Naturopathic Futures Podcast

Welcome to the very first episode of the Naturopathic Futures Podcast with your host, Tammy Guest — naturopath, mentor, educator, and long-time champion of the naturopathic profession. In this introductory episode, Tammy sets the stage for what this podcast is really about: creating meaningful conversations that bridge the art and philosophy of naturopathic medicine with the science and evidence base that supports it. With nearly two decades of experience across clinical practice, education, research, and mentoring, Tammy shares her passion for the ecosystem of natural health, its people, its medicine, and its unique place in the future of integrative healthcare. Tammy reflects on the power of nuance, the importance of optimism in our profession, and the richness that comes from having a wide spectrum of tools and perspectives. This episode is an invitation to listen, to learn, to challenge, and to share. Whether you’re just starting your practitioner journey or have been walking the path for decades, this podcast is for you. Expect perfectly imperfect conversations filled with golden insights, heartfelt reflections, and bold visions for the future of natural health. Share this with a colleague and keep the conversation going because the future of our profession is built in connection. 💬 “Not all of it will be for you, but some of it might be exactly what you need.” – Tammy Guest Want more inspiration and support as a practitioner? Join the Natupreneur Membership and surround yourself with like-minded, future-focused change-makers.

Today we are honoured to invite Kira Sutherland to the Naturopathic Futures podcast, with the utmost admiration for her journey into naturopathy. Kira shared her background, explaining that she grew up in California in the 1970s with exposure to both scientific and alternative health practices. After an accident and subsequent health issues, she was introduced to naturopathy, which led her to pursue further education in the field. A journey that now spans 30 years, 25 of which also include teaching as a lecturer. Kira shared her journey into naturopathy, which began in Germany after a health crisis led her to an Austrian naturopathic fasting clinic. She described her transformational experience and subsequent education in Australia, where she found a strong naturopathic community. Tammy and Kira discuss the unique position of naturopathy in Australia, noting its acceptance and flexibility compared to other regions of the world where it may be illegal or less accepted. They acknowledged the blessing of being able to practice and teach naturopathy in Australia's "grey zone" without the need for a doctorate. Kira and Tammy discussed the intersection of science and holistic healing, emphasising the energetic aspect of healing. They highlighted the importance of empowering clients to advocate for their own health and become self-sufficient, with Kira sharing her philosophy of teaching clients enough so they no longer need her services. They also touched on the joy of seeing clients transform into practitioners themselves, spreading the knowledge they've gained. Tammy and Kira discuss the challenges and evolution of naturopathy, particularly in Australia, highlighting its identity crisis and the need to balance evidence-based practices with traditional healing principles. Kira emphasised the importance of preserving the profession's historical roots while embracing modern advancements, envisioning a future where naturopathy integrates both science and sacred practices. They also explored the profession's growing visibility and acceptance, thanks in part to social media and increased public awareness, while acknowledging the frustration of not always receiving credit for long-held health principles. Guest: Kira Sutherland Kira is a distinguished lecturer, mentor and practitioner, and faculty member of the Naturopathic Futures Academy. Her experience and wisdom are shared in the ‘Forgotten Healing Arts’ subjects.  If you’d like to explore Kira’s Sports Nutrition expertise, see www.uberhealth.com.au If you would like to dive deeper into her sacred side, explore her work at www.astrologyofhealth.com For more information on enrolling in the Naturopathic Futures Academy www.naturopathicfutures.com

In this insightful episode, Tammy Guest chats with Hannah Boyd, current President of the Naturopaths & Herbalists Association of Australia (NHAA), about her unique journey from film editing to clinical naturopathy. Together, they explore the creative crossover between arts and health, the power of storytelling in practice, and the foundational principles that make naturopathy such a transformative profession. Hannah shares her perspectives on the value of education, the important role of professional associations, and how being a teacher and learner supports our growth as clinicians. You’ll also hear her reflections on the challenges facing the profession (like regulation, recognition, and accessibility) and why a global perspective matters more than ever. This conversation is both visionary and practical, reminding us how our diverse backgrounds enrich our profession and how we can co-create a future that keeps naturopathic care accessible, vibrant, and valued worldwide. Episode Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction 00:34 – Hannah’s Shift from Film to Naturopathy 06:34 – Arts & Health: Where Creativity Meets Healing 13:08 – Core Naturopathic Philosophy 19:05 – Education & the ‘Doctor as Teacher’ Role 26:34 – Global Views & the World Naturopathic Federation 40:01 – Top Challenges Facing Naturopathy 46:44 – Navigating Regulation & Recognition 54:40 – Associations & Advocacy 1:01:20 – Improving Access to Naturopathic Care 1:08:59 – Hannah’s Vision for the Future 1:15:20 – Closing Wisdom Listen in to get inspired about your role in the future of natural health, and discover how to lead the way forward with courage, creativity, and connection. Hannah's Clinic: Nu-Leaf Naturopathic Health Ready to take your practice to the next level? Join the Natupreneur Membership to stay inspired, educated, and supported every step of the way!

In this deeply engaging episode, Tammy Guest sits down with the brilliant and multifaceted Dr. Moira Bradfield Strydom — naturopath, researcher, teacher, and renowned expert in vaginal microbiome and intimate ecology. Moira shares her winding journey into naturopathy, from nearly studying art or marine biology to becoming a globally respected voice in integrative health. Through stories of study, travel, burnout, reinvention, and academic rigor, Moira opens up about what it really means to craft a career in naturopathy that’s aligned with both purpose and passion. 🌿 Episode Highlights include: Her early leap into naturopathy straight from high school and a sliding doors moment that changed her life International experiences, including apothecary work and teaching in the UK The evolving seasons of naturopathic life: travel, motherhood, reinvention, and deepening specialisations Her transition into acupuncture, research, and finally a PhD The development of her signature framework, Intimate Ecology A candid exploration of challenges within the profession: from practitioner burnout to online infighting Her vision for the future of naturopathy: more evidence-based dialogue, stronger practitioner networks, and continued relevance in a world where people are still getting sicker Moira’s chosen principle? First, do no harm — reimagined for a modern world that requires trauma sensitivity, inclusivity, and critical inquiry. 💬 “You can reinvent yourself at any time in this profession and still be of profound service.” – Dr. Moira Bradfield Strydom Whether you're a student, clinician, researcher, or lifelong learner, this episode offers rich wisdom on how to navigate a fulfilling and sustainable naturopathic career. Learn more about Moira’s work in Intimate Ecology and access her trainings. https://intimateecology.com.au/education/  Episode Timestamps 0:00 — Introduction 1:35 — Early Interest in Naturopathy 3:29 — Work Experience at Goulds Natural Medicine 5:34 — Making It as a Naturopath 9:18 — Early Career and Private Practice 10:46 — Traveling to Thailand and the UK 13:10 — Working at Neal's Yard and Teaching 15:02 — Returning to Australia 16:53 — Career Seasons and Opportunities 18:20 — The Value of Apothecary Experience 21:25 — Pursuing a PhD 23:03 — Balancing Multiple Income Streams 25:45 — Why We Weren't Talking About Vaginal Health 27:45 — First Do No Harm - A Nuanced Principle 29:45 — Trauma-Informed and Inclusive Practice 30:45 — Challenges in the Naturopathic Profession 33:52 — Critical Inquiry and Research Skills 35:52 — Vision for the Future of Naturopathy 38:01 — People Are Getting Sicker - We're Still Needed 41:35 — Contributing to the Body of Evidence 41:40 — Closing Remarks

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