The Heal Deal Podcast with Dr. Leona

Resilience & Transformation: How Rhonda Released 50 Pounds and Reclaimed Her Health

In this milestone 50th episode of The Heal Deal Podcast, Dr. Leona Allen sits down with Rhonda Williams, an executive coach and returning guest from Episode 19, to explore a story of resilience and transformation.
Rhonda shares how she recently released over 50 pounds through a commitment to a plant-based diet and juicing, overcoming struggles with consistency and building sustainable healthy habits along the way.
Together, they dive into the mindset shifts that empowered Rhonda, her experiences with the Daniel Fast, and the power of self-encouragement and resetting after setbacks.
Rhonda’s inspiring story offers hope, guidance, and practical advice for anyone striving to reclaim their health amidst life’s challenges.
 
In this episode:
 
00:00 Intro
01:01  Milestone Celebration: The 50th Episode01:51  Meet Rhonda Williams: Executive Coach & Health Transformer03:05  Rhonda’s Inspiring Journey of Health Resilience04:51. Facing Health Struggles & Celebrating Triumphs07:49  Essential Tools & Tips for Overcoming Setbacks12:29  The Power of Embracing Imperfection on Your Health Journey15:59  Finding Strength: Embracing the Health Journey22:32  The Real Journey of Weight Loss: Rhonda’s Experience24:19  Navigating Menopause and Health Challenges26:20 The Life-Changing Experience of the Daniel Fast28:05  Discovering Plant-Based Nutrition for Lasting Health31:18   Building and Maintaining Health Resilience36:24  Sustainable Lifestyle Changes for Long-Term Success42:04  Final Thoughts: Rhonda’s Health Plans and Future Goals
 
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I'm making a deal with you to help you remove the physical, chemical, and emotional barriers that are holding you back from getting well. All I need from you is to feel, deal, and heal. Those are the terms, that is the heal deal!
If you enjoyed today’s episode, seal the deal to heal by leaving a review and sharing with a friend.
Thank you for listening! Until next time, go out there and achieve more freedom in your health and your life. Take care!
 
Dr. Leona
Founder, Freedom Health Systems
Host, The Heal Deal Podcast
Author, A Journey to Healing
Author, Freedom in Chains
Author, Shop & Savor

How to Avoid Sugar & Maintain Healthy Habits During the Holidays

In this episode of The Heal Deal Podcast, Dr. Leona Allen uncovers the hidden dangers of sugar, particularly during the holiday season from Halloween to New Year's Day. She breaks down how excessive sugar intake can lead to serious health issues like cardiovascular disease, weight gain, diabetes, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
 
Dr. Leona also reveals the sneaky ways sugar hides in everyday foods and shares practical strategies for helping both adults and children maintain healthy habits. With a focus on avoiding holiday overindulgence, she offers actionable tips on meal planning, mindful eating, and more to kickstart your health journey—before the new year.
Tune in for essential advice to stay on track and support your long-term health goals.
 
In this episode:
 
00:00 Intro01:01 The Holiday Season and Sugar Overindulgence
04:45 The Hidden Dangers of Sugar
05:34 Impact of Sugar on Health
09:33 Sugar and Children's Health
12:21 Building Healthy Habits
12:47 Building Healthy Habits Now
13:33 Handling Holiday Temptations
14:10 Planning Ahead for Success
15:46 Staying on Track During the Holidays
17:05 Mindful Eating and Healthier Choices
18:56 Commit to Your Health Journey
21:55 Resources and Support for Your Journey
 
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Connect with Dr. Leona
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I'm making a deal with you to help you remove the physical, chemical, and emotional barriers that are holding you back from getting well. All I need from you is to feel, deal, and heal. Those are the terms, that is the heal deal!
If you enjoyed today’s episode, seal the deal to heal by leaving a review and sharing with a friend.
Thank you for listening! Until next time, go out there and achieve more freedom in your health and your life. Take care!
 
Dr. Leona
Founder, Freedom Health Systems
Host, The Heal Deal Podcast
Author, A Journey to Healing
Author, Freedom in Chains
Author, Shop & Savor

Boost Your Metabolism with These 5 Foods

In this episode of the Heal Deal podcast, Dr. Leona Allen discusses the impact of metabolism on health, especially as one ages, and identifies five foods that can boost metabolism. She stresses the importance of protein-rich foods such as eggs and lean meats, nutrient-dense options like lentils and leafy greens, metabolism-supporting beverages like green tea and water, metabolism-enhancing spices like chili peppers and ginger, and healthy fats such as avocados. Dr. Leona also emphasizes the importance of balance and lifestyle changes, including exercise and stress management, as part of maintaining a healthy metabolism. Listeners are encouraged to integrate these foods into their diet and consider other lifestyle components to support overall health.
 
In this episode:
 
00:00 Intro02:09 Understanding Metabolism03:28 Protein-Rich Foods to Boost Metabolism08:39 Nutrient-Dense Foods for Metabolic Health11:46 Metabolism-Boosting Drinks13:31 Spices That Fire Up Your Metabolism14:43 Healthy Fats for Metabolism15:27 Incorporating Metabolism-Boosting Foods into Your Diet16:43 Lifestyle Tips for a Healthy Metabolism17:35 Recap and Final Thoughts
 
 
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I'm making a deal with you to help you remove the physical, chemical, and emotional barriers that are holding you back from getting well. All I need from you is to feel, deal, and heal. Those are the terms, that is the heal deal!
If you enjoyed today’s episode, seal the deal to heal by leaving a review and sharing with a friend.
Thank you for listening! Until next time, go out there and achieve more freedom in your health and your life. Take care!
 
Dr. Leona
Founder, Freedom Health Systems
Host, The Heal Deal Podcast
Author, A Journey to Healing
Author, Freedom in Chains
Author, Shop & Savor

The 5 Foods That Are Destroying Your Metabolism

In this episode of the Heal Deal podcast, Dr. Leona Allen, founder of Freedom Health Systems and a seasoned chiropractor and wellness coach, discusses how to achieve more freedom in your health and life. She explores the detrimental effects of five specific foods—sugar, artificial sweeteners, refined oils, processed dairy, and refined grains—on metabolism and overall health. Emphasizing the importance of understanding what to eat and what to avoid, Dr. Leona shares her personal and clinical experiences, advocates for more natural and minimally processed foods, and highlights the significance of making small, gradual changes towards better nutrition. She also stresses the need for individual research and self-awareness to create a personalized approach to health and wellness. Throughout the episode, Dr. Allen encourages listeners to focus on real nutrition and adapt a mindset of eating to live.
 
In this episode:
00:00 Intro
01:01 The Journey to Health and Wellness
02:02 Personal Experiences and Research
05:13 The Importance of Food and Cooking
18:38 Understanding Metabolic Syndrome
24:02 The Impact of Sugar on Health
31:54 The Dangers of Artificial Sweeteners
38:36 The Truth About Refined Oils
40:19 Understanding the Impact of Refined Oils
43:41 Healthier Oil Alternatives
47:38 The Problem with Processed Dairy
51:04 Personal Experience with Raw Dairy
53:59 Making Informed Dairy Choices
01:04:16 The Issue with Refined Grains
01:07:06 Navigating Healthier Grain Options
01:11:53 Final Thoughts on Metabolic Health
01:16:56 Conclusion and Next Steps
 
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Order Your Copy of Shop & Savor
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Connect with Dr. Leona
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I'm making a deal with you to help you remove the physical, chemical, and emotional barriers that are holding you back from getting well. All I need from you is to feel, deal, and heal. Those are the terms, that is the heal deal!
If you enjoyed today’s episode, seal the deal to heal by leaving a review and sharing with a friend.
Thank you for listening! Until next time, go out there and achieve more freedom in your health and your life. Take care!
Dr. Leona
Founder, Freedom Health Systems
Host, The Heal Deal Podcast
Author, A Journey to Healing
Author, Freedom in Chains

Self-Care is the New Sexy with Dr. Shana D. Lewis

In this episode of the Heal Deal podcast, Dr. Leona welcomes Dr. Shana, a distinguished Executive Wellness Coach and Mental Health Expert, renowned for her innovative approach to corporate and high-achieving women's wellness. With over 23 years of experience, Dr. Shana specializes in integrating RADICAL Self-Love practices into the fabric of professional development, emphasizing its critical role in achieving holistic well-being and success. Her work is dedicated to empowering women leaders to prioritize their mental health through tailored strategies that foster resilience, productivity, and personal fulfillment. Dr. Shana's commitment to promoting radical self-love as a foundational element of wellness has made her a sought-after coach and speaker, inspiring a new generation of women to thrive in both their personal and professional lives.
 
In this episode:
01:02 Introduction and Guest Welcome
03:40 Defining Radical Self Care
08:41 Dr. Shana's Personal Journey
14:24 The Importance of Preventative Health
17:19 Challenges and Accountability in Self Care
19:36 The Myth of Effortless Success
20:07 The Saucer Analogy for Self-Care
20:41 The Importance of Self-Care for Women
22:36 Recognizing and Addressing Self-Worth
30:27 The Cultural Shift in Defining Success
34:07 Final Thoughts and Takeaways
 
Connect with Dr. Shana:
Website:             https://www.shanadlewis.com/
Instagram:          https://www.instagram.com/iamdrshana/
Facebook:           https://www.facebook.com/drshanad.lewis
LinkedIn:             https://www.linkedin.com/in/drshana/
TikTok:                https://www.tiktok.com/@iamdrshana
 
Connect with Dr. Leona
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Watch THIS Before Trying Another Diet, Exercise Routine, or Weight Loss Program!
Join The Metabolic Reset Challenge
Become a Heal Deal Patron
 
I'm making a deal with you to help you remove the physical, chemical, and emotional barriers that are holding you back from getting well. All I need from you is to feel, deal, and heal. Those are the terms, that is the heal deal!
If you enjoyed today’s episode, seal the deal to heal by leaving a review and sharing with a friend.
Thank you for listening! Until next time, go out there and achieve more freedom in your health and your life. Take care!
Dr. Leona
Founder, Freedom Health Systems
Host, The Heal Deal Podcast
Author, A Journey to Healing
Author, Freedom in Chains

Transforming Pain into Power: Navigating Life's Challenges with Rev. Jocelyn Jones

In this enlightening episode of The Heal Deal Podcast, Dr. Leona is joined by the inspiring Rev. Jocelyn J. Jones MSW. Jocelyn is a renowned entrepreneur, speaker, and coach dedicated to empowering others through their journeys of healing and transformation.
Rev. Jocelyn is the visionary founder of Women in the Ministry, a community focused on helping women launch impactful ministries. She also leads Faith on the Journey, a ministry committed to healing trauma and fostering resilience. As a Master Facilitator with the Trauma Healing Institute, Jocelyn brings profound expertise and compassion to her work.
With a master's degree in social work from the University of Chicago and a master's degree in theological studies from McCormick Theological Seminary, Rev. Jocelyn combines her academic knowledge with her heartfelt mission to transform lives.
Join Dr. Leona and Rev. Jocelyn J. Jones as they share their personal journeys and discuss how they have transformed their own pain into power. This conversation is packed with valuable insights and practical advice from both Dr. Leona and Jocelyn, offering support and guidance for anyone navigating life's challenges.
 
In this episode:
01:02     Introduction - Learn about Jocelyn's background and her inspiring journey
06:40    Jocelyn's Breakthrough Moments - Key moments that shaped Jocelyn's inspiring journey
11:52     Transforming Pain into Power - Strategies and insights on turning pain into personal strength
15:39     Trauma Changes You - How trauma impacts us and the paths to healing
19:54     Looking Back to Move Forward - The importance of reflection in overcoming challenges
23:54     Working with a Therapist - The role of therapy in healing and personal growth
29:26     Coping Through the Pain - Practical tips and methods for managing pain and adversity
33:19     Breaking Generational Curses - Addressing and overcoming inherited challenges and behaviors
38:10     Removing the Mask - Embracing authenticity and vulnerability in the healing process
41:15     Closing Comments & How to Connect with Jocelyn Jones - Final thoughts and ways to stay connected with Jocelyn
 
Connect with Jocelyn Jones:
Website:             https://www.jocelynjjones.com/
Instagram:          https://www.instagram.com/jocelynjjones/
Facebook:           https://www.facebook.com/connectwithJocelyn
YouTube:            https://www.youtube.com/@faithonthejourney2370
Free Ministry Launch Starter Kit:  https://www.womenintheministry.com/start-your-ministry
 
Connect with Dr. Leona
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LinkedIn
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Website
 
Watch THIS Before Trying Another Diet, Exercise Routine, or Weight Loss Program!
Join The Metabolic Reset Challenge
Become a Heal Deal Patron
 
I'm making a deal with you to help you remove the physical, chemical, and emotional barriers that are holding you back from getting well. All I need from you is to feel, deal, and heal. Those are the terms, that is the heal deal!
If you enjoyed today’s episode, seal the deal to heal by leaving a review and sharing with a friend.
Thank you for listening! Until next time, go out there and achieve more freedom in your health and your life. Take care!
Dr. Leona
Founder, Freedom Health Systems
Host, The Heal Deal Podcast
Author, A Journey to Healing
Author, Freedom in Chains

The Toxins In Your Home That Could Be Making You Sick: A conversation with Therese “Tee” Forton-Barnes

In this episode, Dr. Leona welcomes Therese “Tee” Forton-Barnes. Tee is a Detox Your Home Guru and Health Coach at The Green Living Gurus. She grew up in a very healthy home in the 60’s and 70’s, went to college to open a health food store, and has been helping people for over 40 years keep toxicants out of their homes. She is an entrepreneur, activist, podcast host, and educator. She spreads awareness of chemicals in everyday products that could cause many autoimmune illnesses, cancer, and other health issues. She guides women in creating a less toxic home and lifestyle to ultimately increase the odds of a long, healthy, vital life and a safe environment in their homes. She does all of this through her weekly podcast, Green Living with Tee, her newsletter, blog posts, social media, home detox coaching, and ‘Tee’s Organics’, a line of household products that are healthy for you and your home.
Join the conversation as Dr. Leona and Tee expose the impact of chemicals in our homes and share practical strategies to minimize toxin exposure. Let's navigate the crucial link between health, environment, and everyday products. Tune in for eye-opening insights and empower yourself with knowledge for a healthier future.
 
Key takeaways from this episode:
Learn about the hidden toxins present in common household items and how they can impact health and well-being.
Discover practical tips and strategies to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals in your daily life.
Explore the important connection between personal health, the environment, and the products we use, gaining insights to make informed choices for a healthier lifestyle.
 
Connect with Tee:
Website:  https://thegreenlivinggurus.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greenlivinggurus/
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/GreenLivingGurus/
YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCW7_phs1GZUPzG21Zgjnqtw
LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/therese-tee-forton-barnes-85a821a/
Twitter:  https://twitter.com/teeforton
Tee's Organics and 8 steps to a toxic free home https://thegreenlivinggurus.com/next/8-steps-to-a-toxic-free-home/
Tee's Organics and 8 steps to a toxic free home https://thegreenlivinggurus.com/next/8-steps-to-a-toxic-free-home/
Tee’s Organics: https://thegreenlivinggurus.com/shop-tees-organics/
Amazon store: https://thegreenlivinggurus.com/amazon/
Tee's recommended products: https://thegreenlivinggurus.com/tees-finds/
 
Connect with Dr. Leona
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Become a Heal Deal Patron
Schedule Your Breakthrough Call
Join The Metabolic Reset Challenge
 
I'm making a deal with you to help you remove the physical, chemical, and emotional barriers that are holding you back from getting well. All I need from you is to feel, deal, and heal. Those are the terms, that is the heal deal!
If you enjoyed today’s episode, seal the deal to heal by leaving a review and sharing with a friend.
Thank you for listening! Until next time, go out there and achieve more freedom in your health and your life. Take care!
Dr. Leona
Founder, Freedom Health Systems
Host, The Heal Deal Podcast
Author, A Journey to Healing
Author, Freedom in Chains

The Art of Mindful Eating and Its Impact on Weight Loss: A conversation with Jackie Kirschen

In this episode, Dr. Leona welcomes Jackie Kirschen! Jackie is a weight loss dietitian who successfully lost 65 pounds and kept it off for 14 years. She helps women sustainably lose weight, indulge in the foods they love, end the yo-yo dieting cycle, and conquer binge eating while healing their relationship with food through Mindful Eating. Jackie's helped over 300+ women lose between 20-100+ pounds and achieve the body they desire without ever dieting again. She believes it's time to have your cake and eat it too.
 
Key takeaways from this episode:
Mindful eating can lead to sustainable weight loss without strict dieting methods.
Listening to internal cues and being mindful of food choices can help establish a healthier relationship with food.
Understanding how food makes one feel and making intentional choices based on body cues is key to long-term well-being.
 
Connect with Jackie Kirschen:
Website:  http://eatright4life.com/
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/the.mindful.nutritionist/
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/jaclyn.kirschen
Pinterest:  www.pinterest.com/themindfulnutritionist
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.mindful.nutritionist
Connect with Dr. Leona
Facebook
Instagram
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LinkedIn
Website
 
Become a Heal Deal Patron
Schedule Your Breakthrough Call
Join The Metabolic Reset Challenge
 
I'm making a deal with you to help you remove the physical, chemical, and emotional barriers that are holding you back from getting well. All I need from you is to feel, deal, and heal. Those are the terms, that is the heal deal!
If you enjoyed today’s episode, seal the deal to heal by leaving a review and sharing with a friend.
Thank you for listening! Until next time, go out there and achieve more freedom in your health and your life. Take care!
Dr. Leona
Founder, Freedom Health Systems
Host, The Heal Deal Podcast
Author, A Journey to Healing
Author, Freedom in Chains

Navigating Transitions & Embracing Change as a Gen X'er: A conversation with Michele Walter

In this episode, Dr. Leona welcomes Michele Walter! When Gen X’ers work with Michele, they learn how to move through the uncertainty of transitions with confidence, courage, and consciousness.
After the sudden death of her mom in 2012, Michele began to re-evaluate her “successful” life as an attorney with the U.S. Department of Justice. She battled a decade of depression, anxiety, and a loss of purpose; but, through coaching strategies and mindfulness meditation practices, she learned to create a life of freedom, purpose, and joy. Michele made her biggest transition when she quit her attorney job at the age of 49 to become a full-time entrepreneur.
Michele is a Certified Professional Coach, Certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher, and owner of Life From The Summit. She brings a rebellious, compassionate, and pragmatic approach to guiding other Gen X’ers through transition with proven strategies, tools, and practices.
 
Key takeaways from this episode:
The power of self-reflection and courage in making life-changing decisions.
The importance of aligning one's career with personal values and authentic self-expression.
Navigating transitions and embracing change as a catalyst for growth and healing.
 
Connect with Michele Walter:
Website:  https://www.lifefromthesummit.com/
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/lifefromthesummit/
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/LifeFromTheSummit
TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@life.from.summit
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/michelewalter-lifefromthesummit
YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@lifefromthesummit
Free audio series: The Inner Compass Masterclass https://lifefromthesummit.ck.page/innercompassaudio
 
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Connect with Dr. Leona
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Become a Heal Deal Patron
Schedule Your Breakthrough Call
Join The Metabolic Reset Challenge
 
I'm making a deal with you to help you remove the physical, chemical, and emotional barriers that are holding you back from getting well. All I need from you is to feel, deal, and heal. Those are the terms, that is the heal deal!
If you enjoyed today’s episode, seal the deal to heal by leaving a review and sharing with a friend.
Thank you for listening! Until next time, go out there and achieve more freedom in your health and your life. Take care!
Dr. Leona
Founder, Freedom Health Systems
Host, The Heal Deal Podcast
Author, A Journey to Healing
Author, Freedom in Chains

Is America’s Healthcare System Broken? A conversation with Susan Salenger

In this episode, Dr. Leona welcomes Susan Salenger. Susan Salenger is the author and researcher behind SIDELINED: How Women Can Navigate A Broken Healthcare System. SIDELINED examines the many ways in which some women manage and sometimes mismanage their healthcare.
Susan explores how women, typically the medical gatekeepers for their families, tend to be extremely conscientious about taking care of themselves, yet at the same time inadvertently undermine their own care. They often hesitate to call the doctor when they don’t feel well and worry that their doctor’s visit will take time away from their families or work. They may hesitate to ask doctors the necessary questions and don’t always comply with the doctor’s instructions. Salenger’s research reveals how conflicted many women are about the medical decisions they ultimately make.
Susan also explores the cultural and medical history that has conditioned women not to act in their own best interest. She offers insights into the gender biases of the medical community, explores why women are misdiagnosed more often than men and why they are routinely omitted from clinical trials.
Designed to help women become more consciously aware, SIDELINED will provide readers with the knowledge, language, and skill sets needed to ensure that women are comfortable advocating for themselves when it comes to their own personal healthcare.
 
In this episode:
01:01 Guest introduction: Susan Salenger, Author of SIDELINED: How Women Can Navigate A Broken Healthcare System
04:21 Personal story of Susan's own medical journey and the inspiration behind her book SIDELINED
11:54 Caregiving and its impact on women’s health
20:58 The shame that women feel
30:15 Tips on seeking medical assistance and the importance of doing research
42:43 Racial disparities in healthcare
46:47 Take control of your health
 
Key takeaways:
Women, as primary caregivers, often prioritize family and work over their own health needs.
Susan Salinger's research sheds light on the conflicted nature of women's medical decision-making.
Personal experiences and societal influences play a significant role in women agreeing to unnecessary medical procedures.
The conversation explores the impact of menopause symptoms on women's decisions regarding hysterectomies and other medical interventions.
 
Connect with Susan Salenger:
Website
Instagram
Facebook
TikTok
LinkedIn
Twitter
 
Connect with Dr. Leona
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Instagram
YouTube
LinkedIn
Twitter
Website
 
Become a Heal Deal Patron
Schedule Your Breakthrough Call
Join The Metabolic Reset Challenge
 
I'm making a deal with you to help you remove the physical, chemical, and emotional barriers that are holding you back from getting well. All I need from you is to feel, deal, and heal. Those are the terms, that is the heal deal!
If you enjoyed today’s episode, seal the deal to heal by leaving a review and sharing with a friend.
Thank you for listening! Until next time, go out there and achieve more freedom in your health and your life. Take care!
Dr. Leona
Founder, Freedom Health Systems
Host, The Heal Deal Podcast
Author, A Journey to Healing
Author, Freedom in Chains