Healing with Diet and Exercise

Empowering Resilience: Kristina Allen

In this episode of the Name and Occupation Podcast, we get into health and fitness with guest Kristina Allen, Director of Golf Operations and part-time personal trainer. Christina shares a transformative story of overcoming adversity through sheer determination.

Her journey began with shedding 156 pounds for a wedding, partnering with a trainer to get fit. Tragedy struck a year prior: sudden numbness in her legs led to paralysis from the knees down due to a rare autoimmune disorder causing demyelination in her peripheral nerves. After nine months of diagnosis uncertainty, she found hope in trainer Jordan Verdone, a former pro football player. Their sessions blended rehab with powerlifting, Olympic lifts, sprinting, and boxing.

Christina emphasizes balance and mobility work, crediting it for her ability to run and compete in events like the Commander’s Challenge (5K plus half-marathon). A plant-based diet manages flare-ups, reducing inflammation; she added eggs for iron and B12, avoiding meat and dairy. Supplements and mindful eating align with “Blue Zones” principles—80/20 rule (80% healthy, 20% indulgence), community, and longevity.

Christina’s message: Fitness builds resilience; communities motivate. Her story inspires—proving passion and support conquer obstacles, turning “I can’t” into triumphs.

The Interview

Healing VIA Exercise: Interview

Name: Kristina Allen – Occupation: fitness instructor & manager – Location: Alymer, Quebec, Canada