In this fascinating episode, I speak with Katie Kirkland, a certified functional nutrition counselor and registered nurse from Cincinnati, Ohio, who shares her inspiring journey from nurse to functional nutrition coach.

Katie opens up about her personal health challenges, including anxiety, depression, gut issues, and cervical dysplasia, and how she transformed her understanding of nourishment—beyond dieting—to a truly individualized, whole-body approach.

We explore:

• The importance of patching health "holes" with a holistic, functional nutrition strategy
• The vital role of bowel movements and how your poop acts as a free daily health report for your body
• How to interpret stool color, texture, and frequency to gain insights into hydration, inflammation, digestion, and gut health
• Key lifestyle pillars she focuses on with clients: blood sugar management, sleep, and regular elimination
• Strategies to eat for nourishment—with balanced protein, fat, and fiber at every meal
• Practical tips for eating whole foods, even when dining out or navigating cultural food norms
• How to identify good-quality meat and prioritizing local, nutrient-dense food choices
• Why a sustainable, personalized approach beats one-size-fits-all diets

Katie also shares her coaching model: a three-month, one-on-one virtual program designed to partner with clients on a marathon of healing aimed at improving long-term health inside and out.

• Understanding the body's signals through bowel health
• Functional nutrition as a lifestyle, not a diet
• Eating rainbow-colored fruits and vegetables for fiber diversity
• Navigating food culture and making nourishing choices on the go
• Sustainable habits for lasting change

• Website: katiekirklin.com
• Instagram and LinkedIn: Search Katie Kirkland

💚 This episode is a must-listen for anyone wanting to deepen their connection with their body, understand their gut health, and start making small, impactful changes today.