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Introduction to Dr. Cynthia Libert and Cognitive Decline Prevention in Asheville

In this episode, host Travis Richardson sits down with Dr. Cynthia Libert, a board-certified family physician, functional medicine practitioner, and cognitive decline prevention specialist in Asheville, NC. Together, they explore how to protect your brain, prevent Alzheimer's disease, and age powerfully from the inside out.

Dr. Libert trained at Loyola University of Chicago, completed her residency in Asheville, and discovered Dr. Dale Bredesen's groundbreaking Alzheimer's prevention framework in 2016 — a moment that transformed her practice. Today, she helps people in their 40s, 50s, and 60s take proactive control of their brain health before symptoms appear.

Key Takeaways:

• Why Alzheimer's has five distinct root-cause subtypes — not one
• What "Type 3 Diabetes" means and how insulin resistance drives cognitive decline
• Why midlife (ages 40–45) is your most critical prevention window
• How hormones, muscle mass, and gut health protect your brain
• What epigenetics means and how daily choices switch genes on and off
• Why community, faith, and purpose are evidence-based brain health strategies

Timestamps:

• 00:00 | Welcome & Introduction
• 01:15 | Dr. Libert's origin story
• 04:30 | Lifestyle medicine in rural Georgia
• 08:00 | Discovering the Bredesen Protocol
• 11:00 | The five subtypes of Alzheimer's
• 14:45 | Functional testing & 2.5-hour consult
• 17:30 | Fasting mimicking diet & new research
• 20:00 | What is Type 3 Diabetes?
• 24:30 | Blood sugar management strategies
• 29:20 | The three pillars of Dr. Libert's practice
• 33:30 | Midlife window & the cognoscopy
• 38:25 | Hormones, menopause & brain health
• 42:50 | Strength training as a longevity tool
• 44:15 | Rethink Aging platform & membership
• 49:30 | Rapid-fire: foods, Sabbath & books
• 54:30 | Final words: there is always hope

Episode Links:

• Be Well Asheville
• Be Well Asheville Podcast Archive
• Dr Cynthia Libert (Main Website)
• Rethink Aging with Dr. Libert — YouTube
• The End of Alzheimer's by Dr. Dale Bredesen
• Breath by James Nestor
• The Longevity Nutrient by Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson

The Wellness in Asheville podcast is produced by Be Well Asheville, your local news source covering health + wellness news + events in Asheville. Get the latest at bewellasheville.com or follow @bewellasheville.

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Guest Name - Anna Twinney

Summary:
Explore the profound connection between humans and horses through body language, telepathy, and energetic resonance. Anna Twinney shares insights on horse whispering, trauma healing, and the transformative power of animal communication.

Keywords
Horse whispering, animal communication, body language, telepathy, trauma healing, energetic resonance, spiritual connection, horse training, emotional awareness, healing with horses

Key Topics:

• Horse whispering and body language
• Telepathic connection with animals
• Healing trauma through horses
• The role of energetic resonance in communication
• The importance of the sacred pause in interactions

Titles
Unlocking the Secrets of Horse Whispering: Body Language, Telepathy & Energy
The Magic of Horses: Healing, Connection & Communication

Sound Bites
"Horses read 93% body language, only 7% spoken."
"Horses see beyond words, into the soul."
"Horses reflect our truth and help us heal."

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Horse Whispering and Healing
02:00 Understanding Horse Whispering: Body Language and Emotion
10:14 The Trifactor of Truth: Body Language, Telepathy, and Energy
13:31 The Unique Connection Between Humans and Horses
16:57 Horses as Healers: Impact on Trauma and Vulnerability
21:48 Emotional Connection with Horses
26:19 The Sacred Pause in Horsemanship
32:08 Anna's Journey from Police to Horse Whisperer
37:00 Holistic Approaches and Upcoming Events
43:24 intro and outro.wav

Resources / Show Notes
Anna Twinney's Website - https://annatwinney.com
Equine Warrior Foundation - https://equinewarrior.org
Instagram - https://instagram.com/annatwinney

Be Well Asheville Platform - https://bewellasheville.com

Be Well Asheville Meetup (Wellness pros) -
http://meetup.com/asheville-health-wellness-networking

Be Well Asheville Collective (Wellness pros) -
https://bewellasheville.com/be-well-asheville-wellness-collective

The Wellness in Asheville podcast is produced by Be Well Asheville, your local news source covering health + wellness news + events in Asheville. Get the latest at bewellasheville.com or follow @bewellasheville.

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Season 1, Episode 23: From Burnout to Balance with Kyra Cavanaugh

Introduction to Kyra Cavanaugh and Energy Management

In this episode of the Wellness in Asheville Podcast, host Travis Richardson is joined by Kyra Cavanaugh, an energy coach, Qigong teacher, and well-being consultant. We delve into the pervasive issue of burnout in our post-pandemic world and explore how to manage our energy to live a more aligned and fulfilling life.

Kyra shares her personal journey from being a self-proclaimed workaholic to discovering the power of energy management through Qigong and Taoist traditions. We discuss the science behind why we are energetic beings, the importance of self-awareness, and practical steps to shift from a state of constant doing to a state of being.

This conversation covers the cultural pressures that lead to burnout, the difference between rest and recovery, and how to create a work environment that fosters well-being.

Kyra explains how to identify and manage energy drains, the benefits of practices like Qigong, and the importance of self-compassion in the healing process. We also touch on the unique challenges faced by individuals and teams in corporate settings and how to cultivate a culture of trust and autonomy.

Key Takeaways:

•The concept of managing your energy, not just your time, and how to apply it in daily life.

•How to recognize the signs of burnout and the importance of self-awareness and compassion.

•The difference between mindset shifts and taking action to address burnout.

•Practical techniques for energy management, including Qigong, mindfulness, and setting boundaries.

•How to create a supportive work environment that prevents burnout and promotes well-being.

•The importance of finding what energizes you personally, whether it's a quiet hobby or an active pursuit.

Timestamps:

•00:00 - 01:39 | Introduction to Kyra Cavanaugh and the topic of burnout.

•01:39 - 07:17 | What is energy management and why is it important?

•07:17 - 12:32 | The importance of 'how' you do something over 'what' you do.

•02:32 - 17:34 | Practical steps to take when you're feeling burnt out.

•17:34 - 22:21 | Why is it so hard for us to rest?

•22:21 - 28:15 | Coaching teams to prevent burnout in a corporate setting.

•28:15 - 31:05 | How different personality types experience energy drain.

•31:05 - 35:01 | Kira's personal wellness routine

•35:01 - 44:04 | What is Qigong and how can it help with energy management?

•44:04 - 49:22 | The importance of feeling safe in your body and taking the first step on your healing journey.

•49:22 - 56:04 | Rapid-fire questions and how to connect with Kira.

Episode Links:

•15BE.com

•freeryourself.world

•Free Yourself World YouTube Channel

•Asheville Community Yoga

The Wellness in Asheville podcast is produced by Be Well Asheville, your local news source covering health + wellness news + events in Asheville. Get the latest at bewellasheville.com or follow @bewellasheville.

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Introduction to Rachele Scevola and Breathwork as Medicine
In this episode of the Wellness in Asheville Podcast, host Travis Richardson welcomes Rachele Scevola, known as The Breath Nurse, a registered nurse turned breathwork facilitator.

Rachele shares her journey from critical care nursing to discovering breathwork at a yoga festival, where it transformed her life—providing clarity and courage to leave a high-stress career.

We explore how breathwork bridges traditional medicine and natural healing, its role in managing stress, anxiety, and burnout, and why it's accessible to everyone as a form of self-empowerment.

Rachele discusses the science behind breathwork, from nervous system regulation to potential hallucinogenic experiences via DMT release, and demystifies misconceptions—it's not always "woo-woo" or intense.

We dive into practical tips for beginners, the benefits of group sessions for connection and energy amplification, and how breath awareness can integrate into daily life for better sleep, emotional release, and overall wellness.

Rachele emphasizes simplicity in health, moving away from labels and diagnoses, and reconnecting with nature's rhythms in our tech-driven world.

Key Takeaways:

• Breathwork's origins in pranayama and yoga, and its evolution into modern practices like holotropic or somatic breathing
• How breath acts as a mirror for life, reflecting stress levels and nervous system state
• The transition from allopathic nursing to breathwork: spotting burnout and using breath for personal healing
• Transformative benefits: reduced anxiety, emotional catharsis, increased lung capacity, creativity, and resilience
• Misconceptions: Breathwork isn't just deep breathing—it's intentional, varied, and doesn't require daily practice
• Group vs. individual sessions: The magic of shared energy, community connection, and co-regulation
• Simplicity in wellness: Prioritizing basics like breath, sleep, light exposure, water, air, food, and human connection over gadgets
• Moving away from diagnoses: Treating people holistically, not as labels, to foster innate healing
• Practical techniques: Breath awareness, physiological sighs, box breathing, and setting phone alarms for deep breaths
• Breath's role in longevity: Linking to VO2 max, control pause, and metabolic health

Timestamps:
00:00 – 01:00 | Podcast intro and welcome to Rachele Scevola
01:00 – 05:00 | Rachele's nursing background, burnout, and accidental discovery of breathwork
05:00 – 08:00 | "Blasting off" in breathwork
08:00 – 12:00 | Defining breathwork
12:00 – 15:00 | Breath as a health measure
15:00 – 19:00 | Integrating breathwork with other wellness practices
19:00 – 23:00 | Accessible starting points
23:00 – 27:00 | Breath's effect on heart rate variability
27:00 – 31:00 | Handling life's challenges
31:00 – 36:00 | Moving away from diagnoses
36:00 – 40:00 | Simplicity in wellness
40:00 – 45:00 | Group breathwork magic
45:00 – 49:00 | Ancient software in a modern world
49:00 – 52:00 | How to connect with Rachele
52:00 – 53:00 | Podcast outro and Asheville wellness tips

Episode Links:
The Breath Nurse Website
The Breath Nurse Instagram

The Wellness in Asheville podcast is produced by Be Well Asheville, your local news source covering health + wellness news + events in Asheville. Get the latest at bewellasheville.com or follow @bewellasheville.

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Introduction to Natty Trebotich and Food For Adventures
In this episode of the Wellness in Asheville Podcast, host Travis Richardson connects with Lee "Natty" Trebotich, adventure chef, biologist, and founder of Food For Adventures. Natty and his wife Meghan bring people together through wild foraging, outdoor cooking over fire, and immersive experiences that reconnect us with nature and each other.

From leading kids' summer camps teaching scratch cooking and paddleboarding, to multi-day expeditions, wild cocktail classes, and annual nationwide tours, Natty shares his 20+ years of global mountaineering, foraging, and culinary expertise. We dive into the nutritional power of wild edibles, hormesis and adaptogens, rewilding in a modern world, and why sharing food breaks down barriers—no matter the language.

This conversation is packed with stories from Nepal to Mexico, practical tips on safe foraging, and a reminder that in uncertain times, we're all in this together—best around a campfire with wild-gathered ingredients.

Key Takeaways:

• Why wild foods pack superior nutrition and adaptogenic benefits compared to store-bought
• The healing power of community through shared outdoor meals and adventures
• Hands-on experiences like edible plant hikes, forage-to-plate classes, and expedition cooking
• Building resilience through nature connection, Leave No Trace principles, and proper foraging
• Stories of cultural food moments that transcend language barriers
• Natty's partnerships, sponsorships, and excitement for the 2025 Cooking, Camping & Conversations Tour

Timestamps:
00:00 – 03:00 | Intro: Travis's personal connection to wild outdoors and foraging
03:00 – 07:00 | Natty's summer camp for kids: Outdoor cooking, unplugging, and building skills
07:00 – 10:00 | Natty's background: Global travels, mountaineering, and food as motivation
10:00 – 14:00 | Services: Team building, expeditions, edible hikes, wild cocktails, and diverse clients
14:00 – 18:00 | Entrepreneurial journey: Grinding, niching into foraging + cooking, partnerships
18:00 – 23:00 | Nutritional benefits of wild edibles, hormesis, and adaptogens
23:00 – 29:00 | Rewilding, community over isolation, and food as universal language (with stories)
29:00 – 36:00 | Upcoming tour, wild cocktails, and accessible entry points in Asheville
36:00 – End | Wrap-up and thanks

Episode Links:

• Food For Adventures (foodforadventures.com)
• Instagram (@food_for_adventures)

The Wellness in Asheville podcast is produced by Be Well Asheville, your local news source covering health + wellness news + events in Asheville. Get the latest at bewellasheville.com or follow @bewellasheville.

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Introduction to DahVid Weiss and Vibrational Healing for Pets

In this episode of the Wellness in Asheville Podcast, host Travis Richardson sits down with DahVid Weiss, Doctor of Oriental Medicine and founder of A.S.H.A. Asheville Sound Healing for Animals. With over 33 years in holistic environments, DahVid shares his transformative journey into Chinese Medicine, Vibrational Medicine, Naturopathic Medicine, and his passion for sound therapy.

DahVid discusses his innovative ACU-SOUND technique using specialized tuning forks on dogs, other animals, and humans—both directly on the body and in the energetic field—to release pressure from anxiety, pain, digestive issues, and promote overall health. He also introduces his unique tuning fork designed to amplify the Love Vibration. We explore how sound healing supports nervous system regulation, enhances well-being for pets and their humans, and can be applied in homes, veterinary clinics, and shelters.

This conversation highlights the growing field of holistic pet care, the power of vibrational medicine in reducing stress and pain naturally, and why educating pet owners on at-home sound techniques is transforming animal wellness in Asheville.

Key Takeaways:

The science and practice of vibrational medicine using tuning forks

How ACU-SOUND works on physical points and in the auric field for animals and humans

Addressing common issues like anxiety, pain, digestive problems, and general vitality in pets

The role of the Love Vibration tuning fork in fostering emotional connection and healing

Benefits of sound therapy in veterinary settings, shelters, and daily pet care

Empowering pet owners with simple at-home sound healing tools

The intersection of Oriental Medicine, Naturopathy, and sound for holistic health

Timestamps:

00:00 – 03:00 | Introduction and Travis’s thoughts on Asheville’s holistic pet community

03:00 – 08:00 | DahVid’s 33-year journey into holistic and vibrational medicine

08:00 – 14:00 | Discovering sound therapy and teaching ACU-SOUND worldwide

14:00 – 20:00 | How tuning forks work: on the body, in the field, and for anxiety/pain relief

20:00 – 26:00 | ACU-SOUND applications for dogs, animals, and humans—case examples

26:00 – 32:00 | The Love Vibration tuning fork and its role in emotional healing

32:00 – 38:00 | Holistic pet care in homes, vets, and shelters + upcoming Facebook group launch

38:00 – 43:00 | Practical tips for pet owners and special listener offer

43:00 – 44:00 | DahVid’s favorite Asheville spots and closing thoughts

Episode Links:

A.S.H.A. Asheville Sound Healing for Animals

https://www.asha3.com/pricing

40% off Vibroacoustic Sound Table Treatment: https://www.asha3.com/store/p/vibroacoustic-sound-table-treatment-only

Asheville Area Holistic Pet Care Facebook Group

https://www.facebook.com/p/Asheville-Area-Holistic-Pet-Care-61575826628957/

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/asha_soundavl/

The Wellness in Asheville podcast is produced by Be Well Asheville, your local news source covering health + wellness news + events in Asheville. Get the latest at bewellasheville.com or follow @bewellasheville.

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Thriving After Cancer: Reclaiming Your Body & Life with RN Health Coach Brynn Barale

In this episode of the Wellness in Asheville Podcast, host Travis Richardson sits down with Brynn Barale, a registered nurse, holistic health coach, and 18-year breast cancer thriver who empowers survivors to trust their bodies and live a “kick-ass life after cancer” through Wildflower Health Coaching.

Together they explore what happens after treatment ends—the identity shifts, body image changes, and emotional whiplash that so many women experience in survivorship. Brynn shares how her own diagnosis reshaped her life, why traditional after-care often misses the mark, and how nervous system awareness, gentle movement, and community can help survivors move beyond overwhelm into a vibrant, self-honoring life.​

Listeners will hear about Brynn’s weekly online Reiki and healing circle for women, practical practices for reconnecting with a post-cancer body, and how to rebuild confidence when scars, fatigue, and fear of recurrence are part of daily life. This conversation is for anyone navigating life after cancer—or who loves someone who is—and for providers who want to better understand the unique landscape of survivorship.​​

Key talking points:

• Brynn’s story as an 18-year breast cancer thriver and what “thriving” actually looks like day to day​
• The gap between “ringing the bell” and feeling supported in survivorship
• Rebuilding trust with a body that feels like it has betrayed you
• Body image, weight changes, and embracing a new shape after surgery and treatment
• How holistic health coaching weaves together nutrition, movement, mindset, and nervous system regulation for cancer survivors​
• Brynn’s weekly online Reiki and healing circle for women after cancer and how energy work can support emotional healing​
• Practical daily grounding practices for anxiety, fear of recurrence, and medical trauma

Timestamps:
00:00 – 03:00 | Welcome to Wellness in Asheville & Travis’ reflections on being humbled by cancer thrivers
03:00 – 08:00 | Brynn’s diagnosis story and what 18 years of survivorship have taught her
08:00 – 14:00 | The emotional crash after treatment ends and why survivorship can feel lonelier than active treatment
14:00 – 20:00 | Rebuilding trust with your body and navigating body image after surgery and weight changes
20:00 – 27:00 | Holistic health coaching pillars: nutrition, movement, mindset, and nervous system support for cancer survivors​
27:00 – 33:00 | Community, group support, and Brynn’s weekly Reiki & healing circle for women after cancer​
33:00 – 40:00 | Practical tools for grounding, managing fear of recurrence, and returning to everyday life
40:00 – 47:00 | What Brynn wishes every provider knew about life after cancer and her message to current survivors
47:00 – 50:00 | How to work with Brynn, links, and Travis’ closing thoughts:

Episode Links:

• Wildflower Health Coaching: https://www.wildflowerhealthcoaching.com​
• About Brynn: https://www.wildflowerhealthcoaching.com/about​
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WildflowerHealthCoaching
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com

The Wellness in Asheville podcast is produced by Be Well Asheville, your local news source covering health + wellness news + events in Asheville. Get the latest at bewellasheville.com or follow @bewellasheville.

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Season 1, Episode 18: Building Community in Asheville with Daniel Ratner

• Introduction to Daniel Ratner, Co-Founder of Drip Sauna
• Insight on Ashevilles' first wood-fired sauna and cold plunge experience
• The epidemic of loneliness and how community spaces like Drip Sauna foster belonging (60% of Americans feel lonely)
• Travis shares a vulnerable story about grief, healing, and the power of sweat during tough times
• The role of sauna and cold plunge for somatic healing, resilience, and transformation
• Building a values-driven business in wellness: collaboration, authenticity, and ease
• Sauna culture as a container for inclusivity, deep conversation, and bridging divides
• The importance of men's and women's circles and gender-inclusive wellness
• Ritual, habit, and the future of wellness gatherings in Asheville

Key Takeaways:

• Drip Sauna is equal parts healing, relaxation, and community-building
• Cold plunges and sauna can help move emotional pain and create clarity
• Wellness businesses thrive through authentic connection and diverse community
• Small-group spaces naturally lead to deep conversation and real friendship
• Curiosity, authenticity, and ‘saying yes’ are the foundation for building community
• Inclusivity and intentional collaborations are vital for Asheville’s holistic scene
• Listeners receive code BEWELLDRIP25 for 25% off a session!

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – 03:00 | Welcome and Community Spotlight
• 03:00 – 07:00 | Daniel's journey and the Drip Sauna origin story
• 07:00 – 15:00 | Connection, loneliness, and the power of authentic gathering
• 15:00 – 25:00 | Personal healing stories, cold plunging, and grief
• 25:00 – 38:00 | Building spaces for men & women; inclusivity and collaboration
• 38:00 – 44:00 | Practical tips, rapid-fire questions, and Daniel's special offer
  
  

Episode Links:

Drip Sauna

Taylor Johnson on Orgasmic Mastery for Men

The Wellness in Asheville podcast is produced by Be Well Asheville, your local news source covering health + wellness news + events in Asheville. Get the latest at bewellasheville.com or follow @bewellasheville.