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30-Day Introduction to the Paleo Diet

Whenever I'm asked about Paleo, or if people comment that they doubt Paleo would help them with their health issues, my response is always “try it”. I think everyone should try Paleo for 30-days and then assess how it’s working for them. If it doesn't work, then nothing is lost (yet I've never heard of anyone not experiencing some positive benefits after a month of Paleo)

30-days is a good length of time, as it’s long enough to see some changes and to get things like gluten out of your system. It’s also enough time to come out the other side of carb-flu, which a few people experience for the first week or two.

After the 30-days you’ll be in a good place to evaluate how it worked for you, and to slowly start re-introducing foods back to understand exactly what you should and shouldn't incorporate in your Paleo diet.

As well as using a 30-day Paleo plan as a way to get into Paleo for the first time, it’s also a great way to refocus once you've been following Paleo for a while. When you realise you’re stuck in a repetitive recipe rut, eating more and more “Paleo cookies”, or allowing more cheat meals than you ever would have before – it can be the perfect time to go strict Paleo for 30 days and get full back on board.

I think organisation is the most important factor in committing to a 30-day strict Paleo plan. If you plan, buy and prepare your food in advance it will be easy to follow and not get caught out. I also find it helps to set a date to start your 30-days and tell people about it (perhaps they’ll even join you)

I really like the Whole-30 program, as it focuses on why Paleo is so beneficial and covers all of the common pitfalls and questions; it’s a great guide to support you during the 30-days (particularly if it’s your first Whole30).

I'm really excited to see Bill and Hayley, the authors behind the beautiful “Make it Paleo” recipe book have just released their first ebook “The 30 Day Intro to Paleo”! I've found creating a month of beautiful, varied meals to be the key success factor in winning people over to a Paleo diet – and this book promises to do just that. As well as the impressive, yet simple Paleo recipes (over 90!) that you’d expect in a book from Bill & Hayley, their ebook also explains Paleo – and why we should eat this way. They include a 30 day complete menu planner and shopping lists – and even cooking videos!

I'm looking forward to trying out these recipes and will report back on my favourites!

Did you start your Paleo adventure with a Whole30? Do you occasionally challenge yourself to a month of following a strict Paleo diet – with no cheating?

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Your Guide to Paleo Recipe Books

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I used to buy so many cookbooks as it’s great to have lots of different sources when trying to put together a recipe. In the last year or two however, almost all of my cookbooks have been in ebook format.

I'm a bit of a messy cook, so in my cookbooks it’s easy to see which recipes are my favourites – those with the pages covered in ingredients! Ebooks are a great solution for me – I can find the specific recipe I want to make, print out a copy to take to the shop to refer to when I buy the ingredients – and another copy to use in the kitchen when I make the dish.

It’s so pleasing to see more Paleo friendly cook books coming out all the time.

Whilst not fully Paleo, Sarah Wilson's I Quit Sugar Cookbook is a great cookbook for those making the first step – giving up sugar. This book goes well with Sarah’s I Quit Sugar program, but is just as good as a cookbook in its own right. As well as Sarah Wilson contributors also include Mark Sisson and Gwyneth Paltrow. Definitely a recipe book worth trying.

Trying lots of new recipes is a great way to get used to your new way of eating, without feeling like you’re missing out on anything.

As well as Sarah Wilson’s cookbook, I also like the Simple Paleo Recipe book and the Paleo Cookbook.

The Rise of Digital Paleo Cookbooks

As the popularity of the Paleo lifestyle continues to grow in Australia and globally, so too does the selection of digital resources available. While printed cookbooks have their nostalgic charm, the convenience and accessibility of digital cookbooks are becoming increasingly hard to beat. Whether you're at the supermarket or in your kitchen, being able to search, bookmark, and print recipes on demand makes it far easier to stay organised and stick to your dietary goals.

Many Paleo bloggers and authors are releasing their cookbooks exclusively in digital format. These often come with added bonuses, like shopping lists, prep tips, video tutorials, or exclusive content that wouldn’t be available in a printed version. For those embracing minimalism or reducing clutter in their home, switching to digital cookbooks is another step towards a more intentional lifestyle.

Benefits of Using Paleo Ebooks

One of the greatest advantages of ebook cookbooks is searchability. Rather than flicking through dozens of pages to find that one perfect recipe using sweet potato and ground beef, you can simply type in the keywords and instantly find options that fit the bill. This saves time and helps reduce waste by letting you cook based on what you already have in your fridge or pantry.

Another benefit is the ability to highlight notes, adjust serving sizes directly on screen, and even add your own tweaks digitally. Some platforms allow syncing across devices, so whether you’re on your desktop, iPad or mobile, your recipes are always available. And if you're someone who travels frequently or likes to cook in different locations (perhaps a friend's kitchen or a holiday rental), having your Paleo library in your pocket is incredibly useful.

Top Picks for Paleo-Friendly Digital Cookbooks

While many people start with Sarah Wilson’s I Quit Sugar series as a gateway to cleaner eating, there are now dozens of ebooks focused specifically on the Paleo lifestyle. Here are a few that stand out:

Nom Nom Paleo by Michelle Tam – This vibrant cookbook is packed with beautiful photography, Asian-inspired flavours, and practical kitchen tips. The digital version includes step-by-step photos, which are especially helpful for beginner cooks.
Paleo Eats by Kelly Bejelly – A great one for indulgent, comforting meals without the grains or dairy. This book includes many dishes that feel like old favourites, reimagined in a Paleo-friendly way.
Against All Grain by Danielle Walker – An excellent resource for families, this ebook includes everything from lunchbox ideas to special occasion meals, making Paleo approachable for kids and adults alike.

Most of these digital cookbooks are available through major retailers like Amazon, or directly from the author’s website. Buying direct often comes with extra bonuses like meal plans or early access to new releases.

Creating Your Own Paleo Recipe Archive

If you find yourself cooking regularly from various ebooks, you might want to consider creating a personal recipe archive. This could be as simple as a folder on your desktop organised by meal type (e.g. breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks), or a spreadsheet where you rate recipes and add notes about any changes you made or ingredients you substituted.

Over time, this becomes an incredibly valuable resource — your very own personalised Paleo cookbook. You’ll be able to quickly pull up your go-to meal when guests are coming over or when you’re in a hurry midweek. You might also start noticing patterns in your preferences, helping you become more intuitive with Paleo cooking over time.

How to Spot a Good Paleo Cookbook

Not all cookbooks marketed as “Paleo-friendly” are created equal. When choosing your next purchase, here are a few things to look for:

Ingredient accessibility – Are the recipes using ingredients you can find at your local Australian supermarket or farmers market? Some American cookbooks may include products that are hard to come by locally.
Focus on whole foods – A good Paleo cookbook avoids gimmicks and processed stand-ins. Look for recipes built around meat, fish, eggs, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds.
Meal variety – Does the cookbook include a good mix of breakfasts, mains, snacks, and desserts? A well-rounded selection helps you maintain variety and interest.
Clear layout and design – Especially for digital books, easy navigation, legible fonts, and consistent formatting can make or break your cooking experience.

Supporting Local Australian Authors

There’s a growing community of Paleo and real food writers here in Australia creating content tailored to our local produce, lifestyle, and seasons. Supporting Australian authors not only means you’re more likely to see familiar ingredients, but it also helps grow the local health and wellness scene.

Some locally-written cookbooks even include notes on where to buy specific ingredients across different Australian states or suggest budget-friendly swaps that make the diet more accessible to a wider audience. This is particularly helpful when just starting out, or when shopping in more regional areas with limited options.

Digital Doesn’t Mean Disposable

While it’s easy to buy and download digital cookbooks on a whim, it’s still worth taking the time to sit down with each one and really explore it. Just like with traditional cookbooks, the more you use a digital cookbook, the more it becomes yours. Highlight your favourites, add sticky notes in your app, and refer back to them often. Good food is meant to be enjoyed more than once.

It’s also a great idea to back up your ebook collection regularly. Whether you store them in a cloud account or on an external hard drive, making sure you don’t lose your favourites means they’ll always be ready when inspiration strikes.

Final Thoughts

The shift towards digital Paleo cookbooks has made it easier than ever to stay inspired, organised, and committed to your real food goals. Whether you're new to the lifestyle or have been following Paleo for years, investing in a few thoughtfully created ebooks can keep your meals exciting, your cooking skills evolving, and your pantry well-used.

And who knows — maybe you’ll be inspired to start compiling your own recipes into a cookbook one day, to pass along your favourites or even share with the wider community!

Do you still prefer traditional cookbooks, or have you switched over to ebooks? Which is your favourite Paleo friendly cookbook?

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Announcing The Real Food Summit

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After the fantastic Paleo Summit a few months ago, Sean Croxton is about to launch another health conference – the Real Food Summit. This is aimed at anyone interested in real, whole food and is free to attend.

There are so many great speakers I’m really looking forward to learning from, including:

• Chris Kresser talking about the importance of fish and seafood
• Paul Check on how eating whole foods impacts your mind, body, and soul
• Jeffrey Smith on genetically modified foods
• Mark McAfee talking about how raw milk can heal a broken immune system
• Chris Masterjohn on the nutritional wisdom of Weston A. Price

There are a total of 27 video presentations that will be free to watch during the nine-day summit, by different speakers on many different topics. The Real Food Summit starts in a few days time, on Sunday 8th July (AKA Monday 9th July for those of us in Australia).

Pre-register here if you’re interested in attending the free event – and as an extra bonus everyone who pre-registers will receive a presentation by real food farmer and activist Joel Salatin called “Real Food Defined”

I think this will be a great summit to attend for those already into Paleo, but also to share with those friends and family interested in Paleo, but not quite ready to change their diets…

Have you signed-up to the Real Food Summit yet?

Why Online Summits Like This Matter

With so much conflicting information about health, nutrition, and wellness online, events like the Real Food Summit offer a much-needed opportunity to hear from credible experts in one place. The lineup includes experienced practitioners, researchers, and thought leaders who bring both scientific understanding and real-world insights. Whether you’re just starting your journey into clean eating or you're a seasoned Paleo veteran, there's always more to learn and apply to your own lifestyle.

What makes this kind of summit particularly valuable is the diversity of perspectives. You’ll find talks focused on ancestral diets, gut health, metabolic healing, sustainable farming, and food politics — all presented in an accessible way that’s grounded in practical advice. With speakers from different backgrounds, you'll get a more well-rounded understanding of how real food affects not just your physical health, but your mental wellbeing and the planet too.

How to Make the Most of the Real Food Summit

If you're planning to attend, there are a few ways you can get the most value out of the summit:

Schedule time to watch – With 27 presentations available over nine days, it helps to look at the schedule in advance and block out time to tune in. Even setting aside 30–60 minutes per day will help you absorb more.
Take notes – Jot down your key takeaways, favourite quotes, and ideas you'd like to research more. This can be especially useful if you want to implement new strategies into your Paleo lifestyle.
Share with others – If a particular talk resonates with you, consider sharing it with friends or family. It could be a great conversation starter and a gentle way to introduce others to real food principles.
Engage with the speakers – Many of the presenters are active online and welcome discussion. If something stood out to you or raised a question, reach out to them via their social media or websites for further engagement.

Spotlight on Key Topics to Watch

With such a wide-ranging lineup, it’s helpful to keep an eye on the sessions most relevant to your goals. For example:

Chris Kresser’s presentation on seafood is ideal if you’re trying to include more nutrient-dense marine foods in your diet. He’s known for explaining complex science in a way that’s easy to understand.
Jeffrey Smith’s talk on GMOs is especially timely in Australia, as consumer awareness around food labelling and genetically modified ingredients continues to grow.
Paul Chek’s discussion about the emotional and spiritual effects of eating whole food may resonate if you’re exploring the mind-body connection or holistic health approaches.

Other speakers cover everything from the gut microbiome to hormone health, making this a uniquely comprehensive experience. Whether you're curious about intermittent fasting, fermented foods, or natural immunity, you'll find sessions that spark your interest and deepen your understanding.

Real Food vs. Processed Convenience

The summit also offers a valuable counterpoint to the modern food environment. Despite growing awareness, ultra-processed convenience food continues to dominate supermarket shelves and marketing campaigns. Events like this challenge the narrative that quick, cheap food must come at the expense of health.

Instead, you’ll hear about the value of returning to traditional food preparation methods — from slow-cooked broths and fermented vegetables to sourcing ingredients locally and seasonally. These ideas align closely with the Paleo framework, where food is chosen for its nutritional quality, not its packaging or shelf life.

Who Will Benefit from Attending?

While the Real Food Summit is a fantastic resource for those already living a Paleo or ancestral lifestyle, it’s also a gentle introduction for friends or family members who are curious but hesitant. Unlike some stricter diet approaches, the summit embraces a wide interpretation of “real food” that welcomes a variety of preferences and starting points.

For example, someone interested in organic produce or reducing sugar might enjoy talks by Sarah Ballantyne or Mark McAfee, while someone keen on learning how diet influences mood and sleep could be drawn to more holistic sessions. It’s a good idea to share the registration link with others and perhaps even watch a few sessions together to prompt discussion and reflection.

Supporting the Real Food Movement

By attending events like this and sharing what you learn, you're contributing to a much broader shift in how we think about health and food. The more people who demand transparency, nutrition, and sustainability in what they eat, the more likely we are to see meaningful change in food systems, policy, and education.

Many of the summit's speakers are also directly involved in activism, regenerative agriculture, and public health initiatives — so your attention and support help amplify their message. You might even come away inspired to start a garden, join a local co-op, or advocate for better food choices in your own community.

Looking Beyond the Summit

Once the event wraps up, it’s worth taking some time to revisit your notes and see what you want to integrate into your life. That could mean experimenting with new recipes, sourcing different types of food, or simply being more mindful of how you eat. Some presentations will likely offer replays or transcripts, especially if you register early, so make sure you access everything you can while it’s available.

If the summit energises you, keep an eye out for follow-up events or related conferences. Many of the presenters run their own workshops, podcasts, or online communities — a great way to stay connected and keep your momentum going.

Have You Registered Yet?

With so many valuable insights packed into a single event, the Real Food Summit is a rare opportunity to learn from the best — for free. It doesn’t matter where you are on your health journey, this summit is bound to offer something new and actionable.

Click here to pre-register now and gain immediate access to Joel Salatin’s bonus talk, “Real Food Defined.” Make sure to check your inbox for summit updates and schedule announcements. Let’s celebrate real food together — from paddock to plate, farm to fork.

Kitchen Heaven or Kitchen Hell?

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As I mentioned in my Paleo Pets post, I’m currently house sitting and looking after someone’s dogs

I always look in peoples shopping trolleys with interest, but living in someone else’s house offers such a unique insight into what people really eat. The pantry in the house I'm staying in could not be any further from mine. And I find it really sad.

Obviously fresh food was used up before they left, but even so, it appears that almost all of the families meals come from tins, packets and jars, with expiry dates far into the future and lists of ingredients I don’t recognise.

The kitchen counters are full of gadgets like toasters, popcorn makers and microwaves – all absent from my kitchen. Meanwhile gadgets that I rely on in my kitchen are no where to be seen – a blender for soup and sauces; weighing scales for trying out new recipes; a big stockpot for broths and a slow cooker are very evidently missing. Instead of measuring cups and a julienne peeler I've found a pizza cutting wheel and an ice cream scoop.

The pantry is filled with a fat fearing agenda. There are all sorts of fat-free, reduced fat and low-fat instant options. Even the olive oil is “light” – but of course the fat of choice appears to be canola oil. The spread options (for bread, I presume) are low fat margarines. There is a shelf full of cereals, all boasting some amazing health benefits (and lots of mention of wholegrains) on their packaging.

I've been really surprised to find the herbs and spices (of which I have a rather large, regularly refilled collection in my own kitchen) consists of just a packet of cooking salt and an unopened jar of black peppercorns. I suppose when you reheat and eat out of packets and jars, all the taste you need is provided for, by the unrecognisable ingredients listed on the packet. With some good meat or fish, vegetables and a handful of the Paleo ingredients I can use my herbs and spices to make literally hundreds of completely different meals, with far superior tastes to anything the packets could provide.

Water doesn't appear to be the drink of choice, judging by the collection of shockingly coloured cordial bottles and shelf of soft drinks bottles.

The other interesting comparison is in the cooking materials themselves. Plastic (for use in the microwave and for storing food) is in almost exclusive use, and most of the cookware is non-stick. I used to use this type of cookware too – until I started to replace my pots and pans with safer options.

Tellingly the kitchen also houses two medicine cupboards full of all sorts of medications. My medical supplies are housed in a small container and consist of paracetamol (not used this year as I just don’t get headaches any more), some old forgotten about inhalers (my asthma disappeared without trace a couple of years ago), some out of date antihistamines (my allergies have also disappeared) and some plasters (bandaids for any Americans in the house).

I can’t accept it takes too long to bother to prepare proper food, it definitely isn't more expensive than buying everything in packet form. I think for some people opening and reheating from a packet has just become a sad habit, that is hard to break.

The effort to buy low-fat and “healthy” cereals clearly indicates an desire to be healthy – it’s just sad that the intention has failed so strongly in execution.

Have you seen such a SAD kitchen recently? Do you think this is typical?

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Melbourne Paleo

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Welcome to those who've found the site through the article in this weekend's “The Age” newspaper.

It's great to see Paleo getting more and more publicity and for more people to consider removing the grains and changing their diets.

If you're interested in finding out about Paleo there's lots of information on the site and a free guide to Paleo Australia ebook you can download now. Sign up to my newsletter on the right to get your free guide.

The Paleo Movement in Melbourne: Then and Now

Back in June 2012, I was honoured to be featured in The Age newspaper in an article titled “Meat and Greet: Modern Hunger for Caveman Diet”. The article explored how the Paleo lifestyle – once seen as a niche movement – was beginning to take off in Melbourne and beyond. It was so encouraging to see mainstream media not only notice Paleo, but take it seriously enough to speak to everyday Australians who were living and breathing the lifestyle.

At the time, there were only a handful of us in Australia talking about Paleo online. The concept was still relatively unknown outside of CrossFit gyms and health forums. The Age article profiled a variety of Paleo advocates: CrossFit trainers, pregnant mums, software developers, and even musicians, all of whom had embraced the lifestyle and were seeing real, tangible health benefits — from clearer skin and better digestion to improved energy and weight loss.

I shared my own story in that piece – how I’d lost 17kg in just three months by cutting grains and processed food and how my lifelong asthma disappeared. That was the moment Paleo stopped being just a personal experiment for me and became a passion to share with others. Soon after, The Paleo Network started gaining traction, and what had been a small personal blog quickly grew into a go-to resource for Australians wanting to embrace a more ancestral approach to health.

Why Paleo Resonates in Melbourne

Melbourne has always had a strong food culture – we love our brunches, our farmers markets, our artisan producers. But alongside the café culture, there’s also been a deep interest in wellness and sustainability. Paleo ticks a lot of boxes for health-conscious Melburnians:

It focuses on whole, real food, with an emphasis on seasonal and local produce.
It avoids highly processed foods and seed oils – common culprits in many modern health conditions.
It’s flexible – Paleo isn’t about deprivation but about choosing the most nourishing options available.

Since 2012, Melbourne has only become more Paleo-friendly. There are now more butchers who understand the value of grass-fed and pasture-raised meat. Organic markets have popped up across the suburbs. Cafés offer grain-free, dairy-free, and sugar-free options – and even if they don’t use the word “Paleo”, they’re speaking the same language.

Even CrossFit boxes and strength gyms across Victoria continue to champion the Paleo way of eating, often combining it with intermittent fasting, cold exposure, and mobility work – all elements inspired by our ancestral roots.

The Impact of Media on the Paleo Movement

Being interviewed by a major newspaper helped bring Paleo into the Australian mainstream. The Age article gave a human face to the movement and highlighted the diversity of people trying this lifestyle – it wasn’t just “fitness bros” or wellness influencers. It was mums, professionals, people with autoimmune conditions, and busy workers looking for sustainable health solutions.

Mainstream media coverage helped break down the misconceptions around Paleo. Suddenly, people weren’t just seeing it as a weird diet based on caveman clichés – they were seeing it as a real option to help them feel better, lose weight, improve digestion, and even reverse chronic conditions.

Today, we have podcasts, Instagram pages, YouTube channels, and documentaries – but back then, a single print article could ignite thousands of conversations. And it did.

Paleo Success Stories from Melbourne

Over the years, I’ve received countless emails from people in Victoria sharing how Paleo changed their lives. A few highlights include:

Anna from Fitzroy, who healed her PCOS symptoms and lost 10kg without counting calories or doing endless cardio.
Damien from Richmond, who credits Paleo and intermittent fasting for helping him manage Type 2 diabetes and avoid medication.
Miriam from St Kilda, who switched her whole family to Paleo after her daughter’s behavioural issues improved dramatically on a grain-free, additive-free diet.

These aren’t isolated cases – they’re part of a growing body of anecdotal evidence showing how a whole food, ancestral diet can help address modern health issues at the root cause.

Where to Start with Paleo in Melbourne

If you’re new to Paleo and found this post through The Age or another mention, here’s where to begin:

Download my free guide – it’s tailored specifically for Australians, including local ingredient swaps, where to shop, and Aussie-friendly recipes.
Explore the blog – there’s a treasure trove of information here on topics like batch cooking, eating Paleo on a budget, and navigating social events.
Join the Paleo community – we’ve got an active mailing list and social media pages full of recipe swaps, events, and support.
Check out local resources – farmers markets, CrossFit boxes, organic grocers, and ethical butchers are great places to start living Paleo without compromise.

And if you’re not in Melbourne? There are Paleo communities popping up across Australia – from Brisbane to Hobart, Byron Bay to Adelaide – and I feature them regularly here on the site.

Paleo Today: Fad or Foundation?

Back in 2012, critics were quick to dismiss Paleo as a fad. Dietitians called it “extreme” or “unsustainable”. But here we are over a decade later – and Paleo is still going strong. The key reason? It works.

Unlike crash diets or 6-week challenges, Paleo isn’t about deprivation or dogma. It’s about removing inflammatory foods, nourishing your body, and reconnecting with real food. Once people feel the difference – clearer skin, fewer bloating episodes, steady energy, better sleep – they don’t want to go back.

Sure, the name “Paleo” may not be as trendy now as “Whole30”, “Ancestral Health”, or “Clean Keto”, but the principles remain the same: Eat real food. Avoid modern junk. Honour your body’s needs.

Final Thoughts

Looking back at the Age article reminds me just how far the movement has come. I was proud to be one of the early voices advocating for a smarter, ancestral approach to food – and I still am.

If you’re here because of that article or because someone shared it with you: welcome. Whether you’re experimenting with Paleo for the first time, or you’ve been on this journey for a decade, there’s a community here to support you.

Let me know in the comments:

Did you read the Age article when it came out?
Have you noticed more Paleo options in Melbourne since 2012?
What’s your number one tip for someone starting Paleo today?

Let’s keep spreading the word – and keep building a community where ancestral health isn’t a fringe idea, but a normal part of everyday life.

Conscious Parenting Summit

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One of my readers told me about the Conscious Parenting Summit, which starts today. The talks are free to listen to online for 24 hours; and there seem to be a couple of interviews a day on all sorts of parenting aspects.

Whilst the nutrition seems to be more geared towards raw food than Paleo, the summit talks about a number of issues that seem very relevant to bringing up Paleo Children, such as Pregnancy, Natural Fertility, Water Birth, Lotus Birth, Unassisted Birth, Bonding, Vaccinating, Breastfeeding, Co-Sleeping, Elimination Communication, Non-Violent Communication, Circumcision and Homeschooling/Unschooling.

So if you have young children, are pregnant, or considering starting a Paleo family, it might be worth checking out the summit!

Why Conscious Parenting Aligns with the Paleo Lifestyle

At first glance, conscious parenting and Paleo may seem like two separate ideas — one focused on child-rearing philosophies, the other on nutrition. But dig a little deeper, and you'll find a shared core: the desire to return to natural, intuitive, and evolutionarily sound practices. Both philosophies question the status quo and ask: “Is this truly the best way to support our health and development — or is it just what modern culture says we should do?”

Much like choosing to nourish your body with real, unprocessed foods, conscious parenting is about stripping away the layers of conditioning and societal expectation to return to what makes sense from a biological, psychological, and emotional perspective.

Let’s unpack some of the topics featured in the Conscious Parenting Summit and explore how they dovetail beautifully with a Paleo lifestyle — especially for those raising Paleo kids.

Pregnancy and Natural Fertility

Modern fertility practices often overlook the impact of nutrition and environmental factors on conception. From a Paleo point of view, supporting fertility begins long before pregnancy. A nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet — high in quality fats, pastured meats, organ meats, fermented foods, and vegetables — can help regulate hormones, reduce stress, and support optimal reproductive health for both partners.

Speakers in the summit who explore natural fertility and conscious conception often emphasise reducing toxin exposure, eating real food, and connecting with the body’s rhythms — all pillars of a Paleo pregnancy.

Birth: Water, Lotus, and Unassisted Options

Mainstream birth culture often centres around intervention, convenience, and medical control. Conscious parenting challenges this by exploring options like water birth, lotus birth (where the umbilical cord is left attached until it naturally separates), and unassisted birth.

While not every family will choose these routes, many Paleo-minded parents find resonance in the idea of birth as a natural, physiological process, not a medical emergency. There’s increasing interest in minimising intervention and creating an environment that supports bonding, calm, and hormonal flow — particularly oxytocin, the hormone of love and connection.

A real food diet throughout pregnancy can support better outcomes in birth too, reducing the risk of complications like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and large-for-gestational-age babies.

Breastfeeding and Co-Sleeping

Breastfeeding is arguably the most “Paleo” thing a parent can do. It’s species-specific nutrition, designed to support brain development, immunity, and gut health. Conscious parenting often highlights the emotional connection and attunement that breastfeeding fosters, not just the nutritional benefits.

Co-sleeping (also known as bed-sharing or sidecar sleeping) is another area where evolutionary and conscious parenting perspectives overlap. Our ancestors didn’t place their babies in separate rooms — they kept them close for warmth, feeding, and safety. While modern safety guidelines should always be followed, many families find that safe co-sleeping fosters more rest, better breastfeeding success, and stronger emotional bonds.

Elimination Communication (EC)

If you’re new to elimination communication, it’s the practice of tuning into a baby’s cues and using gentle timing to encourage toileting from infancy. It may sound odd in the West, but it's a common practice in many cultures — and entirely aligned with evolutionary principles.

EC treats babies as aware, capable beings — something the conscious parenting movement strongly advocates. It also reduces the reliance on nappies and the environmental impact of disposable products. Paleo parents drawn to minimalism and sustainability often find this practice worth exploring, even if they don’t go all in.

Vaccination, Circumcision & Non-Violent Communication

These are deeply personal topics, and conscious parenting doesn’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, it encourages parents to ask questions, research, and make informed decisions based on what aligns with their values.

Vaccination: Conscious parenting encourages informed consent and respectful dialogue. Some parents choose alternative schedules, others opt for selective vaccination, and some follow the standard schedule — but all aim to decide from a place of empowerment, not fear.
Circumcision: Many parents, upon researching this practice through a conscious lens, reconsider the default decision. Awareness of bodily autonomy, nerve endings, and ethical considerations often lead to questioning the norm.
Non-Violent Communication (NVC): Central to the conscious parenting philosophy, NVC focuses on empathetic listening and expressing needs without blame or punishment. For Paleo parents seeking not just physical, but emotional health for their families, NVC can be a game-changer.

Homeschooling and Unschooling

While not directly tied to Paleo, homeschooling and unschooling appeal to many families who’ve already stepped outside the mainstream when it comes to food and health. These education models allow for more freedom, child-led learning, and deeper connection with nature — again echoing ancestral values.

Some Paleo families find that traditional schooling environments contradict the rhythms and values they’re trying to cultivate at home: adequate movement, time outdoors, nutrient-dense food, and strong family connection. Homeschooling offers a way to keep those values intact, even during the learning day.

Raising Paleo Children in a Processed World

Let’s face it — raising kids Paleo in a world of processed snacks, peer pressure, and sugar-laden birthday parties is no small feat. But conscious parenting offers some valuable tools for navigating this path with intention.

Here are a few ideas that might support your Paleo parenting journey:

1. Focus on Food as Family Culture

Frame real food not as deprivation, but as the foundation of your family’s identity. Celebrate homemade meals, get the kids involved in prep, grow herbs together, and explore markets and farms.

2. Be Honest, Not Fear-Based

Talk to your children about why your family eats the way it does — without demonising others. Help them understand how food affects how they feel, think, and grow.

3. Find Allies

Whether through local groups, Facebook communities, or events like the Conscious Parenting Summit, surround yourself with like-minded parents. It’s so much easier when you know you’re not alone.

4. Lead by Example

Kids learn more from what we do than what we say. When they see you prioritising sleep, getting outdoors, making home-cooked meals, and caring for yourself — that’s the most powerful lesson.

The Rise of Holistic Parenting Events

That this summit even exists speaks volumes. Ten years ago, you’d be hard-pressed to find resources questioning conventional parenting norms. Now, there are entire conferences, books, podcasts, and platforms devoted to conscious parenting, natural living, and ancestral health.

This is a growing global movement, and events like the Conscious Parenting Summit help connect the dots. Even if a particular speaker isn’t strictly Paleo, there’s often so much value to glean — whether it’s a new way of viewing behaviour, an idea for improving sleep, or simply the reminder that there are other parents out there doing things differently too.

What If You’re Not Doing It All “Perfectly”?

This is where conscious parenting and Paleo both shine: there’s no perfection required. It’s about doing better where you can, asking questions, staying curious, and showing up with presence and care.

Whether you’re pregnant and planning, have toddlers who love kombucha, or teens who roll their eyes at your grain-free bread — you’re doing something incredible by tuning in and choosing a more intentional way forward.

Your Turn

Have you watched any of the sessions from the Conscious Parenting Summit? Which topics spoke to you the most? How does conscious parenting fit into your Paleo lifestyle?

If you’ve got resources, books, or experiences to share — especially when it comes to raising healthy, real-food-loving kids in Australia or New Zealand — I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

And if you’re building a Paleo family of your own, know that you’re not alone — and you’re doing amazing work.

Paleo Meets Vegan Meets Vegetarian

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On the way to LAX airport from PrimalCon, my new friend Jennifer and I stopped off in Santa Monica for coffee (Jennifer) and tea (me). We got talking to an interesting couple, who seemed keen to find out about us, as soon as they realised we had different accents to them.

They were asking what we were doing in California, to which we replied rather vaguely, telling them we’d been to a health conference. The conversation then progressed onto health and how healthy our new friends believed they were. That’s where they proudly told us they were Vegan, clearly of the popular belief that that is the ultimate in healthy lifestyles. That wasn't really a conversation I felt like having, so didn't delve further. However, it wasn't long before they asked exactly what our health conference was about. Before I could say it was a Kettlebell conference (I know, gutless – but this was Vegans on their home turf) Jennifer quickly announced we’d been to PrimalCon – and were Paleo, pretty much the opposite to Vegans. Carnivores. I filled the silence by explaining how we actually have a lot in common. We don’t eat feed lock, intensively farmed meat. We are really careful to ensure our meat is ethical and comes from well cared for animals, in their natural environment and fed their natural diet. They seemed to accept this, before the woman started to tell us how she could never eat a cute, soft, cuddly, beautiful cow and how if she saw one she’d have to take it home so she could pat it and stroke it all day. Or something like that.

This conversation (and the book I'm currently reading “The Vegetarian Myth”) has got me thinking about the similarities and differences between being Paleo and being Vegetarian or Vegan.

Is it possible to be Vegan or Vegetarian and Paleo?

I've even seen increasing numbers of people on Paleo forums posing the question as to whether it is possible to follow a Paleo lifestyle as a Vegan or Vegetarian. Denice Minger has a talk about this very subject. With the absence of meat and dairy too (in the case of Vegans) this group often rely heavily on grains as a source of calories and legumes as a protein source. A shift from a grain and legume heavy diet, to a meat-free Paleo diet would be quite a transition, but theoretically possible – probably involving lots of nutritionally dense eggs. I guess it’s a lot easier for those Vegetarians who do eat fish (Pescetarians) – that would certainly make following a Paleo style diet a lot easier…

The Vegetarian/ Vegan is Healthy Myth

I don’t think it’s accurate to assume that just because someone is Vegetarian they automatically live a supremely healthy lifestyle. Whilst a lot of Vegetarians are healthy, there also seem to be a lot of “Junk Food Vegetarians”. So many processed foods have the “V” Vegetarian symbol. In fact, it would be very easy for a Vegetarian to conduct their entire diet through packets of processed foods, without a vegetable in sight. I think this is where Paleo differs. Whilst I'm sure industry will start to produce “Paleo Processed Foods”, they will never be Paleo – as the whole basis of Paleo is to eat natural, uncomplicated, whole foods.

From Vegetarian/ Vegan to Paleo?

A lot of people do seem to become Vegetarian or Vegan through concern for their health. It amazes me how many of those now following a Paleo lifestyle used to be Vegetarian of Vegan, in fact, the 2012 Paleo Survey results show that over 38% of Paleo respondents used to follow either of those lifestyles. I have a lot of respect for these people, as it can’t be easy to go through such a transformation. How do you start the process of telling your friends and family you now eat meat? Do you spend time as a secret meat eater before casually ordering a steak at dinner with friends?

Have you ever been Vegetarian or Vegan? Do you think Paleo is the polar opposite lifestyle?

Living in a SAD Beige World

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Whenever I watch the Biggest Loser and they show the former diet of the contestants, I'm always struck by the colours of the food. Almost everything they ate is beige, brown and anaemic yellow in colour, broken up with the black of the cokes they drank (usually diet, clearly that worked) and a few fluorescent coloured sweets and cakes.

Burger buns, bread, pizza, chips, fries, crisps, popcorn, pastries, cakes, biscuits, sugary milky coffee – it’s all virtually the same colour. It seems utterly depressing eating beige foods the entire time; it must start turn your World, well, beige after a while.

Contrast that with a healthy Paleo or Primal diet where virtually every colour seems to be represented. Certain colours are actually attributed to certain properties – for example the vibrant orange foods like Carrots and Capsicum provide Beta Carotene and dark green vegetables are rich in Vitamin K. It’s not just pretty, eating lots of different colours really is essential for a good nutrient intake.

How colourful is your diet? Could you live in a beige world?

Why Colour Matters in a Healthy Paleo Diet

One of the most striking visual differences between the Standard Australian (or American) Diet — often abbreviated as the SAD diet — and a nutrient-rich Paleo lifestyle is exactly that: colour. The SAD diet is dominated by processed carbohydrates, seed oils, and added sugars. These foods are not only nutrient-poor but visually dull, often coming in shades of beige, white, or faded brown. Sausage rolls. White toast. Muffins. Chicken nuggets. They all blend into the same lifeless palette.

By contrast, a real food Paleo diet is filled with vibrant colour — deep green spinach, bold orange pumpkin, ruby-red beetroot, golden yolks from pasture-raised eggs, and the rich purples and blues of seasonal berries. These aren’t just pretty to look at. The pigments in these foods represent phytochemicals, antioxidants, and vitamins that play crucial roles in everything from cellular repair to hormone function and immune health.

The Rainbow Rule

If your plate looks like a rainbow, you’re almost guaranteed to be feeding your body a wide array of nutrients. Different colours often indicate different health-promoting compounds:

Red (tomatoes, strawberries, capsicum): Lycopene and anthocyanins — heart and skin support
Orange/Yellow (carrots, sweet potatoes, turmeric): Beta-carotene, lutein — vision and immune support
Green (spinach, kale, broccoli): Chlorophyll, folate, Vitamin K — detoxification and bone health
Blue/Purple (blueberries, eggplant, purple cabbage): Anthocyanins — cognitive and cardiovascular support
White/Brown (garlic, cauliflower, mushrooms): Allicin and selenium — anti-inflammatory and immune function

When was the last time a sausage roll provided that kind of nutritional support?

Beige Foods: A Warning Sign

When meals come from boxes and bags, they often have one thing in common — their beige appearance. It’s not just a visual cue; it’s a red flag. Ultra-processed foods have often had the nutrients stripped out during manufacturing and rely on additives, refined grains, and industrial oils for flavour and shelf life. Their uniform blandness is symbolic of their lack of diversity and life-enhancing qualities.

While there’s no denying that beige foods are convenient, they don’t nourish. Over time, a beige diet may contribute to fatigue, hormonal imbalance, inflammation, and a growing list of modern health issues.

Eating With Your Eyes (And Gut)

When your plate is colourful, you’re not only boosting your health — you’re also changing your relationship with food. Colourful meals feel more alive, more satisfying, and more inspiring to eat. You begin to look forward to your next meal, not because you’re chasing a sugar hit or the dopamine spike from processed snacks, but because you genuinely enjoy the textures, colours, and flavours of real food.

If you ever find your Paleo meals becoming repetitive or uninspiring, ask yourself: what colour is missing from your plate?

Add shredded beetroot or purple cabbage to your salad
Top your roasted veggies with pomegranate seeds or fresh herbs
Swap white potatoes for golden pumpkin or deep-orange kumara
Try new vegetables from the farmers market you’ve never cooked before

Breaking Free from the Beige

Many people come to Paleo for weight loss or digestive health — but they stay for how good it feels to be well-nourished. A colourful plate is an easy and powerful way to track your nutrient variety without counting anything.

So next time you’re tempted by something bland and beige, remember what it represents — and how different your body feels when you eat food that’s full of life and colour.

How colourful is your plate today? What are your go-to vegetables or fruits to brighten up your meals? Share your favourites — and your tips to avoid falling back into beige — in the comments below.

Let’s build a world that’s vibrant on the plate and in how we feel.

PrimalCon 2012

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After a 14-hour flight, five movies, no sleep and more intermittent fasting than planned (more on that in a future post) – I made it back to Sydney from PrimalCon yesterday, exhausted – but very inspired!

This was my second year at PrimalCon, so I had a better idea of what to expect this year – and even some wonderful friends from last year I was excited to see again.

Last year was my first time in California, so I assumed it was always hot and sunny there. Packing with that assumption was a big mistake! The weather completely changed on Friday, the first full day of PrimalCon, so much so that the day’s activities were moved inside – thank goodness! I must make sure I bring some warmer clothes next year, just in case.

When I first arrived at the resort, I noticed a few people in minimalist footwear who I knew must be there for PrimalCon – and people drinking energy drinks who I knew I could safely guarantee weren't there for the same reasons!

The PrimalCon Experts

I finally got to meet Primal Girl, Tara Grant in person at registration. We’d been in contact over email, but it’s definitely no substitute for meeting in real life. Tara was there for the whole weekend answering questions, telling her own story and giving ideas to the participants. She really is such an inspiration and looks the image of health!

Last year Barefoot Ted’s session was my introduction to barefoot running. Since then I’ve been wearing Vibrams regularly, so I learnt so much more from him this year. Ted is a great storyteller and teacher. During a break in the rain we went outside for his class. Predictably as soon as we got to the furthest point, the storm came back with a vengeance, giving us even more incentive to put what we’d learnt into practice to sprint back to the hotel as quickly as possible!

The sprint clinic with Olympian Michael Stember dovetailed perfectly with the barefoot running class, I’m really looking forward to putting everything I’ve learnt into practice and trying to make my running style look and feel as effortless as both Michael and Barefoot Ted’s.

William Vives is a regular at PrimalCon and an expert on kettlebells and fitness and took his session in a corridor of the hotel (the rain was that heavy!) focusing on getting the techniques right. This was a great session as it’s all too easy to get distracted by speed and number of reps – and letting form suffer. I've been using kettlebells for a while, but learnt so much that was completely new to me in William’s class. William gave me so many fantastic tips and advice which I'm so grateful for – I feel like he’s helped to bring my fitness goals a lot closer. If only we had a William Vives in Australia!

One of the sessions I’d been looking forward to the most was Erwan Le Corre, founder of MovNat. I’d heard him speak at the AHS 2011, but his brand of teaching needs to be on the move, not behind a lectern. Unfortunately my group was the first; we were hoping for a break in the weather, but it just got worse and worse. In true Primal style, we persevered, crawling, jumping and lying on the ground. Despite the weather, it was enough to convince me to sign up for one of his 7-day courses – once I master pull-ups (Erwan says this isn't essential, but I want to get the maximum benefit from his class). Other than the class it was fascinating watching Erwan over the weekend. He never seemed to sit – even at lunch he ate his lunch from a grok squat on his chair. He also seems to look at the world in an entirely different way – I could see him studying the ground and objects, working out how he could get across/ over/ under/ along different surfaces. He really does live and breathe MovNat!

Mark Sisson took a couple of sessions talking and answering all sorts of different questions. It’s really interesting to hear which topics are hot issues at the moment. Predictably Cold Thermogenesis was of interest, as Jack Kruse has recently brought to the attention of the Paleo community. Ketosis was another issue that was asked about in various guises.

Kelly Starrett was new this year and was such a pleasure to listen to – he spoke about mobility, which is so important, yet really overlooked. I’d planned to catch up with him later to find out more, but got sidetracked with all of the other things that were going on.

I’d barely even noticed Vanessa and Adam Lambert on the schedule with Olympic Lifting. This was one of the choice sessions and I was delighted to have a one-on-one session with Adam. I've been interested in Olympic Lifting for a while, but had never actually tried it before. It was amazing, my favourite session of the weekend! I went from being really unsure of the strange movements, to some great lifting. I want more of this! Vanessa used to train with Robb Wolf and was giving some incredible gymnastics lessons and demonstrations. Perhaps at next year's PrimalCon I’ll give that more of a try.

Chef Rachel Albert was also back from last year, only this year her Paleo cookery demonstration was from a beach house. I’d learnt so much last year, so had high expectations this time – and she didn't disappoint. Her demonstration was full of so many tips, often really simple ideas, but things I’d just never thought of doing before! It’s great to have a chef championing Paleo cooking at PrimalCon

As you’d expect from PrimalCon, the food was absolutely amazing. I find it so hard to get Turkey and Kale in Australia, so made the most of their abundance! On the first evening we were served a soup and my first thought was that I would obviously have to leave it – then I remembered where I was! It’s such a wonderfully refreshing change knowing that all of the food was 100% Primal, not a grain or legume in sight – and certainly nothing processed.

It’s funny meeting so many people with the same beliefs on nutrition; you’d think all of the conversation would be about being Paleo, but it’s not at all. You already know you have that common basis and so much else to discuss. There were quite a few of us from overseas this year, including a few from Europe and the UK and even another Sydneysider – who’d have thought!

I’ve come away from PrimalCon feeling inspired with new friends and so many new tips and ideas I'm itching to put into practice. I hope to see more of you there again next year, for PrimalCon 2013!

Why Events Like PrimalCon Matter for the Paleo Community

Attending events like PrimalCon is about so much more than just learning new techniques — it’s about immersing yourself in a like-minded community that supports your personal growth, health, and lifestyle choices. For anyone following a Paleo diet in Australia or elsewhere, travelling to an event like this can help solidify your commitment and spark new inspiration to take your primal lifestyle to the next level.

The magic of PrimalCon lies in its combination of expert-led movement sessions, practical health education, and social connection. It brings together Paleo enthusiasts, from complete beginners to seasoned health practitioners, to share ideas, challenge norms, and explore what a natural, ancestral health lifestyle really looks like in today’s modern world.

Whether it's barefoot running with Barefoot Ted, exploring movement patterns with Erwan Le Corre, or delving into real food cooking with Chef Rachel Albert, the sessions offer something that books and podcasts alone can’t provide: hands-on experience and personal connection.

Learning Beyond the Theory

One of the biggest takeaways from events like this is how important it is to learn in a real-world setting. It’s one thing to read about Olympic lifting or MovNat principles; it’s another to actually get one-on-one guidance from professionals who live and breathe it every day. These experiences offer not just better form and technique, but a mindset shift — a more natural, confident approach to health and movement.

Real Food in the Real World

The food at PrimalCon was a standout — and not just because it tasted great. It’s incredibly reassuring to be in an environment where Paleo nutrition is normal. You don’t need to double-check ingredients or ask about gluten, grains, or seed oils. Everything is aligned with how we strive to eat at home: unprocessed, clean, and nourishing.

For those in Australia following the Paleo lifestyle, this can serve as a reminder that building or joining a community of likeminded individuals is worth the effort – even if it starts with just a meetup, a shared meal, or a local group workout.

Bringing the Inspiration Back to Australia

Now back in Sydney, the challenge is to bring this energy and mindset home – continuing to move naturally, eat simply, and connect deeply. I’ve already incorporated a few things I learned into my daily routine: mobility work from Kelly Starrett’s session, form corrections from Olympic lifting, and even the simple act of eating lunch more mindfully (and sometimes from a squat, MovNat-style!).

Events like PrimalCon remind us that Paleo is not a diet trend. It’s a way of living that connects us to our roots – through food, movement, community, and nature.

If you’ve ever considered attending a Paleo event like this, whether in Australia or overseas, I can’t recommend it highly enough. It’s an incredible investment in your health, mindset, and long-term motivation. I’ll be counting down until next year’s event – and if you’re going too, I’d love to connect.

Have you attended PrimalCon or any other ancestral health or Paleo-focused event? What was your biggest takeaway? Let me know in the comments below.

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The Paleo Weekend – New Tickets Released!

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Note: This is an old post – the next weekend has not yet been finalised, but please sign up to my newsletter if you are interested in the next event!

With just over three weeks left until Australia’s first Paleo Weekend, I’m delighted to announce two new tickets

Choose to come to Cockatoo Island for either the Saturday sessions for $145, the Sunday sessions for just $95 – or both days for $195!

These tickets are for the sessions only – but upgrades are available including all Paleo meals and overnight accommodation on the island!

Saturdays Paleo Lectures will include:

Jamie Scott,
Dr Anastasia Boulais,
Julianna Taylor and
Dr. Ron Ehrlich
Fitness techniques, and
Max DeLacy on barefoot running

Sundays Paleo Lectures will include:

Monica Moore’s early morning yoga,
Kevin Bees on peak performance and achieving goals
Fitness techniques
Paleo Cooking demonstration, and
The role & impact of Agriculture and Farming

For full details – read the Paleo Weekend FAQs

Numbers are strictly limited, so secure your place today

What Made the Paleo Weekend Australia So Special?

The first ever Paleo Weekend in Australia was more than just a two-day event – it was the start of something much bigger. Hosted on Cockatoo Island in Sydney Harbour, the event brought together Paleo enthusiasts, practitioners, and curious newcomers for a truly immersive experience into ancestral health, real food, and natural movement.

Unlike typical health expos, the Paleo Weekend focused on depth over hype. With science-backed talks, practical demonstrations, nourishing meals, and a strong sense of community, it set a new standard for what a real food and wellness event could look like in Australia.

The Lead-Up to Paleo Weekend: Anticipation and Momentum

In the weeks leading up to the weekend, interest in the event exploded. With a growing Paleo community across Australia and New Zealand, it was clear that people were ready for something more than just online resources. They wanted to connect in person, ask questions face-to-face, and spend time with others who ‘got it’ when it came to bone broth, barefoot movement, and ditching seed oils.

The release of additional ticket types – offering more flexible access to either Saturday or Sunday sessions – was a game-changer. For many people, this made the event more accessible and gave them a chance to attend even if they couldn’t commit to the full weekend or overnight stays.

A Closer Look at the Saturday Line-Up

Saturday's programme was stacked with leading names in the Paleo and ancestral health world. Attendees enjoyed a full day of high-impact talks and hands-on sessions including:

Jamie Scott – Offering insights into nutrition and performance from an evolutionary perspective
Dr Anastasia Boulais – Sharing her clinical knowledge of Paleo as applied in healthcare
Julianna Taylor – Exploring functional fitness, especially for women
Dr Ron Ehrlich – Talking about oral health, stress, and systemic wellbeing through a holistic lens
Max DeLacy – Leading a barefoot running session, teaching natural gait and movement restoration

Saturday also included movement techniques, mobility drills, and opportunities for Q&A with the presenters – all designed to equip attendees with tools to implement Paleo living beyond the weekend itself.

Sunday’s Programme: From Cooking to Mindset

Sunday continued the momentum, focusing on integration and sustainability of the Paleo lifestyle. Highlights included:

Monica Moore’s early morning yoga session – Setting the tone with mindful movement
Kevin Bees – A compelling talk on mindset, goal setting, and how to stay motivated for long-term health success
Fitness workshops – Emphasising functional strength, mobility, and play-based exercise
Paleo cooking demonstrations – Showing just how delicious and practical Paleo meals can be
Agriculture & sustainability discussions – Offering important context on farming, food production, and ethical sourcing

Sunday was designed to tie together the foundational principles of Paleo – food, movement, rest, and community – and show how they work in real life. By the end of the weekend, most attendees had a game plan for applying these concepts in their own kitchens and communities.

Cockatoo Island: The Perfect Setting

The choice of Cockatoo Island was no accident. Set in the middle of Sydney Harbour, this UNESCO World Heritage site offered a unique backdrop – part history, part nature escape. The island’s rugged, industrial charm gave attendees the chance to step out of modern life and into something more primal. The views, fresh air, and sense of separation from the city helped set the tone for two days of reconnection, education, and reflection.

Some participants chose to stay overnight in tents or heritage-listed accommodation, adding a further immersive layer to the experience. Eating Paleo meals under the stars, sharing stories over kombucha, and waking up to the sounds of nature created a truly memorable weekend.

The Paleo Weekend Philosophy

At its core, the Paleo Weekend wasn’t just about food or fitness. It was about rediscovering a way of living that aligns with our biology – something modern life so often pulls us away from. The event championed:

Real food – Seasonal, local, ethical, and nutrient-dense
Natural movement – Playful, varied, and functional exercise
Sleep, sun, and stress reduction – The often-forgotten foundations of good health
Community and connection – Because health is about more than just the individual

These pillars were woven into every session, meal, and activity – creating a holistic, practical, and truly supportive environment.

Who Came to the Paleo Weekend?

One of the most exciting parts of the event was the diversity of attendees. People came from all across Australia (and even New Zealand) to take part. There were:

Health practitioners wanting a deeper understanding of Paleo principles
Fitness professionals exploring natural movement techniques
Busy parents looking for real food strategies for their families
Beginners curious about ancestral living
Long-time Paleo eaters hungry for inspiration and community

Everyone brought something different to the weekend – questions, experiences, ideas – and everyone left feeling enriched, empowered, and connected.

Will There Be Another Paleo Weekend?

If you’re reading this post and wondering if the next Paleo Weekend in Australia is happening soon – you’re not alone. The enthusiasm and feedback from the original event have made it clear that there’s demand for more.

Plans for a future weekend are in the works, though dates have not yet been finalised. It’s likely we’ll return with an updated format, new speakers, and fresh locations – possibly rotating across the country to bring the event to more communities. Locations under consideration include the Central Coast, Melbourne’s Dandenong Ranges, and Byron Bay.

Want to be the first to know? Be sure to sign up to the newsletter and you’ll receive advance notice as soon as future dates are confirmed.

What Past Attendees Are Saying

Here’s just a snippet of the feedback from those who attended the original Paleo Weekend:

“The best event I’ve ever attended – so much real value. I came home energised and ready to take charge of my health.” – Sarah, Brisbane
“Absolutely loved the cooking demos! I’ve already made the liver pate twice!” – James, Melbourne
“Meeting other Paleo people in real life made such a difference. I don’t feel like a weirdo anymore!” – Kristy, Sydney

Can’t Wait? Host a Local Meetup

If you missed the last Paleo Weekend and don’t want to wait for the next one, why not bring the community to you? Organising a local Paleo Meetup is a great way to connect with others, share ideas, and stay motivated. Whether it’s a picnic, walk, or potluck dinner, you’ll be surprised how many people in your area are also on the same journey.

If you’re not sure where to start, feel free to contact me – I’d love to help you get something off the ground in your area.

Final Thoughts on Paleo Weekend Australia

The Paleo Weekend wasn’t just an event – it was the beginning of something bigger. It proved that people are hungry (literally and figuratively) for deeper health, better food, and a return to community. From lectures to movement sessions to shared meals, it was a celebration of everything the Paleo lifestyle represents.

Were you there? I’d love to hear your memories in the comments below. And if you’re keen to attend the next one, make sure you're on the newsletter list – because trust me, the next Paleo Weekend is going to be even better.