Made to be Whole

In this episode of Made to Be Whole, host Krista Michener dives deep into Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), exploring its symptoms, triggers, diagnostic complexities, and the critical connection between environment and chronic illness. With a compassionate and evidence-based approach, Krista Michener clarifies why addressing MCAS means more than managing symptoms—it’s about uncovering and treating root causes like mold, infections, and environmental toxins. This episode will reveal useful options for anyone experiencing chronic fatigue, brain fog, or allergic symptoms and seeking holistic, actionable steps toward true wellness.Topics discussed in this episode:What is Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and why has it become a hot topic?Key symptoms of MCAS and their overlaps with other chronic conditionsThe critical importance of not stopping at a syndrome diagnosis—finding and treating root causesEnvironmental triggers: the hidden role of mold, toxins, and even your carDiagnostic approaches: from lab tests to genetic panels and why guessing is costlyReal-life case study highlighting the transformative power of addressing your environmentPersonalized interventions: how functional genomics can tailor MCAS treatmentHope and empowerment on the road to wholenessResources mentioned in this episode:Chemical Exposures: Low Levels and High Stakes by Nicholas Ashford and Claudia MillerIntellxxDNA Functional Genomics Testing- https://intellxxdna.com/Shop | RealTime LabsOur Tests - MosaicDXILADS (International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society) - https://www.ilads.org/Additional Resources:Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) - Dr. Tania DempseyReady to take control of your environment and health? Start by testing for mold and toxins to discover how your surroundings may be affecting your wellness.Curious if your genes are impacting your chronic symptoms? Ask your provider about functional genomics testing for a personalized plan to wholeness.Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

In this insightful episode of Made to Be Whole, host Krista Michener dives deep into the complexities of Long Covid—also known as Long Haulers or PASC (Post-Acute Sequelae of COVID-19). This episode offers an integrative look at what drives lingering multi-system symptoms after COVID-19, practical tips for identification, and cutting-edge research and resources to aid recovery. If you’re seeking clarity on Long Covid symptoms, causes, and healing pathways, this episode is for you.Topics discussed in this episode:What is Long Covid? Understanding symptoms, terminology, and definitionsThe root causes: Inflammation, autoimmunity, immune system suppression, and viral reactivationHow Long Covid affects different body systems (nervous, digestive, vascular, etc.)The role of genetics and genomic testing in persistent inflammationNew research and specialized testing for Long Covid (Dr. Vojdani and Dr. Patterson’s work)The challenge of mono-causal thinking—why healing is rarely just about “one thing”The importance of immune system support and foundational wellness practicesDiscussion of promising interventions: antiviral therapies, supplements, micronutrient testing, and moreTaking a holistic approach—addressing mind, body, and spirit for true healingEmpowering listeners to focus on what they can control in their healing journeyResources mentioned in this episode:Research by Dr. Vojdani:Persistent SARS-CoV-2 Infection, EBV, HHV-6 and Other Factors May Contribute to Inflammation and Autoimmunity in Long COVID - PubMedRadiance Diagnostics: InCellDx Cytokine Panel & Long Covid TestingHealth Bio: Dr. Patterson’s Long Covid ResearchILADS Conference & Dr. Aristo Vojdani’s ResearchIntellxxDNA Genomic TestingAHB Integrative HealthImmune system support supplements - Advanced HumeomicsInvestigate your unique healing journey—consider testing to identify what’s driving your symptoms!Don’t give up hope—nourish your immune system and focus on core health foundations every day!Connect with experienced practitioners and explore emerging treatments shared in today’s episode!Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

In this episode of Made to Be Whole, host Krista Michener is joined by pharmacist and psychopharmacology expert Kerry Earlywine from Infuserve America. Together, they dive deep into integrative mental health care, moving beyond the conventional "pill mill" approach to discuss root causes, comprehensive testing, and the power of compounding pharmacy solutions. Discover actionable advice on supporting mental well-being by assessing the gut-brain connection, toxins, hormones, and lifestyle—all key parts of embracing a whole-person philosophy. The conversation puts a spotlight on innovative testing (from urine and saliva to hair analysis), collaborative care, and strategies to empower patients on their journey to wholeness.Topics discussed in this episode:Integrative mental health: Moving beyond "one-size-fits-all" medication modelsThe importance of innovative testing: urine, saliva, stool, hair, and their roles in mental healthThe gut-brain connection: How gut health, toxins, and food sensitivities impact the mindThe hidden dangers of fillers and inactive ingredients in pharmaceuticalsNavigating environmental exposures: heavy metals, mold, and mycotoxinsAdvantages of compounding pharmacies for sensitive patientsHormones and mental health: The roles of cortisol, estradiol, progesterone, and testosteroneEpigenetics and how life’s stresses (and sun exposure!) impact genetic expressionStrategies for reducing brain inflammation: nasal sprays, topical solutions, and natural anti-inflammatoriesThe power of collaborative, non-extreme care teams—building a healthcare “village”Patient empowerment, information overload, and the need for trusted practitionersResources mentioned in this episode:Infuserve America Compounding Pharmacy: https://infuserveamerica.com/ILADS (International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society): https://www.ilads.org/Feeling stuck with conventional mental health care? Explore integrative testing and compounding options—reach out and begin your journey toward wholeness!Curious about how your gut, genes, or environment may be impacting your mental health? Schedule comprehensive lab work for a more complete picture.Don’t go it alone—assemble your healthcare village and find practitioners who listen and collaborate across specialties!Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

In this episode of Made to Be Whole, host Krista Michener tackles the immense influence of body image and how it can become a “false idol” in our lives. Drawing from personal experience and spiritual insights, Krista confronts the toxic beliefs that keep us preoccupied with appearance instead of embracing the gift and identity of our bodies. Tune in to learn nourishing strategies to replace body dissatisfaction with gratitude, reframe the narrative around chronic illness and pain, and cultivate a more authentic, joyful relationship with yourself. This heartfelt discussion is essential listening for anyone struggling with body image, chronic illness, or the challenges of self-acceptance.Topics discussed in this episode:What does it mean to “worship the false idol” of body image?The complexities of “post-traumatic eating disorder” thinkingHow health challenges affect self-perception and identityThe difference between pursuing health and idolizing “the perfect body”The cost of envying others’ bodies and health, and how to reframe your mindsetHow online communities and social media can distort body acceptancePractical ways to choose nourishing information and relationshipsBuilding your identity outside of illness or physical limitationsSteps to focus on wholeness over brokenness in everyday lifeResources mentioned in this episode:David A. Bednar’s BYU-Idaho Address, May 2009: https://speeches.byu.edu/talks/david-a-bednar/things-really/ Article on virtual relationships: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/1997/08/25/virtual-love Take a media “diet”: Unfollow social media or entertainment that leaves you feeling less than whole. Curate what empowers and nourishes you!Reach out: Talk to someone you trust about how your environment or relationships affect your self-image. Open conversations can bring unexpected healing.Expand your definition of self: Try serving or connecting with people outside your usual circles, especially if you’re coping with chronic illness. Broaden your world to see your value beyond your struggles.Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

In this powerful episode of Made To Be Whole, host Krista Michener sits down with Michelle McAdoo, mom of Carson, to discuss the long, complex journey of parenting a child through chronic illnesses—specifically PANS/PANDAS, Bartonella, and recently-diagnosed compression syndromes. Michelle opens up about the medical maze, heartbreaking setbacks, and hard-won breakthroughs, highlighting the importance of whole-person medicine, determined advocacy, and hope. If you are navigating a chronic health diagnosis for your child, this episode is for you.Topics discussed in this episode:Recognizing Early Signs: How Carson’s health struggles began—from NICU stay, allergies, GI struggles, to developmental red flags.Breaking the Mold: Going beyond “it’s psychological”—the journey to getting a PANS/PANDAS diagnosis amid skepticism and misunderstanding.Treating the Whole Child: Integrative approaches to chronic illness, including functional medicine, antibiotic protocols, neurofeedback, IVIG, plasmapheresis, and dietary interventions.Bartonella, Lyme & More: The critical role of looking for co-infections and tackling the “layers” of chronic illness.The Hidden Challenge of Compression Syndromes: Understanding abdominal and vascular compression syndromes and their profound impact on nutrition, pain, and healing.The Cost of Healing: Real talk about financial, emotional, and systemic barriers to care—and why perseverance matters.Advocacy That Heals: Tips for other parents on fighting for answers, building the right team, and never giving up on your child.Resources mentioned in this episode:Home | PANDAS Networkhttps://www.facebook.com/NationalMALSFoundation- Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome Research and AwarenessVascular Compression Syndromes | The EDS ClinicDr Alvear explains the Alvear-Fowlkes Procedure for SMA Syndrome (Vascular Compression).SMA Syndrome Surgery Los Angeles | Danny Shouhed, MDFunctional Medicine for Chronic IllnessIf you’re a parent facing a complex health journey with your child, trust your instincts and advocate fiercely—you’re not alone.Join a support group to connect with others who truly understand what you’re going through.Subscribe to Made To Be Whole for more hope-filled, practical conversations about integrative health and healing!Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Welcome back to Made To Be Whole with Krista Michener as host and special guest Aicila. In this inspiring episode, we dive deep into Aicila’s personal health journey and discover the transformative impact of micronutrient testing, B12, hormone balance, and self-advocacy—especially for women in midlife. Join us as we discuss how listening to your body, pushing for better information, and embracing integrative solutions can help you reclaim joy, energy, and connection in every stage of life. Topics Discussed in This Episode:How persistent health advocacy can change your life—Aicila's journey from brain fog to joy spiralWhy micronutrient and hormone testing matter (especially for women 40+)The impact of B12 deficiency and absorption issues—signs, symptoms, and solutionsHormone replacement therapy: breakthroughs, gradual improvements, and regaining motivationIntermittent fasting and mood: How lifestyle changes can support mental and physical well-beingThe ripple effect: How taking control of your own health can model and foster wellness for family membersLessons in listening: The power of noticing subtle symptoms before they become major issuesIntegrative health philosophies and building systems that support the whole personTime, energy, and self-worth—why investing in your health is the foundation for everything elseResources Mentioned in This Episode:Foundations of Health Programs on the AHP Website BiCurean Consulting (for more on BiCurean's philosophy and production)Prioritize your health—consider getting tested for vitamin and hormone levels, and take the first step toward feeling whole again!Share this episode with a friend who might need encouragement to advocate for their well-being.Visit AHPI Integrative Health for more resources and to learn about personalized care options.Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.Resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

In the Season Three kickoff episode of Made to Be Whole, host Krista Michener revisits and expands on the foundational Pillars of Healing framework—demonstrating how these guiding principles apply to the complex treatment of autoimmune encephalitis (including PANS/PANDAS) and chronic infections. Krista shares new insights drawn from her own family’s recent experiences, emphasizing the importance of identifying the root causes, holistic testing, and individualizing care to support healing from persistent neurological and immune challenges. Listeners gain expert advice on combining medical innovation, personal introspection, and resourceful investment in the journey toward wellness.Topics Discussed in This Episode:What Are the Pillars of Healing and How Do They Apply to Autoimmune Conditions?The Critical Role of Comprehensive Testing: Why “Guessing Is Expensive Too”Balancing Infection, Inflammation, Immune Function, and Integrity as Core Healing DomainsGenomic Testing and Its Impact on Individualized Care PlansNavigating Financial, Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Investments in HealingThe Importance of Community, Support, and Introspection in the Recovery ProcessResources Mentioned in This Episode:Cunningham Panel / Autoimmune Brain Panel: https://www.moleculera.com/IntellxxDNA Genomic Testing: https://intellxxdna.com/CareCredit healthcare financing: https://www.carecredit.com/AHP Integrative Health: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/Ready to invest in your own healing journey? Explore recommended labs and genomic testing resources mentioned in the episode.Share your story—join our online community and connect with others walking a similar healing path!Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

In this special year-end episode of Made To Be Whole, host Krista Michener delivers her renowned annual countdown of the Michener family’s top health hacks from 2025. Drawing from personal experiences, family insights, and patient observations, Krista Michener unpacks a variety of practical tools and therapies—ranging from ionic foot baths to nutrient infusions, craniosacral therapy, intermittent fasting, and more. Listeners receive an uplifting, data-driven look at holistic ways to tackle brain fog, pain, fatigue, inflammation, and overall health, crafted around the core message: you were made to be whole.Topics discussed in this episode:The Michener Family’s Top 10 Health Hacks of 2025Ionic Foot Baths and Their Impact on Brain Fog, Pain, and AnxietyThe Role of Nutrient Injections and Infusions, Including Glutathione ShotsHarnessing the Power of Intermittent Fasting for Energy and Weight LossPersonalizing Exercise Routines Despite Chronic Illness or PainCraniosacral Therapy and Lymphatic Health for Head, Neck, and Back ReliefCompression Devices for Improved Circulation and Mental ClarityUnderstanding Plasmalogens and Their Role in Cognitive HealingAutoimmune Brain Panel Testing (Cunningham Panel) and the Path to AnswersThe Surprising Benefits of Procaine and Repurposed MedicationsThe Importance of Repeat Testing for Ongoing Health OptimizationResources mentioned in this episode:Find a Craniosacral Therapy PractitionerInformation about The Autoimmune Brain Panel/Cunningham PanelWhat are plasmalogens?Ready to take charge of your wellness? Schedule your own micronutrient testing or consult with our team to personalize your health plan!Know someone struggling with fatigue, brain fog, or chronic illness? Share this episode and inspire hope in their healing journey.Want to try a new health hack? Explore one of the top 10 hacks from this episode and let us know your experience on our website or social channels!Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

In this holiday special of Made to Be Whole, host Krista Michener explores six transformative gifts you can give yourself—each designed to support your healing, health, and happiness. Drawing from personal experiences and evidence-based insights, Krista Michener shares practical strategies to cultivate routine, anticipation, expression, connection, letting go, and gratitude. Tune in to discover how these simple, cost-free gifts can make a lasting impact on your journey to feeling whole and well—no matter your circumstances or challenges.Topics discussed in this episode:The Gift of Routine: Why daily habits can elevate your physical and mental well-beingThe Power of Anticipation: How looking forward to positive experiences boosts joy and dopamineExpress Yourself: Creative ways to release emotions and heal through journaling, art, and musicMaking Real Connections: The importance of authentic, interpersonal relationships (beyond social media)Letting Go for Healing: Freeing yourself from grudges, unrealistic expectations, and the illusion of controlThe Transformative Power of Gratitude: How cultivating thankfulness supports happiness and healingReflect on which of the six gifts you can start cultivating—routine, anticipation, expression, connection, letting go, or gratitude—and take one small step today!Try journaling or a creative activity for yourself this week, just for your own expression and healing.Connect with someone in real life—send a text, have a conversation, or schedule a coffee date outside of social media.Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.All resources mentioned on the show can be found at: https://ahpintegrativehealth.com/Any references to any particular people, including family, have been shared with prior consent.Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands. Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.