Best Flavor Of The Geek Podcast Podcasts (2025)

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Seeds of Change: Luther Burbank, Flavor’s Forgotten Pioneer (Part 1 of 2) 13:50

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5d ago13:50

13:50

Long before chefs were hoping to breed vegetables for flavor (Dan Barber we are looking at you!), one eccentric plant lover in California was reshaping the future of food—seed by seed. In Part 1 of this two-part series, Brad digs into the life and legacy of Luther Burbank, the 19th-century horticultural legend who brought us the Russet potato, Shas…

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Understanding Flavor - Essential Knowledge for Herbalists 1:17:19

7d ago1:17:19

1:17:19

TK and TC discuss the historical, textual, and clinical uses of flavor in herbs. For folks who really want to get a better understanding of how herbs work, this discussion gets the heart of all Chinese herbal methodology.By Root and Branch

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Seed Oils: Supervillain or Scapegoat 17:14

19d ago17:14

17:14

Are seed oils trying to kill you… or just help you crisp your Brussels sprouts? In this solo episode, Brad dives deep into the bottle to unpack why seed oils have gone from heart-healthy hero to internet villain. Is it the omega-6s? The industrial hexane bath? The TikTok fearmongering? Probably all three. We’ll break down the science, the myths, an…

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Constipation Case Studies 51:50

21d ago51:50

51:50

TK asks TC about some of his constipation cases and how he decided which herbs to use and why.By Root and Branch

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Constipation Theory and Diagnosis 1:23:52

1M ago1:23:52

1:23:52

TC and TK talk about the various ways that constipation presents in patients and the various formulas you can use to treat the conditionBy Root and Branch

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What Moves Holy Cross: Inside Campus Rec with Jamie Shannon 31:20

1M ago31:20

31:20

In this energizing episode of The 'Sader Digest, Brad sits down with his better half—Jamie Shannon, Director of Campus Recreation at Holy Cross—to talk treadmills, team spirit, and why you don’t want to spill Gatorade on the gym floor. Jamie shares behind-the-scenes updates on an exciting equipment refresh at “The Jo,” including new Peloton bikes, …

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“April Showers, Snowstorms & Plant-Powered Pencils” 19:28

2M ago19:28

19:28

This April might have served up some snowflakes instead of sunshine, but we’re bringing the heat with some fresh plant-forward vibes! Join Alex and Brad as they survive the last gasp of winter, nerd out over the perfect pencil (yes, really), and dive into Brad’s new plant-based nutrition class. Oh did we mention this episdoe was previously recorded…

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Using Topical Herbal Preparations 1:12:04

2M ago1:12:04

1:12:04

TK and TC talk about the various types and categories of topical herbs that can be useful in the clinic and how to decide what kind of topical to use when.By Root and Branch

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Doubling Down on the Vagus Nerve: Now Serving Tranquility, One Ear at a Time 20:34

2M ago20:34

20:34

In this episode, Brad asks Alex about her new certification as a certified “acupunct” (not to be confused with full-blown acupuncturists—those folks train for years), to explore the magical, stress-melting world of auricular acupuncture. That’s right: it’s acupuncture, but just for your ears. Alex breaks down how this ear-only version of acupunctur…

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Menz-tioning Mindful Eating: Darlene is Back 17:56

2M ago17:56

17:56

Darlene Menz is back in the booth (because, let’s face it, she had way too much fun last time!) to chat about why we should stop rushing through our meals. Between Darlene’s love for savoring her food and Brad's habit of eating faster than you can say "dinner is served," we dive into the benefits of slowing down, appreciating your food, and enjoyin…

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Treating Pain With Chinese Herbs 1:07:32

2M ago1:07:32

1:07:32

TC and TK talk about a simplified differential for treating pain with herbs. Consider all the ways you could get better results for your patients by combining a handful of common formulas with your acupuncture to resolve pain problems in a fraction of the time.By Root and Branch

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Practicing Safe Food: More Than Just Wrapping It Up 30:41

2M ago30:41

30:41

Grab your thermometers and put down that dented can of beans because Brad is about to school you on food safety like never before! In this episode, we're talking all things temperatures, bacteria, and the things you should NEVER eat—like a bulging can (trust us, you don’t want to mess with botulism). Brad explains the world of FAT TOM (and no, that…

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Building a Degree, Blending Nutrition: Here's To You Carly Robinson 33:42

3M ago33:42

33:42

Get ready to dive into a world of nutrition, sports, some snacks and dorm room cooking! Host Alex is joined by the one and only Brad Shannon and our special guest, Carly Robinson, a grad assistant in the Wellness Department at Holy Cross. Carly’s journey from student-athlete to nutrition guru is nothing short of impressive. She managed to self-desi…

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Understanding Objective Diagnostic Tools 59:49

3M ago59:49

59:49

TC and TK talk about the core diagnostic tools of Pulse, Tongue, and Abdomen. They discuss differences between the tools and what things they show better than other things as well as some ideas on how to train your diagnostic skills and why its worth taking the time to do it in the first place.By Root and Branch

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Label Me Confused: Decoding Nutrition Myths & Smart Shopping 28:52

3M ago28:52

28:52

In this episode, Brad and Alex tackle the wild world of nutrition labels – because, let’s face it, who actually reads them unless they’re hunting for the secret sugar stash? They’ll guide you through deciphering all that confusing jargon like "serving size" (spoiler: it's never as big as you think) and "percent daily value" (and no, it's not a secr…

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Udderly Local: Keeping Milk Close to Home, with a Farmer’s Story 35:29

3M ago35:29

35:29

In this a-moo-sing episode, Brad is alone in the studio again, and this week we have a Special Guest from Mapleline Farm, our Milk supplier for the campus. In this week's episode we milk the truth from a real-life dairy farmer to learn more about Milk and Local Dairy. Ever wondered what happens to male calves on a dairy farm? Our guest, and fifth g…

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Treating Headaches - Case Studies 38:37

3M ago38:37

38:37

TK asks TC about different headache cases he has treated so that listeners can have an idea of how diagnosis and treatment playes out with real patients.By Root and Branch

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Buzzwords and Bellyaches: The Battle Between Marketing and Real Food 27:54

3M ago27:54

27:54

In this episode, Brad and Alex discuss the challenges of navigating food marketing and making healthier choices. They explore the impact of labels and buzzwords like “plant-powered microbiome approved” and “prebiotic,” using the example of Olipop, a trendy soda marketed for digestive health. While Olipop has fewer calories and more fiber than tradi…

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Purple Goes Green: Talking Sustainability with Carly, Director of Sustainability 37:35

3M ago37:35

37:35

This week on the pod, it’s a little different—Alex is not in the studio, and Brad is unsupervised… or at least, he thought he was. Enter: Carly Thibodeau, Director of Sustainability, to keep him in check as they tackle one of the biggest topics yet—sustainability. They break down the actual impact of climate change, from unpredictable weather patte…

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Treating Headaches - Theory and Patterns 44:19

4M ago44:19

44:19

TK asks TC about his diagnostic tools for understanding the causes of headaches and which formulas he employs to resolve this common problem.By Root and Branch

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Life on the Menz: Where Lifestyle Medicine Meets Better Living 26:41

4M ago26:41

26:41

Brad and Alex are back, and this time, they’ve brought in a ringer, Darlene Menz, nurse practitioner and lifestyle medicine pro. She and Alex recently got certified in Lifestyle Medicine, which basically means they know all the science-backed ways to keep people healthy before they even get sick. The crew dives into the six pillars of lifestyle med…

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Cutting Through the Clutter: Kitchen Gear That’s Worth It and What’s Just Taking Up Space 35:20

4M ago35:20

35:20

Welcome back to the Sader Digest, where Brad and Alex dive deep into the wild world of kitchen gear. They look at the good, the bad, and the utterly useless. From pots and pans that might cost you your rent money to knives sharp enough to cut through the toughest of meal prep, we’ve got it all covered. Brad’s about to drop some wisdom on pots—what …

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How to get your patients to actually take herbs 1:29:15

4M ago1:29:15

1:29:15

TC and TK talk about making herbs an integral part of your treatment strategy. They provide insights into talking to patients about their herbs, choosing the right form of herbs, and organizing the treatment plan for maximum results.By Root and Branch

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Buzzed & Confused: The Truth About Caffeine 25:31

4M ago25:31

25:31

Brad and Alex are back, jittery as ever, to tackle one of college life’s biggest fuel sources: caffeine. Whether you’re a coffee purist, an energy drink enthusiast, or someone who just mainlines espresso shots between classes, this episode is for you. We’re breaking down the buzz—literally. Are Celsius and Monster secretly just adult Capri Suns wit…

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A Dose of Joy: Hydration & Wellness Tips You’ll Love 28:38

4M ago28:38

28:38

This week on The Sader Digest, we sit down with Joy LaGrutta from the Office of Student Wellness and Education to talk about all things wellness at Holy Cross. From the surprisingly life-changing massage chairs at Ciampi-Condron to the rise of substance-free housing, we dive into how students are taking wellness to the next level. Joy shares some t…

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“Meat, Beans, and Everything In Between: The Protein Power Hour in 25 minutes” 25:57

5M ago25:57

25:57

In this episode of The 'Sader Digest, Brad and Alex get into the juicy details of protein (the Third and Final Macro)—breaking down what it is, why it’s important, and how to find the right balance in your diet. From the environmental impact of meat (yes, we’re talking about cow farts) to how protein can boost your health, they cover it all. Brad s…

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Covid and Long Covid (Case Studies) 51:54

5M ago51:54

51:54

TC and TK get into some specific examples of treating covid and long covid. Listen in for some treatment specific details!By Root and Branch

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Phat Facts: Navigating the Good, the Bad, and the Healthy Fats! 22:19

5M ago22:19

22:19

In the 3rd episode of The Sader Digest, Brad and Alex are digging into one of the most misunderstood food groups: fats! From the “bad guys” to the “good guys,” they break down the essential role fats play in our diets. You’ll hear about the difference between those solid, artery-clogging saturated fats (think butter) and the heart-healthy unsaturat…

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"Good Carbs, Bad Carbs: What You Gonna Do? The Truth About Fueling Your Body" 26:07

5M ago26:07

26:07

In Episode 2 of The 'Sader Digest: Brad and Alex dive into the fascinating world of carbohydrates—good carbs vs. bad carbs. They explore why carbs are essential as the body's primary energy source and break down the science behind digestion, fiber, and blood sugar regulation. The episode highlights the benefits of whole grains, fruits, and vegetabl…

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Macro Bites: A Taste of What Sader Digest Brings to the Table 19:15

5M ago19:15

19:15

Welcome to the first episode of The 'Sader Digest: A Food, Wellness, and Health Podcast, the official Holy Cross podcast on nutrition and well-being! Hosted by Bradley Shannon, Director of Culinary Development and Nutrition, and Alex Weld, a board-certified lifestyle medicine nurse practitioner and self-proclaimed foodie, this episode explores the …

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Covid and Long Covid (Theory and Pathomechanism) 1:12:11

6M ago1:12:11

1:12:11

TK and TC discuss the change in COVID-19 presentations from the pre-vaccine days to the endemic status of the disease now and particularly discuss the complications and symptoms that are put under the umbrella term "Long COVID"By Root and Branch

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Setting Up Your Own Medicinary 1:13:17

7M ago1:13:17

1:13:17

TK and TC talk about the things to consider when setting up your own herbal medicinary, particularly which herbs and formulas they would recommend for folks who are just starting out. Check out TC's 12 starting formulas list here https://www.rootandbranchpharmacy.com/s3ep5shownotesBy Root and Branch

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Exploring Sleep Pathologies - Insomnia Case Study 2 31:35

8M ago31:35

31:35

TK asks TC about another insomnia case study that required some pivot and change to get lasting results. This type of insomnia was rooted in a weakness of digestion and middle jiao function.By Root and Branch

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Exploring Sleep Pathologies - Insomnia Case Study 1 51:51

8M ago51:51

51:51

TK interviews TC about an insomnia case study with a female patient dealing with Yang Deficient pattern insomnia with concurrent qi stagnation. Listen in to learn about diagnostic methods and the progression of formulas to reach resolution of the condition.By Root and Branch

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Exploring Sleep Pathologies - Theory and Formulas 58:16

9M ago58:16

58:16

TK and TC talk about the major pathologies underlying difficulties with sleeping as well as some of the lifestyle and hygiene factors that can shape positive or negative sleep outcomes.By Root and Branch

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Dealing with Dosage 1:27:45

10M ago1:27:45

1:27:45

There may be no more important aspect to successful herbal prescription that dosage. What each herb is dosed at relative to the others creates the heartbeat of herbal alchemy. And then, how much herb your patient takes how often will determine the ability of your alchemy to make meaningful and lasting change. TK and TC talk about the various aspect…

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Navigating Complex Cases 1:05:51

1y ago1:05:51

1:05:51

TC and TK talk about strategic thinking for complex cases - how to scaffold treatment as the disease pattern changes, how to pick which part of a complex picture to start with, and how to adapt when your herbs and acupuncture don't achieve what you are looking for.By Root and Branch

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Managing Diabetes 1:18:22

1y ago1:18:22

1:18:22

TK and TC talk about using herbs and diet to manage diabetes. A bit of diabetic biomedicine, common advice, and thinking about this condition from a CM point of view.By Root and Branch

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So You're a New Herbalist 54:39

1y ago54:39

54:39

TK and TC talk about getting into, or back into, herbs and some of the base formulas you might want to brush up on as you wade into prescribing more herbs.By Root and Branch

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Chinese Herbs vs Western Herbs 1:07:15

1+ y ago1:07:15

1:07:15

Tk and TC discuss the difference between prescribing using Chinese herbs and diagnostic methods compared with the traditions and practices of Western herbalism. They talk about domestic herb production, manufacture and pao zhi, as well as what its like to run and herbal pharmacy.By Root and Branch

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Resolving Seasonal Allergies 1:36:50

1+ y ago1:36:50

1:36:50

TC and TK do a deep dive into understanding the pathomechanism that leads to allergies of all types, but particularly seasonal allergies and then discuss formulas that effectively resolve those allergic patterns.By Root and Branch

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Treating Cold and Flu 1:15:23

1+ y ago1:15:23

1:15:23

TC and TK talk about strategies for understanding how Cold and Flu manifests in patients and what the best methods are for effectively treating diverse presentations of cold and flu symptoms.By Root and Branch

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Treating the Middle Pt 2 - "Upper" Middle Jiao Problems 1:25:58

1+ y ago1:25:58

1:25:58

Tk and TC discuss dealing with problems of the upper segment of the digestive system: acid reflux, nausea and vomitting, indigestionBy Root and Branch

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Treating the Middle Pt 1 - "Lower" Middle Jiao Problems 1:38:31

2y ago1:38:31

1:38:31

A discussion about interviewing and talking about digestive problems with patients, an exploration of dividing digestive problems into upper and lower groups, and deep dive into formulas used to help with loose stool and diarrhea presentations.By Root and Branch

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Chai Hu Family Formulas - Chai Hu Tang and Si Ni San 1:29:27

2y ago1:29:27

1:29:27

TC and TK discuss two of the sub-groups within the Chai Hu family of formulas. They talk about key signs and symptoms for using Xiao Chai Hu Tang, and its status as a foundational formula for treating Shao Yao Syndrome. Also, they talk about the foundational formulas that make-up Si Ni San and how to know when to implement that formula for a variet…

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Not My Hazelnut Creamer 47:30

6y ago47:30

47:30

On this episode, Britt and Terra talk about the cinematic current season of Black Mirror. All the spoilers.

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Did Ya'll Even Get Water?! 35:31

6y ago35:31

35:31

Britt and Terra are back! With commentary on the Love/Life After Lockup, Terra critiques the restaurant service industry and Britt still thinks Michael is raging trash. (LAL, Season 2, Episode 16)

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Respect To Yo Set 38:58

6y ago38:58

38:58

Britt & Terra give their commentary on the Love After Lockup ( aka Life After Lockup) Season 2 Ep 15

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The Rising of the Shield Hero - Rant SPOILER 21:51

6y ago21:51

21:51

The Rising of the Shield Hero finally came to its end last week. So in this podcast, I talk about what I loved about this anime. It's my favorite anime from this and past season. This is a spoiler filled review, so be sure to watch the anime if you don't want to get spoiled. Thank you. MUSIC CREDIT: Music Intro by: Andres Vargas ZZZ - Anime on Pian…

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The Moses of the Wildlings 45:00

6y ago45:00

45:00

Britt & Terra talk about the series finale of Game of Thrones....Ya done messed up DBs.