Green Living with Tee

This week, Tee welcomes Dr. Paul Dabney, NMD, MPH, M.Ed., a naturopathic physician and CEO of The Center for Natural Health and Optimal Wellness, for a conversation on rethinking diabetes care through prevention and integrative medicine. With over 20 years of experience in clinical research, medical writing, and public health, his work has included contributions to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, The Food and Drug Administration, Michigan State University School of Veterinary Medicine, and The U.S. Army Medical Corps, along with teaching roles in naturopathic education. In this episode, Dr. Paul shares how his path into naturopathic medicine was shaped by both scientific training and personal heritage. Drawing from his background in microbiology, antimicrobial resistance, and public health, along with his mother's Cherokee-based healing traditions, he offers a perspective that bridges conventional and holistic care. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Paul emphasizes that while medications can be helpful, they may also contribute to nutrient depletion or unintended side effects in some cases. He highlights the importance of key nutrients such as zinc, vitamin D, magnesium, and vitamin B6, along with foundational lifestyle factors like sleep, stress management, cortisol balance, and access to quality food. He also shares practical strategies to support blood sugar stability, including simple combinations like pairing fruit with proteins and healthy fats. This episode reinforces that lasting health comes from consistent, informed choices. If you are looking to take a more proactive approach to your health, this conversation offers both clarity and actionable steps. Connect with Dr. Paul: Website LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Dr. Paul is offering a 15% discount on the first 1-hour of consultation. Just mention the code Green Tee when you call his office @ (706) 244-4948 Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air The Green Living Gurus' Website Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868 DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

This week, Tee is excited to welcome Chris Burres for an in-depth look at longevity and the power of ESS60 supplements. Chris is the founder and chief scientist at MyVitalC, author of Live Longer and Better, host of the Uncovering the Secrets to Longevity Health Summit, and host of the Live Beyond The Norms Podcast. His life's mission is to help people live longer, healthier, happier, pain-free lives with science. Together, Tee and Chris explore key drivers of aging, including oxidative stress, inflammation, stem cell decline, and telomere shortening. Chris introduces ESS60, a carbon-based molecule discovered at Rice University, and explains its potential role in supporting mitochondrial health through his BOSS (Buffering Oxidative Stress System) theory. Chris also discusses reported user benefits such as improved energy, sleep, and recovery, along with product formats, dosing considerations, and upcoming research initiatives. The conversation concludes with insights into pricing and a special discount opportunity for listeners. Special Discount Code Offer Connect with Chris & MyVitalC: Website Podcast Book Instagram Facebook TikTok YouTube LinkedIn Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air The Green Living Gurus' Website Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868 DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

This week, Tee welcomes Caleb Granger, the founder and President of Apex Medical, to explore the emerging science behind stem cell-derived exosomes and their potential role in healing, regeneration, and longevity. Caleb explains that many forms of chronic decline are not simply the result of aging, but of reduced cellular communication and diminished regenerative signaling in the body. Caleb breaks down the science behind exosomes, which are nano-sized particles released by stem cells that carry proteins, growth factors, and biological instructions that help coordinate repair and healing across tissues and organs. Drawing on more than 25 years of experience working on the business side of spine, neurosurgery, orthopedic surgery, and medical device innovation, Caleb explains the difference between stem cell therapy and exosome therapy. Much of the healing potential associated with stem cells comes from the signals they release rather than the cells themselves. Because exosomes are acellular, they cannot replicate or transfer full genetic information, which many researchers believe may make them a safer way to deliver regenerative signals. Tee and Caleb also discuss how exosomes are sourced from donated placental and umbilical tissue, and screened rigorously to maintain the highest safety standards. The conversation also explores how exosome therapies may help address systemic inflammation and support recovery in conditions such as joint degeneration, cartilage damage, tendon and ligament injuries, neurological conditions, tinnitus, and metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes. Caleb also shares insights on delivery methods, including IV therapy and injections, and explains why these therapies remain largely outside traditional insurance coverage and how he and his team are looking to change that! Connect with Caleb and Apex Medical: Website LinkedIn Instagram TikTok Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air The Green Living Gurus' Website Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868 DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

This week, Tee sits down with Dr. Chris DeArmitt, founder of the Plastics Research Council and author of The Plastics Paradox and Shattering the Plastics Illusion (both available as free PDFs), to unpack some of the most persistent myths surrounding plastics, microplastics, waste, and human health. Dr. DeArmitt explains that his work began after his daughters were taught in school that plastics do not degrade, a claim he says is false and led him to independently review roughly 6,000 scientific studies, sharing primary sources publicly to encourage verification rather than fear-based conclusions. Dr. DeArmitt also argues that public perception of plastics is largely shaped by media narratives and unexamined online claims, often reinforced by billionaire- and NGO-funded campaigns that conflate plastics with fossil fuels while overlooking full lifecycle analyses. He points to studies comparing grocery bags, noting that plastic frequently has a lower overall environmental impact than paper or cotton unless reusable bags are reused many times. He also challenges widely repeated claims like the "Texas-sized floating plastic island," calling it a myth rooted in translation errors and hypothetical modeling, and says measured samples from ocean gyres show predominantly fishing gear, with minimal consumer items such as plastic bags. The conversation turns to health and household concerns, where Dr. DeArmitt maintains that FDA-approved food-contact plastics are rigorously tested for safety and that "natural" does not automatically mean non-toxic. While Tee remains cautious—sharing a personal BPA test result linked to a coffee maker—DeArmitt clarifies that BPA is not used in most common plastics and is more closely associated with polycarbonate products and thermal receipts, while phthalate exposure can come from sources like perfumes and certain medications. They also discuss recycling as helpful but overemphasized, arguing it does little to address litter, which Dr. DeArmitt attributes largely to behavior and enforcement rather than materials. The episode closes with a shared call for listeners to verify sources, understand labels, and make informed choices amid competing industry and advocacy narratives. Connect with Dr. Chris: Plastic Research Council The Plastics Paradox Shattering the Plastics Illusion LinkedIn Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air The Green Living Gurus' Website Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868 DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

This week, Tee welcomes Paul Kealey, founder of EkoBuilt, for a grounded conversation on why "the house is medicine." Paul explains how many conventional homes are built vapor-closed yet leaky, trapping moisture inside walls and roofs and creating long-term mold exposure that quietly degrades indoor air quality, stresses the immune system, and impacts overall health. The episode traces Paul's journey from teacher to builder and how discovering the Passive House Institute standard fundamentally changed his approach to home design. Together, they break down practical, achievable steps for improving existing homes—testing air and dust for mold and VOCs, integrating ERV/HRV ventilation, upgrading to MERV 13+ filtration, and sealing leaks with tools like Aeroseal, all aimed at reducing the cumulative "home hangover" caused by stacked environmental stressors. Tee and Paul also explore often-overlooked issues such as elevated overnight bedroom CO₂ levels, humidity imbalance, and wildfire resilience. Citing findings from the Harvard Healthy Buildings Institute, Kealey explains how poor indoor air can impair sleep quality and cognitive function. The conversation closes with a clear takeaway: healthier homes aren't about perfection, but about thoughtful design choices that steadily improve comfort, resilience, and long-term health. Connect with Paul and EkoBuilt: Website Instagram YouTube Facebook TikTok Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air The Green Living Gurus' Website Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868 DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

This week, Tee welcomes Kyle Hulbert, CEO of The Longevity Center and co-host of Longevity Unlocked, for a grounded discussion on how heavy metals can disrupt brain chemistry and contribute to anxiety, depression, irritability, brain fog, and long-term cognitive decline. Kyle shares his personal journey through unexplained fatigue and deteriorating mental health, which was ultimately traced back to mercury toxicity and low testosterone, followed by significant improvement through physician-guided detoxification and hormone optimization. The episode breaks down common sources of heavy-metal exposure, how different metals affect the body and brain, and the role of clinic-based chelation therapies such as EDTA and DMPS. Tee and Kyle explain The Longevity Center's methodical approach, emphasizing comprehensive bloodwork before any intervention, and they highlight practical, everyday ways to reduce toxic inputs using trusted resources like The Environmental Working Group and MadeSafe. Kyle also offers a clear warning about the risks of DIY heavy-metal detox protocols and why professional oversight matters. Tee and Kyle also explore water testing and filtration as a foundational step in toxin reduction. The conversation concludes with an important reminder: stay informed but level-headed. Reducing exposure is a gradual process, and panic or chronic stress about toxins can be just as harmful as the toxins themselves. Connect with Kyle and The Longevity Center: Website Podcast LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air The Green Living Gurus' Website Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868 DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

This week, Tee is excited to welcome Derek Hales, founder and editor of NapLab. With more than 11 years of experience, Derek has personally tested over 500 mattresses to deliver objective, data-driven reviews and recommendations. He shares how a frustrating in-store mattress shopping experience with his wife sparked the idea for NapLab and ultimately led him to build one of the most trusted sleep-review platforms available today. Derek breaks down the rigorous, hands-on testing methods used at NapLab and outlines the key factors consumers should consider when purchasing a mattress. The conversation covers mattress materials, performance differences across types, the role of toxicity and off-gassing in mattress production, and common misconceptions that often mislead buyers. The episode also underscores the critical role quality sleep plays in overall health and well-being. Tee and Derek close with practical, actionable advice for making a confident mattress purchase, along with guidance on where listeners can find additional resources and personalized recommendations through NapLab. Connect with Derek and NapLab: Website Nap Quiz LinkedIn Instagram YouTube Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air The Green Living Gurus' Website Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868 DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

This week, Tee is delighted to welcome Monica Cox for a conversation about fertility. Monica is a holistic functional fertility coach and the founder of Finding Fertility, a coaching platform and podcast dedicated to helping women discover the root causes of "unexplained" infertility. Monica's professional work is rooted in her personal nine-year struggle with infertility. Despite being told by doctors she could not conceive naturally, she eventually became a mother to two boys—one through IVF and one naturally. Together, Tee and Monica discuss the importance of reducing environmental toxins, managing stress, and improving gut health to boost fertility naturally. Monica shares her struggles with unexplained infertility, her transition to a toxin-free lifestyle using a paleo diet, yoga, and functional medicine, and how she ultimately succeeded in having children. The conversation emphasizes the significance of avoiding endocrine disruptors, detoxing before conception, and the impact of a clean lifestyle on future generations' health. The discussion also touches on the benefits of holistic living beyond fertility, offering practical tips for minimizing toxins in daily life. Connect with Monica: Website Instagram Blog & Podcast Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air The Green Living Gurus' Website Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868 DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

This week, Tee welcomes Sarah Vilenskiy, the founder of Blossom Essentials, for a look into the often-confusing world of healthy skincare. Sarah shares her personal journey with severe and sensitive skin, which led her to create Blossom Essentials. Frustrated by the overwhelming amount of greenwashed marketing and conflicting advice, Sarah has made it her mission to cut through the noise and provide people with clear, science-backed solutions to low-tox skincare and wellness. In this chat, Sarah and Tee discuss the importance of understanding product ingredients, the misleading nature of terms like 'natural' and 'clean,' and the critical role of a strong skin barrier. In addition, they emphasize the need to scrutinize labels and avoid harmful chemicals like fragrances and silicones. Packed with practical guidance and real-world insights, this episode offers clear, actionable steps to help listeners make informed skincare decisions, protect both themselves and their loved ones, and reduce overall toxic exposure in pursuit of long-term wellness. Connect with Sarah and Blossom Essentials: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Use Discount Code GLG15 Between Feb 2 and Feb 15, 2026, for a 15% Discount on All Orders Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air The Green Living Gurus' Website Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868 DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon

In this milestone 300th episode of Green Living with Tee, Tee reflects on the show's incredible journey dedicated to helping listeners live healthier, greener lives, while also looking ahead to the urgent work still to be done. Over the past 300 episodes, the show has explored everything from sustainable living and zero-waste strategies to organic farming, eco-friendly products, and the growing impact of toxic chemical exposure on our health. To mark this special occasion, Tee dives deeper into one of the most important pillars of green living: reducing toxins in our everyday environment. With more than 80,000 chemicals currently allowed in the U.S. marketplace, and only 11 banned, many of the products we use daily, from cleaning supplies and personal care items to food packaging and drinking water, may contain substances linked to hormonal disruption, respiratory issues, chronic illness, and more. This episode offers clarity, empowerment, and practical guidance without overwhelm, reminding listeners that meaningful change happens one step at a time! Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Environmental Working Group Made Safe Follow Therese "Tee" Forton-Barnes and The Green Living Gurus: Austin Air Purifiers: For podcast listeners, take 15% off any Austin Air product; please email Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com and mention that you want to buy a product and would like the discount. See all products here: Austin Air The Green Living Gurus' Website Instagram YouTube Facebook Healthy Living Group on Facebook Tip the podcaster! Support Tee and the endless information that she provides: Patreon Venmo: @Therese-Forton-Barnes last four digits of her cell are 8868 For further info, contact Tee: Email: Tee@thegreenlivinggurus.com Cell: 716-868-8868 DISCLAIMER: ALL INFORMATION PROVIDED HERE IS GENERAL GUIDANCE AND NOT MEANT TO BE USED FOR INDIVIDUAL TREATMENT. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR PROVIDER OR DOCTOR FOR MEDICAL ADVICE. Produced By: Social Chameleon