Best MS RDN LD Podcasts (2025)

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Deconstructing Food Labels – What They’re Really Saying 22:39

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9h ago22:39

22:39

Food labels are full of numbers, claims, and buzzwords — but how much of it really matters? This episode breaks down the basics: what’s required by law, what’s optional but regulated, and how to interpret those common phrases like “low fat,” “good source of,” or “light.” Learn how to read the ingredients list, understand nutrient claims, and separa…

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Seafood and Sustainability: What You Should Know 13:22

6d ago13:22

13:22

Sustainability is a buzzword we see everywhere, especially when it comes to seafood. But what does it really mean, and how can you tell if your seafood choices are truly sustainable? In this episode, Shelley Rael explains what to look for when buying seafood, the truth about labeling and certification programs, and how responsible choices can suppo…

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Seafood Myths and Misinformation 12:08

13d ago12:08

12:08

Seafood is one of the most misunderstood food groups. In this episode, Shelley Rael breaks down common myths about seafood, including confusion around mercury, the difference between fresh and frozen, and whether farmed fish is bad for you. Learn what really matters when choosing seafood and how to enjoy it as part of a healthy, balanced diet.…

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Vegetarian Nutrition Across All Ages 15:00

21d ago15:00

15:00

Vegetarian eating looks different at every stage of life. From childhood and adolescence to pregnancy, adulthood, and older age, nutrient needs shift and so do the challenges of meeting them. In this episode of Real World Nutrition, I discuss the key considerations for vegetarian nutrition at various ages, including protein, iron, vitamin B12, and …

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Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access and the Applications in Nutrition Care 35:52

21d ago35:52

35:52

Tune in for a meaningful conversation with special guest Judith Rodriguez, one of the founders of LAHIDAN (Latinos & Hispanics in Dietetics & Nutrition), who recently spoke at the LAHIDAN event during FNCE 2025. Hear her insights on how IDEA principles are now shaping the future of nutrition and dietetics. Links Dr. Judith Rodriguez Resources & Pub…

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Vegetarian Myths and Misconceptions 17:41

28d ago17:41

17:41

Vegetarian eating often comes with numerous myths and misconceptions. Do vegetarians really struggle to get enough protein? Is a vegetarian diet automatically healthier? Can athletes or kids thrive on a vegetarian lifestyle? In this episode of Real World Nutrition, we debunk the most common misconceptions about vegetarian diets and explain what the…

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What Does Vegetarian Mean? 21:15

1M ago21:15

21:15

Vegetarian eating is more than just “no meat.” In this episode, I explain what vegetarian really means, the different types of vegetarian diets, and why people choose this eating style. We’ll cover the cultural and historical roots of vegetarianism, common misunderstandings, and what day-to-day meals can look like for different vegetarian approache…

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Fat in the Diet: Healthy Choices Without the Hype 25:47

1M ago25:47

25:47

Fat isn’t the enemy—but it isn’t a free pass either. In this episode of Real World Nutrition, learn the role fat plays in the body, the differences between saturated, unsaturated, and trans fats, and how to make real-world choices without falling for the hype.By Shelley A. Rael, MS RDN LD

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Sodium, Salt, and Balance in the Real World 22:38

2M ago22:38

22:38

Salt often gets a bad reputation, but the truth is more nuanced. In this episode, we’re talking about sodium: what it does in the body, why we need it, and how too much can create real health problems. You’ll learn about the sources of sodium in your diet, how to interpret food labels, and practical strategies for balancing your intake without extr…

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Do the Dietary Guidelines Really Matter? 22:09

2M ago22:09

22:09

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans have been around for over 40 years, shaping everything from school lunches to food labels. But do they actually matter for your health? In this episode of Real World Nutrition, Shelley Rael unpacks the history, the myths, and the real impact of the Guidelines — and how they can be useful in everyday life.…

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The Real Story About Sugar 15:11

2M ago15:11

15:11

Sugar is one of the most misunderstood parts of nutrition. Some call it poison. Others shrug it off as harmless. The truth is more nuanced. In this episode of Real World Nutrition, we explore the nature of sugar, its role in the body, the distinction between natural and added sugars, and why the quantity is more significant than cutting it out comp…

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Black Tea vs Green Tea: Health Benefits Compared to Coffee 19:51

2M ago19:51

19:51

Black tea or green tea—which one is better for your health? This episode breaks down what the research actually shows about tea, including its antioxidant properties, impact on heart health, energy benefits, and the differences in caffeine content compared to coffee. Plus, what matters most if you’re choosing tea for health benefits.…

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Episode 29: The Secret Connection Between Mental Health & Performance w/ Emily Perrin, LMSW 1:03:21

3M ago1:03:21

1:03:21

In today's episode - prepare for your mind to be blown. Brooke and Emily take a deep dive into the nervous system, anxiety and how to build a more resilient nervous system. Emily talks about the nervous system in a way you probably haven't heard before & maybe why traditional "mindfulness" techniques isn't actually helping you in the long term. In …

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Diet Trends, Food Fear, and Food Freedom 21:40

3M ago21:40

21:40

From keto to intermittent fasting to plant-based diets, it feels like diet trends never stop evolving. But do these diets really hold the answers to better health, or are they just recycling old ideas with new names? In this episode, we explore the truth about diet trends, why so many foods are labeled “bad,” and how fear-based messages about food …

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Superfoods, Clean Eating, and Why Labels Don’t Help 22:23

3M ago22:23

22:23

“Superfoods” and “clean eating” sound like the fast track to better health, but do they really mean anything? In this episode, we break down what’s hype and what’s fact, how these terms can fuel guilt or confusion, and what actually matters for a balanced diet.By Shelley A. Rael, MS RDN LD

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The Power of Massage for Scoliosis | Mike Coats, LMT 33:40

3M ago33:40

33:40

In this episode, Becky enthusiastically welcomes her longtime massage therapist, Mike Coats, to explore the transformative benefits of massage therapy for individuals with scoliosis. With over 17 years of experience, Mike shares his insights into how massage can address the unique challenges of scoliosis, including chronic pain, muscle imbalances, …

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Episode 201: Wellness Without the Hype: What Actually Works 25:25

3M ago25:25

25:25

This episode explores the true meaning of wellness and breaks down what truly helps you feel better in the long term versus what merely appears good on social media. Wellness isn’t a juice cleanse, a supplement, or a quick fix. It’s consistent action over time. Tune in for five realistic ways to build wellness into your day, and hear why some trend…

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Episode 200: Decoding Food Ingredients: What’s Really in Your Food? 20:36

3M ago20:36

20:36

Episode 200: “Decoding Food Ingredients: What’s Really in Your Food?” This episode breaks down the most common food ingredients and additives on U.S. labels—what they are, why they’re used, and what’s actually worth paying attention to. Plus, a quick comparison to European ingredient standards.By Shelley A. Rael, MS RDN LD

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Episode 199: Health Halo Hype: When Food Swaps Miss the Point 17:30

4M ago17:30

17:30

Is removing artificial dyes or switching sugars making food healthier—or just better marketed? This episode breaks down the “health halo” effect and why ingredient swaps often miss the bigger picture. It also explores the deeper issue of food insecurity and why access to nutritious food matters more than cosmetic food changes. From misunderstood in…

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Episode 28: Taking a Functional Approach to Your Health w/ Stephanie Darby, RD 48:34

4M ago48:34

48:34

Join Brooke and Stephanie on today's episode where they dive into all things functional nutrition and what it means to take a functional approach to your health. Do you need all the supplements? Protocols? What's ACTUALLY going to help you move the needle with your health and to get you on the path of feeling your best? Topics covered: What is func…

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Episode 198: Should You Worry About the Dirty Dozen 10:21

4M ago10:21

10:21

Every year, the Dirty Dozen list shows up like clockwork, stirring up fears about pesticide exposure from conventionally grown fruits and vegetables. But is this list really giving you the whole picture? In this episode, I revisit the Dirty Dozen—what it is, where it comes from, and most importantly, what it doesn’t tell you. I discuss the facts be…

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Episode 197: Seasonal Eating: The Power of Summer Produce for Your Health & Plate 20:30

4M ago20:30

20:30

Summer produce isn’t just more affordable and flavorful, but it can also benefit your overall health and wellness. In this episode of the Real World Nutrition podcast, Shelley explores the benefits of seasonal eating, particularly during the summer months. From seasonal berries to garden-fresh tomatoes and crisp cucumbers, summer fruits and vegetab…

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Episode 196: Hot Dogs, Ice Cream & Real-Life Moderation: Enjoying Summer Treats Without the Guilt 16:04

4M ago16:04

16:04

Summer is the season of sunshine, s’mores, and… stomach-stretching hot dog contests? In this episode of the Real World Nutrition podcast, Shelley breaks down what moderation actually looks like when it comes to enjoying summer treats without succumbing to guilt or overindulging. While the annual Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest might be the extreme …

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9 - Higgy Bears and the Power of Scoliosis Connection 42:15

4M ago42:15

42:15

In this uplifting episode, I speak with Lauren Higginson, the heart behind Higgy Bears, a nonprofit that provides customized stuffed animals for children and teens with scoliosis. Lauren shares her own story and how it inspired her to create a global network of support for families navigating this challenging condition. You’ll learn about Higgy Bea…

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Episode 195: Coffee, Caffeine, and Energy: What Helps, What Hurts 17:45

5M ago17:45

17:45

Coffee is one of the most consumed beverages worldwide, but when it comes to energy, there’s a lot of confusion about what actually helps and what might be working against you. In Episode 195 of the Real World Nutrition Podcast, Shelley Rael, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, breaks down the difference between coffee, caffeine, and energy, and wha…

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Episode 27: The Truth About Female Athlete Health w/ Heather Caplan, RD 45:05

5M ago45:05

45:05

Join Brooke & Heather for today's episode where we peel back the curtain on common female athlete health concerns. Topics include: Why Heather started Lane 9 Project Common misconceptions in the female athlete health world Why female athlete health concerns continue to get dismissed Common signs of low energy availability How to seek support from h…

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Episode 194: Whatever Happened to Dietary Cholesterol? Why It’s Not the Villain Anymore 15:55

5M ago15:55

15:55

Cholesterol has had a long, complicated reputation. For years, we were told to avoid eggs, shrimp, and other high-cholesterol foods. However, research has significantly altered our understanding of dietary cholesterol. In Episode 194 of the Real World Nutrition Podcast, I unpack the science behind cholesterol: what it is, why your body needs it, an…

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Episode 193: Omega-6 Isn’t the Villain: What We Get Wrong About Seed Oils 19:53

5M ago19:53

19:53

In Episode 193 of the Real World Nutrition Podcast, Shelley Rael, RDN, dives into the controversy surrounding omega-6 fatty acids and seed oils. These oils have been getting a bad rap online, blamed for everything from inflammation to chronic disease. But how much of that is based on evidence, and how much is misinformation? Shelley explains the ro…

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8 - Not Too Late: Donna’s Story, Fifty Years in the Making 39:31

5M ago39:31

39:31

What happens when scoliosis goes undiagnosed for fifty years? In this episode, Donna Kowitt shares the powerful story of finally receiving a life-changing diagnosis at age 59, after decades of unexplained symptoms and worsening pain. Donna opens up about being dismissed by doctors, facing multiple complex spinal surgeries, navigating insurance batt…

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Episode 192: What Even Is a Healthy Food? Cutting Through the Confusion 25:09

5M ago25:09

25:09

The word “healthy” gets tossed around a lot, but what does it actually mean when it comes to food? In Episode 192 of the Real World Nutrition podcast, Shelley Rael, MS, RDN, discusses the complex layers of confusion and misinformation surrounding the term “healthy.” From food marketing tactics to outdated perceptions, Shelley explains why this term…

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Episode 191: Summer Eating Without Food Guilt: Tips for Grilling, Getaways, and Balanced Wellness 21:27

6M ago21:27

21:27

Summer is a time for sunshine, travel, and delicious food, but for many, it also brings a wave of guilt, restriction, or “starting over Monday” thinking. In this episode of the Real World Nutrition podcast, Shelley is breaking down how to enjoy everything summer has to offer without falling into common mindset traps. Shelley addresses how “vacation…

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Episode 190: Why It Could Be Too Late to Build Your Bones – But Not Too Late to Protect Them 25:50

6M ago25:50

25:50

May is Osteoporosis Prevention and Awareness Month, and in this episode of the Real World Nutrition podcast, Shelley Rael, RDN, breaks down what you need to know about bone health, beyond just calcium and aging. She explores the difference between osteoporosis and osteoarthritis, busts common myths, and highlights both non-modifiable and modifiable…

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Episode 189: Sipping Smarter: Mindful Drinking for Summer Parties 18:22

6M ago18:22

18:22

This Real World Nutrition episode discusses mindful drinking during summer celebrations, from Memorial Day to weddings, cookouts, and beach vacations. Shelley revisits some of the themes from last month’s episode on Alcohol, Stress, and Health: Finding Balance, and shifts the focus toward how alcohol fits into the fun and flow of summer events. She…

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7 - Finding Gold in the Cracks: Gail Rossi’s Story of Strength, Resilience, and Self-Advocacy 44:57

6M ago44:57

44:57

In this powerful episode, Becky sits down with author and scoliosis advocate Gail Rossi to share her remarkable journey through decades of pain, surgeries, and ultimately, self-acceptance. Gail opens up about discovering her scoliosis at just 11 years old, being dismissed by those around her, and learning to advocate for herself in a world that did…

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Episode 188: Food Freedom: What "Eat What You Want Day" Really Means 18:50

6M ago18:50

18:50

May 11 is Eat What You Want Day. But what if we stopped labeling foods as “good” or “bad” and just ate what nourishes and satisfies us? In this episode of the Real World Nutrition Podcast, Shelley Rael, RDN, breaks down the toxic cycle of food guilt, how cheat days undermine your goals, and what food freedom really looks like. 🎧Tune in and learn ho…

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Episode 187: Fueling Your Fitness – Small Shifts for Sustained Summer Energy 22:16

6M ago22:16

22:16

In this episode of the Real World Nutrition podcast, Shelley discusses realistic strategies for maintaining energy and hydration during the summer months. As warmer weather invites more outdoor activity—hikes, bike rides, early morning runs, or lunchtime walks—it’s easy to forget how important it is to fuel and hydrate intentionally. Shelley covers…

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Episode 186: Earth-Friendly Eating: How Your Food Choices Impact the Planet 16:04

7M ago16:04

16:04

In this episode of the Real World Nutrition Podcast, Shelley explores the connection between our dietary choices and environmental health. Building on the 2025 Earth Day theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” Shelley discusses the significant impact of food production on greenhouse gas emissions, water usage, and land degradation. Get practical insights i…

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Episode 185: Quick, Healthy Meals When You’re Too Busy To Cook 17:33

7M ago17:33

17:33

We’ve all had those days—back-to-back meetings, errands, workouts, family obligations—and suddenly it’s 8pm, and you haven’t eaten a real meal. You’re not alone. In Episode 185 of the Real World Nutrition podcast, Shelley shares strategies for creating fast, nourishing meals that don’t require hours in the kitchen. Grocery shortcuts and batch-prepp…

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6 - A Physical Therapist’s Take on Scoliosis Care & Movement 50:17

7M ago50:17

50:17

Strength training and scoliosis might not seem like an obvious match, but the right approach can make a world of difference. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Beth Terranova, a physical therapist, strength coach, and founder of Strength and Spine. As someone who has scoliosis herself and has competed in Olympic-style weightlifting, Beth brings a u…

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Episode 184: Alcohol, Stress, and Health: Finding Balance 23:00

7M ago23:00

23:00

Alcohol is often seen as a go-to way to relax or take the edge off after a stressful day. But how much does it really help—and where might it actually be adding to the problem? This episode explores the connection between alcohol, stress, and overall health, offering a clear, no-pressure look at how drinking habits can impact your body and mind. Ma…

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Episode 183: Spring Reset: Simplifying Wellness in Small, Sustainable Steps 18:03

7M ago18:03

18:03

Start your Spring Reset with small, manageable wellness steps. In Episode 183 of the Real World Nutrition Podcast, Shelley breaks down simple tips for making sustainable changes in hydration, nutrition, and lifestyle. Tune in today for actionable advice you can implement right away. 🎧 Listen now. Blog from Real World Nutrition: How to Simplify Well…

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Episode 182: Mindful Eating in a Fast-Paced World 22:49

8M ago22:49

22:49

In today’s fast-paced world, eating has often become a mindless activity—something we do while multitasking, scrolling on our phones, or rushing through meals. But mindful eating offers a different approach, one that encourages us to slow down, be present, and truly enjoy our food. In this episode, Shelley explains mindful eating and how it benefit…

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Episode 181: Frozen, Fresh, or Canned? 20:42

8M ago20:42

20:42

Frozen, Fresh, or Canned? Choosing the Best for Your Health & Budget March is Frozen Foods Month, making it the perfect time to talk about one of the most underrated food choices! Many people assume fresh is always best, but did you know that frozen fruits and vegetables can actually be more nutritious than fresh? In this episode, I’m breaking down…

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Episode 180: Meal Planning with a Purpose: A Flexible Approach to Nutrition 21:43

8M ago21:43

21:43

Meal planning often gets a bad reputation for being too structured, but it can be a powerful tool for reducing stress and improving nutrition. At the same time, intuitive eating encourages listening to your body’s cues instead of following strict food rules. In this episode of Real World Nutrition, Shelley explores the pros and cons of both meal pl…

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5 - Why Asking for Help Matters 45:49

8M ago45:49

45:49

Facing scoliosis surgery can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re used to handling everything on your own. In this episode, I sit down with Terri, who knows that struggle firsthand. A self-described private person, she resisted asking for help for years. But when her scoliosis worsened, she realized she couldn’t do it alone. Terri shares how co…

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Episode 179: The Lifespan of a Diet Trend – Why Some Stick and Others Fade 26:04

8M ago26:04

26:04

Diets come and go, but why do some trends stick while others fade into obscurity? In this episode of the Real World Nutrition Podcast, Shelley takes a deeper dive into diet trends through the decades—from the Grapefruit Diet of the 1950s to the rise of keto and intermittent fasting. What have we learned from these trends? Many diets promise quick f…

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Episode 178: Finding Your Motivation for Consistency with Your Health and Wellness Goals 24:19

9M ago24:19

24:19

We all set goals—whether it’s eating healthier, exercising regularly, or making more time for self-care—but staying consistent can be a real challenge. Motivation is often the deciding factor in whether we stick with our habits or let them slide. This episode breaks down two common motivational approaches: the carrot (reward-based motivation) and t…

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Episode 177: The Connection Between Nutrition and Mood 26:39

9M ago26:39

26:39

In this Real World Nutrition Podcast episode, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Shelley explores the connection between nutrition and mood. While last week’s episode (176) focused on how emotions influence eating habits, today’s discussion flips the perspective—showing how food impacts neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine and affects overa…

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Episode 176: Emotional Eating and How to Manage It 21:51

9M ago21:51

21:51

Do you reach for food when stressed, sad, or overwhelmed? Emotional eating is a typical response to feelings, but it’s not just about food—it’s about how we cope. In this episode of Real World Nutrition, Shelley explores why emotional eating happens, the most common triggers, and how to recognize and manage these patterns. She discusses practical s…

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4 - Life After Fusion: One Year Later 47:39

9M ago47:39

47:39

One year after scoliosis surgery—what’s life really like? In this episode, Becky is joined by Dana Evans to share their experiences one year post-fusion. Together, they reflect on the doubts they faced before surgery, the challenges of recovery, and the changes they’ve experienced since. From pain relief to unexpected adjustments—like learning how …