Integrated Being

In this conversation, Dr. Keith Somers shares his journey in pediatrics, reflecting on the importance of family meals, nutrition, and preventive health. He discusses the evolution of pediatric care, the role of family in shaping dietary habits, and the significance of mindfulness in eating. The dialogue emphasizes the need for intentional conversations around food and health, culminating in the in...

What if you packed not just your suitcase but your intention? It can be a challenge to maintain mindfulness amid the chaos and fast-paced routines of life. Even in the shifting seasons of travel for work or summer family vacations, you can stay intentional with your life. Whether you're navigating a new season, a life stage, or a physical journey, it’s important to take time to slow down, refl...

In this episode, Elizabeth Cook and Keith Somers delve into the profound impact of the sense of smell on our food experiences. They explore how smell is intricately linked to memory and emotion, influencing our perceptions and connections to food. The conversation also touches on the prenatal influences on taste and smell, emphasizing the importance of a varied diet during pregnancy. Additionally,...

In this conversation, we delve into the principles of longevity as outlined in the book 'The Blue Zones.' They discuss the importance of lifestyle habits, the role of the senses in eating, and the significance of community and mindful eating in promoting health and well-being.

The journey is as important as the destination. As a culture, we value future achievements and external accomplishments over the process of being and becoming. This emphasis can lead to a disintegrated way of life that leaves us feeling empty, isolated, and alone. If you’re feeling a sense of restlessness and discontentment in life, now is a good time to examine the impact that self-awareness, emo...

Remember: Your nervous system is not a machine. Welcome back to Integrated Being , where we explore the intersection of leadership, life, and living well—mind, body, and spirit. This month, I want to gently, but honestly, remind you: your nervous system is not a machine. We often talk about leadership from a cerebral space—strategy, performance, decisions. But leadership is also felt. It’s in how...

In this conversation, we explore the themes of healthy eating for families, particularly focusing on the concept of 'eating the rainbow.' They discuss the nutritional benefits of colorful foods, the importance of family meals, and how language influences children's perceptions of food. The conversation also touches on traditional knowledge, the role of storytelling in nutrition, and pr...

In this episode of the Integrated Being podcast, Elizabeth Cook explores the themes of intentional living, joy, and leadership, particularly in the context of parenting. She shares personal stories and insights on how to navigate the chaos of life while staying grounded and centered. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, mindfulness, and the power of journaling as tools fo...

In this conversation, Elizabeth Cook and Keith Somers explore the themes of nutrition, holistic health, and mindful eating, drawing insights from T. Colin Campbell's book Whole. They discuss the importance of understanding food as a whole rather than in isolated parts, the challenges of maintaining healthy eating habits, and the role of family and community in shaping food choices. The convers...

In this engaging conversation, Elizabeth Cook and Keith Somers explore the significance of family meals, the importance of mindful eating, and the challenges posed by ultra-processed foods. They discuss practical tips for meal planning, the emotional connections tied to food, and the need for intentionality in nutrition. The dialogue emphasizes the value of generational wisdom and the impact of th...

Illuminating Being is a podcast co-hosted by Keith Somers, M.D., a practicing pediatrician and advocate for plant-based nutrition and healthy lifestyles, and Elizabeth Cook, Ph. D., a published author, mom, business owner, and executive coach. The podcast delves into the interconnectedness of food, mindfulness, and community, offering actionable steps to help listeners create intentional, sustaina...

What is in your control? We all grow up believing in specific systems and institutions. As I navigate raising teenage children while caring for aging parents, I’m struck with the reality of our current culture’s changes. From resilience and transformation to the pursuit of joy amidst uncertainty, in this episode of Integrated Being I draw on insights from Ryan Holiday's Daily Stoic and Sahil B...

In this conversation, Elizabeth Cook and Dr. Keith Somers explore the differences between processed and whole foods, discussing how these choices impact our bodies, energy levels, and gut health. They emphasize the importance of understanding nutrition and making small, manageable changes towards heaIn this conversation, Elizabeth Cook and Dr. Keith Somers explore the differences between processed...

In an increasingly chaotic world, one thing has become clear: trust is in short supply. Whether in industries like energy, technology, or even our personal lives, distrust has created roadblocks to progress, innovation, and meaningful connections. But amidst the noise and uncertainty, there is hope—and it lies in rediscovering creativity, fostering trust, and finding purpose. In today’s podcast an...

In this conversation, Elizabeth and Keith explore the journey of healthy living and eating, emphasizing the importance of making food choices relatable and accessible. They discuss the role of parents in shaping children's food habits, touch on the principles behind food and nutrition, and the significance of family meals and community rituals. The dialogue highlights the transformative power...

Elizabeth Cook and Dr. Keith Somers explore the interconnectedness of health, nutrition, and community support in this conversation. They discuss the value of continuous learning in the medical field, the role of education in nutrition, and the impact of dietary choices on overall health. The conversation highlights the need for a holistic approach to wellness, the significance of community in hea...

As the New Year unfolds, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the past and setting intentions for the future. But have you ever paused to explore the philosophy behind those intentions? Philosophy isn’t just for scholars; it’s about the love of wisdom and how we integrate that wisdom into our daily lives. At Integrated Being, we focus on unlocking joy and creating purposeful connections between...

As the end of the year approaches, we find ourselves in a whirlwind of emotions, activities… & let’s be honest, a little overconsumption. It’s a time of reflection, celebration, and connection, but it can also be an overwhelming season. This year, I’m leaning into simplifying and reconnecting with what truly matters—joy, intentionality, and presence. This week on the Integrated Being Podcast ,...

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel disconnected. As we rush from one task to the next, we often lose sight of the importance of meaningful connections. Community and tradition—two fundamental aspects of human experience—are powerful tools that not only ground us but also enrich our lives with purpose and joy. This week on the Integrated Being Podcast , my co-host Brianna and I explored...

The only thing we truly have & own are our words. I’ve recently grown in my understanding and appreciation for embracing the gravitas of the gift this platform has been in my life to share wisdom from my own life experiences and cultivate a growth-minded community. The ability to share information is more readily accessible in this digital age and with this ability comes a great responsibility...

“Transitions are not just about doing more. They're about doing what matters." As we transition from summer into fall, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and lose the true sense of joy in who we are with endless to-do lists and jam-packed schedules of activities. Transitional seasons are an opportunity to learn how to show up for ourselves from a space of awareness where you fill yourself up wi...

“The realization of success comes from within.” After we achieve the basic necessities according to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, I have found the universal desire to connect to a higher power and spiritual realm. A quest for success is often inexplicably wrapped up in a grappling with questions about what it means to achieve. Success is deeply personal and varies from one individual to another, an...

“Journaling can be the game changer.” Journaling is a powerful tool for gaining clarity in life. From the importance of self-awareness to stress reduction and problem-solving, journaling can enhance our creativity and improve memory while bringing clarity to our lives in new ways. I realize I come from a place of abundance and seek to share my perspective on the benefits journaling has brought to...

"A big part of finding your joy is truly identifying what you want in life." Integrated Being is a space where I share about finding your joy & the habits that you can use to create an intentional life. Whether it's the value of setting goals, choosing the right resources, or scheduling time in your day to learn, we dive into ways of applying knowledge and reflecting and adjustin...

Did you know there are major health benefits to getting outdoors every day? Whether it’s a lush forest, a serene local park, or your garden, nature has a way of calming our minds and restoring our bodies. Some studies show that being in nature can lower your cortisol levels, the stress hormone in the body. If we live with elevated cortisol levels from daily stresses and don’t actively find ways to...