From Scale Obsession to Strength – Jaclyn’s Autoimmune Comeback Story Artwork

Health Is A Skill with Todd Vande Hei

Welcome to the Health is a Skill podcast with host Todd Vande Hei! Todd is the CEO of Stark, which exists to change the future of health and fitness in the communities they serve. For the last 15 years, Todd has been on a journey to discover what it means to be in a state of peak health. After suffering from a series of seizures and being diagnosed with high blood pressure and atrial fibrillation in his early 30’s, Todd decided it was time to make a change. Those changes fell into one of four categories: lifestyle, exercise, nutrition, and stress management. But the biggest thing Todd learned through it all? Health is a skill. You’re not born with it, like some would like you to believe, and it isn’t acquired by simply buying another product or starting that new diet. Health is something you can create for yourself, and over time it is possible to attain peak health.

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Health Is A Skill with Todd Vande Hei

From Scale Obsession to Strength – Jaclyn’s Autoimmune Comeback Story

August 14, 2025 • Todd Vande Hei • Episode 75

When joint pain and fatigue nearly took her off her feet, Jaclyn discovered she was facing rheumatoid arthritis—triggered after COVID—and a future of possible bone erosion and loss of mobility. Instead of letting the diagnosis define her, she rebuilt her life through strength training, anti-inflammatory nutrition, and an unwavering commitment to movement.

In this conversation, Jaclyn tells Todd:

How Perimenopause, COVID, and Autoimmune Symptoms Collided to Create a Health Crisis
Why Shifting from “Skinny” Goals to “Strong” Goals Changed Her Body and Mindset
The Role of Gluten and Dairy Elimination in Managing Her RA Symptoms
How Stress, Sleep, and Emotional Eating Impact Autoimmune Flares
Why Mobility Work, Supplements, and Daily Movement Are Her Non-Negotiables
The Lessons She’s Passing On to Her Kids About Food, Health, and Self-Care

Whether you’re navigating chronic illness, body image challenges, or simply want to age stronger, Jaclyn’s story proves that resilience isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up, moving forward, and treating your body like it’s the only one you’ll ever get.

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🤔 ABOUT Todd Vande Hei 🤔

Welcome to Todd Vande Hei's channel, where health mastery meets real-life transformation. Join Todd as he shares invaluable insights and practical tips to help you unlock your full health potential.

Whether you're struggling with chronic pain, seeking sustainable weight loss, or simply striving to live your best life, Todd's journey and expertise will inspire and empower you to take control of your health and well-being.

Join our community of health enthusiasts committed to making positive changes and thriving at every stage of life. Let's embark on this journey to vibrant health together!

DISCLOSURE

We focus on optimizing every aspect of your well-being. At Stark, our team of expert trainers, doctors, nutritionists and a complete medical support team, led by CEO Todd Vande Hei, is dedicated to helping you become the BEST version of yourself. We specialize in coaching executives, athletes, pop stars, astronauts and other noteworthy individuals in all forms of exercise, diet, lifestyle, stress management and personalized supplement protocols.

Our methodology is designed to tackle each facet of well-being comprehensively. We believe that optimal health encompasses ten key aspects, which...