

The Healing Catalyst
Dr. Avanti Kumar Singh
If you’ve ever felt dismissed, confused, or overwhelmed when it comes to your health — you’re not alone. And you don’t have to keep guessing.
Welcome to The Healing Catalyst Podcast, where science meets soul — and healing meets real life.
Hosted by Dr. Avanti Kumar-Singh, a Western-trained physician and lifelong practitioner of Ayurveda, this podcast is your invitation to take your health into your own hands. With over two decades of experience integrating modern medicine and ancient healing traditions, Dr. Avanti is on a mission to change the way we think about health — making it more holistic, more inclusive, and more human.
Each week, you’ll hear conversations with leading experts in integrative medicine and mind-body healing — along with authors, teachers, and thought leaders — to explore what it really takes to cultivate health and longevity.
Dr. Avanti simplifies the science of the core pillars of well-being — gut microbiome, nervous system balance, hormonal regulation, and circadian rhythm — all through the lens of time-tested practices that support the whole person: body, mind, and spirit.
And because women’s health is too often overlooked or misunderstood, she focuses on it here — with real, actionable guidance for navigating burnout, fertility, sexual well-being, perimenopause, and menopause with clarity and confidence.
The Healing Catalyst Podcast is your home for knowledge, tools, and inspiration to stop chasing symptoms, and start living in true health and wellbeing.
New episodes drop on Tuesdays. Follow now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen — and start your journey to empowered, sustainable health.
Welcome to The Healing Catalyst Podcast, where science meets soul — and healing meets real life.
Hosted by Dr. Avanti Kumar-Singh, a Western-trained physician and lifelong practitioner of Ayurveda, this podcast is your invitation to take your health into your own hands. With over two decades of experience integrating modern medicine and ancient healing traditions, Dr. Avanti is on a mission to change the way we think about health — making it more holistic, more inclusive, and more human.
Each week, you’ll hear conversations with leading experts in integrative medicine and mind-body healing — along with authors, teachers, and thought leaders — to explore what it really takes to cultivate health and longevity.
Dr. Avanti simplifies the science of the core pillars of well-being — gut microbiome, nervous system balance, hormonal regulation, and circadian rhythm — all through the lens of time-tested practices that support the whole person: body, mind, and spirit.
And because women’s health is too often overlooked or misunderstood, she focuses on it here — with real, actionable guidance for navigating burnout, fertility, sexual well-being, perimenopause, and menopause with clarity and confidence.
The Healing Catalyst Podcast is your home for knowledge, tools, and inspiration to stop chasing symptoms, and start living in true health and wellbeing.
New episodes drop on Tuesdays. Follow now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen — and start your journey to empowered, sustainable health.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 26, 2023 • 56min
The Ayurvedic Plate Pt 3: Oil, Herbs, Dairy, & Meat with Divya Alter
In the concluding episode of the 3-part “Go Deeper” series, Dr. Avanti continues her conversation with Chef Divya Alter, a master in Ayurvedic culinary arts. They dive deep into the nuances of herbs, spices, oils, dairy, and meat. Divya distinguishes between herbs and spices, highlighting the significance of each in Ayurvedic cooking. She underscores the medicinal properties of spices, particularly their role in digestion. The discussion on oils emphasizes the virtues of fresh, cold-pressed olive oil and the nourishing qualities of cultured ghee, while delving into the Ayurvedic perspective on dairy — advocating for milk from happy, grass-fed cows. Divya sheds light on the importance of sourcing and the ethical considerations behind food choices, emphasizing the profound connection between nourishment and one's life purpose.Today on The Healing Catalyst:Herbs vs. spices: understanding their roles in cookingThe health benefits of ghee and olive oilNourishing and medicinal properties of dairyAyurveda's perspective on meat’s medicinal use and ethical sourcingFood's role in energy, strength, and supporting one's life purposeConnect with Divya:Website: divyas.comInstagram: @divyaalter Cookbooks: What to Eat for How You Feel / Joy of BalanceSign up: Divya’s Masterclass Series Listen: 97. The Ayurvedic Plate Pt 1: Grains, Lentils, and Spices with Divya AlterListen: 98. The Ayurvedic Plate Pt 2: Vegetables, Fruits, & Nuts with Divya AlterResources:Energy Fix Quiz: avantikumarsingh.com/quiz Leave a voice message for Avanti: “Ask Me Anything”Sign-up to be a member of The Healing Catalyst Collective to access resources for this episode. Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Sep 19, 2023 • 1h 19min
The Ayurvedic Plate Pt 2: Vegetables, Fruits, & Nuts with Divya Alter
In part 2 of the three-part "Go Deeper" series on the Ayurvedic plate, Dr. Avanti and Chef Divya Alter continue their exploration of food and its impact on health. This episode delves into the food groups of vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds. Divya, a pioneering chef and author with nearly 30 years of experience in Ayurvedic cooking, shares her insights on the differing perspectives between Western and Ayurvedic nutrition. The duo discusses the various subgroups of vegetables and fruits, offering tips on eating fruits for better digestibility and incorporating nuts and seeds into a balanced diet. With her deep knowledge and passion for teaching, Divya provides invaluable cooking tips for each food group. This episode serves as a continuation of part 1, where they discussed medicinal vs. daily foods and the food groups of grains, lentils, and beans. Stay tuned for the upcoming part 3, where they will discuss herbs and spices, oils, dairy, and conclude with a discussion on meat.Today on The Healing Catalyst:Exploring the subgroups of vegetables & their nutritional benefitsFruits: maximizing health benefits and guidelines for digestibilityNuts and seeds: what and how to eat & which to avoidDivya’s top cooking techniques for veg, fruits, nutsConnect with Divya:Website: divyas.comInstagram: @divyaalter Cookbooks: What to Eat for How You Feel / Joy of BalanceSign up: Divya’s Masterclass Series Listen: 97. The Ayurvedic Plate Pt 1: Grains, Lentils, and Spices with Divya AlterResources:Energy Fix Quiz: avantikumarsingh.com/quiz Leave a voice message for Avanti: “Ask Me Anything”Sign-up to be a member of The Healing Catalyst Collective to access resources for this episode. Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Sep 12, 2023 • 57min
The Ayurvedic Plate Pt 1: Grains, Lentils, and Spices with Divya Alter
In part 1 of a 3-part series, Dr. Avanti is joined by returning guest Chef Divya Alter, a renowned expert in Ayurvedic nutrition and cooking. Together, they delve deep into the Ayurvedic perspective on food, emphasizing its medicinal properties and the significance of individual constitution and seasonality. From the role of spices to the benefits of ancient grains like barley, the conversation offers a comprehensive look at Ayurvedic dietary principles. Divya also shares invaluable tips on cooking lentils and beans and the art of balancing meal components for optimal health.Today on The Healing Catalyst:Ayurveda's View on Food: the balance between daily and medicinal foodsThe significance of grains like barley & rice in Ayurvedic dietsLentils and Beans: digestive benefits and cooking methodsThe importance of balancing meal components & using spicesConnect with Divya:Website: divyas.comInstagram: @divyaalter Cookbooks: What to Eat for How You Feel / Joy of BalanceSign up: Divya’s Masterclass Series Listen: 70. Holiday Eating: Recipes & Tips for Digestion with Divya AlterResources:Energy Fix Quiz: avantikumarsingh.com/quiz Leave a voice message for Avanti: “Ask Me Anything”Sign-up to be a member of The Healing Catalyst Collective to access resources for this episode. Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Sep 5, 2023 • 24min
5 Essential Steps to Eat for Health
Today, Dr. Avanti explores the transformative power of Ayurvedic Eating Principles and their potential to reshape our eating habits. By redefining our relationship with food, we can harness its medicinal qualities, leading to improved digestion, vitality, mindset, and holistic health. Dive deeper into the nuances of why the type of food in Ayurveda might not be as crucial as you think, and gather actionable insights to weave this wisdom into your daily routine.Today on The Healing Catalyst:Transforming your body's reaction to the foods you eatComparing Western food ideologies with Ayurvedic beliefsEmphasizing mindfulness during mealsAligning your meals with the natural rhythms of the dayThe value of seasonal eating and the magic of ancestral recipesThe 3 ways we relate to food to help us make better choicesResources:Energy Fix Quiz: avantikumarsingh.com/quiz Referenced episode: 5. Finding Balance in Nature and in OurselvesLeave a voice message for Avanti: “Ask Me Anything”Sign-up to be a member of The Healing Catalyst Collective to access resources for this episode. Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Aug 29, 2023 • 2min
Quick Summer Update: From Healing to Hope
Dr. Avanti shares a heartfelt update on her summer, emphasizing the importance of reflection as we transition from summer to fall. She opens up about her personal healing journey and gives a sneak peek into the exciting content planned for the upcoming months. Tune in, and remember, healing starts with you. Energy Fix Quiz: avantikumarsingh.com/quiz Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.This show is produced by Soulfire Productions

Jul 18, 2023 • 59min
My Path to Wellness: Daily Rituals and Must-Have Tools
In today's episode, Dr. Avanti, alongside her Director of Content, Ruth Hinkle, responds to your inquiries about her daily routine, favorite wellness tools, and products. Join them as they navigate through Dr. Avanti's day from morning to evening, discussing strategies to optimize hormonal balance and maintain a healthy circadian rhythm. This episode offers valuable insights, encouraging listeners to tap into their own feelings to personalize their wellness routines for optimal health.Today on The Healing Catalyst:The role of routine in overall wellnessInside look at Avanti's daily routineHormone regulation in Avanti's morning routineAvanti's favorite wellness tools: what she uses and whyIdentifying optimal times for work and creativityTools and techniques for circadian rhythm maintenanceProducts:Oil pulling: www.terraandco.com Nasal rinse: NeilMedSkincare: www.sahajan.com Red Light Therapy: www.raoptics.comAbhyanga: Daily Massage OilAG1 Greens: drinkag1.com LMNT electrolytes: drinklmnt.com Spicewell: thespicewell.com Kitchari: divyas.com 15% off with discount code AVANTI15Spices: diasporaco.com Resources:Listen: 33. Hack Your Circadian Rhythm for Sleep, Energy & FocusListen: 62. Food as Medicine: The 5 Principles for EatingListen: 84. Finding Purpose: A Journey to Better Health with Raina KumraListen: 85. Go Deeper: A Guide to Ayurvedic Detox with Divya AlterLeave a voice message for Avanti: “Ask Me Anything”Sign-up to be a member of The Healing Catalyst Collective to access resources for this episode.Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Jul 11, 2023 • 46min
Reviving the Inner Child: Play, Fun, and their Impact on Health with Dr. Trish Phillips
In this episode, we're discussing the profound connection between fun, play, and health, following our new monthly intention of July. Joining us is Dr. Trish Phillips, known as the “Doodle Doc”, a seasoned clinical psychologist who uniquely integrates creativity and art in her therapeutic approach. We delve into the essence of inner child work, discussing its importance and how it fosters healing through the simple joys of play and fun. Delve deeper as we navigate the fine line between play and fun, and explore how our attachment styles impact our accessibility to the inner child. Lastly, Dr. Trish provides practical advice on how to initiate the exploration of play and fun through creativity and art. Tune in to uncover the transformative power of play, fun, and inner child work on our overall health.Today on The Healing Catalyst:Exploring the concept of inner child work and its importanceThe role of play in connecting with our inner childThe difference between play and funThe influence of attachment styles on accessing our inner childPractical strategies for incorporating play and fun through creativity and artConnect with Dr. Trish:Website: www.thedoodledoc.comInstagram: @doodledocYouTube: Dr. Trish Phillips Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Jun 27, 2023 • 44min
The Power of Storytelling: Exploring Identity & Connection with Sundeep Morrison
Sundeep Morrison is an award-winning queer, non-binary Punjabi Sikh actor, writer, and director whose work focuses on social justice, sexuality, and gender. Sundeep uses storytelling as a means of exploring personal identity and connecting with others. Dr. Avanti and Sundeep’s conversation delves into the significance of creative expression and the power of storytelling. They share their personal practices to support creativity, emphasizing how important it is to tap into our inner selves and express ourselves creatively. Together, they explore the interplay between creativity and health.Today on The Healing Catalyst:Importance of creative expression through a multitude of platformsExploring personal identity through the power of storytellingThe profound connection between storytelling and self, others, and the worldAbout Sundeep's acclaimed works, "Rag Head" and “Your Love”Sundeep's daily routines and practices for supporting creativityConnect with Sundeep:Instagram: @sundeepmorrison Website: sundeepmorrison.com Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Jun 20, 2023 • 1h 7min
Birthing Creativity with Rea Frey
In this episode, Dr. Avanti welcomes Rea Frey, an award-winning and best-selling author known for her fiction and nonfiction books. Rea, also known as the "book doula," shares her personal journey of becoming a writer, including the health challenge that inspired her first novel. They discuss the importance of creativity in our lives, highlighting the distinction between creating, consuming, and producing. Rea offers insights into filling one's creative cup through practices like journaling and allowing the mind to wander. Their conversation also touches on the unexpected impact of motherhood on her writing and how she nurtures herself and her family.Today on The Healing Catalyst:Rea Frey's journey as an author and her health challengeThe differences between creating, consuming, producingFilling the creative cup: The power of journaling and allowing the mind to wanderNurturing oneself through intentional self-care and conscious decisionsMotherhood's impact on Rea's writing and personal nourishmentConnect with Rea:Instagram: @reafreyauthor Website: www.reafrey.com Preorder: The Other Year Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

Jun 13, 2023 • 49min
Harmony in Design: Maria Cornejo's Approach to Fashion and Well-Being
In this episode, Dr. Avanti is joined by Maria Cornejo, a renowned fashion designer known for her sustainable and inclusive approach to fashion. Maria shares her journey into the fashion industry, from being a young immigrant in England to establishing her brand in New York City. They discuss the importance of sustainable fashion and how Maria's designs aim to make both herself and other women feel good, emphasizing the need for harmony in all aspects. Maria also opens up about her experience with breast cancer and the valuable lesson she learned about self-care. She highlights the role of creativity in her health and well-being, the impact of nurturing one's creativity, and the importance of finding happiness in small things.Today on The Healing Catalyst:Maria Cornejo's journey into the fashion industrySustainable fashion: Connecting with the world around usCreating clothing that empowers womenLessons learned from breast cancer and the importance of self-careNurturing creativity for health and well-beingFinding happiness in the little things and slowing down in lifeConnect with Maria:Instagram: @zeromcornejo Website: zeromariacornejo.com Connect with Dr. Avanti:Subscribe, Rate and Review: The Healing Catalyst podcastWebsite: avantikumarsingh.comAvanti’s Book: The Health CatalystInstagram: @avantikumarsinghPodcast: The Healing CatalystThe Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.


