Monthly Archives: February 2025

    Categories Health, Podcast

    Brain Fog, Memory Loss & Cognitive Decline: How to Keep Your Mind Sharp for Life

    Most of us don’t think about brain health until we—or someone we love—starts experiencing memory issues. But what if you could take steps now to keep your mind sharp and vibrant?

    In this episode of Talk to Vicky, RHN: A Total Approach to Wellness, I dive deep into the many factors that contribute to cognitive decline and, more importantly, what you can do today to protect your brain. From the role of movement and nutrition to the surprising impact of social isolation, we break down simple, effective strategies to support long-term cognitive health.

    🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways:

    • What Really Causes Dementia? Dementia doesn’t have a single cause, but poor nutrition, toxins, inflammation, insulin resistance, stress, and lack of movement all contribute to cognitive decline.
    • The Power of Movement for Brain Health: Daily movement isn’t just for fitness—it stimulates new neural pathways and protects against cognitive decline. Simple habits like stretching, walking, and resistance training can make a huge difference.
    • Good, Better, Best: Optimizing Your Nutrition: The role of nutrient-dense foods in reducing brain inflammation and supporting cognitive function. Why cutting back on refined carbs and adopting a brain-friendly diet is essential.
    • Insulin Resistance & Brain Function: A lifetime of high-glucose foods can lead to insulin resistance in the brain, affecting memory and cognition. Learn how to stabilize blood sugar and improve brain health.
    • The Hidden Danger of Chronic Inflammation: Everyday habits contribute to inflammation that accelerates cognitive decline. Discover how reducing inflammation through nutrition and lifestyle changes can keep your brain sharp.
    • The Gut-Brain Connection: The health of your gut microbiome plays a key role in brain function. Learn how balancing gut bacteria can improve cognition, mood, and overall wellness.
    • Social Isolation & AI: The Silent Threat to Brain Health – Human connection is essential for mental sharpness. With increasing reliance on AI and digital interactions, real-life conversations and engagement are more important than ever.
    • Creating Brain-Healthy Habits: Small daily changes—like mindful movement, quality sleep, and proper nutrition—can have a big impact on brain health over time.

    We talk about:

    • 00:00 Introduction: Why We Care About Health
    • 01:05 Understanding Dementia and Alzheimer’s
    • 01:56 Contributing Factors to Dementia
    • 02:58 Addressing Contributing Factors
    • 03:26 The Importance of Movement
    • 04:23 Nutrition and Cognitive Health
    • 06:01 Insulin Resistance and Inflammation
    • 10:19 The Role of Isolation and AI
    • 12:09 Conclusion and Program Information

    Check out my Memory Method Program: https://vicky-hachey.mykajabi.com/memory-method-program

    Sign up for the Loving Your Liver Program
    https://vicky-hachey.mykajabi.com/loving-your-liver-to-keep-your-brain-happy

    Free Handout: Take Back Your Sleep, So You Can Take Back Your Day:
    https://vicky-hachey.mykajabi.com/get-to-sleep-stay-asleep

    Free Handout: Essential OIls Tips and Ideas Guide:
    https://vicky-hachey.mykajabi.com/essential-oils-tips-and-ideas 

    Connect with Vicky


    DISCLAIMER:  As a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, my job is to promote personal awareness and is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose diseases or treatments.You must see a medical professional for a diagnosis or treatment.

    This Podcast is brought to you by VOLT Productions (www.voltproductions.co).

    https://youtu.be/BwaobyhjQZ0
    Categories Podcast

    Thriving After Breast Cancer!  Learn how Movement & Community Empower Recovery

    Are you or someone you know navigating life after breast cancer? Recovery isn’t just about medical treatments—it’s about movement, community, and finding the right support system to thrive.

    In this episode of Talk to Vicky, RHN: A Total Approach to Wellness, I sit down with Deb Hannah and Anne Marie Collingwood, two amazing women who have dedicated their lives to supporting breast cancer survivors through movement, education, and connection. With over 16 years of experience running the Encore Program at the YWCA in Hamilton, they share how this free eight-week program empowers women after breast cancer treatment.

    Deb and Anne Marie’s personal experiences with breast cancer have fueled their passion for helping others regain strength, confidence, and community. They discuss how movement, education, and camaraderie play a vital role in recovery and long-term well-being.

    🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways:

    • The Power of Community in Healing: Why having a support network of women who “get it” can make all the difference in post-cancer recovery.
    • Encore: A Specialized Exercise Program for Survivors – Using gentle movement, strength training, and water therapy to help women regain mobility and confidence.
    • Overcoming Fear of Water: Why hydrotherapy is a game-changer for post-surgery recovery, even for those hesitant about water-based exercise.
    • Knowledge is Power: How educational sessions with nutritionists, physiotherapists, and wellness experts equip women with the tools to move forward after treatment.
    • Bone Fit & Osteoporosis Prevention: How resistance training and balance work can prevent bone loss and improve strength for women post-treatment.
    • The Emotional Side of Recovery: Why creating a space for women to share their experiences can be just as healing as physical movement.
    • What Happens After Encore? The launch of Encore Plus, Beyond Breast Cancer Pilates, and Walk, Talk & Wander to provide ongoing movement and community support.
    • A Reminder for All Women: The importance of regular breast health checks, mammograms, and advocating for your own health.

    We talk about:

    • 00:00 Introduction
    • 01:20 Meet the Guests: Deb Hannah and Anne Marie Collingwood
    • 02:59 The ENCORE Program: Origins and Impact
    • 05:22 Program Details: What to Expect
    • 07:04 Overcoming Water Fears and Additional Support
    • 10:25 Encore Plus: Extending the Support
    • 12:03 Bone Fit: Strengthening Bones Post-Treatment
    • 17:39 Final Thoughts and Tips


    Connect with Anne-Marie and Deb
    JOIN ENCORE: New session every season. https://www.ywcahamilton.org/encore-plus/


    Check out my Memory Method Program: https://vicky-hachey.mykajabi.com/memory-method-program 

    Free Handout: Take Back Your Sleep, So You Can Take Back Your Day:
    https://vicky-hachey.mykajabi.com/get-to-sleep-stay-asleep 

    Sign up for the Loving Your Liver Program
    https://vicky-hachey.mykajabi.com/loving-your-liver-to-keep-your-brain-happy

    Free Handout: Essential OIls Tips and Ideas Guide:
    https://vicky-hachey.mykajabi.com/essential-oils-tips-and-ideas 

    More information about programs running through the YWCA

    Connect with Vicky


    DISCLAIMER:  As a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, my job is to promote personal awareness and is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose diseases or treatments.You must see a medical professional for a diagnosis or treatment.

    This Podcast is brought to you by VOLT Productions (www.voltproductions.co).

    https://youtu.be/1_Lp2eB58rY
    Categories Podcast

    Trusting Your Gut: How Following Wellness Led to a Life-Changing Career with Kate Maguire

    Are you feeling stuck in a career that doesn’t align with your passion? Making a major life transition can be intimidating, but following your gut might just lead you to a more fulfilling path.

    In this episode of Talk to Vicky, RHN: A Total Approach to Wellness, I sit down with Kate Maguire, president of CLM Health Group and a passionate advocate for natural wellness. Kate shares her journey from working in politics to founding a nationwide natural health distribution company—a bold move that changed her life and health for the better.

    We explore the challenges she faced, the impact of self-advocacy in healthcare, and how taking a leap of faith led her to a career that fuels both her passion and purpose.

    🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways:

    • Breaking Free from the Wrong Career – How ignoring your inner voice can impact your mental and physical health, and why it’s never too late to pivot.
    • The Power of Natural Health – How Kate’s experience with a naturopath transformed her health and inspired her mission in the wellness industry.
    • Self-Advocacy in Healthcare – Why taking control of your own health decisions is crucial, and how to explore alternative wellness solutions beyond conventional medicine.
    • Building a Wellness Business from Scratch – How Kate went from a political staffer to running a multi-million dollar natural health distribution company.
    • The Science Behind Allicin, NAD & Joint Health – A deep dive into Allimax (garlic’s powerful active compound), Tru- Niagen (NAD for energy & aging), and Nutravite (joint health cream).
    • How to Align Your Career with Your Passion – A step-by-step reflection on evaluating your strengths and making a meaningful career shift.

    We talk about:

    • 00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Following Your Passion
    • 01:43 Kate’s Journey: Leaving Politics for Wellness
    • 04:03 Discovering Natural Health: A Life-Changing Experience
    • 07:19 Building a Business: From Omega-3s to a $20 Million Brand
    • 10:59 CLM Health: Representing Outstanding Natural Health Brands
    • 11:47 Spotlight on Products: Tru Niagen, Nutravite, and Allimax
    • 15:01 The Power of Garlic: Allimax and Its Benefits
    • 22:12 Giving Back: Supporting Communities and Future Goals
    • 23:53 Conclusion: The Importance of Self-Advocacy and Natural Health

    Free Handout: Essential OIls Tips and Ideas Guide:
    https://vicky-hachey.mykajabi.com/essential-oils-tips-and-ideas

    Free Handout: Take Back Your Sleep, So You Can Take Back Your Day:
    https://vicky-hachey.mykajabi.com/get-to-sleep-stay-asleep 

    Sign up for the Loving Your Liver Program
    https://vicky-hachey.mykajabi.com/loving-your-liver-to-keep-your-brain-happy

    Check out my Memory Method Program: https://vicky-hachey.mykajabi.com/memory-method-program 

    Connect with Kate

    Connect with Vicky


    DISCLAIMER:  As a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, my job is to promote personal awareness and is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose diseases or treatments.You must see a medical professional for a diagnosis or treatment.

    This Podcast is brought to you by VOLT Productions (www.voltproductions.co).

    https://youtu.be/tr2s-CLP8s8
    Categories Podcast

    All About Essential Oils: Myths, Uses & Safety Tips with Dr. Thalia Charney, ND (inactive)

    Are essential oils really as natural and safe as they seem? From lavender and peppermint to citrus and rose, essential oils have been used for centuries for their aromatic and therapeutic properties. But how can we ensure we’re using them safely and effectively?

    In this eye-opening episode of Talk to Vicky, RHN: A Total Approach to Wellness, I sit down with Dr. Thalia Charney, ND (inactive), a naturopathic doctor (inactive) and the Nutrition and Health Education Manager for Now Brand Canada. With 30 years in the health industry, Dr. Thalia brings a wealth of knowledge to debunk common myths, explain the science behind essential oils, and share the best ways to use them safely.

    Dr. Thalia is also the author of The Confident Food Shopper, The Three-Minute Liquid Meal Blueprint, and The Expert Patient: Health is Not a Spectator Sport. Her background in holistic health and nutrition gives her a unique perspective on essential oils and how they fit into a healthy lifestyle.

    If you’ve ever wondered how to choose high-quality essential oils, whether organic really matters, or why ingesting essential oils might not be a good idea, this episode is packed with must-know insights to help you make informed choices.

    🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways:

    • Essential Oils 101 – How they’re made, their potency, and the importance of steam distillation.
    • Safe vs. Unsafe Uses – Best practices for diffusing, topical application, cleaning, and why ingesting them can be dangerous.
    • Organic vs. Non-Organic – The truth about purity, pesticides, and whether organic essential oils are worth it.
    • Boosting Mood & DIY Recipes – The best citrus oils for winter blues and a luxurious roll-on perfume blend.
    • Storage & Safety – How to store oils properly, avoid oxidation, and keep pets safe around essential oils.

    We talk about:

    • 00:00 Introduction to Essential Oils
    • 02:09 What Are Essential Oils?
    • 03:14 Extraction Methods
    • 04:31 Uses of Essential Oils
    • 07:43 Safety Tips for Essential Oils
    • 13:24 Quality and Organic Considerations
    • 16:47 Daily Use and Practical Tips
    • 21:30 Mood-Boosting Essential Oils for Winter
    • 25:00 Favorite Recipes and Final Tips
    • 28:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Free Handout: Essential OIls Tips and Ideas Guide:
    https://vicky-hachey.mykajabi.com/essential-oils-tips-and-ideas

    Free Handout: Take Back Your Sleep, So You Can Take Back Your Day:
    https://vicky-hachey.mykajabi.com/get-to-sleep-stay-asleep 

    Sign up for the Loving Your Liver Program
    https://vicky-hachey.mykajabi.com/loving-your-liver-to-keep-your-brain-happy

    Check out my Memory Method Program: https://vicky-hachey.mykajabi.com/memory-method-program

    Connect with Dr. Thalia Charney, ND (inactive)

    Connect with Vicky

    DISCLAIMER:  As a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, my job is to promote personal awareness and is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose diseases or treatments.You must see a medical professional for a diagnosis or treatment.

    This Podcast is brought to you by VOLT Productions (www.voltproductions.co).