In this episode of Real Life Unplugged, Katherine sits down with Elena, a Master level dietetic student preparing to become a registered dietitian, to discuss their studies around mood and food. Together, they discuss the gut-brain axis, neurotransmitters, chronic stress, inflammation, and how blood sugar regulation can impact mental health, all through a compassionate, trauma-informed lens.

This conversation gently unpacks common misinformation and offers practical, realistic ways to support your mental health through nourishment without guilt, shame, or rigid rules.

This episode is educational and not a replacement for therapy or medical care.

Resources available in the show notes below. 💛

• For PDF Resources (Bingo Card, Journal Prompts) provided by Elena: Real Life Unplugged Podcast | Integrated Wellbeing
• To Connect with Elena (LinkedIn): Elena Engelke | LinkedIn
• To View Elena's Mood and Food Blog: (Link Coming Soon!)

Help Elena Gain Further Information for Her Studies!

• Mood and Food Podcast Episode Knowledge Check: Pre-Podcast
• Mood and Food Podcast Episode Knowledge Check: Post-Podcast

Connect with Integrated Wellbeing Consulting and Coaching at www.integratedwellbeingconsulting.org!

In this solo episode, Katherine explores why relationships can feel different in recovery, how to set boundaries without shame, how to talk about recovery in ways that feel safe, and how to navigate grief when certain dynamics no longer fit.

We cover:

• Why awareness can make relationships feel harder before they feel clearer

• Trauma-informed boundary setting

• Disclosure as a choice, not an obligation

• Friendship shifts, romantic green flags, and family complexity

• Gentle reflection questions to support your healing

This episode is about discernment, compassion, and learning how to stay connected without losing yourself.

You are allowed to grow. You are allowed to protect your recovery. You are allowed to choose what supports your healing.

For one-on-one mental health and recovery-focused health education coaching, visit:
🌿 www.integratedwellbeingconsulting.org🌿www.recoveryiwc.org

Resources:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (U.S.) or visit ⁠https://988lifeline.org⁠

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – Treatment locator: ⁠https://www.samhsa.gov/find-treatment⁠

• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Support & education: ⁠https://www.nami.org⁠

• SMART Recovery – ⁠https://www.smartrecovery.org⁠

Have you ever felt like everyone else has it figured out—while you’re just trying to get through the day?

In this episode of Real Life Unplugged, we explore the comparison game: why we fall into it, why it feels so convincing, and how comparing our real, behind-the-scenes lives to someone else’s highlight reel can quietly impact our mental health, self-trust, and nervous system.

This is a compassionate, trauma-informed conversation about:

• why comparison shows up (especially during hard seasons)

• how social media and highlight reels distort reality

• the emotional and nervous-system cost of constant comparison

• what glimmers are, and how they help us find moments of safety and beauty without forcing positivity

• gentle, practical ways to come back to your own life and values

This episode isn’t about “thinking positive” or pretending things are okay. It’s about learning how to notice what’s real, grounding, and meaningful...even when life feels messy or uncertain.

If comparison has been loud lately, this episode offers validation, compassion, strategies, and a gentle reminder you may need right now:

You’re not behind. You’re not broken. You’re living a real life.

Important Note:This episode is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for mental health care, medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing ongoing distress or are in need of additional support, we encourage you to reach out to a licensed mental health professional or a trusted support resource.Episode 28 – Real Life Unplugged Podcast