Reversing Chronic Illness: The Power of Plant-Based Diets with Dr. Amanda Adkins

Reversing Chronic Illness: The Power of Plant-Based Diets with Dr. Amanda Adkins

In this episode of The UpShift, Angel Howard speaks with Dr. Amanda Adkins, a board-certified internal medicine physician and certified lifestyle medicine specialist, about the power of plant-based nutrition and holistic health. Dr. Adkins shares her personal journey from being an overweight teenager in Indiana to becoming a physician focused on preventing and reversing chronic disease through lifestyle changes. The conversation explores the six pillars of lifestyle medicine, including nutrition, movement, stress reduction, restorative sleep, social connection, and reducing toxic substances. Dr. Adkins explains why nutrition is often overlooked in traditional medical training, discusses the role of inflammation in chronic illness, and offers practical advice for busy people trying to improve their health without extreme diets or perfection. The episode also covers weight loss medications, heart health, smoking cessation, and how small sustainable habits can create long-term change. Takeaways * Dr. Amanda Adkins became interested in health and nutrition through her own experience as an overweight teenager. * She chose lifestyle medicine to help prevent and reverse chronic illnesses through sustainable habits. * Traditional medical education often provides very little training in nutrition. * One of the most important lessons she learned was that you cannot out exercise a bad diet. * The six pillars of lifestyle medicine are plant-predominant nutrition, movement, stress reduction, restorative sleep, social connection, and reducing toxic substances. * Social connection became even more important during the COVID-19 pandemic and plays a major role in overall health. * Dr. Adkins encourages patients to make small changes first rather than trying to change everything at once. * Adding more leafy greens and vegetables is one of the easiest ways to reduce inflammation and improve health. * Weight loss medications can be useful tools, but they are not replacements for lifestyle changes. * Sustainable health improvements come from consistent habits, not quick fixes or extreme restrictions. Today's guest, Dr. Amanda Adkins , can be found at: Website: https://www.dramandamd.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-amanda-adkins-28071a39/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj7HwQ88Xn1FhK5eKtoOIkw Your host, Angel Howard, can be found online at: Website: https://angelhoward.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-angel/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@angelhowardissuescoach Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelhowardofficial/ Get Angel's book: https://amzn.to/4o4UcEi Keywords plant-based medicine, lifestyle medicine, nutrition, chronic illness, inflammation, leafy greens, holistic health, wellness, preventive medicine, diabetes, blood pressure, heart health, stress reduction, restorative sleep, social connection, exercise, movement, smoking cessation, whole foods, obesity, vegetarian, plant-predominant diet, healthy lifestyle, wellness journey, healthcare, internal medicine, lifestyle changes, chronic disease prevention, food as medicine, sustainable health, hormones, inflammation reduction, fiber, healthy eating, mindfulness, self-care, weight loss, bariatric surgery, blood sugar, functional medicine, integrative medicine

Redefining Success: Art Blanchford on Burnout and Mastering Midlife Transitions

In this episode of the UpShift podcast, Angel Howard sits down with transition coach and former global executive Art Blanchford to discuss burnout, identity, purpose, and what happens when success no longer feels fulfilling. Art shares his journey from leading multi-billion dollar companies and earning a seven-figure income to walking away from corporate life after severe burnout forced him to rethink everything. Together, they explore the emotional struggles many high-achieving men face, including workaholism, lack of meaning, depression, and the pressure to constantly perform. The conversation also dives into vulnerability, relationships, emotional awareness, and how partners can support each other through major life transitions. Art explains why connection, stillness, and self-reflection are essential for creating a meaningful second half of life, and why purpose matters more than status or achievement. Takeaways * Art Blanchford left a high-level corporate career after burnout forced him to reevaluate his life. * Many successful people discover that achievement alone does not create fulfillment. * Transition periods often feel messy, uncertain, and uncomfortable, but growth happens inside that space. * Workaholism and constant performance can lead to emotional exhaustion and “deaths of despair.” * Men often struggle with emotional literacy because they were taught to suppress vulnerability. * Authentic connection with other people is critical during periods of depression or identity shifts. * Slowing down and creating silence helps people reconnect with purpose and inner guidance. * Relationships improve when partners support each other’s personal growth without shame or control. * Retirement without purpose can lead to depression if people do not develop meaning beyond work. * Purpose, service, and self-awareness create a more fulfilling second half of life. Today's guest, Art Blanchford, can be found at: Personal Website: https://artblanchford.com/ Website: https://pinnacleleadership.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/art-blanchford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artblanchford/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/art.blanchford Podcasts: https://www.youtube.com/@LifeInTransitionPodcast, https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-in-transition-podcast/id1655416159 Your host, Angel Howard, can be found online at: Website: https://angelhoward.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-angel/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@angelhowardissuescoach Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelhowardofficial/ Get Angel's book: https://amzn.to/4o4UcEi Keywords burnout, transition, purpose, fulfillment, workaholism, emotional intelligence, vulnerability, depression, success, meaning, coaching, relationships, self-worth, men’s mental health, leadership, identity, recovery, emotional literacy, mindfulness, connection, retirement, personal growth, authenticity, spirituality, healing, transformation, self-reflection, life transition, mental wellness, coaching for men

Defining Your Dream Life: Clarity & Community with Dr. Corey Winn

In this conversation, Dr. Corey Winn discusses how women can lead, grow, and pursue their dreams from a place of clarity, trust, and joy. She explains why many women lose touch with what they want, how societal expectations shape their choices, and why community, coaching, and self-investment can help them move into a more aligned life. The discussion also explores fear, self-trust, non-negotiables, changing friendships, and the courage it takes to stop asking for permission and start building the life you truly want. Takeaways * Clarity begins with asking, “What do I want?” * Women often lose touch with their own needs while caring for others. * Knowing what you do not want can help reveal what you do want. * Joy and delight can guide better life and business choices. * Societal expectations often keep women in roles that no longer fit. * Growth may require letting go of relationships that no longer support you. * Supportive community helps women hold bigger dreams. * Journaling can help uncover desires, non-negotiables, and next steps. * Investing in coaching can help build self-trust and confidence. * Women do not need permission to pursue the life they want. Today's guest, Dr. Corey Winn, can be found at: Website: https://coreywinn.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreywinn/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coreywinndpt Your host, Angel Howard, can be found online at: Website: https://angelhoward.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-angel/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@angelhowardissuescoach Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelhowardofficial/ Get Angel's book: https://amzn.to/4o4UcEi Keywords leadership, women entrepreneurs, self-trust, coaching, clarity, joy, alignment, purpose, wealth, legacy, community, personal growth, non-negotiables, mindset, confidence, entrepreneurship, self-investment, dreams, burnout, life transitions

Embracing Your Neuro-Spicy Brain: Different Not Deficit with Dr. Kristin Williamson

In this episode, Angel Howard speaks with Dr. Kristen Williamson, a professional counselor specializing in neurodivergence, about what it means to have an ADHD or autistic brain, which she refers to as “neuro-spicy.” Dr. Williamson shares her personal diagnosis journey and explains how differences in dopamine processing, executive function, and cognitive patterns shape behavior, productivity, and emotional regulation. The conversation explores common traits such as task initiation challenges, hyperfocus, sensory sensitivities, and the need for structure, while also reframing these traits as strengths rather than deficits. They also discuss practical strategies for self-awareness, workplace leadership, and communication, including how to better support neurodivergent individuals in professional environments. The episode emphasizes normalization, self-acceptance, and leveraging unique cognitive styles for creativity, productivity, and success. Takeaways * “Neuro-spicy” is a reframing of neurodivergence that highlights strengths and individuality. * ADHD and autism involve differences in dopamine regulation, affecting motivation, focus, and reward. * Executive dysfunction can impact task initiation, completion, and time management. * Neurodivergent individuals may experience cycles of hyperfocus followed by loss of interest. * Sensory sensitivities and cognitive rigidity are common, especially in autism. * Many adults may be undiagnosed due to cost and limited access to assessments. * Self-awareness and environmental adjustments can be as powerful as formal diagnosis. * Structure helps neurodivergent individuals thrive, even if they resist imposed systems. * Workplace leaders can better support teams by focusing on strengths and providing clear expectations and flexibility. * Spoon theory explains energy management, showing how daily tasks deplete limited mental and physical resources. Today's guest, Dr. Kristin Williamson, can be found at: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkristenwilliamson/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrKristenLPC Your host, Angel Howard, can be found online at: Website: https://angelhoward.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-angel/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@angelhowardissuescoach Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelhowardofficial/ Get Angel's book: https://amzn.to/4o4UcEi Keywords neurodivergence, ADHD, autism, neuro-spicy, dopamine, executive dysfunction, hyperfocus, sensory sensitivity, cognitive rigidity, spoon theory, mental health, productivity, workplace leadership, time management, emotional regulation, self-awareness, entrepreneurship, creativity, brain function

Navigating Midlife Dating: Skills, Myths, and Mindset with Bernardo Mendez

In this episode, Angel Howard speaks with relationship and dating coach Bernardo “Bern” Mendez about the realities and opportunities of midlife dating. Bern explains why many people struggle in relationships, not because they are flawed, but because they were never taught the necessary skills for intimacy and connection. The conversation explores how limiting beliefs formed early in life can shape dating patterns, and how shifting emotional states, daily habits, and nervous system responses can create lasting change. Bern also challenges common myths about love, including “the one” and instant chemistry, while offering practical strategies for building confidence, redefining relationship expectations, and reigniting intimacy in long-term partnerships through vulnerability and communication. Takeaways * Midlife dating offers a unique opportunity to redefine relationship goals with greater self-awareness. * Relationship struggles often stem from a lack of learned skills, not personal failure. * Emotional “state” or mindset directly influences beliefs, confidence, and dating outcomes. * Daily rituals like movement, breathing, and intentional habits can shift mindset and behavior. * Regulating the nervous system is key to overcoming fear and triggers in dating. * Many limiting beliefs are reinforced over time but can be changed through new experiences. * Common dating myths, such as “the one” or instant chemistry, can limit relationship success. * Expanding non-negotiables versus nice-to-haves increases the chances of finding a partner. * Vulnerability and honest communication are essential for rebuilding or deepening intimacy. * Asking meaningful, emotionally open questions can reconnect partners and spark deeper connection. Today's guest, Bernardo Mendez, can be found at: Website: https://bernmendez.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@bernmendez LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernmendez-relationshipexpert/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bern_mendez/ Your host, Angel Howard, can be found online at: Website: https://angelhoward.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-angel/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@angelhowardissuescoach Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelhowardofficial/ Get Angel's book: https://amzn.to/4o4UcEi Keywords midlife dating, relationships, dating coach, intimacy, emotional state, nervous system, confidence, limiting beliefs, communication, vulnerability, dating myths, attraction, habits, mindset, self-awareness, connection, marriage, companionship, personal growth