News

May 16th, the sky turned dark over St. Louis, and the tornado sirens were no longer just a warning—they were a reality. Homes were destroyed. Streets were littered with debris. And entire neighborhoods faced devastation overnight. In the wake of the storm, we knew our usual way of giving back needed to change. So instead of our regular Taco Tuesday downtown at The Restoration House, we packed up supplies and headed to Fountain Park, a neighborhood that was hit especially hard. We served food.We listened to stories.We offered whatever support we could—because that’s what community is all about. A Thank You...

This weekend, I met a teenager who reminded me exactly why I created The Purposeful Plate. She’s young, active, bright—and bloated. Every time she eats, she’s doubled over with stomach pain. She’s tried going dairy-free before, but keeps falling back into old patterns… not because she lacks willpower, but because she’s not sure how to make the foods she loves without the ingredients that are hurting her. And she’s not alone. The Truth About Dairy Sensitivity It’s estimated that 65–70% of the world’s population has some degree of lactose intolerance. (NIH) And it doesn’t always show up in obvious ways. For...

Let’s be real—most of us start the day with coffee before anything else hits our stomachs. And I get it. That warm, comforting mug feels like fuel for your soul. But here’s what no one talks about: Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can actually do more harm than good. Especially when it comes to hormones, energy, and belly fat. ⚠️ What Happens When You Drink Coffee on an Empty Stomach? When you wake up, your body naturally produces cortisol—your primary stress hormone. It’s what helps you feel alert and awake in the morning. But when you throw black coffee...

To the mom who’s juggling all the things—family, faith, work, school pickups, dinner plans, emotional check-ins, laundry piles (and let's be honest… that mystery smell in the minivan)—this one’s for you. You pour out so much.You remember everyone else’s schedule.You carry the emotional weight of your family.You hold it all together—even when you’re running on empty. And if you're anything like me… sometimes, the only pause you get is that sacred moment with your coffee. But here’s the thing: what you put in your cup matters.Not just for your health—but for your headspace. I created The Roasted Purpose as a...