Mona-Vated

Most people are cooking with oils that they think are healthy, but are wreaking havoc on their inflammation levels… and even their olive oil isn’t doing what they think it is. In this episode, Mona sits down with Katina Mountanos, founder of Kosterina, to unpack what real extra-virgin olive oil actually is, how to spot rancid or low-quality bottles on the shelf, and her POV on the notion that you “can’t cook with olive oil.”

In this episode of Mona-vated, Mona reconnects with her roots and explores the timeless rituals and remedies passed down through generations in her family. Long before beauty routines and wellness trends filled the internet, these traditions celebrated the harmony between nature and self. From the golden warmth of saffron and the soothing purity of rosewater to the healing strength of turmeric, Mona shares the powerful ingredients and ancestral wisdom that continue to shape her holistic approach to wellness. She also reveals her grandmother’s secret ritual for glowing summer skin, a timeless reminder that true radiance begins with simplicity and care.

In this episode, Mona reflects on the quiet art of giving yourself time to do nothing. She shares how moments of stillness, whether eating without distractions or simply sitting and being present, can feel meditative and revealing. In a life that is always busy, she invites us to pause, notice the little things, and create space for ourselves.

What if you could reduce ADHD or depression symptoms without medication or supplements? In this episode, Mona sits down with Angie Nowak, Vice President of Brain Code Centers, to explore the science of neurofeedback and how it’s helping people heal from anxiety, insomnia, and even trauma by literally rewiring their brains. Angie shares her own story of recovering from a traumatic brain injury, why she believes neurofeedback found her, and what it means to create lasting change from the inside out. Together, they dive into brain health, emotional regulation, and how understanding your mind on a deeper level can transform your life.

What if the very traits that once made you fiery and competitive could be softened into tools for balance, calm, and growth? In this episode, Mona sits down with her longtime friend Melissa Wood (@MelissaWoodTepperberg) to talk about evolving through life’s hardest moments, embracing spiritual practices, and finding alignment beyond the hustle. Melissa shares the things that have  transformed the way she approaches work, motherhood, and self-care. Together, they explore all of this and more.