Nutrition is foundational to health—so why isn’t it foundational to medical care? In this first episode of The Lifestyle Herbalist, Dabney breaks down how Western medicine evolved away from food and herbalism, why doctors receive little training in nutrition, and how public health guidelines replaced individualized nourishment. You’ll discover how this shift impacts women’s health, hormones, digestion, and energy—and why so many people are left managing symptoms without addressing the root cause. This episode invites you to reclaim your role in your health by understanding food as daily medicine—not a trend, not a diet, but a relationship. Find more information about Dabney @ www.herbalhygienist.com or Sabrina @ www.brewjablends.com  

As we close out 2025, this episode offers a gentle invitation to pause, reflect, and integrate—without judgment or pressure. Rather than reviewing the year through the lens of success or failure, we explore how 2025 served as a teacher. Through the wisdom of the body, the awareness of the mind, and the quiet guidance of the spirit, this episode invites you to notice what the year revealed, what patterns became clearer, and how growth unfolded beneath the surface. Together, we reflect on how challenges created opportunities for deeper self-awareness, how the body communicated its needs, and how alignment often shows up as calm clarity rather than force. We close with a grounding exercise to help you release what no longer serves you and step into 2026 with intention, compassion, and trust. This is not about reinventing yourself for the new year—it’s about honoring what you’ve learned and allowing that wisdom to guide what comes next. Get your FREE download to help you reflect on 2025: https://www.herbalhygienist.com/year-end-integration Reach Dabney at www.herbalhygienist.com    

Dental hygienists often notice changes in health long before a diagnosis is ever made. In this episode, we explore why the mouth is one of the first places systemic imbalance shows up—and how routine dental visits can reveal early clues about inflammation, stress, and overall wellbeing. Through a real patient story, we discuss how new, generalized gingival inflammation led to a deeper conversation about preventive care, missed medical checkups, and the oral-systemic connection. We’ll talk about why hygienists are uniquely positioned to notice subtle shifts over time, how to approach these conversations safely and professionally, and when it’s appropriate to encourage further medical follow-up. This episode also introduces how tools like Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) and salivary testing can help uncover underlying patterns related to inflammation, stress, and mineral balance—not as diagnostic tools, but as ways to better understand what the body may be communicating through the mouth. Whether you’re a dental professional or a patient curious about preventive health, this conversation invites you to listen more closely when the gums start telling a different story.   Reach Dabney at www.herbalhygienist.com  

On today’s episode of The Lifestyle Herbalists, host Dabney takes a grounded, holistic look at modern dental products — and asks an important question: are we caring for our mouths, or disrupting them? This episode gently debunks the idea that “stronger antimicrobials are always better,” exploring how popular mouth rinses like Listerine can impact the delicate oral microbiome. Dabney explains why wiping out bacteria isn’t the same as supporting oral health — and how imbalance can contribute to inflammation, decay, and gum disease. You’ll also learn about common chemicals found in commercial toothpastes that may disrupt microbial balance, irritate tissues, or create dependency rather than resilience — including foaming agents, preservatives, and harsh abrasives. Finally, Dabney offers a balanced, non-polarizing discussion on fluoride, covering: the benefits and concerns of fluoride in public water systems the difference between systemic vs. topical fluoride exposure when fluoride may be supportive — and when a more individualized approach matters This episode is not about fear, extremes, or “one-size-fits-all” answers. It’s about informed choice, oral ecology, and supporting the mouth as part of the whole body. If you’ve ever wondered whether your dental products are helping your health — or quietly working against it — this conversation will give you clarity, confidence, and a more holistic perspective.

On today’s episode of The Lifestyle Herbalists, your host Dabney dives into a surprisingly relatable topic: why so many people stop caring about their teeth — even when they care about their health. From dental anxiety and overwhelming information to busy schedules, embarrassment, and the “it doesn’t hurt yet” trap, Dabney breaks down the real emotional and lifestyle reasons oral care slips through the cracks. You’ll hear compassionate insights from her experience in oral health, simple steps to get back on track, and a refreshing reminder that taking care of your mouth is truly part of taking care of your whole body. If you’ve ever gone through a “flossing? absolutely not” phase, this episode will make you feel normal, supported, and motivated to rebuild healthy habits — without guilt. Tune in for an honest, lighthearted, and empowering conversation that might just change the way you look at your daily routine.   Reach Dabney at dabney@herbalhygienist.com or www.herbalhygienist.com Reach Sabrina at sabrina@nourishwell or www.brewjablends.com  

In this week’s episode of The Lifestyle Herbalist, we dive into the world of children’s dentistry—when to schedule that very first appointment, how to spot early signs of trouble, and the simple daily habits that prevent cavities, trauma, and airway issues before they start. With a blend of humor and holistic wisdom, you’ll learn how nutrition, breath, routines, and gentle herbal support all play a role in raising healthy, happy little mouths. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or simply curious, this episode will leave you feeling confident and empowered.   Reach Dabney at dabney@herbalhygienist.com or www.herbalhygienist.com Reach Sabrina at sabrina@nourishwell.com or www.brewjablends.com  

In this heartfelt and candid conversation, Dabney and Sabrina dive into the pressures of consuming adult beverages—especially during the holiday season when expectations run high. They open up about their own experiences, the moments that shaped their relationship with drinking, and the subtle (and not-so-subtle) social cues that can make saying “no” feel complicated. Together, they explore practical ways to honor your boundaries, stay grounded in your values, and still enjoy the celebration without sacrificing your well-being. This episode is a warm, encouraging reminder that you can show up authentically—and have a great time—on your own terms.   Reach out to Dabney at dabney@herbalhygienist.com or Sabrina at sabrina@nurishwell.com  

  Welcome to Time Well Spent, with Sabrina Cooper  the podcast dedicated to exploring the depths of burnout and self-sabotage, and providing you with the tools to break free and thrive. . Join us as we uncover the underlying patterns that lead to exhaustion and self-doubt, and learn strategies to cultivate resilience and self-compassion. From understanding the importance of setting boundaries to practicing mindfulness in our daily lives, we aim to equip you with the knowledge and encouragement you need to reclaim your time and energy. At the end of this episode, we invite you to unwind with a short guided meditation, designed to help you reset and reconnect with yourself. This moment of mindfulness will promote relaxation and clarity, allowing you to integrate the insights from the discussion into your life.  Tune in to *Time Well Spent* and take the first step toward a more balanced, fulfilling life. It's time to invest in yourself—because you deserve it.

In this enlightening solo episode, Dabney takes us on a deep dive into the fascinating world of oral health, sparked by conversations from a recent women's conference. She reflects on your pressing questions and reveals what your mouth can tell you about the state of your overall wellness. Today, we explore the mouth-body connection like never before. Dabney breaks down the critical role of nitric oxide, why you should be concerned about mouth breathing, and the unsung hero of digestion and oral defense: your saliva. She also sheds light on common oral health conditions and what they might be signaling from elsewhere in your body. This is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the foundational principles of holistic health, starting from the inside out—and the top of your digestive tract. We'd love to hear from you! After listening, leave a comment and let us know: What are you most interested in understanding about oral health?  

Why is sleep the ultimate herbal remedy we all overlook? In this episode of The Lifestyle Herbalists, your host Dabney Vaccaro delves into the nocturnal world of rest and dreams. We'll explore how sleep is a non-negotiable pillar for both physical repair and mental well-being, acting as our body's most potent form of medicine. But the journey doesn't stop there. We'll venture into the dreamscape to understand the necessity of dreams, what it might mean if you can't remember them, and how they serve as our brain's nightly therapy session. Finally, we tackle a subject many struggle with in silence: reoccurring nightmares. Dabney will discuss what these distressing dreams may be signaling and offer practical, holistic strategies—like the powerful Imagery Rehearsal Therapy—to help you reclaim peaceful nights. Tune in to rediscover sleep as your silent superpower and learn how to cultivate a lifestyle for truly restorative rest.   www.herbalhygienist.com www.brewjablends.com  

 Navigating Picky Eating: Insights with Dr. Hilary Claire In this episode, we delve into the often frustrating world of picky eaters with our guest, Dr. Hilary Claire. A clinical psychologist and holistic parenting mentor, Dr. Claire specializes in nutritional and environmental medicine. As a mother of two boys, she brings a wealth of practical experience and knowledge to the table. Join us as we explore effective strategies for addressing picky eating behaviors, understanding the underlying reasons behind them, and fostering a positive relationship with food for our children. What you will gain from listening in. - Dr. Claire shares her insights on why some children are picky eaters and how to approach this challenge with compassion and understanding.- Learn about the impact of nutrition on children's behavior and development.- Discover practical tips for introducing new foods and creating a positive mealtime environment.- Dr. Claire discusses the importance of modeling healthy eating habits and how parents can lead by example.- We explore the connection between picky eating and emotional well-being, and how to support our children through their food preferences. Our Guest Dr. Hilary Claire is a clinical psychologist, holistic parenting mentor, and author of three books focused on overcoming motherhood burnout and postnatal depletion. Her work emphasizes reclaiming vitality in motherhood through holistic approaches to health and well-being. Dr. Claire also hosts the podcast *Wild and Well*, where she engages with expert guests to discuss various aspects of health and wellness in motherhood. **Connect with Dr. Hilary Claire:**  -Website:[drhilaryclaire.com](https://www.drhilaryclaire.com)  - **Instagram:** [@drhilaryclaire](https://www.instagram.com/drhilaryclaire/)  - **Books:** [Find her books here](https://www.drhilaryclaire.com/books)  - **Picky Eating Guide:** [Download Dr. Claire's Picky Eating Guide](https://www.drhilaryclaire.com/offers/AU5Sf56A/checkout) **Listen Now:**  Tune in to this insightful episode to gain valuable tools and strategies for navigating picky eating with your little ones. Whether you’re a seasoned parent or just starting your journey, Dr. Claire’s expertise is sure to inspire and empower you! **Don’t Forget to Subscribe!**  If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to our podcast and leave us a review! Your feedback helps us reach more parents who can benefit from these discussions. **Join the Conversation:**  We’d love to hear your thoughts on this episode! Share your experiences with picky eaters and any tips you have found helpful. Connect with us on social media or leave a comment on our website.  

This podcast explores how chronic stress reshapes the nervous system, disrupting brain function, immunity, and overall health. It explains the biological pathways behind these effects and presents science-based methods to restore balance through breath, movement, mindfulness, and connection. Ultimately, it reveals how understanding and managing stress allows the body to heal and thrive rather than merely endure.

Are you constantly running on empty, using "I don't have time" as the reason your health takes a back seat? You're not alone. But what if this mindset is secretly undermining your vitality, creating a vicious cycle of stress, burnout, and inflammation? In this episode of The Lifestyle Herbalists, we delve into the science behind the busyness trap. We'll explore how chronic stress floods your system with cortisol, impairing your cognitive function and creating a physiological state that makes healthy choices feel impossible. This isn't just about willpower—it's about a biological feedback loop that keeps you stuck. But here's the good news: you can break the cycle. We're moving beyond overwhelming overhauls and embracing the power of herbalist-approved micro-habits—tiny, sustainable actions that compound into profound well-being. We'll give you a simple, potent call to action to help you:: Re-wire your stress response with a 60-second pause. Build foundational energy with 5-minute movement "snacks." Nourish your body deeply with a single, intentional meal. It’s time to replace the language of lack with the practice of presence. Tune in to learn how to plant the small, daily seeds that grow into a lifetime of radiant health. Listen now and discover how to cultivate a life where your wellness is the priority, not the exception. Subscribe to "The Lifestyle Herbalists" on your favorite podcast app.   Contact Dabney -- dabney@herbalhygienist.com or www.herbalhygienist.com Contact Sabrina -- sabrina@nurishwell.com or www.brewjablends.com  

Your Instagram feed is lying to you about teeth whitening. ✨ In this no-BS episode, we're exposing the truth behind the trendy products bombarding your feed. We'll reveal why that jar of charcoal powder is like sandpaper for your teeth and why that viral lemon juice hack is a recipe for disaster. But it's not all bad news! We’re also giving you the real, doctor-approved secrets to a whiter smile—without the gimmicks. Discover the simple daily habits and powerhouse ingredient that actually work. Your journey to a naturally brighter smile starts here. Reach Dabney at dabney@herbalhygienist.com or www.herbalhygienist.com Reach Sabrina at sabrina@nurishwell.com or www.brewjablends.com  

Tired of being told to "just floss more" but still seeing blood? The solution is far more complex and fascinating. In this episode, we dismantle the common misconception that bleeding gums are a simple hygiene issue. We reveal inflammation as a whole-body problem and explore the intricate web of factors that cause it: The Diet Connection: How sugar fuels inflammatory bacteria and nutrient deficiencies hinder repair. The Stress & Sleep Axis: The surprising ways cortisol and sleep deprivation sabotage your mouth's immune system. The Mouth Breathing Effect: Why a dry mouth at night creates a bacterial nightmare. The Microbiome Mismatch: Understanding dysbiosis and the balance of good vs. bad bacteria.Join us as we outline the essential partnership between you and your clinician, transforming you from a passive patient into an active health detective to finally solve the mystery of your bleeding gums for good. Reach Dabney at dabney@herbalhygienist.com or www.herbalhygienist.com Reach Sabrina at sabrina@nurishwell.com or www.brewjablends.com #oralhygiene #gingivitis #oralhealth #inflammation #dentalhygiene  

Why does that 3 PM sugar craving feel so powerful? In this episode, we go beyond willpower to uncover the biological roots of sugar addiction. As a dental hygienist, herbalist, and health coach, I reveal the shocking chain reaction that starts in your mouth the moment you eat sugar. You'll learn exactly how sugar fuels the "bad bacteria" that lead to more than just cavities—it's a primary driver of systemic inflammation linked to heart disease and diabetes. But it's not all doom and gloom! I'll give you a practical toolkit featuring blood-sugar-balancing herbs like cinnamon and holy basil help assist and a crucial dental pro-tip for when you do indulge. Learn how to break the cycle for the sake of your oral health and your entire body.   Rasa --Alternative coffee with adaptogens Reach Dabney at dabney@herbalhygienist.com or www.herbalhygienist.com @dabneytheherbalhygienist on IG Reach Sabrina at sabrina@nurishwell.com or www.brewjablends.com  

Feeling off-balance? It might not be you—it might be the xenoestrogens in your environment. Join Dabney on The Lifestyle Herbalists for a crucial conversation about these endocrine-disrupting chemicals. In this episode, you'll discover: The 101 on Xenoestrogens: What they are and how they trick your body. Hidden in Plain Sight: The most common household and cosmetic sources you need to know. The Impact on Your Health: Understanding the link to hormonal issues, metabolic dysfunction, and more. Your Action Plan: Practical, realistic steps to eliminate these chemicals from your life. Moving Forward: How to build a protective, cleaner lifestyle for lasting vitality. If you're a woman looking to optimize your health and minimize your toxic load, this episode is your first step. Listen now and empower yourself with knowledge!   The Dirty Dozen The Clean 15 Bees Wax Food Wraps Silicon Huggers--I love these things! Food Covers   Reach Dabney at dabney@herbalhygienist.com or www.herbalhygienist.com Reach Sabrina at sabrina@nurishwell.com or www.brewjablends.com  

Join us on an immersive journey to the windswept coast of Brittany, France. This week, Dabney explores a fascinating holistic paradox: a culture where ancient herbs like motherwort, yarrow, and comfrey grow wild alongside bustling cafés, where daily pastry indulgence and wine are woven into the social fabric, yet a visible lack of obesity prevails. What's their secret? We’ll wander through the cobblestone streets and wild landscapes to discover the untamed apothecary growing at every turn, including the most enormous rosemary shrub you can imagine. But the real medicine goes far beyond the plants. We’re diving deep into the art de vivre—the art of living. We'll unpack how daily rhythms of walking, shopping at local markets for that day's catch, truly savoring food, and prioritizing deep social connection create a powerful foundation of health that transcends modern diet culture. This episode is a love letter to holistic living in its truest form: a vibrant, joyful tapestry of movement, real food, plant wisdom, and community. If you’ve ever felt torn between indulgence and well-being, this conversation offers a refreshing, inspiring perspective on how to weave it all together. Get ready to be inspired to look down at the weeds beneath your feet and rethink the rhythm of your own life. Keywords: Holistic Health, Herbalism, Brittany France, Lifestyle Medicine, Farm to Table, Slow Living, Foraging, Functional Nutrition, Mindful Eating, Social Wellness, Natural Movement, French Paradox, Plant Identification, Motherwort, Yarrow, Comfrey, Rosemary. Reach Dabney at dabney@herbalhygienist.com or www.herbalhygienist.com Reach Sabrina at sabrina@nurishwell.com or www.brewjablends.com            

This week on The Lifestyle Herbalists, hosts Dabney and Sabrina find themselves in a botanical tale of two climates. One is navigating mold, slugs, and waterlogged roots; the other is hand-watering precious herbs under a scorching sun. Join their conversation as they explore how extreme weather—be it endless rain or punishing drought—shapes the life of an herbal garden. They share their successes, losses, and the adaptable mindset needed to work in partnership with nature, even when it throws its biggest challenges our way. Contact Dabney--dabney@herbalhygienist.com or www.herbalhygienist.com Contact Sabrina--sabrina@nurishwell.com or www.brewjablends.com  

Ever wake up with a dry, sticky mouth? Or find yourself gasping for air through your mouth during a workout? It might feel normal, but this common habit is secretly sabotaging your health from the inside out. In this episode, we dive deep into the hidden consequences of chronic mouth breathing. We're not just talking about bad breath and snoring—we're tracing a direct path from your mouth to your gut. You'll discover how breathing through your mouth: Drastically alters your oral microbiome, creating a paradise for cavity-causing and gum-disease bacteria. Starves your body of Nitric Oxide, a crucial molecule for immunity, circulation, and oxygen uptake. Fuels gut inflammation and dysbiosis, explaining the surprising link between oral health and conditions like IBS. Impacts your sleep, energy levels, and even facial structure. Join us as we break down the science and offer practical, actionable steps to retrain your breathing, rehabilitate your microbiome, and reclaim your health—one breath at a time. Tune in to learn why your nose is your body's first line of defense and how shutting your mouth might be the simplest health hack you’ve never tried. BioGaia Oral Probiotics   Reach Dabney ~ dabney@herbalhygienist.com or www.herbalhygienist.com Reach Sabrina ~ sabrina@nurishwell.com or www.brewjablends.com