Essentially You: Empowering You On Your Health & Wellness Journey With Safe, Natural & Effective Solutions

When I recently surveyed several thousand women in perimenopause about their most disruptive symptoms, what stood out the most was the reported mood issues.  In perimenopause, your brain changes, causing a lack of stress resilience, lack of focus, and a lack of mental energy.  With all that’s on our plates in this stage of life– between careers, parenting, our marriages, and keeping up with our health– declining mental energy is NOT what we need.  If you’re feeling overwhelmed, irritated, or more triggered along with mood changes, it could be due to your changing hormones. So how do you combat these symptoms to feel better… physically AND emotionally?  In this podcast, I’m sharing ALL my tips to help you find peace and harmony because you deserve it. Check out this episode to discover exactly what you need to combat stress and mood swings to feel your best!  IN THIS EPISODE My struggles with perimenopausal rage and mood swings The impact past traumas have on the brain and body  The 3 times women’s b

Many of the women I talk to have been asking…  What exactly is a blood sugar spike, how do they happen, and why does it matter? Aside from causing all kinds of disruptive symptoms, blood sugar spikes are like tiny daggers that wear down your cells, your body, your organs, and your brain.  Catch this shortie for everything you need to know about these harmful events, including how to track your own glucose at home AND a few simple hacks stay balanced.  Mentioned in This Episode Gluco Support – A powerhouse blend of natural herbs and nutrients that are proven to balance blood sugar FAST.  My Favorite CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitor) #492: 10 Massive Benefits to Cutting Out Added Sugar #383: How I Build Metabolically Healthy Meals for My Family to Maintain Steady Blood Sugar and Energy Levels #507: 11 Effortless Ways to Reduce Your Toxic Load and Heal a Sluggish Liver Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Frustrated with not feeling heard by your primary care doc?  You’re not the only one who feels like your menopause symptoms and concerns are getting dismissed.  As women, we go through a whirlwind of changes– physically, emotionally, and hormonally– during perimenopause and menopause.  And these days, we KNOW menopause isn’t only about hot flashes.  It’s so much more.  We become a different person on the other side of menopause.   Women’s health practitioner and menopause expert Jackie Piasta joins me to speak to how we’re ALL affected by midlife hormonal changes– and how to feel empowered going through this time of your life.  Listen to the show now for her top tips on navigating all aspects of midlife with ease, so you can feel your best through perimenopause and menopause!   Jackie Piasta Jackie Piasta is a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) and a certified clinician by the Menopause Society. She’s the founder and owner of Monarch Health– a midlife and menopause clinic in Marietta, GA– working

You may be struggling with metabolic dysfunction but don’t even know it.  Subtle symptoms of metabolic dysfunction can present as everyday frustrations… but they grow into some big chronic issues if they’re not addressed.  Low energy. Brain fog. Menstrual cycle irregularities.  Cravings, crazy mood swings, consistent hunger throughout the day...  Any of these sound familiar to you?  If so, don’t worry– metabolic dysfunction can be reversible (and quickly!) with the right tools in place.  Naturopathic Doctor Lara Briden joins the show again to help you make a few changes ASAP so you can improve your symptoms in just a few weeks– and they may even help change your weight on the scale! Her science-based recommendations are here to help you move toward a healthier and happier future. Check out the podcast here so you don’t miss a tip on overcoming metabolic obstacles and becoming the best version of YOU! Dr. Lara Briden Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of the books Period Repair

It’s no surprise that over 85% of women in the US will experience disruptive hot flashes and night sweats…  Our culture and even previous generations of women tell us that hot flashes are a “normal” part of the transition to menopause, but they could actually be an indication that something else is wrong. And there absolutely IS a better way. Catch today’s podcast to hear BREAKING RESEARCH that links blood sugar to hot flashes and what you can do to reduce (or eliminate) your symptoms–and learn:   What your hot flashes might really be telling you The link between flashes, blood sugar, and insulin resistance  Why we see a rise in hot flashes in women with metabolic dysfunction How the brain is involved in regulating hot flashes Tips to get relief from hot flashes FAST  Mentioned in This Episode FREE Guide [Download] – 6 Hacks to Blunt a Blood Sugar Spike  Gluco Support – Conquer cravings and stress-eating with my custom blend of science-backed herbs. Magnesium Restore – Give your cells the energy they n

The latest research shows that metabolic dysfunction is a root cause of many chronic diseases plaguing Americans today– –including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and dementia.  But there is a growing body of evidence that a number of the consequences of poor metabolic health actually hit women harder than they hit men. Catch today’s podcast to find out the six ways metabolic dysfunction harms women, as well as how to heal from it–and learn: What metabolic dysfunction actually looks (and feels) like 2. Why women are more likely to suffer than men 3. 6 of the most dire consequences of poor metabolic health 4. Why it’s happening and how to heal from it Mentioned in This Episode This Episode is Sponsored by Olive and June. Get 20% off your first Mani System at: https://www.oliveandjune.com/mariza Gluco Support – Powerhouse herbs and nutrients proven to balance blood sugar better than most conventional medications.  Additional Resources Episode 498: Unique Risk Factors that Make Women More P

Brain fog is the real deal, and it hits women WAY harder than men.  The symptoms can be debilitating, like forgetfulness, struggling to find words, inability to focus… And it only gets worse as we age.   But it doesn’t have to!  Catch today’s Six Powerful Ways to Keep Your Brain Young and Sharp–and learn: How brain fog and cognitive decline can go hand-in-hand Why women are affected more than men  6 all-natural ways to keep your brain young and clear The BEST and WORST foods for your brain Mentioned in this Episode: Gluco Support – The Blood Sugar-Balancer Zen Sleep – The Sleep-Enhancer Vitamin D Complete – The Sunshine-Vitamin  Additional Resources: 5 Critical Steps to Prevent Cognitive Decline #419: The 5 Supplements I take Every Single Day for a Better Brain and Energy #391: How I Use Blood Sugar Hacks to Enhance my Brain and Skyrocket my Energy Levels Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again… Perimenopause– or the profound transition into menopause– is one of the MOST overlooked areas of women’s health.  This 4 to 10-year perimenopausal transition deserves more attention because we’re taking on the MOST at this time.  And although it’s a huge change in your body, you can implement several simple adjustments to significantly ease this transition.  Packed with my top diet and blood sugar balancing hacks, daily movement practices, functional lab test recommendations, and my take on hormone replacement therapy… this episode covers it ALL.  It’s time to OWN your power and become your best self. It’s not all about trying to navigate perimenopause and beyond… it’s about learning to live your best life and feel GREAT in your body.  Tune into this episode to discover how to do just that! IN THIS EPISODE Supporting your body through the perimenopause transition  Understanding your metabolic health through perimenopause  Recommended labs for a picture of you

Almost 50% of kids today are diagnosed with a chronic condition.  Let that sink in.  Some studies state that children today are expected to have shorter lifespans than their parents for the first time in history.  So what’s causing this disruption in our modern world… and how do we start with an integrative approach to care for our kids?  Pediatric expert and functional medicine practitioner Dr. Song joins me on the show today to help us parents become MORE proactive. So no matter what our kids are exposed to– their immune systems, brains, and microbiomes can learn how to bounce back and stay healthier for longer. Don’t miss this episode for top recommendations on how diet, movement, and gut microbiome health can help your child remain free from chronic illness, and live a healthier, happier life!  Dr. Elisa Song, MD  Dr. Elisa Song is a Standford-, NYU-, UCSF- trained integrative pediatrician, pediatric functional medicine expert, AND a mom of 2 thriving children. Her mission is to revolutionize the future

With so much health knowledge at our fingertips, it’s amazing that Americans are getting sicker every year. We’re more depressed.  Our life expectancy is going down because we’re becoming infertile.  So… what are we missing?  Dr. Means joins me today to touch on shifting your perspective toward understanding an energy-centric nature of disease. More connection, and prioritizing good energy will help pave the way to a healthier future.  Because good energy is the ultimate currency.  Creating deep connections– between our body systems, ourselves and nature, and ourselves and other people helps drive the needle toward lasting health and longevity.  Don’t miss today’s podcast to dive deep into what’s currently lacking in our country that’s leading to the decline in American health, and what YOU can do today to find good energy, heal your body, and create the healthiest version of yourself! Check it out here.  Casey Means, MD  Dr. Casey Means is a physician and the co-founder of Levels– a health technology c

Through my years in functional medicine, I’ve unfortunately found that thousands of us have been misinformed when it comes to perimenopause and menopause. And menopause expert Dr. Haver agrees. That’s why she joins me today to dive into ALL the changes we can expect in our bodies during this midlife transition.  Even our own doctors are confused about hormonal changes during menopause, so we often feel left in the dark when dealing with symptoms. Today, we shed light on what’s REALLY going on in your body during perimenopause and menopause. Because we all deserve to know how our bodies work, and what this transition means for us in the long term.  From managing weight gain to fatigue to high cholesterol and more– we cover why these symptoms AREN’T just a “normal” part of aging. Listen here to learn how to take control of your hormones, own your menopause transition, and feel empowered through every stage of life!  Dr. Mary Claire Haver MD, FACOG, CMP  Dr. Mary Claire Haver is a board-certified Obstetri

Just a few pieces of chocolate won’t kill me, right?  Trust me… we’ve all had this thought no matter where we are in our journey to ultimate health.  But is it really the sugar you’re craving… or are you actually trying to satisfy a different unmet need?  In today’s podcast, Sugar Freedom Expert Danielle Daem and I address the predominant root causes of sugar addiction– that you may have never realized.  And trust me… we’re not here to tell you you can never have sugar again. We ARE realistic! But Danielle helps you learn how to heal your emotions around sugar and address any addiction from a trauma-informed lens.  YOU ultimately are the one to decide what your relationship with sugar looks like– by showing up for yourself, keeping your word, and not only doing the work nutritionally… but emotionally, too.  Danielle is here to guide you through all of this– and more! So don’t miss this episode to help you restore a healthy balance with sugar.  Danielle Daem Danielle Daem is a Sugar Freedom Expert, Bre

If you’ve been following me long enough… you know how I preach that FOOD is so powerful. The right food nourishes our bodies, reduces inflammation, keeps biomarkers in range, and helps our bodies heal on a cellular level.  But, more importantly… there’s some serious food to watch out for. Some of your favorite– even “healthy”– foods can have dangerous, damaging ingredients you may not be aware of. Don’t worry though– in today’s podcast we uncover the top 5 WORST types of food for metabolic health, and how you can be sure to avoid them.  You won’t want to miss this show– because not only do we dive into these 5 harmful foods for your health, but I also give you great meal ideas, easy snack options, tips for eating while traveling, and all the details on my next 14-Day Detox Program!  Check it all out here! IN THIS EPISODE Foods that sneak into our diets and cause metabolic disruption  The negative impacts sugar has on our health  The benefits of nourishing your gut and liver  The truth about carbs 

Raise your hand if you’re a woman who feels like you take care of everyone but yourself!  Girl– we’re ALL guilty of it.  That’s why I’ve invited NP Cynthia Thurlow on the podcast today to help us reframe this mindset.  Once you reach midlife, perimenopause actually allows you to identify WHY it’s so important for you to focus on taking care of yourself.   In this podcast, we dive into all the benefits of taking care of YOU– and how simple midlife lifestyle adjustments can make you feel your absolute best.  We cover everything from managing jet lag, the importance of sleep, and how fasting is your friend– plus give you supplement recs, exercise tips, stress-relieving measures– and more.  And trust me– these tips won’t feel like deprivation! We want to help you ultimately make sustainable decisions– that most importantly feel good.  Check it out here!  Cynthia Thurlow, NP  Cynthia Thurlow is a nurse practitioner, nutrition educator, international speaker, and CEO and founder of Everyday Wellness. With

Hormones don’t get the credit they deserve. Hormones are beautiful optimizers for our bodies and can be super beneficial in managing ALL kinds of disorders and diseases.  Menopause expert and registered dietician Esther Blum joins me today to help YOU understand hormone replacement– so you’re empowered to advocate for yourself in perimenopause, menopause, and beyond.  Hormones have played a big part in her healing journey– optimizing her well-being, promoting her brain function, enhancing her mood, and more. In this podcast, we’ll dive into the benefits and doubts around hormone replacement therapy, and learn why hormones may be exactly what you need to live your best life– for the rest of your life! If you really want to be a participant in your life– and NOT just watch it go by– then hormones are a VERY important piece.  Don’t miss the podcast here!  Esther Blum, MS, RD, CDN, CNS Esther is an Integrative Dietitian and Menopause Expert who’s spent 27+ years helping thousands of women master menopaus

Women should NOT be made to feel bad about wanting something better, right?  That’s the case when it comes to hormones and hormonal birth control.  Unfortunately– there’s a lot of fear and uncertainty that women– and even their doctors– have around hormone replacement and hormone options.  Some doctors are still stuck in thinking that hormones like estrogen are dangerous. So my goal is to empower you to find a provider willing to listen to you– because hormone replacement can be CRUCIAL as you reach perimenopause and menopause! In this podcast, expert researcher and educator Dr. Hill opens the door to learning more about our bodies as women, hormones, and beneficial options for our health.  Check out this podcast today to take charge of your hormonal health through every stage of your cycle– and your life!  Dr. Sarah Hill  Dr. Sarah Hill is an award-winning research psychologist specializing in women’s health and sexual psychology. Dr. Hill’s research focuses on the role of hormones, the immune system,

Here’s a secret that’s not talked about these days… Carbs aren’t that bad for you! In fact, certain carbs are HUGE for providing fiber and supporting our gut health.  So– why does the media always make carbs out to be the bad guy?  Phoebe Lapine is an author and culinary expert who’s here today to dive into the importance of a balanced diet… yes, carbs included!  But the key to remember is the SOURCE of your carb intake.  You’ll walk away from this podcast feeling confident with healthy hacks to nourish your body without feeling restricted– setting yourself up for lifetime success. PLUS, as someone who’s battled autoimmune diseases, Phoebe’s tips are designed to help you get healthy… and STAY healthy.  Discover the truth about carbs… and so much more HERE!  Phoebe Lapine Phoebe Lapine is a 4-times published author, gluten-free chef, culinary instructor, and Hashimoto’s-and-SIBO advocate whose mission is to share how food can be the best medicine. Working as a professional chef, she’s learned how to support

EPISODE SUMMARY More women die of osteoporosis fractures and their complications than ANY kind of cancer. So are YOU taking care of your bones, and giving your musculoskeletal system its best shot at success?  Orthopedic expert Dr. Vonda Wright joins me today to address the neuromuscular-skeletal issues in women during perimenopause and menopause that profoundly impact our metabolic– and overall– health.  If you’re hurting, struggling, losing muscle, or feeling weak– and you just don’t know what to do about it… This podcast is made for you.  Dr. Wright guides us through tackling our bone health head-on before it becomes a painful problem down the road.  In this podcast, you’ll get tons of diet, exercise, lifestyle, and supplementation advice to help you feel strong, and STAY strong.  Dr. Vonda Wright, MD, MS, FAOA Dr. Wright is a double board-certified Orthopedic Sports Surgeon, entrepreneur, author of 5 books, keynote speaker and innovative leader focused on optimizing personal and professional performanc

EPISODE SUMMARY What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger…  An overused line, but girl– you know it’s true.  Roxy Saffaie joins the podcast to inspire you to continue betting on yourself through challenging times to become the best version of YOU.  In today’s podcast, we cover how to step into your highest power, create an unbreakable connection with your authentic self, and work towards becoming a self-mastery extraordinaire like Roxy is today.  We unravel the truth about journaling and teach you how to easily use it to Change. Your. Life. Seriously! Listen now and get closer to stepping into your dream life of authenticity, confidence, and self-love. Roxy Saffaie Roxanne Saffaie is a Self-Mastery writer, speaker, mentor, and digital creator. She’s climbed to the top 1% in the highly competitive celebrity beauty industry– but her true mission is to empower women into Self-Mastery and absolute Self-Love, helping them thrive. Roxanne has gained the trust of her community because she lives what she teaches. Her

EPISODE SUMMARY Dealing with frustrating mystery symptoms with no clear diagnosis?  It happens to so many of us.  The average woman sees 4 to 6 doctors before the correct diagnosis is made. And this unfortunately can take years of suffering for some.  That’s why Dr. Sara Szal Gottfried joins me again today to help YOU take charge of your symptoms for good and find the answers you deserve.  In this podcast, we address how trauma presents in the body and impacts your immune system– leading to autoimmune diseases.  But don’t worry, you’ll get the tools you need to understand your trauma response, what labs to always check for, and simple lifestyle tips you can incorporate every day to help you feel your best.  Dr. Sara Szal Gottfried Sara Szal Gottfried MD is a physician, researcher, author, and educator. She’s a global keynote speaker and the author of four New York Times bestselling books about hormones, nutrition, and health. Her latest book is called The Autoimmune Cure, releasing in March 2024. She is Cli