256: Is your makeup killing you? On this episode of Realfoodology, I’m joined by Attorney Whitney Ray Di Bona (or the LowToxLawyer on Instagram) who has represented women who developed terminal cancer due to asbestos in their cosmetics. We talk about why even the ‘clean products’ can’t always be trusted, and the regulations that could prevent this from happening in the future. Trust me, I know this sounds overwhelming. But I hope you can take away one or two tips from Whitney to start cutting back on the most toxic products so you don’t end up in one of these lawsuits.
Topics Discussed:
→ Toxic ingredients in skincare and beauty products
→ Whether clean products are actually safe
→ The truth about botox and filler
→ Biggest lawsuits against cosmetics companies
→ Regulation in the makeup/skincare industry in the U.S. vs. abroad
Sponsored By:
→ JASPR | Go to jaspr.co/realfoodology and get $400 off with code REALFOODOLOGY.
→ Beekeepers Naturals | Go to beekeepersnaturals.com/REALFOODOLOGY or enter code REALFOODOLOGY to get 20% off your order.
→ Paleovalley | Save at 15% at paleovalley.com/realfoodology and use code REALFOODOLOGY.
→ LMNT | Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT’s most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase at drinklmnt.com/realfoodology.
→ BIOptimizers | They’re giving us an exclusive offer! Check out bioptimizers.com/realfoodology and use promo code REALFOODOLOGY.
→ Our Place | Use code REALFOODOLOGY for 10% off at fromourplace.com.
Timestamps:
→ 00:00:00 - Introduction
→ 00:05:29 - The Top Worst Ingredients Found In Skincare
→ 00:06:04 - Mesothelioma Lawsuits Among Young Women
→ 00:07:20 - Skincare Product Additives to Avoid
→ 00:09:15 - What ‘Fragrance’ Really Means
→ 00:09:53 - Is ‘Clean Fragrance’ Actually a Thing?
→ 00:12:25 - Cosmetics Regulations in the United States vs. Europe
→ 00:16:47 - The Benefits of Natural Deodorant
→ 00:17:45 - Skincare Products to Put on High Alert
→ 00:18:26 - Concerns about Tampon Ingredients
→ 00:23:20 - What To Look out for When Buying Tampons
→ 00:25:55 - Suing the Biggest Brands in Makeup and Skincare
→ 00:28:25 - Johnson and Johnson Baby Powder Litigation
→ 00:34:57 - The Talc to Asbestos Pipeline
→ 00:38:02 - Asbestos Exposures through Makeup
→ 00:38:55 - How Clean Are Sephora’s Products Actually?
→ 00:42:58 - Whitney’s Takes on Courtney’s Clean Makeup Brands
→ 00:44:21 - Whitney’s Advice for How to Pick Your Products
→ 00:45:10 - Clean Hair Care
→ 00:48:05 - Identifying Toxins to Eliminate First
→ 00:51:00 - Nail Care and Health of Salon Workers
→ 00:54:40 - Managing Toxic Load While Being Realistic
→ 00:56:26 - Using Informed Consent to Make Choices About Health
→ 00:58:05 - Calls for Regulation in Food and Health
→ 01:01:40 - Pressuring CPG Companies to Do Better
→ 01:04:30 - The Dangers of Botox and Filler
→ 01:10:20 - Face Taping / Alternatives to Botox
→ 01:12:51 - Teens and Twenty-Year-Olds Trying Botox and Filler
Check Out Whitney Ray Di Bona:
→ LowToxLawyer - Instagram
→ The Wellness Verdict with Whitney Di Bona
Check Out Courtney:
→ LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE
→ Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide!
→ @realfoodology
→ www.realfoodology.com
→ My Immune Supplement by 2x4
→ Air Dr Air Purifier
→ AquaTru Water Filter
→ EWG Tap Water Database
Produced By: Drake Peterson
--------
1:16:49
Rethinking Vaccines: Informed Consent, Censorship, and Medical Transparency | Dr. Joel Warsh
255: On today’s episode of the Realfoodology Podcast, I sit down with returning guest Dr. Joel Warsh - aka Dr. Joel Gator on Instagram - to talk about his new book Between A Shot and A Hard Place. I’ve been doing more episodes on vaccines lately, and before you tune out, I just want to say: this is not an anti-vax conversation. It’s about asking questions. Dr. Joel is a pediatrician who started digging into the research for his book and was shocked by how little we actually know. We talked about the lack of liability in vaccine development, the censorship around this topic, and how we can create space for real, open dialogue. I hope you’ll listen with an open mind.
Topics Discussed
→ Why Dr. Joel wrote Between A Shot and A Hard Place
→ Vaccine propaganda, censorship, and open dialogue
→ The 1986 Vaccine Injury Liability Act
→ Autism, risk factors, and vaccine hesitancy
→ Informed consent and questioning medical norms
Sponsored By:
→ Timeline | They’re offering my audience a 20% discount on all first-time purchases! Use code REALFOODOLOGY at checkout at timeline.com/REALFOODOLOGYGUMMIES
→ LMNT | Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT’s most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase at drinklmnt.com/realfoodology.
→ Qualia | Go to qualialife.com/REALFOODOLOGY for up to 50% off your purchase and use code REALFOODOLOGY for an additional 15%.
→ MANUKORA | Go to Manukora.com/REALFOODOLOGY to get $25 off the Starter Kit, which comes with an MGO 850+ Manuka Honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook!
→ Paleovalley | Save at 15% at paleovalley.com/realfoodology and use code REALFOODOLOGY
→ Jaspr | Get $400 off with code REALFOODOLOGY and link is jaspr.co/realfoodology
Timestamps:
→ 00:00:00 - Introduction
→ 00:04:10 - “Between A Shot and A Hard Place“ and Vaccine Propaganda
→ 00:06:37 - Vaccine Literature and Potential Unknown Risks
→ 00:09:15 - Censorship of Vaccine Discussions
→ 00:18:11 - Autism and the Andrew Wakefield Study
→ 00:22:56 - Vaccine Liability Act
→ 00:26:13 - Side effects of pharmaceutical interventions
→ 00:32:16 - Encouraging Critical Thinking in Medicine
→ 00:34:59 - Rethinking Doctor Training Regarding Vaccines
→ 00:39:46 - Viewing Vaccines From a Parent’s Perspective
→ 00:43:03 - Navigating Vaccine Hesitancy, Patient Transparency, and Autism Statistics
→ 00:46:03 - The Impact of Autism on Families
→ 00:49:51 - Autism in Unvaccinated Children
→ 00:54:11 - What Surprised Dr. Joel Most in His Research
→ 00:59:56 - Modern Health Concerns and Life Expectancies
→ 01:02:10 - Rising Diagnoses and the Role of Informed Consent
→ 01:08:18 - Challenges in U.S. Research Funding
→ 01:12:23 - RFK Jr.’s Involvement
→ 01:15:53 - HPV and the Gardasil Vaccine
→ 01:19:59 - Advice for Parents Seeking Vaccine Clarity
→ 01:29:39 - The Importance of Asking Questions
→ 01:32:07 - Where to find Dr. Joel Warsh
Show Links:
→ Toxins, Over-Sanitizing + Children’s Health | Dr. Joel Warsh
Check Out Dr. Joel Warsh:
→ Between A Shot and A Hard Place
→ Instagram
→ X
Check Out Courtney:
→ LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE
→ Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide!
→ @realfoodology
→ www.realfoodology.com
→ My Immune Supplement by 2x4
→ Air Dr Air Purifier
→ AquaTru Water Filter
→ EWG Tap Water Database
Produced By: Drake Peterson
--------
1:33:48
The Secret to Healthier Kids: Clean Air and Better Schools! | Mike Feldstein of Jaspr
254: Mike Feldstein returns to share a groundbreaking project that reimagines how schools can truly support children’s health and development. As the founder of Jaspr, he’s now applying his air quality expertise to create an environment-first model for education that prioritizes clean air, nature, and wellness.
This episode explores how traditional school systems may be harming kids and what can be done to fix it—from circadian rhythm-aligned schedules to values-based learning.
Jaspr | Get $400 off with code REALFOODOLOGY and link is jaspr.co/realfoodology
Topics Discussed:
How does indoor air quality impact children’s health and learning in schools?
What is an air scrubber and how is it different from a regular air purifier?
Can improving classroom environments reduce absenteeism and illness in kids?
How do circadian rhythms affect children's cognitive development and school performance?
What are the benefits of nature-based education and wellness-focused school models?
Sponsored By:
Jaspr | Get $400 off with code REALFOODOLOGY and link is jaspr.co/realfoodology
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:02:01 - Microplastics & air filter effectiveness
00:06:30 - What is sick building syndrome?
00:09:15 - School & home air quality inspections
00:14:41 - How poor air spreads illness in schools
00:18:32 - Air purifiers & student absenteeism
00:20:31 - Rethinking school design for health
00:23:40 - Testing students for values alignment
00:28:05 - Teaching methods & nutrition
00:32:44 - What school reform should look like
00:34:08 - Circadian rhythms & kids’ sleep
00:36:56 - Prioritizing quality time with kids
00:41:22 - Why Jaspr outperforms competitors
00:46:01 - Jaspr’s benefits for snoring & sleep
00:47:21 - Jaspr customer service and support
00:47:58 - Courtney’s personal Jaspr experience
00:50:05 - Jaspr’s lifetime warranty offer
Further Listening:
Mold Toxicity In Your Home + Easy Tips To Purify Your Air | Mike Feldstein, CEO of Jaspr
Check Out Jaspr:
Jaspr | Get $400 off with code REALFOODOLOGY and link is jaspr.co/realfoodology
https://kindling.academy/
Check Out Courntey
LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE
Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide!
@realfoodology
www.realfoodology.com
My Immune Supplement by 2x4
Air Dr Air Purifier
AquaTru Water Filter
EWG Tap Water Database
Produced By: Drake Peterson
--------
54:23
MAHA Report Reveals Major Changes to Food, Health + Healthcare | White House Special
253: In this special episode recorded live from the White House, I sit down with some of the most influential voices shaping the future of health in America to discuss the newly released Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Report.
Guests include Dr. Oz, Kyle Diamantas, Vani Hari, Anthony Geisler, Brigham Buhler, and Max Lugavere. We dive into key topics like food policy, GRAS regulations, Medicaid and SNAP reform, PBMs, Alzheimer’s research, and the push for preventative care, movement, and accountability in federal health initiatives.
This is a behind-the-scenes look at how the MAHA coalition is working to make real change—and what it means for your health.
Topics Discussed:
What is the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) Report, and how does it aim to transform public health policy?
How is the FDA planning to update GRAS regulations and food safety standards under the MAHA initiative?
What changes are being proposed for Medicaid, Medicare, and SNAP benefits to support preventative health care?
Why are PBMs (pharmacy benefit managers) under scrutiny, and how is the MAHA movement addressing prescription drug pricing?
What are the latest findings on Alzheimer’s disease research, and how is fraudulent science being addressed in national policy?
Sponsored By:
Beekeepers Naturals | Go to beekeepersnaturals.com/REALFOODOLOGY or enter code REALFOODOLOGY to get 20% off your order.
MASA | Go to MASAChips.com/Realfoodology and use code Realfoodology for 25% off your first order.
Ollie | Head to MyOllie.com/REALFOODOLOGY, tell them all about your dog, and use code REALFOODOLOGY to get 60% off your Welcome Kit when you subscribe today!
Timestamps:
00:00:00 - Introduction
00:04:01 - Dr. Oz on CMS & Health Policy
00:06:09 - What MAHA Means for Real Food
00:07:28 - SNAP, Medicaid & Prevention
00:09:33 - Food Access & Health Equity
00:12:21 - Medicaid Waste & ACA Reform
00:15:16 - Movement, Sleep & Food w/ Anthony Geisler
00:17:14 - MAHA’s Core 4 Explained
00:18:58 - Building Daily Healthy Habits
00:23:31 - Fitness Access in Schools & Communities
00:26:35 - Avoiding Burnout & Staying Consistent
00:29:33 - Kyle Diamantas on the MAHA Report
00:32:42 - GRAS Status & FDA Priorities
00:36:15 - FDA Reform & Food Regulation
00:39:26 - Red Dye, Food Bans & Ingredient Risks
00:42:14 - Vani Hari on MAHA & Food Advocacy
00:47:54 - Government Response to Health Demands
00:50:52 - MAHA Criticism & What’s Ahead
00:56:06 - Fixing How We Grow & Source Food
00:59:59 - Whole Foods, Prevention & EO Impact
01:01:22 - Alzheimer’s Fraud & Science Gaps
01:05:29 - New Alzheimer’s Therapies & Creatine
01:10:38 - Brigham Buhler on FDA & Reform Efforts
01:12:05 - FDA Accountability & Future Goals
01:14:13 - GRAS Loopholes & Public Safety
01:15:55 - Strengthening Health Safety Nets
01:18:43 - Medical Overuse & Systemic Issues
01:20:30 - What Are PBMs & Why They Matter
01:23:10 - U.S. vs. Global Drug Pricing
01:24:18 - Trump's EO & Cutting Out PBMs
01:26:33 - Insurance Denials & Patient Delays
01:29:10 - Insurance Fixes from the Ground Up
01:32:21 - Progress in Reforming Health Insurance
Show Links:
Former Pharma Rep Breaks Down How Your Insurance Is Overcharging You + Keeping You Sick | Brigham Buhler
Check Out:
Dr. Oz
Anthony Geisler, CEO of Sequel Brands
Kyle Diamantas
Vani Hari
Max Lugavere
Brigham Buhler
Check Out Courtney:
LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE
Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide!
@realfoodology
www.realfoodology.com
My Immune Supplement by 2x4
Air Dr Air Purifier
AquaTru Water Filter
EWG Tap Water Database
Produced By: Drake Peterson
--------
1:37:59
Environmental Toxins, Mystery Illnesses + My Personal Test Results | Dr. Kelly McCann
252: In this episode, I sit down with my own doctor, Dr. Kelly McCann, to go over some of my recent test results and the detox protocols I’m doing to prep my body for pregnancy. We talk about glyphosate, mold, and other environmental toxins—and most importantly, what you can actually do about them.
Dr. McCann is a total expert in helping people uncover mystery illnesses, like MCAS and hidden infections, especially when conventional doctors come up short. If you’ve been feeling off and haven’t found answers yet, I hope this episode gives you some clarity, hope, and actionable steps to feel better.
Topics Discussed:
What are the symptoms of glyphosate exposure and how can you detox from it?
How do environmental toxins like mold and “forever chemicals” impact fertility and overall health?
What is MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome) and how is it diagnosed and treated?
What kind of functional medicine testing can uncover hidden infections or chronic illness?
How can you reduce your toxic load at home and support your body’s natural detox pathways?
Sponsored By:
LMNT | Get your free Sample Pack with any LMNT drink mix purchase at drinklmnt.com/realfoodology
Our Place | Use code REALFOODOLOGY for 10% off at fromourplace.com/realfoodology
Timeline | My friends at Timeline are offering 10% off, just for my listeners. Head to timeline.com/REALFOODOLOGYGUMMIES
MANUKORA | Go to Manukora.com/REALFOODOLOGY to get $25 off the Starter Kit, which comes with an MGO 850+ Manuka Honey jar, 5 honey travel sticks, a wooden spoon, and a guidebook!
BIOptimizers | For an exclusive offer go to bioptimizers.com/realfoodology and use promo code REALFOODOLOGY
Beekeepers Naturals | Go to beekeepersnaturals.com/REALFOODOLOGY or enter code REALFOODOLOGY to get 20% off your order.
Timetamps:
00:00:00 – Introduction
00:05:38 – Gaps in functional medicine testing
00:09:17 – Mold toxicity & immune function
00:11:47 – Glyphosate in food and environment
00:14:34 – How toxins affect your pets
00:18:31 – Toxins in flooring and home materials
00:20:45 – How to reduce toxic overload
00:24:34 – Sauna use for detox support
00:25:54 – Dangers of forever chemicals
00:26:40 – Post-sauna protocol & skincare
00:27:32 – Using binders for detox
00:31:23 – Benefits of chlorella & spirulina
00:32:14 – Detox alternatives to saunas
00:33:30 – Courtney’s mystery infection
00:35:30 – Lyme disease & stealth infections
00:37:51 – Signs of undetected infections
00:39:55 – Infections and fertility health
00:43:31 – Dr. Kelly’s real patient cases
00:47:19 – What is MCAS (Mast Cell Activation)?
00:51:21 – Understanding the toxic sink analogy
00:54:27 – Why phosphatidylcholine matters
00:58:58 – Dr. Kelly’s book highlights
01:02:09 – Why chronic illness feels “normal”
01:06:07 – Small lifestyle changes that help
Further Listening:
Detox Protocols: How to Remove Seed Oils from the Body, Good Fats vs Bad Fats, + Supplement Recommendations | BodyBio
Glyphosate, Big Agriculture, + Cancer | Kelly Rhyerson
Check Out Dr. Kelly
thespringcenter.com
Website
Facebook
Instagram
Check Out Courtney:
LEAVE US A VOICE MESSAGE
Check Out My new FREE Grocery Guide!
@realfoodology
www.realfoodology.com
My Immune Supplement by 2x4
Air Dr Air Purifier
AquaTru Water Filter
EWG Tap Water Database
Produced By: Drake Peterson
Welcome to the Realfoodology podcast, with your host Courtney Swan. Courtney is a passionate food activist on a mission to heal America’s broken food system. Her show cuts through the noise by tackling the critical issues that impact our health and society as a whole. Each week, join Courtney as she brings together leading voices in food policy, nutrition, sustainability, and wellness to unravel the complexities behind our broken food system, and to simplify how we look at nutrition and food. From debunking misleading health trends to exploring the future of sustainable food systems, Realfoodology equips listeners with actionable insights and empowers them to make informed choices. Whether you’re passionate about healthy living, curious about the politics of food, or simply want to live better, this is your go-to source for conversations that matter. Discover a healthier way to live with Realfoodology. For more info, visit www.realfoodology.com and follow Courtney on Instagram, @realfoodology. NEW EPISODES EVERY TUESDAY
Produced By Wellness Loud.