevity, balance, and daily vitality Chapters: 00:00 – Mental & Emotional Health: The Starting Point01:13 – KM’s Personal Journey Into Nutrition & Wellness03:25 – Processed Foods and Their Real Impact on Health07:08 – Personalized Nutrition: Tracking Macros with Intention09:39 – Supplements & Social Media: What’s Actually Legit?14:09 – Strength Training for Women: Building Lifelong Strength29:43 – Sleep, Recovery & Why Rest Shapes Results39:39 – Mindset, Mental Health & Rethinking Fitness Goals43:20 – Manifestation, Vision Boards & Creating Your Reality55:35 – Diet Trends, Sustainability & The Mediterranean Approach

In this episode of The Healthspan Collective, host Nicole Doran sits down with psychic and spiritual healer Amy Jenner for an illuminating conversation about clairvoyance, energy work, and the intersection of spirituality and holistic health. Amy, a third-generation psychic, shares how she channels intuitive insight through aura readings, spirit guides, and the Akashic Records to help clients uncover clarity, purpose, and healing. Nicole opens up about her personal experiences with psychic readings and how intuitive work has supported her own healing journey. Together, they explore the energetic connection between mind, body, and spirit... and how integrating intuitive practices with traditional medicine may shape the future of holistic wellness. The episode even features a live mini reading, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the transformative nature of Amy’s sessions. What We Cover💫 The role of intuition and spirit guides in personal growth🌙 Understanding retrogrades and energetic shifts💞 Love, relationships, and messages from the spiritual realm🌱 The future of holistic and traditional medicine integration Chapters: 00:25 – Meeting Psychic Amy Jenner and Setting Intentions02:29 – Clairvoyance Explained: Reading Auras and Energy Fields03:51 – Retrogrades and How They Influence Emotions06:11 – Inside a Psychic Reading: Process and Insights08:35 – Love, Relationships, and Spiritual Connection22:43 – Past Lives and the Akashic Records27:32 – Growing Up Psychic: Amy’s Family and Early Experiences37:53 – Chakra Healing and Energy Alignment43:08 – The Future of Medicine: Bridging Science and Spirituality

In this episode of The Healthspan Collective, host Nicole Doran sits down with Morgan Thomas, the Chief Brand Officer at Sweat and Tonic, Toronto’s premier luxury boutique fitness studio. With a unique background in interior design, Morgan shares how her creative vision and leadership have shaped the studio’s identity, blending movement, community, and design to redefine what a wellness space can be. Throughout the conversation, Morgan reflects on the evolution of the wellness industry, the challenges and rebirth that followed the pandemic, and how intentional design fosters connection and belonging. She opens up about the power of community, the importance of authenticity in branding, and her outlook on the future of boutique fitness... where experience, mindfulness, and innovation converge. What We Cover: 🏋️‍♀️ How interior design shapes a fitness brand’s energy and experience💬 Rebuilding wellness culture and community post-pandemic🌟 The creative process behind Sweat and Tonic’s brand evolution👥 Leadership, authenticity, and building strong team culture Chapters: 05:22 - Sweat and Tonic: A Unique Fitness and Wellness Hub 07:34 - The Role of Interior Design in Fitness Studios 08:44 - Morgan's Journey from Interior Design to GM 16:00 - Expanding Sweat and Tonic: New Locations and Innovations 32:55 Future of Boutique Fitness and Customer Experience 35:35 - Creating Intentional Community Spaces 37:42 - Improving Gym Membership Experiences 39:30 - The Importance of a Third Place 41:48 - Balancing Leadership and Motherhood 54:02 The Power of Unreasonable Hospitality

In this episode of The Healthspan Collective, host Nicole Doran sits down with Dr. Asare Christian, a Harvard-educated and Johns Hopkins–trained pain management specialist, to explore his inspiring journey from Ghana to becoming a pioneer in regenerative medicine. Dr. Christian shares how his personal experiences shaped his passion for helping patients heal beyond traditional pain management, uncovering the powerful potential of lifestyle medicine, lab testing, and innovative therapies to achieve true longevity and vitality. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Christian reveals how regenerative and functional medicine are transforming the way we understand and treat chronic pain, from migraines to hormone imbalance. He discusses cutting-edge approaches like peptide and hormone therapy, the importance of personalized health protocols, and the future of medicine that empowers patients to heal at the root cause, not just manage symptoms. What We Cover: 🩺 The shift from conventional pain care to regenerative medicine 🔬 Advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment strategies 💊 Peptide and hormone therapy for pain, balance, and longevity 💡 Understanding migraines and their deeper physiological causes Chapters: 01:20 - Dr. Christian's Journey and Medical Philosophy 01:35 - Regenerative Medicine and Pain Management 03:45 - Patient Approach and Diagnostic Methods 10:50 - Migraine Triggers and Treatments 22:42 - The Role of Hormones in Pain 31:56 - Hormone Replacement Therapy and Longevity 37:40 - Introduction to Anti-Inflammatory Uses 37:54 - Microdosing and Pain Modulation 41:06 - Peptides for Pain Management 57:25 - The Importance Of Sleep and Stress Management

In this episode of The Healthspan Collective, host Nicole Doran sits down with Melissa Donato and Queenie Phair of Alter Toronto, a modern wellness studio pioneering the art of recovery through sauna and ice bath therapy. Together, they explore the transformative power of contrast therapy, the science behind hot and cold exposure, and how intentional rituals can strengthen the mind, body, and spirit.Throughout the conversation, Melissa shares her inspiring journey from corporate life to conscious entrepreneurship, while Queenie offers her deep expertise in Traditional Chinese Medicine and holistic health. From building community and cultivating resilience to balancing energy and purpose, this episode dives into what it truly means to live well, inside and out.What We Cover:🔥 The origins and mission behind Alter Toronto🧊 The physical and mental benefits of contrast therapy💼 Mel’s transition from corporate to wellness entrepreneur🌸 Queenie’s Traditional Chinese Medicine insights on balance and healing💫 How to cultivate mindfulness, community, and longevityChapters:00:00 - Introduction to Cold Plunge Benefits01:40 - The Origin Story of Alter03:36 - Challenges and Rewards of Entrepreneurship11:24 - The Science and Strategy of Contrast Therapy20:29 - Balancing Business and Personal Life33:05 - Cultural Influences and Community Impact34:01 - Building a Neighborhood Sauna36:19 - How Alter Builds A Community40:03 - Challenges in the Wellness Industry45:38 - Future Plans for Alter

In this episode of The Healthspan Collective, host Nicole Doran sits down with Thomas Tullo, founder of Aman Spa in Toronto and creator of Face Pilates, to explore his groundbreaking approach to natural beauty, longevity, and holistic health. Thomas reveals the inspiration behind Face Pilates, an innovative practice designed to strengthen facial muscles, enhance natural radiance, and support healthy aging from the inside out. Throughout the conversation, Thomas opens up about his personal wellness journey, the philosophy that drives his work, and his candid views on modern aesthetic treatments like. From the eight essential steps of Face Pilates to his insights on emotional well-being, stress management, and natural supplements, this episode offers a refreshing perspective on beauty, vitality, and living with purpose at every stage of life. What we cover: 💆‍♀️ The science and benefits behind Face Pilates🌱 Natural beauty, facial muscle health, and longevity habits💉 The shift toward natural facial rejuvenation💫 The evolving aesthetics and spa industry Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Face Pilates00:48 – Meet Thom Tullo: Founder of Aman Spa01:25 – Thom’s Personal Experience with Face Pilates03:19 – The Concept and Benefits of Face Pilates09:15 – The Eight Foundational Steps of Face Pilates35:34 – Thom’s Journey and Wellness Philosophy40:12 – Staying Active: Exercise, Longevity, and Purpose42:46 – Managing Stress, Sugar, and Emotional Health49:20 – Natural Beauty, Supplements, and Daily Rituals57:45 – Trends Shaping the Future of Aesthetics