Made to be Whole

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.

In this episode of Made To Be Whole, host Krista Michener dives deep into the multifaceted world of gut health, exploring what it really means to heal your gut—beyond just food choices and testing. Discover the pivotal role of micronutrient deficiencies, environmental exposures like mycotoxins, and the complexities of gluten sensitivity. Krista Michener walks you through how the “Foundations of Healing” package uncovers root causes, and shares insights on diet, hormone balance, mold, and why true wellness is always individualized. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating digestive issues, chronic gut symptoms, food sensitivities, or looking to understand holistic approaches in functional medicine.Topics discussed in this episode:What gut health really means: looking beyond diet and traditional stool testingThe essential role of micronutrients (B-vitamins, glutamine, zinc, and more) in digestive healingUnderstanding leaky gut: Causes, consequences, and why it’s not the root problemThe power of advanced testing for uncovering hidden drivers of gut dysfunctionHow mold and mycotoxins impact the gut microbiome and overall healthSeparating fact from fiction around gluten, dairy, and “trigger foods”The importance of hormone balance in gut health and healingPersonal stories of transformation: Navigating dietary changes and chronic symptomsTaking a practical, personalized approach to gut healing strategiesResources mentioned in this episode:SpectraCell micronutrient testing (SpectraCell Labs Research Library)Orthomolecular Products: GlutaShield and InflammaCORE Vanilla ChaiImmune Function Testing | Food Sensitivity+Environmental Toxins & Mycotoxin Testing (see Mosaic Diagnostics | Revealing the Complete Picture and RealTime Laboratories: Mycotoxin Mold Testing Kits for testing options)MicroGen and MicrobiologyDx nasal swab testingACS Colloidal Silver Nasal Spray - https://www.resultsrna.com/acs-nasal-2/ Journal references: Toxins 2020 https://www.mdpi.com/journal/toxins/issues & Microbiology Spectrum 2023 -https://journals.asm.org/loi/spectrum/group/d2020.y2023 Curious about what's driving your gut symptoms? Explore our "Foundations of Healing" package and take the first step to get personalized answers and a holistic healing plan!Not sure if gluten or dairy are right for you? Try a mindful elimination for a few weeks and tune in to how your body responds—then share your discoveries with our community!Want to dig deeper into your own health story? Download our free resources and explore transformative testing options at AHPI Integrative Health.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 welcomes 16-year-old guest Emma to share her inspiring recovery story from severe illness caused by PANS/PANDAS, and Bartonella. Emma details her sudden onset of symptoms, the emotional toll on her family, her journey through different treatments, and practical advice for others navigating similar chronic health challenges. This case study spotlights hope, perseverance, and holistic healing, making it a must-listen for families and anyone interested in autoimmune encephalitis, tick-borne illness, and the importance of community support.Topics discussed in this episode:What is PANS/PANDAS and Bartonella, and how do they affect young people?Unique symptoms and sudden onset: Emma’s personal experience and strugglesThe impact of chronic illness on family dynamics and mental healthTreatment journey: What worked, what didn’t, and how Emma found lasting improvementNeurofeedback, medications, and biofilm protocols explainedThe role of perseverance and hope in recoveryEmma’s new life: Working, school, hobbies, and future dreamsAdvice for parents and families supporting children with PANS/PANDASThe healing power of animals: How Emma’s dog Ernie played a role in her recoveryIf you or your loved one is struggling with PANS, PANDAS, or chronic illness, don’t give up—healing is possible!Stay tuned, and remember: You were made to be whole.Any references to 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 dives into the concept of Spoon Theory and how it can help you set realistic holiday expectations, especially if you live with chronic illness or simply want to avoid holiday overwhelm. Krista shares practical strategies for managing your energy, prioritizing what matters most, and letting go of unnecessary obligations, so you can savor more joy and less stress this festive season. If you’re searching for advice on energy budgeting, self-care during the holidays, or coping with invisible illnesses, this episode offers supportive insights.Topics discussed in this episode:What is Spoon Theory and how does it apply to holiday planning?Learning to set and communicate holiday expectations with yourself and othersPractical ways to conserve energy (spoons) during demanding seasonsLetting go of self-imposed obligations that drain joyThe importance of maintaining core self-care habits during the holidaysHow to prioritize meaningful traditions and relationships over perfectionismResources mentioned in this episode:Spoon Theory original essay by Christine Miserandino: https://lymphoma-action.org.uk/sites/default/files/media/documents/2020-05/Spoon%20theory%20by%20Christine%20Miserandino.pdfTake 15 minutes today to list your holiday traditions and mark the ones that matter most!Talk with your loved ones about your energy limits, and ask for help or flexibility where you need it.Prioritize your self-care routines—the holidays are not the time to let go of your healthy habits!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 explores the scientifically-backed healing power of gratitude and its influence on our health, relationships, and emotional resilience. Drawing from personal experiences, scientific studies, and practical tips, Krista illuminates how intentional gratitude practices can help individuals cope with illness, foster closer bonds, and develop lasting resilience—even during challenging times. Whether you’re navigating chronic health conditions or simply seeking greater well-being, this episode highlights how gratitude can be a transformative force in your life.Topics discussed in this episode:How gratitude impacts physical and mental health—including neurological and hormonal effectsThe role of expressed gratitude in strengthening relationships and social bondsPractical strategies for incorporating gratitude into daily life, even in the midst of trials or illnessThe connection between gratitude, resilience, and authentic compassion for othersHow comparison can rob joy and stifle gratitude, and ways to shift perspective back to appreciationCreative and accessible gratitude practices for introverts, families, and those facing health challengesResources mentioned in this episode:Evidence for a role of the oxytocin system, indexed by genetic variation in CD38, in the social bonding effects of expressed gratitudePositivePsychology.com: The Neuroscience of Gratitude and Its Effects on the Brain Exploring neural mechanisms of the health benefits of gratitude in women: A randomized controlled trialThe The Plain Simple Life: 10 Reasons Why Comparison is the Thief of Joy An excerpt from an epistle from the prophet Joseph Smith to members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was written while he was a prisoner in Liberty, Missouri around March 22, 1839.Start a gratitude journal today—even noting one thing you’re thankful for can shift your mindset and support healing.Take a moment to verbally express appreciation to someone close to you and see how relationships deepen.Challenge yourself to look for growth and learning in your struggles; reflect on how difficulties may increase your compassion and resilience.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 wraps up her three-part series on the ILADS 2025 conference by diving deep into evidenced-based and holistic treatment strategies for Lyme disease, mold exposure, chronic infections, and associated conditions such as sleep disorders, cellular inflammation, and autoimmune encephalitis. Krista shares candid insights from her personal healing journey and discusses cutting-edge research, emphasizing individualized care and the importance of addressing the root causes of chronic illness. If you've been searching for effective ways to support your healing, manage vector-borne infections, or understand integrative health approaches to mold and chronic illness, this episode is for you.Topics discussed in this episode:The Myth of Shortcuts to Healing: Why real recovery takes time and persistenceKrista's Year-by-Year Progress: Personal healing journey through four ILADS conferencesKey Treatments for Sleep, Lymphatic Drainage, and Brain InflammationAlternative and Compounded Approaches for Mold, Epstein Barr Virus, and Mast Cell ActivationThe Value of Individualized Protocols: Why what works for one might not work for allResources mentioned in this episode:Dr. Dale Renlund on repetition and growth: Lifelong Conversion | Dale G. Renlund | BYU SpeechesCranial Academy for finding craniosacral osteopaths:https://cranialacademy.org/Dr. Neil Nathan’s book on mold protocols: ToxicLabs for identifying specific pathogens in nasal infections: MicroGenDXMicrobiologyDxFlospresso System for lymphatic drainage (episode coming soon!)Curious about what a personalized treatment plan looks like for YOU? Visit our website for resources and expert support!Did this episode inspire you to rethink your healing journey? Share your progress or questions in our community forum!Ready to find hope and community? Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode about healing and 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 week’s episode of Made to be Whole, host Krista Michener unpacks the latest breakthroughs from the ILADS Conference, focusing on advanced diagnostics and the pathogenesis of chronic diseases such as Lyme, Bartonella, Babesia, and mold illness. Drawing on expert lectures—including Dr. Eboni Cornish and Dr. Robert Mozeyani—Krista provides an informed guide to functional brain imaging, vascular inflammation, biofilm discoveries, sinus and asthma testing, and the nuances of direct vs. indirect microbial diagnostics. Explore new hope and practical strategies for those navigating complex chronic conditions, as we emphasize the importance of individualized care, persistence, and self-advocacy.Topics Discussed in This Episode:The Role of SPECT Scans in Diagnosing Neurological and Infectious ConditionsUnderstanding Vascular Inflammation and Its Symptoms in Bartonella and Related DiseasesNavigating Insurance Challenges and the Cost of Advanced Diagnostic TestingBiofilms, Glymphatic System, and Insights from TLab ReportsThe Value of EEG and Connectivity Mapping in Chronic IllnessMold, Fungal Infections, and Reliable Sinus and Asthma Culture TestingComparing Direct vs. Indirect Diagnostic Methods for Chronic InfectionsPractical Strategies for Mold and Mycotoxin Testing — At Home and in Clinical SettingsResources Mentioned in This Episode:Amen Clinics - SPECT ScansT Lab – Bartonella FISH and Biofilm TestingMicroGen Diagnostics – DNA/PCR Nasal CulturesMicrobiologyDX – MARCoNS and Fungal TestingGalaxy DiagnosticMicroGenDXs – Enhanced Bartonella PCR TestingIGeneX – 51B Panel & FISH TestingRealTime Labs – Mycotoxin TestingMosaic Diagnostics – Mycotoxin Urine TestingReady to advocate for your health? Explore advanced diagnostic options and discuss them with your provider!Share this episode with anyone seeking answers for unresolved chronic symptoms—help others find hope and guidance!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 shares insights from the 2025 ILADS Scientific Conference in San Antonio. Focusing on the foundational theme Healing the Terrain, Krista breaks down the essentials of supporting chronic illness recovery, integrating approaches from both science and her clinical practice. Key topics include nervous system regulation, toxin identification, sleep restoration, mindset for healing, and the importance of individualized care. This episode is full of actionable knowledge for those recovering from chronic infections, as well as anybody seeking to optimize their journey toward wholeness.Topics discussed in this episode:Why Healing the Terrain is essential for chronic illness recoveryHow nervous system regulation speeds healing: neurofeedback, DNRS, EMDR, and moreIdentifying and addressing hidden toxin exposures, mycotoxins, and benzene from everyday sourcesThe critical role of sleep cycles in physical and emotional healingMindset, resilience, and the power of hope: Patient stories and practical encouragementWhy individualized care matters—Insights and disagreements among top conference expertsResources mentioned in this episode:Annie Hopper’s Dynamic Neural Retraining System: https://retrainingthebrain.com/Chemical Exposures: Low Levels and High Stakes by Claudia Miller and Nicholas AshfordStanford study on gas stoves and benzene toxicity: NPR coverage linkJanice Nederhofer’s Humankind Alliance: https://www.humankindalliance.org/The Procaine-Base-Infusion Curious if your nervous system is in fight/flight? Explore neurofeedback and nervous system retraining tools mentioned in the episode!Take action against hidden toxins: Check your home for gas stoves, attached garages, and consider environmental testing.Reflect on your mindset for healing—assemble your support team, seek knowledge, and fuel your journey with purpose!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 shares key insights from attending the second annual conference of the Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI). Krista explores the role of microbes and infections in Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, emphasizing the power of interdisciplinary science and the impact of early intervention. Drawing from presentations by leading researchers and advocates, Krista highlights how understanding the complexity of infectious factors and chronic disease can empower patients, providers, and families alike. Listen for actionable takeaways regarding diagnostics, treatment, and the hope found in both micro (personal) and macro (systemic) approaches to wholeness. SEO keywords: Alzheimer's Pathobiome, infection and dementia, conference recap, chronic illness, Lyme disease, PANS, PANDAS, early intervention, microbial diagnostics.Topics discussed in this episode:What is the Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative?Discover the mission and interdisciplinary approach of AlzPI in tackling the role of infection-causing organisms in Alzheimer’s and related dementias.Why infection is a contributing factor to dementiaExplore the accepted scientific links between chronic infection and neurodegenerative diseases, including Lyme, herpes, and more.Diagnosing and treating infections early: Why it mattersLearn the value of sophisticated diagnostic testing and early antibiotics to prevent chronic illness, plus the risks of undertreating “minor” infections.PANS, PANDAS, and the impact of strep and other pathogens on brain healthInsights into the evolving understanding of neuroimmune disorders, the need for early identification, and definitions and advocacy resources.Stories of hope and advocacy in the face of personal tragedyHear about families who have turned loss into global advocacy, and how focusing on yourself and loved ones first enables broader change.Vaccination, prevention, and evolving science in neurodegenerative diseaseReview the conference’s nuanced discussion on vaccine research, including shingles prevention and ethical questions in infection management.Resources mentioned in this episode:Alzheimer’s Pathobiome Initiative (AlzPI): https://alzpi.org/Microgen Diagnostics: https://microgendx.com/Galaxy Diagnostics (specialty testing for tick-borne diseases): https://www.galaxydx.com/The Alex Manfull FundMIT’s MAESTRO Study (host-pathogen research): Learn moreAutoimmune Brain Panel by Moleculara Sciences: Read MorePOND Brain Bank at Georgetown University: Read moreStay 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.