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Health & Wellness JA N UA RY 2 02 6

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Kicking Off a Year of Wellness As we welcome a new year, we’re reminded that wellness is never one-size-fits-all. It’s the everyday choices, big and small, that help us feel stronger, calmer, and more connected. Our January Health & Wellness Issue brings together the local stories that inspire exactly that. This month, The Exercise Coach and personal trainer Jeff Walker show how smart, targeted strength training can make fitness accessible for every age and ability. We also highlight Better Together Mental Health, whose compassionate, judgment-free approach reminds us that caring for our minds is just as essential as caring for our bodies. We’re proud to share Stover’s Flooring & Drapery’s remarkable five-year anniversary story, rising from the ashes of a devastating fire to rebuild a thriving, community-rooted business. And for those looking to recharge from the inside out, Prime IV Hydration & Wellness offers refreshing, science-backed therapies to help you feel your best. Finally, we explore OHM Fitness, where EMS technology transforms a 25-minute workout into a powerful full-body experience. As a mother–daughter team, creating this issue always fills us with gratitude. Every feature reflects the heart of Columbia; people investing in each other’s health, resilience, and growth. Here’s to stepping into 2026 with intention, joy, and a renewed commitment to your wellbeing! With gratitude, L E A N N E A N D S H E A S U L L I VA N , PUBLISHER AND EDITOR @ C O LU M B I AC I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

January 2026 PUBLISHER

Leanne Sullivan | leanne.sullivan@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Shea Sullivan | shea.sullivan@citylifestyle.com STAF F P H OTO G R AP H E R

Sarah Jane Shorthose | mail@sjanephotography.com

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry COO David Stetler CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Josh Govero LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Anna Minnick

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com//franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Columbia City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Columbia area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

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L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Columbia City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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inside the issue JANUARY 20 2 6 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

12 28

Featured

12 16

18 28 6

Strength Made Simple

Real strength results with private, personalized training sessions.

Hydration Therapy Designed for You

Nurse-guided IV treatments that improve immunity, boost energy, support recovery, and elevate everyday health.

A Safe Space for Healing, Growth, and Connection

Personalized therapy helping clients navigate life’s challenges with confidence.

The OHM Effect

A fast 25-minute EMS workout where the suit is your gym, delivering strength and mobility.

16 On the Cover

Departments

Cover model Reese representing Element Wellness & Cryotherapy

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Get Active HEALTH + WELLNESS

Healthy Lifestyle HEALTH + WELLNESS

Mental Wellbeing HEALTH + WELLNESS

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

Inspired By LIFE + CULTURE

Self Care HEALTH + WELLNESS

Education Corner HEALTH + WELLNESS

Events

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5 NIKKI OVERFELT CHIFALU, STARTLAND NEWS

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1-7: Main Street Summit drew more than 1,200 entrepreneurs to downtown Columbia for two days of expert-led, small-group sessions designed to tackle real business challenges. With expanded industry-specific tracks and standout speakers, including former NFL quarterback and philanthropist Tim Tebow alongside Permanent Equity founder Brent Beshore, the event delivered fresh insight, meaningful connections, and inspiration for the year ahead.

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JANUARY 2026

business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Stephens College Purchases Nourish Café & Market Stephens College has purchased Nourish Café & Market, transforming the downtown favorite into both a dining destination and a hands-on learning space beginning this spring. Co-founder Kalle LeMone will remain in an advisory role, and manager Josh Old and the full team will stay on to ensure continuity, quality, and the warm experience guests love. This new chapter blends Nourish’s mission with Stephens’ commitment to experiential, women-powered leadership.

2025 Non-Profit of the Year Winner- Welcome Home Inc. Welcome Home, Inc. was named the 2025 Nonprofit of the Year by the Columbia Chamber of Commerce for its commitment to serving unhoused and at-risk veterans. Founded in 1992, the organization provides emergency shelter, permanent housing, and comprehensive support to help veterans rebuild stability and independence. The award recognized Welcome Home’s longstanding impact and the vital role it plays in strengthening the Columbia community alongside other outstanding nonprofit finalists.

Wingate Pest & Lawn Partners with Mizzou Athletics Wingate Pest & Lawn is proud to announce its new sponsorship with Mizzou Athletics. For owners Bryan, Luke, and Alexa, all Mizzou alumni, the partnership is a meaningful full-circle moment that ties their growing local business back to where their story began. The Wingate team is excited to support student-athletes and stay involved with the Mizzou community throughout the year.

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STRENGTH Made ARTICLE BY SHEA SULLIVAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY

SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

SIM PLE

Real strength results with private, personalized training sessions. At The Exercise Coach, the philosophy is simple: muscle quality matters more than movement quantity. For owner and personal trainer Jeff Walker, that approach isn’t just a slogan; it’s the driving force behind why he brought this research-backed system to Columbia. As many Columbia residents reevaluate their health routines in the new year, The Exercise Coach offers an efficient, approachable option that fits even the busiest schedules. Jeff’s passion for exercise began early, but what truly motivated him to open the studio was a desire to help people who felt defeated, overwhelmed, or unsure where to begin. “We want our clients to find themselves again,” he shares. “We want them to feel confident, improve their metabolic health, and finally experience success with something that feels doable.” The Exercise Coach offered the exact model he needed, one built on real science, real structure, and real change. Each session centers around Exerbotics®, a strength-training technology that adapts in real time to each person’s capabilities. A workout begins with precise setup and a strength test that determines the ideal starting intensity. From there, clients complete a single set of each exercise, guided by the machine’s targeted resistance. “The first few reps feel great, but by the end, that fatigue hits,” Jeff explains. “The equipment uses an electromagnetic motor that keeps the muscle under constant tension, and that’s where the real transformation happens.” This technology is also the reason a 20-minute workout just twice a week delivers such dramatic results. Eccentric resistance, where the muscle lengthens under load, is one of the most

G E T ACT IV E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

effective forms of strength training, yet difficult to achieve consistently in traditional gyms. “What we do in 20 minutes is safer, more efficient, and more effective than most 60-minute workouts elsewhere,” Jeff says. Creating a private, judgment-free atmosphere was equally essential. Many clients haven’t exercised in years, feel intimidated by large gyms, or assume they’re “too busy” to commit. The Exercise Coach is intentionally small, quiet, and personal— designed to remove barriers instead of adding them. “Our goal is to help clients feel instantly comfortable,” Jeff says. “Once that happens, consistency follows.” Jeff works with a wide range of clients, especially those age 50+ or managing injuries, chronic pain, or mobility limitations. In just a few months, clients often notice improved balance, easier stair climbing, increased bone density, and better A1C numbers. “Strength training is key to healthy aging,” he adds. “We lose muscle as we get older, but resistance training can offset and even reverse that process.” Many clients also discover benefits beyond strength alone. Improved balance, better posture, increased joint stability, and renewed daily energy are all common outcomes. These changes add up, helping clients move through life with greater ease, confidence, and long-term independence. This commitment to longevity and independence is why Jeff believes so strongly in the studio’s personal-training model. With two structured 20-minute sessions each week, clients stay accountable and supported through meaningful relationships

“This technology is why a 20-minute workout, just twice a week, can deliver such dramatic results.” CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C O LUM BI A M O

“Our studio is intentionally small, quiet, and personal, with their coaches. “Our equipment is incredible, but our coaches are the heart of what we do,” Jeff says. “They’re caring, empathetic, and fully invested in helping clients move past obstacles.” Another major component of the studio’s transformation process is the Metabolic Comeback® program; a 30-day whole-food nutrition challenge the entire studio completes together twice a year. The program focuses on simple, sustainable eating habits: prioritizing protein, reducing sugar, minimizing processed foods, and fueling the body well. Recipes are posted regularly on the studio’s Facebook page, the national challenge page offers additional community support, and a full recipe book is available on their website at no cost. “It’s all about accountability and consistency,” Jeff says. “The program helps clients rethink nutrition in a way that fits their real lives.” Real-time feedback is also a major motivator. After each session, the Exerbotics software graphs clients’ output and compares it to previous workouts. They can instantly see strength gains, improved force production, and progress over time. “It’s incredibly encouraging,” Jeff shares. “Clients know they’re getting stronger because the data shows it.” When asked what he would say to someone who feels too busy, too intimidated, or too out of practice to start, Jeff’s answer is clear: The Exercise Coach is built for you. The studio’s private environment removes intimidation, personal training ensures accountability, and the equipment maximizes results safely and efficiently. “What we do in 20 minutes, most people struggle to replicate in an hour,” Jeff says. “Our goal is to help clients remain independent as they age while improving metabolic health, bone density, A1C, hormone balance, and more.” The studio also offers two free sessions for anyone curious about trying it. “Call or text us anytime,” Jeff says. “Come see how achievable strength training can truly be.” The Exercise Coach – Columbia 1517 Chapel Hill Rd., Suite #200 Columbia, MO 65203 573-818-7983 columbia.mo@exercisecoach-usa.com

G E T ACT IV E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

designed to remove barriers, not add them. When clients feel instantly comfortable, consistency naturally follows.”

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Hydration Therapy Designed for You Nurse-guided IV treatments that improve immunity, boost energy, support recovery, and elevate everyday health.

The first thing most clients notice at Prime IV Hydration & Wellness isn’t the science, it’s the serenity. Soft lighting, quiet music, and zero-gravity massage chairs create an atmosphere that feels more like a high-end spa than a medical clinic. Warm neck pillows, cozy blankets, and optional oxygen therapy set the tone for what many describe as “a onehour vacation.” But behind the soothing environment is a deeply intentional, nurse-led wellness model designed to help people restore energy, strengthen immunity, recover faster, and simply feel better in their daily lives. For owners Michelle Nolph and Michelle Bruemmer, bringing Prime IV to Columbia was as much about care as it was about comfort. “We wanted a wellness center where clients could feel taken care of and truly participate in their health,” Nolph says. They also envisioned a space where nurses could use their full skill set, including IV starts clinical judgment, patient education, and ongoing care. “Creating a place where nurses love to work was a big part of my vision.” Many clients arrive thinking they feel “fine,” unaware of how common dehydration and vitamin deficiencies really are. Fatigue, brain fog, poor sleep, recurring colds, slow workout recovery, and diagnosed deficiencies like B12 or vitamin D are some of the patterns their team sees most often.

ARTICLE BY SHEA SULLIVAN

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | H E ALT H + WE LLN E SS

“Most people don’t connect these symptoms to nutrients,” Nolph explains. “But when we replenish what they’re missing, the difference is noticeable.” Every first-time visit begins with a nursing consultation where goals, medical history, and symptoms guide the choice of drip. Popular options include immunity blends, athletic recovery, and anti-aging therapies like NAD+ and Niagen, a newer and faster infusion with powerful cellular benefits. Weight-support drips also remain in high demand, especially the Skinny Mermaid, a Columbia favorite for its energizing blend of vitamins. At Prime IV, the experience is relaxing, but the results are real and designed to support long-term wellness from the inside out.

One of the biggest surprises for new clients is how quickly IV nutrient therapy can create a shift in how they feel. Much of that comes from the science behind it. Unlike oral vitamins, which lose potency through digestion, IV therapy bypasses that process entirely. “When nutrients go directly into the bloodstream, the body can use nearly all of them,” Nolph says. “People often notice clarity, energy, or hydration much sooner than expected.” Beyond the immediate boost, many clients rely on IV therapy for steady, long-term support. Consistent hydration helps regulate sleep, stabilize energy, strengthen immunity, and improve recovery after workouts. Regular visitors often report fewer colds, better focus, and a noticeable improvement in how their body handles stress and busy schedules. Memberships are a key part of Prime IV’s approach, giving clients an accessible and consistent way to feel their best. Options range from a once-a-month drip with supportive injections to a higher-tier plan that can be shared with a family member. Routine visits also allow the nursing team to track progress, refine recommendations, and build sustainable wellness habits rather than short-term fixes. Columbia’s wellness trends reflect national patterns: people want practical tools to support immunity, energy, and overall resilience. Quick vitamin injections, hydration boosts, and supportive therapies have become go-to options for travelers, athletes, teachers, healthcare workers, parents, and anyone balancing demanding schedules. What Nolph believes truly sets Prime IV apart is not just the treatments, but the team behind them. “We’re a nurse-led wellness clinic,” she says. “Clients feel cared for, listened to, and safe. That trust is at the heart of everything we do.” Prime IV Hydration & Wellness 2703 E Broadway #226 • Columbia, MO 65201 (573) 773-4405 • primeivhydration.com

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C O LUM BI A M O

A SAFE SPACE FOR HEALING, GROWTH, and Connection

PERSONALIZED THERAPY HELPING CLIENTS NAVIGATE LIFE’S CHALLENGES WITH CONFIDENCE. ARTICLE BY SHEA SULLIVAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

M EN TA L WE LLB E IN G | H E ALT H + WE LLN E SS

Most people don’t start therapy because everything in their life is falling apart. They come because, privately, they feel overwhelmed, uncertain, or alone. At Better Together Mental Health, those feelings aren’t brushed aside. They’re welcomed and met with care. Founder Beth Orns created Better Together with one intention: to build a place where people could finally exhale. Hospitality was a core value in her upbringing, and she wanted a mental health practice that reflected that—one that felt warm and genuinely human, not cold or clinical. That vision shows up in the details. The office is thoughtfully designed with comfortable seating, calming colors, and small comforts that help clients settle in. “Every session carries the same message: you get to show up exactly as you are here.” Just as important is the way clients are matched with therapists. Better Together’s team is diverse in training, personality, and background, which allows the practice to be intentional about fit. During the intake process, Beth and her team consider what someone wants to work on, their past experiences in therapy, and their preferences around style and logistics. “Therapists aren’t one-size-fits-all,” Beth says. “We want you with the person who makes you feel safe, not just whoever has an opening.” Many clients arrive believing they “should” be coping better or that their concerns aren’t serious enough for therapy. Better Together gently challenges that belief, reminding each person that any feeling heavy enough to carry alone is important enough to bring into the room and be fully heard. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C O LUM BI A M O

Across Columbia, Beth and her team are seeing clear patterns in what people bring into the therapy room. Many clients describe a vague sense of dread, a heaviness tied to constant upheaval in the world. They worry they are not doing enough, not where they “should” be in life, or not handling change the way they think they’re supposed to. Others come in feeling stuck as they navigate grief, parenting, work stress, relationship changes, or major life transitions. As the calendar turns and daylight shrinks, seasonal depression also becomes more visible. The new year often brings pressure to reinvent, to set goals, and to somehow feel “better” overnight. Couples work has grown, too. Beth is encouraged by the number of partners who now come to therapy earlier in their relationship, wanting to strengthen communication and connection before problems deepen. Once someone decides to reach out, Better Together takes care to match them with the right therapist and type of support. The team offers individual, couples, and adolescent therapy, as well as virtual sessions and groups. Clients do not have to know exactly what they need when they call; the team helps them explore options and ask questions. Inside the session, Better Together uses evidence-based tools without losing the human side of care. Beth often describes their training as a

large toolbox filled with methods like CBT, ACT, the Gottman Method, and trauma-informed practices. “You don’t always need a hammer for every job,” she says. “We choose the tool with the best chance of helping and switch when we need something different.” Beyond the office walls, the practice serves Columbia through partnerships, outreach, and education. Beth believes that improving individual wellbeing also means caring about the community people live in. For those nervous about beginning therapy, first sessions are intentionally spacious and gentle. Paperwork is completed electronically ahead of time so the session can focus on conversation. Some people dive straight into what hurts. Others start by sharing their story or simply getting used to the space. Many leave feeling truly comfortable and relieved to have finally said things out loud. Beth hopes people remember they are not alone. As Better Together grows, the practice is preparing to move into a larger office suite in Woodrail in March 2026, with more space for children, teens, and adults and the same welcoming feel.

“Your feelings are valid and your story matters. There is no ‘too small’ reason to seek support.”

M EN TA L WE LLB E IN G | H E ALT H + WE LLN E SS

Learn more: BetterTogetherMentalHealth.net Call: 573-355-8844 Email: office@bettertogethermentalhealth.net

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HOW A DEVASTATING FIRE, UNWAVERING RESILIENCE, AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT HELPED STOVER’S REBUILD, EVOLVE, AND THRIVE FIVE YEARS AFTER UNIMAGINABLE LOSS.

Five years ago, a quiet January morning changed everything for Stover’s Flooring & Drapery. What began as a simple text alerting the team to “a fire at the store” quickly became a scene no one could have prepared for. By the time staff reached Clark Lane, smoke was already billowing over the building—a sight that made the scale of the disaster heartbreakingly clear. Inside, fire crews fought the flames while employees processed the shock. The most emotional moment came when longtime employee Carl rushed out carrying the store cat, Baby. She had been with Stover’s since she wandered in as a kitten, and her loss hit the team and customers deeply. What followed was months of cleanup, rebuilding, and determination guided by the belief that a fourth-generation family business was worth fighting for.

I NSP IR E D BY | L I FE + C ULT U RE

ARTICLE BY SHEA SULLIVAN

FIVE YEARS, A STRONGER STOVER'S

remove smoke-damaged samples, deep-clean every inch of the showroom, and begin the long process of designing a fresh space. Regular customers stayed loyal as well, continuing to place orders even while the store operated under unusual circumstances. Their support helped Stover’s regain momentum one project at a time. By midsummer, the offices were rebuilt, employees returned to the showroom, and new displays arrived, signaling the true beginning of a comeback. As a fourth-generation family business, quitting was never an option. “The Stover legacy motivated us,” the team says. “We knew we had to rebuild so this company could continue serving Columbia for decades to come.” Today, business is stronger than ever. Luxury vinyl plank leads in popularity, followed closely by ceramic tile and carpet. Stover’s also offers hardwood, blinds, draperies, countertops, and specialty services such as cleaning and binding area rugs. Customers love the store’s extensive remnant selection as well—high-quality carpet pieces offered at especially low prices. But the heart of the company remains unchanged: exceptional customer service, honest guidance, and a team that treats every home as if it were their own. The memory of Baby, the beloved store cat, also lives on; her presence still fondly remembered by staff and longtime customers. As Stover’s marks this five-year milestone, their message to the community is simple: thank you. “We truly appreciate the support we’ve received since the fire. We rebuilt because Columbia believed in us. And we look forward to serving this community for many more years.” In the days immediately after the fire, the challenges felt endless. Smoke had coated nearly every surface, computers were ruined, and years of customer records appeared to be lost. But a single stroke of luck changed everything: the day before the fire, a full QuickBooks backup had been completed. When the damaged hard drive miraculously worked in a home laptop, more than twenty years of history was saved. “If that drive hadn’t worked, we would have been in serious trouble,” the team recalls. Storage posed another major hurdle. The warehouse had been destroyed, leaving nowhere to put inventory. Thankfully, Stover’s had a smaller secondary warehouse next door—far from ideal, but enough to keep the business operating while the main building was rebuilt. And because this all unfolded during the height of COVID, the team adapted quickly, working from home while phones were rerouted to owner Tom Stover and bookkeeping continued remotely. Insurance partners, contractors, and vendors played major roles in those early months. Nationwide processed the claim fairly and efficiently, allowing the team to replace inventory,

Stover’s Flooring & Drapery 1724 Paris Rd • Columbia, MO 65201 (573) 449-2771

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C O LUM BI A M O

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THE OHM

E f fe c t A fast 25-minute EMS workout where the suit is your gym, delivering strength and mobility.

ARTICLE BY SHEA SULLIVAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH JANE PHOTOGRAPHY

S ELF CA R E | HEALTH + WE LLN E SS

Just over a year after opening, OHM Fitness has become one of Columbia’s most unique and effective wellness studios. With 25-minute classes that deliver full-body results, OHM has tapped into what so many people want today, a fitness routine that feels doable, sustainable, and genuinely effective. For anyone new to the concept, EMS stands for Electrical Muscle Stimulation. During a workout, members wear OHM’s emPower bodysuit, which uses gentle electrical impulses to activate muscles more deeply than traditional exercise. In simple terms, it helps your muscles work smarter—allowing a short session to feel like hours in the gym. Owner Tracy Barnes says this technology has been a game-changer for busy people who want to feel better without rearranging their entire day. “People want to take back their time,” she says. First-timers walk out surprised by how quickly they feel a difference. “If someone’s unsure, I tell them to jump in. It changes your body fast.” This year brought big upgrades, including OHM’s new V2 emPower suits—similar in look, but more durable and designed for an even smoother workout. Members often say the suit is your gym, and now OHM offers the option to purchase a personal suit for at-home training. Programming continues to evolve, with a new Pilates class becoming an instant favorite. OHM also keeps members motivated with Styku body scans that show steady fat loss, increased muscle mass, and improved mobility. Red light therapy has also gained popularity, supporting recovery while noticeably improving skin tone and firmness. The most meaningful changes, though, happen in everyday life. Tracy hears from members who are moving better, feeling stronger, and experiencing renewed confidence. One member in his 70s called OHM “life-changing.” Others appreciate the skin-tightening benefits, especially those using weight-loss medications or navigating aging. This year, Tracy is excited for what’s next: new technology, expanding services, and a growing community. “Everybody has a home at OHM,” she says. “Wherever you’re starting, we’re here to help you feel your best.” OHM Fitness 1406 Forum Blvd Unit #101, Columbia, MO • (573) 397-7934

OHM's red light therapy

JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C O LUM BI A M O

The New Frontier of Health U N D E R S TA N D I N G T H E “WHY” BEHIND WELLNESS ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES AND PROVIDED

AN INTERVIEW WITH DR. KYLE GILLETT

Why do so many people feel exhausted, foggy, or unwell, even when their medical tests insist everything is “fine”? Why are we prescribed quick fixes instead of being given real answers? Across modern medicine, a shift is happening. More patients are demanding real explanations, and more clinicians are rethinking what “healthcare” should actually mean. Leading

New Year. New Chapter. Unfiltered conversations for designing what’s next– in family, lifestyle, and business.

Love this interview with Dr. Gillett? Hear the full conversation in our premiere episode.

Scan to Listen

EDU CAT ION C OR N E R | H E ALT H + WE LLN E SS

that shift is Dr. Kyle Gillett, a dual board-certified physician in Family Medicine and Obesity Medicine and an expert in metabolic, hormonal, and preventive health. Through his clinic, research, and The Gillett Health Podcast, he’s become a trusted voice for people seeking science-based, root-cause solutions rather than symptom-based band-aids. “Functional medicine is really ‘root cause medicine,’” Dr. Gillett often says. “It’s about asking why the problem exists and not just quieting the noise.” In this Q&A, Dr. Gillett breaks down the most common questions he hears from patients and offers simple, actionable guidance anyone can begin using today.

1. “WHY DO I FEEL AWFUL EVEN THOUGH MY LABS ARE ‘NORMAL’?”

Dr. Gillett: I like to say, “There is no such thing as ‘we’ve done everything.’” We can always dig deeper. Often, the labs ordered are the wrong type of assay, or important markers like ferritin or SHBG—which binds testosterone and estrogen—are completely missed. Beyond lab work, there are other factors: mitochondrial health, sleep quality, mental health, and even how sensitive your dopamine and serotonin receptors are. “Normal” labs do not always equal normal physiology for you.

2. “HOW DO I FIX MY ENERGY, BRAIN FOG, OR SLEEP WITHOUT 20 MEDICATIONS?”

Dr. Gillett: Start with a good, comprehensive lab panel to assess nutrients and hormones. Then build the foundation with sleep. My favorite tool is the 10/3/2/1/0 rule: • 10 hours before bed: No caffeine • 3 hours: Avoid large meals and alcohol • 2 hours: No vigorous exercise • 1 hour: No bright blue or white light • 0: No snoozing and no inconsistent sleep/wake times Aim for 7+ hours of high-quality sleep. When sleep improves, energy almost always follows.

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3. “IS MY GUT ACTUALLY CAUSING ALL THESE OTHER PROBLEMS?”

Dr. Gillett: Gut health influences most major health issues, but it’s rarely the only problem. Diet is my second pillar of health for a reason. Exercise, sleep, and stress reduction all improve gut function too. Even simple tools like self-hypnotherapy apps can reduce gut-related symptoms.

4. “WHAT CAN I DO RIGHT NOW, TODAY, TO START FEELING BETTER?”

Dr. Gillett: Focus on the pillars of health: diet, exercise, sleep, stress, sunlight, social connection, and spiritual health. Treat them like habits and find ways to make them enjoyable or easy to start. Supplements and medications are supportive tools, not substitutes. Think of them like turbo chargers: they enhance a system that’s already functioning.

A FINAL WORD FROM DR. GILLETT

“The goal isn’t to tell people what to do, rather it’s to give them the information they need to decide what’s best for themselves.” By understanding the why behind your symptoms, labs, and lifestyle choices, you become the driver, not the passenger, of your health journey.

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403 Vandiver Drive Suite E, Columbia, MO 65202 JANUARY 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C O LUM BI A M O

Is Winter Actually THE OFF SEASON FOR SELLING YOUR HOME?

LISTING YOUR HOME IN THE WINTER MONTHS CAN HAVE SEVERAL UNIQUE ADVANTAGES

End-of-Year Financial Planning

Less Competition

Some buyers may want to make a purchase before the year

Fewer homes are on the market during the winter, which means your

ends to take advantage of tax deductions on mortgage interest,

property has a better chance to stand out to buyers. With less inventory,

property taxes, or closing costs for that tax year.

buyers may be more motivated to act quickly and make competitive offers.

Serious Buyers

Quicker Transactions

Winter buyers tend to be highly motivated. They may have

Real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and title companies often have

pressing reasons to move, such as job relocations, changes in

lighter workloads in winter, which can lead to faster closings. Buyers also

family circumstances, or taking advantage of year-end tax

may be motivated to finalize deals quickly to move in before the holidays

breaks. These buyers are less likely to waste time browsing and

or year-end deadlines.

more likely to make serious offers.

Jillian Hart is a dedicated Missouri REALTOR® known for her strong work ethic, community values, and commitment to serving others. In her fifth year of real estate and a background in entrepreneurship, she brings a unique blend of experience and heart to every client interaction. Before real estate, Jillian built a successful shingle elevator business— designing and crafting equipment still in use today. Outside of work, Jillian enjoys life with her husband of 23 years and their two children. She’s also a devoted member of Hallsville Rocky Fork Fellowship, where she serves in the nursery and shares her faith with the youngest members of the congregation. Whether she’s baking cakes, running long distances, or helping clients find the perfect home, Jillian’s passion for uplifting others shines through. She approaches every transaction with care, energy, and a true heart for service.

REALTOR® 660-651-8443 JILL@IGREALESTATE.COM JILLHART.IGREALESTATE.COM

Kindel Putnam is a standout Missouri REALTOR® known for her commitment to helping clients find not just a house, but a home. From the start of her career, she has earned top recognition in one of the region’s largest brokerages, quickly building a reputation for her professionalism, local knowledge, and client-first approach. Kindel also plays a vital role in her family’s company, Putnam Construction, which builds high-quality homes throughout midMissouri. With hands-on experience in both new construction and real estate sales, she offers her clients a well-rounded, full-service perspective—whether they’re building from the ground up or buying an existing home. With Kindel, you can count on expert guidance, attention to detail, and a genuine passion for helping people find their perfect place to call home.

REALTOR® 417-827-0998 KINDEL@IGREALESTATE.COM KINDELPUTNAM.IGREALESTATE.COM

JANUARY 2026

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

JA NUA RY 2 N D

First Responder Fridays at The Heist The Heist, 15 S 5th St, Ste. B | 8:00 AM The Heist invites first responders and their families to stop by anytime from 8 a.m.–6 p.m. to enjoy a complimentary drink—coffee or cocktail—as a thank-you for their service to the community. It's a simple way to show appreciation and offer a moment of connection and gratitude. The Heist is located inside Flat Branch Bank. JA NUA RY 9 T H

Sophie Cunningham Classic Southwell Complex, 700 Rangeline St. | 11:00 AM The Sophie Cunningham Classic returns January 9–11th for a three-day high school basketball showcase featuring elite female student athletes from across the United States. Now in its fourth year, this event brings some of the nation’s top players and teams to Columbia for fast-paced, competitive action at the Southwell Complex. JA NUA RY 9 T H

The Envision Retreat 2026 312 Ash Down Dr | 9:00 AM Step away from distractions and reimagine your life at this one-day personal and professional development retreat. Designed for entrepreneurs, self-starters, and high achievers, the Envision Retreat offers guided meditation, interactive vision-setting exercises, a takehome workbook, casual networking, and personalized support. Breakfast, lunch, drinks, and snacks are included. Three ticket tiers are available, with limited seating for 30 participants. JA NUA RY 1 5T H

Motherhood Mental Health Roundtable Tiny Play Cafe, 901 E Nifong Blvd | 9:00 AM Join a safe, supportive roundtable designed for moms to connect, share, and feel heard while little ones enjoy playtime. Come anytime between 8–10 a.m. to let your kiddo play, grab a coffee, and settle in. Whether you’re navigating new motherhood or the ups and downs of daily life, you’ll leave feeling encouraged and supported. JA NUA RY 2 7 T H

Shelly Belly at The Blue Note The Blue Note | 7:00 PM Netflix’s The Circle Season 3 fan favorite “circle mom” Michelle Rider—better known as Shelly Belly—brings her Southern charm and quick wit to The Blue Note for a night of stand-up comedy. Expect relatable stories, big laughs, and a feel-good girls’ night or date night out. Visit The Blue Note’s website for showtime, tickets, and venue policies. JA NUA RY 3 1 ST

Pajama Jam 2026 Stoney Creek Hotel, 2615 S Providence Rd | 3:00 PM Mid-Missouri’s ultimate slumber party returns to the Stoney Creek Hotel. Get ready for a night of shopping, pampering, food, entertainment, contests, dancing, karaoke and more.

EVE N TS

Photo Credit: Cloud Craft Studios

Beautiful Moments: Kortney & Andy When Andy came to us to design Kortney’s dream ring, we were beyond excited! And while Kortney is our family, at Betz Jewelers, we believe every engagement ring deserves the same dedication, care, and artistry. Andy’s vision became reality, she absolutely loved it, and it reminded us of why we pour our hearts into every tiny detail. A perfect full-circle moment for a little girl who grew up in a jewelry store.

Beautiful Moments Begin at Betz!

Reach out today to schedule a consult to design your dream engagement ring! www.betzjewelers.com 573-449-1070 VB 601 E. Broadway, Ste 303, Columbia, MO