EP 174: The 5 Holiday Foods to Boost Your Brain and Energy

Want to feel energized, clear-headed, and healthy during the holidays—not just after them?

In this episode, you’ll learn the exact vegetables and herbs that make your holiday plate taste incredible while secretly protecting your brain and stress levels.

Most holiday foods leave you tired, foggy, and riding the blood-sugar roller coaster. But a few seasonal ingredients do the opposite: they stabilize your mood, support your microbiome, sharpen your focus, and give you steady, calm energy.

Imagine walking into celebrations feeling sharp, vibrant, and balanced… while at the same time bringing simple elevated dishes everyone loves.

Listen now to learn:

• The vegetable that acts like “brain armor” during stress-heavy holidays

• The root that boosts calm, steady energy and supports serotonin

• The herb that instantly enhances focus (even through marathon conversations)

Hit play—and feel your best this holiday season.

Here are the two bonus episodes I mentioned.

https://www.thevireolife.com/podcast/2025/7/31/ep-155-the-summer-bbq-foods-that-boost-your-brainpower

https://www.thevireolife.com/podcast/2024/11/21/ep-118-unexpected-holiday-superfoods-and-how-to-eat-them

And if you’re grabbing fast food between the holiday busy-ness, make sure you get my 21 Fast Food Fixes. Email me at sheri@thevireolife.com and I’ll get it to you!

EP 173: How Hot Is Too Hot? The Truth About Your Morning Coffee

Love your hot coffee, tea, or winter cocoa for a cozy energy lift?

There’s one simple thing most people overlook that can protect your throat and boost long-term wellness: the temperature of your drink.

New research shows that regularly drinking liquids that are “very hot” — even just 10–15 degrees hotter than you realize — can irritate the delicate lining of your mouth and esophagus.

And some studies show an increase risk of cancer of 90%.

But the good news? It's easy to eliminate this increased risk - and you don’t need a thermometer to do it.

In this episode, you’ll hear ...

• A simple at-home temperature experiment I did for you. It makes estimating the temp of your tea super easy.

• What scientists have discovered about 140°F vs. 150°F drinks

• How to use visual cues to tell when your beverage is in the “comfortably hot” zone.

Listen now and learn how to enjoy your winter drinks with cozy confidence.

EP 172: Eat What You Want This Season - Without Regret (Re-Release)

Holiday parties shouldn't come with a side of guilt.

Yet between relatives policing your plate and well-meaning friends pushing "just one more bite," enjoying seasonal food feels like navigating a minefield.

What if you could show up to every holiday gathering with confidence—enjoying the foods you love, handling awkward food comments with grace, and maintaining your energy levels throughout the busiest season of the year? This episode gives you the science-backed framework to do exactly that.

You'll discover the three-part system successful professionals use to navigate holiday eating:

• The Intuitive Eating approach to parties (so you can enjoy special foods without regret)

• Exact scripts to handle food pushers and food police (protecting your boundaries without awkwardness)

• The between-parties eating strategy that keeps your energy high and your body feeling great

No restrictive rules. No January regrets. Just a practical, time-efficient approach that lets you fully participate in the season while keeping your energy up.

This is a re-release of one of our most popular episodes—because this straightforward strategy works year after year.

Listen now so you can walk into your next holiday event with a clear plan and zero food stress.

EP 169: How to Turn Off Inflammation and Turn On Energy - Turmeric

Feeling stiff, tired, or foggy and calling it “just aging”?

Think again.

Chronic inflammation drains your brain, body, and energy… and there are simple science-backed ways to reverse it.

In this episode you’ll learn:

• How to recognize early signs of hidden inflammation.

• The three high-ROI habits that calm inflammation fast.

• The right way to use turmeric (and what most turmeric supplements get wrong).

• How your gut and brain are linked in the inflammation equation.

My guest is Dr. Shivani Gupta—Ayurveda expert, PhD researcher in turmeric, and author of The Inflammation Code.

If you’re ready to feel sharp, focused, and pain-free again—tune in now.

EP 168: Is Halloween Candy Really That Scary?

What's actually scary about Halloween candy is not the sugar.

Before you try to hide the candy corn and mini-chocolates, take a breath — because one night of candy isn’t the problem.

Listen and learn why Halloween treats don’t wreck someone's health — though, of course, daily ultra-processed foods might.

Most important, you’ll learn how to build a healthy, calm relationship with sweets (without guilt or restriction) and why mindful eating is the real secret to balance.

You’ll also hear creative ideas for candy alternatives — from bounce balls that look like eyeballs to pretzels and ghost finger puppets — because Halloween can be fun, inclusive, and still aligned with your wellness values.

Imagine a Halloween where candy isn’t forbidden, kids don’t binge, and you don’t have to stress over sugar.

Instead, you’re teaching awareness, balance, and body trust — lessons that last long after the candy’s gone.

Also, watch the ViREO Life YouTube video to see fun Dollar Store candy-alternative finds.

🎧 Listen now and discover how to enjoy Halloween candy without guilt — and without chaos.

EP 167: You're Not Tired - You're Ultra Processed - Regain Real Energy

You eat what’s healthy - according to the food packages. You exercise. You even get enough sleep most nights.
So why are you still dragging through the day?
Here’s the truth most professionals never hear: it’s not your workload or your willpower—it’s where you’ve been lied to about your food.

Ultra-processed foods are sometimes marketed as “healthy” but they’re actually hijacking your energy, focus, and health.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How ultra-processed foods inflame your brain and dull motivation.

• The hidden ways they create energy crashes and afternoon fog.

• Why even “clean” protein bars, flavored yogurts, or oat milk lattes can work against your performance.

Imagine feeling steady, clear, and alert all day—not wired, not wiped out.
When you upgrade your daily fuel, you regain your natural energy rhythm, sharpen your focus, and improve your health.
You don’t have to overhaul your diet—just learn how to recognize what’s real vs. what’s re-engineered.
Press play and take the first step to getting your real energy back.

EP 165: Traveling for Work? Here's the Secret to More Energy

If travel leaves you running on fumes, you’re not alone.

Between airports, meetings, and hotel food, even the most seasoned travelers feel drained.

But what if you could step into every meeting feeling focused and energized, instead of wiped out?

In this episode you’ll discover how to plan your travel around five key energy zones that make or break your performance:

• Sleep: how to rest well even in noisy hotels

• Stress: what to do when plans change—or people test your patience

• Exercise: creative ways to fit movement in on the go

• Food: how to eat for energy (even with limited options or allergies)

• Sunlight: the underrated secret to staying alert and positive

These aren’t extreme hacks or rigid routines—they’re simple, doable shifts that help you think clearly, feel calm, and show up at your best anywhere in the world.

Listen now.

Then choose the strategy to take on a test-flight.

Because your work deserves your best energy—no matter where you are.

Here are the bonus resource links I mentioned:
How to Eat a Powerful Plate
Meet Your Stress-Busting Avatars

Video of Packing Food for Your Hotel Room

EP 156: Clear Mind, Cool Herbs - Unlock Your Mental Edge

Feeling foggy or distracted lately? Before you reach for another cup of coffee for false-energy, there’s a refreshing solution growing right in your herb garden. Well, or your grocery shelves.

Meet your new focus allies: basil and mint.

These vibrant herbs do more than flavor your meals or scent your tea—they’re packed with science-backed brain benefits. From reducing mental fatigue to boosting clarity and focus, basil and mint might just be your brain’s favorite upgrade.

In this quick, energizing episode, you’ll learn:

• Why mint can help with memory, clarity, and even alertness

• The unique compound in basil that supports executive brain function

• How to enjoy these herbs daily (without becoming a full-time gardener)

Ready to think sharper and feel fresher—naturally?

Tune in now and discover how two simple herbs can unlock your mental edge.

The essential oil spelling I promised - Eugenol and Linalool

Also, here are the resources I mentioned:
Holy Basil vs Sweet Basil Video

Decision Making Mastery: Dopamine, Serotonin, and the Last-Samurai

Got questions? Reach out to me at sheri@thevireolife.com

EP 155: The Summer BBQ Foods That Boost Your Brainpower

Think your summer favorites are just tasty? Think again.

Turns out three BBQ staples are powerful brain boosters hiding in plain sight.

They hydrate your brain, protect your neurons, decrease inflammation, improve your ability to think and problem-solve -- all so you have your best energy and lead better.

Imagine walking into your next meeting with more clarity, energy, and confidence… just by making a few smart swaps at the grill this weekend.

This isn’t about overhauling your diet—it’s about leveraging simple, delicious upgrades that fuel your brain while you enjoy summer.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why 5 key elements in watermelon to boost your brain

• The difference between grass-fed beef and conventional beef for your brain health

• Unique ways to enjoy tomatoes to protect your brain cells

Listen now and give your BBQ a brainpower upgrade.

Reach out with your questions - and favorite recipes for these powerful foods - to sheri@thevireolife.com

EP 152: Use This AI Trick to Eat Smarter - Fast

Too busy to meal plan an energy boost? Decision fatigue hitting hard by lunchtime?

Listen in to learn how to use ChatGPT to simplify nutrition—without obsessing over numbers, strict diets, or complicated prep.

You’ll get:

• Copy-paste prompts to build balanced meals fast

• Ways to customize food ideas to your workday, travel, or energy

• How to use AI to stay consistent—even on the busiest days

No more "what should I eat?" spiral.

Listen now to get the prompts and start eating smarter—without extra effort.

Want to stick with your high-energy habits? Feel free to reach out to me with your questions - sheri@thevireolife.com

EP 143: 10 Healthy-ish Gifts to Elevate Mother's Day

Searching for the perfect (last minute) Mother’s Day gift?

Instead of candle or another mug she won’t use, try something that shows you really listen.

This episode shares 10 creative, healthy-ish gifts that support the things she already cares about—whether that’s less stress, more strength, or better energy.

From a boutique fitness pass to a professional decluttering session, these gifts are thoughtful, quick to prep, and tailored to what she’s been saying she wants.

There are gift ideas to lower her stress, increase her fitness and health, and help her eat better.

Hit play to get inspired and give a gift that lifts her up—mind, body, and mood.

EP 141: Feed Your Focus - How to Eat to Heal Your Brain

If your brain feels slow - or just not like it used to—your food may be the key to getting your clarity and energy back.

Long-term stress doesn’t just wear you down—it physically damages areas of the brain.

The good news? You can reverse some of that damage.

And one of the most powerful ways to start is right on your plate.

In this episode, we’re breaking down the top 3 categories of anti-inflammatory foods that science shows can help heal your brain.

No extreme diets. No biohacking fads.

Just real, evidence-based nutrition that supports your focus, mood, and mental stamina.

You’ll learn:

• What to eat to reduce brain inflammation

• How certain foods support neurogenesis and brain repair

• The truth about powerful nutrients like astaxanthin (and what to eat to get it)

• The simplest way to start healing your brain through everyday meals

Feel more capable and focused again.

This episode is for you.

sheri@thevireolife.com

Email me for the free bonus guide to brain-boosting foods.

EP 136: Organic vs Conventional - Are You Paying for Health or Hype?

Is organic really worth your effort? Or are conventional veggies just as good for your wellness and energy? With so much conflicting advice, it’s time to cut through the noise and get the facts.

In this episode, we’re breaking down the real pros and cons of organic vs. conventional vegetables, the Environmental Working Group’s Dirty Dozen and Clean 15, and whether washing your produce is enough to remove pesticides. You’ll learn:

✅ Which veggies you should buy organic—and which ones don’t matter

✅ How pesticides impact your health (and what the research actually says)

✅ The best ways to clean conventional produce—and what doesn’t work

You'll hear favorite stories from my childhood, growing up on an, admittedly, conventional farm. And how I learned from that why the worst pesticide offenders are often because of where they're grown.

If you want to make informed, confident choices about your food without fear-mongering, this episode is for you.

Hit play now to find out if organic is worth it—or if you’re just paying for hype!

EP 135: Yummy Veggies Made Easy - Quick Hacks for Busy Lives

Want to eat more veggies, but struggling to fit them in?

Whether you're short on time or just not a fan, eating more vegetables doesn’t have to be a chore.

This episode is packed with fast, easy, and even sneaky ways to boost your veggie intake—without forcing down food you don't love.

From quick side dishes to smart restaurant choices, you'll learn five simple strategies (and tons of tasty ideas) to vegetable effortless.

✅ The easiest way to sneak more veggies into meals you already love

✅ Smart snacking tricks (that actually taste good!)

✅ A simple weekly habit that transforms your veggie intake

✅ How to get more vegetables when dining out

✅ Lightning-fast side dishes that take less than 5 minutes

If you’ve ever wished eating healthy was easier, these hacks will change the game.

Pick 2-3 ideas from this episode and start today!

Want even more simple delicious veggie recipes? Check out my YouTube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/vireolife

Hit play now and let’s make eating vegetables easy and enjoyable!

EP 134: Surprising Superfoods - 10 Vegetables That Supercharge Your Health

You already know vegetables are good for you—but what if I told you some of the most powerful ones aren’t even on your radar?

These 10 veggies do more than just fill your plate. They supercharge your energy, support a healthy gut-brain connection, boost skin health, regulate your body's pH, and even help protect against heart disease and cancer.

We’re going beyond the usual suspects today.

Think arugula, beets, eggplant—yes, even radishes! Each one comes packed with unique benefits that your brain and body will love. Plus, you'll hear exactly why these vegetables deserve a starring role in your meals.

Want to feel more energized, focused, and vibrant every day? These underrated superfoods can help. Also hear my three favorite unique books on making vegetables fast, easy (and delicious!) to eat.

Hit play now to discover which 10 vegetables can transform your health—and how to start adding them to your meals today.

Don’t forget to share this episode with a friend who needs a veggie boost!

EP 132: The Lazy Genius Hack to Beat Burnout

What if 80% of your energy gains come from just 20% of your efforts?

You don’t have to do everything to feel your best—just the right things.

Over a century ago, an Italian engineer and gardener noticed something strange: 20% of his pea plants produced 80% of the harvest. That same principle—now known as the Pareto Principle—applies to your health, energy, and even your workouts. The key to feeling amazing isn’t doing more—it’s doing what matters most.

Imagine getting stronger, more focused, and recharged without spending hours on routines that don’t actually move the needle.

Whether it’s your morning ritual, workouts, or stress management, the right 20% of effort can deliver the majority of your results.

Learn how to identify those high-impact habits and cut the excess that drains you.

Ready to work with your body instead of against it?

Tune in now to discover how the 80/20 rule can transform your energy and wellness.

For my Feel Great - Be Great: The Ultimate Guide to Beating Burnout simply email me at sheri@thevireolife.com

EP 123: How to Build Fitness and Food Routines You'll Love

Are you tired of starting fitness routines you don't enjoy - or don't stick to?

Imagine having a simple, customizable system that boosts your energy, supports your health goals, and fits seamlessly into your busy life.

In this episode, you'll learn exactly how to create a wellness system that works for you. Whether your goal is sharper focus, more physical strength, or simply feeling great, you’ll learn how to:

• Identify your unique fitness and food goals.

• Align your plan with your values and schedule.

• Make adjustments that fit your changing seasons and priorities.

With this system, you’ll finally feel energized and in control of your health without getting overwhelmed.

What if you could have more energy and health — without trying a cookie-cutter program? The secret lies in building a system tailored to your lifestyle, goals, and constraints. And I’ll show you exactly how to test and fine-tune your plan to make it stick.

Ready to maximize your energy and simplify your wellness? Tune in now to learn how to create a system that gets you results.

Remember to grab your copy of the Healthy Fast Food Guide. It's your cheat sheet for when your nutrition routine needs some on-the-go support. Email me at sheri@thevireolife.com and I'll get it to you.

EP 121: Holiday Survival Guide - Energy, Wellness, and Joy Made Easy

Holiday parties, road trips, and endless to-do lists don’t have to zap your energy or derail your wellness.

What if you could breeze through the season feeling balanced, energized, and calm? In this episode, I’m sharing 5 easy hacks to keep your wellness in check, no matter how wild the holiday schedule gets.

Here’s a sneak peek:

• The must-know party trick for balanced energy (and it’s so simple).

• Why ditching your green bean casserole could save your sanity.

• A clever way to get your steps in—even during back-to-back Zoom calls.

• My go-to strategies for eating and moving well on road trips.

• The one daily habit that can keep holiday stress at bay.

Imagine enjoying the holidays without crashing. These tips are quick to implement and proven to work for busy professionals like you. You don’t have to choose between indulging and feeling great—you can have both!

Tune in now to transform your holiday season with these 5 practical hacks.

Here are the two road trip videos I mention -

Moving Well for a Long Road Trip

Eating Well for a Long Road Trip

EP 120: Stop Running on Empty - Reclaim Your Energy Now

Are you feeling drained before the day even begins? Pushing through exhaustion with caffeine and willpower isn’t a long-term strategy—it’s a ticking time bomb. If you’re ready to stop running on empty and start thriving, this episode is for you.

Discover the surprising reasons why your energy feels depleted and the simple shifts that can make a world of difference. We’ll cover:

• Why quick fixes like caffeine and energy drinks only mask the problem.

• The hidden ways your daily habits are draining your resources.

• Powerful, easy-to-implement strategies to replenish your energy and stay sharp.

This isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing smarter so you can perform at your best without burnout.

Imagine starting each day with calm, steady energy - sharp and capable, no matter how busy life gets. These tools can help you make it your reality.

Don’t wait until burnout forces you to slow down. Tune in now to learn how to reclaim your energy and take control of your high-impact life.

This podcast is for busy leaders and professionals wanting more energy for their high performance life.

For Feel Great - Be Great: The Ultimate Guide to Beating Burnout, email me at sheri@thevireolife.com

EP 119: Warning Signs You're Near Burnout - And How to Recover

Feeling unfocused or constantly “off your game”?

These could be more than just a bad day—they’re also the starting signs of burnout.
In this episode, Dr. Jae, a 25-year expert in holistic health, reveals how busy professionals can spot the subtle signals their bodies are sending. We explore the energy “gap” that widens over time and why it’s not just about getting older.

Learn how to recognize early warning signs like fatigue, joint pain, and hair loss before they lead to chronic issues. Plus, discover practical strategies to close the gap, replenish your resources, and regain control of your energy—even in a demanding career.

Don’t wait for burnout to take over. Tune in now and take the first step toward recovery and resilience. And don’t miss next week’s episode, where Dr. Jae dives into decoding your bloodwork for peak performance!

Here’s the episode to help you master stress with my Stress-Busting Avatars.