Wise Divine Women - Libido - Menopause - Hormones- Oh My! The Unfiltered Truth for Christian Women

What happens when grief, menopause, chronic stress, and years of “holding it all together” collide?In Part 2 of this deeply personal Wise Divine Women Podcast series, Dana Irvine shares a side of her story she has never fully explored publicly: the connection between grief, hormonal change, emotional flatness, and the nervous system.After losing her sister Deanna to brain cancer, Dana continued doing what so many women do—working, caring for others, building businesses, supporting family, and staying strong. But years later, she began asking a difficult question: Why do I sometimes feel disconnected from my emotions and empathy?Dana explores how unresolved grief may lead the nervous system to create protective responses that help us remain functional during overwhelming seasons. She also examines what can happen when this emotional load overlaps with the hormonal shifts of perimenopause and menopause.Estrogen, progesterone, serotonin, dopamine, GABA, cortisol, and the HPA axis all play important roles in mood, connection, stress response, sleep, and emotional resilience. When hormonal changes meet chronic stress and grief, the result can feel like a “perfect storm” of depletion.Dana shares how she began recognizing these patterns not only emotionally, but through her own functional health testing—including hormone testing, gut health analysis, thermography, bloodwork, and DNA insights.This episode is not about being broken. It is about becoming curious about what the body may be communicating—and recognizing when it is time to stop simply pushing through.In This Episode:How grief can affect emotional connection and nervous system regulationWhy being “the strong one” can come with a hidden costThe relationship between menopause, estrogen, progesterone, and emotional wellbeingHow serotonin, dopamine, GABA, and cortisol influence mood and resilienceChronic stress and HPA-axis activationThe gut-brain connection and emotional healthWhy Dana describes her experience as “body-wide depletion”Using functional testing to better understand individual patternsMoving from survival and willpower toward healing and connectionKey TakeawaySometimes emotional flatness is not a lack of love or caring. It may be the result of years of stress, grief, hormonal change, and a nervous system trying to keep you functioning.Dana believes depletion can be addressed—and that understanding your unique body may be an important first step toward reconnecting with yourself.ResourcesWise Divine Women Dana IrvineConnect with Dana Irvine to learn more https://wisedivinehealthclaritycall.youcanbook.me/This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace individualized medical or mental health care.grief, menopause, grief and menopause, emotional health, emotional numbness, emotional flatness, empathy, lack of empathy, nervous system, nervous system regulation, chronic stress, cortisol, HPA axis, estrogen, progesterone, serotonin, dopamine, hormone depletion, hormonal changes, menopause mental health, menopause emotions, midlife women, women's health, unresolved grief, grief recovery, stress response, burnout, body-wide depletion, gut-brain axis, gut health, hormone testing, DNA testing, thermography, functional medicine, functional health, personalized wellness, emotional resilience, healing after loss,

What if your sexuality didn't have an expiration date?In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine sits down with Bel DiLorenzo for an open, empowering conversation about pelvic health, intimacy, libido, aging, and the fascinating practice of Pompoir—a method of developing strength, awareness, and intentional control of the pelvic floor muscles.Bel's journey began during the pandemic, when she searched for ways to improve intimacy in her own relationship. Her research led her to Pompoir, a practice believed to have historical roots in India. But when Bel tried to learn it, she found very little clear, practical instruction.Bel shares stories of women in their 60s, 70s, and 80s discovering that they can continue learning about their bodies and reconnecting with pleasure. One particularly powerful story involves an 86-year-old student who used the practice to reconnect with a sensual, confident part of herself she felt she had lost.This conversation isn't simply about sex. It is about body agency, self-connection, confidence, curiosity, and giving women permission to continue discovering themselves throughout every season of life.Bel also discusses her desire to see more scientific research examining sexuality alongside areas such as sleep, energy, health, and longevity.A Powerful ReminderOne of Bel's central messages is:“We have a lot more agency over our bodies and our pleasure than we were taught to believe.”Whether you are navigating postpartum changes, perimenopause, menopause, changing libido, or simply wanting to reconnect with your body, this episode offers a refreshing reminder: sexuality and sensuality can remain meaningful parts of who we are at every age.Connect with BelBel offers Pompoir education, an animated training program, coaching, a book, articles, videos, and free educational resources through her work at Goddess.Contact Info:Website: https://www.gohddess.comInstagram: @goh_ddessLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bel-dilorenzo/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@gohddessOther: https://www.reddit.com/r/pompoir/https://www.tiktok.com/@goh.ddessWise Divine Women PodcastHosted by Dana Irvine, FDNP, the Wise Divine Women Podcast explores women's health, personal growth, functional wellness, breast health, hormones, and the wisdom that comes from truly learning to understand ourselves.Ready to Better Understand Your Own Body?For support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, stress, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman who is entering a new season of life, love, identity, or self-discovery.,Pompoir, pelvic floor health, pelvic floor muscles, women's libido, menopause and sexuality, intimacy after 40, sexual wellness, female orgasm, women's health, pelvic muscle training, aging and sexuality, self-care, sensuality, body confidence, women's empowerment

What happens when you look at your life and realize you've been functioning, achieving, caring for everyone else… but somehow don't feel fully connected to yourself?In Part 1 of this personal Wise Divine Women Podcast series, Dana Irvine opens an honest conversation about menopause, emotional flatness, empathy, grief, and the biological factors that may influence how women feel during midlife.Dana shares the question that started her own exploration: Why do I sometimes feel like I've lost my empathy?Although she continues to care deeply for others, Dana describes feeling depleted, disconnected, and sometimes as though she has been watching life through a window rather than fully experiencing it. Looking back over nearly a decade, she began questioning whether menopause, grief, stress, hormones, gut health, and her own genetics were all contributing pieces.Rather than accepting these changes as simply “getting older,” Dana began reviewing years of information from her blood work, hormone testing, thermography, gut testing, and earlier DNA results.What emerged was a new perspective: emotional wellbeing may not be about mindset alone. Our biology, life experiences, hormonal shifts, stress, and individual genetic tendencies can all become part of a much larger picture.This episode begins Dana's journey of putting those pieces together and learning how to rebuild from a place of greater understanding, precision, and self-awareness.In This Episode:Dana's personal experience with menopause and emotional disconnectWhat “lack of empathy” can feel like in everyday lifeFeeling present while still feeling emotionally flatWhy menopause experiences can look completely different from woman to womanThe impact of grief and emotional depletionReviewing blood work, hormone testing, gut health, thermography, and DNAWhy your health story is rarely explained by one single factorMoving beyond random wellness strategies toward greater precisionKey TakeawayFeeling emotionally disconnected does not necessarily mean you have stopped caring. For Dana, asking difficult questions opened the door to exploring how grief, menopause, biology, stress, and depletion may have intersected during this season of life.Connect with Dana IrvineWebsite: danairvine.comLearn more Start here : https://wisedivinehealthclaritycall.youcanbook.me/Coming Next: Part 2 explores what Dana calls her “perfect storm”—what happens when grief and menopause collide and the nervous system, hormones, and emotional resilience are all affected at the same time.menopause, perimenopause, emotional health, emotional disconnect, lack of empathy, menopause symptoms, menopause brain changes, women's health, midlife women, hormonal changes, hormonal balance, menopause emotions, emotional flatness, brain fog, grief and menopause, chronic stress, women over 40, women over 50, hormone testing, blood work, DNA testing, genetic testing, functional health, functional medicine, gut health, gut-brain connection, thermography, root cause health, self-discovery, nervous system health, emotional wellbeing, menopause journey, rebuilding health, personalized health, women's hormones, Wise Divine Women, Dana IrvineThis podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace individualized medical or mental health care.

What if healing didn't always require years of retelling your story?In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine sits down with psychotherapist and sex therapist Brooke Bralove for a powerful conversation about trauma, the nervous system, intimacy, pelvic pain, libido, and a therapeutic approach called Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).Brooke has spent more than 22 years as a psychotherapist, working with women navigating anxiety, relationships, sexuality, shame, identity, and the transitions that often accompany midlife. Her own experience with ART after a painful breakup led her to train in the modality and eventually incorporate it deeply into her practice.ART uses rapid eye movements and voluntary image replacement to work with distressing memories, images, and the physical sensations connected to them. Brooke explains why understanding a traumatic experience intellectually doesn't always change the body's response—and why addressing the nervous system can be an important part of healing.When the Body RemembersThis conversation takes an especially important turn when Dana and Brooke discuss pelvic pain, painful intimacy, and low libido.When intimacy has repeatedly been associated with pain, the body may begin anticipating danger before anything has even happened. A kiss, touch, or initiation of intimacy may trigger guarding, tension, avoidance, or a fight-or-flight-or-freeze response.Brooke shares how ART works with the images and body sensations connected to those experiences and then uses imagery to help create a different emotional and physical response.Midlife, Desire & Reconnecting With YourselfMidlife can bring far more than hormonal changes. Women may be navigating empty nesting, changing relationships, identity shifts, painful sex, loss of desire, career transitions, and the feeling that they simply don't recognize themselves anymore.Brooke sees many women who love their partners but say the “fire” has disappeared. Rather than treating libido as an isolated symptom, this conversation invites women to consider the relationship between desire, emotional history, physical comfort, relationships, and nervous-system safety.Brooke leaves us with a message every woman deserves to hear:“Pleasure is your birthright.”Pleasure isn't something women need to apologize for wanting. Brooke encourages women to recognize their right to seek, experience, communicate, and ask for pleasure throughout every season of life.that ART can be offered virtually or in person, and thatConnect with Brooke BraloveWebsite: brookbraylove.comInstagram: @brookbrayloveConnect with DanaDana Irvine, FDNPFunctional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner • Breast Health Educator • Host of the Wise Divine Women PodcastIf you're ready to understand the deeper patterns influencing your hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, and whole-body wellness, DanaIrvine.com to learn more or book aHealth Clarity Call.Keywords: Accelerated Resolution Therapy, ART therapy, Brooke Bralove, women's mental health, trauma healing, nervous system healing, low libido, pelvic pain, painful sex, menopause, perimenopause, midlife women, sexual health, intimacy, transformational therapy, Wise Divine Women Podcast

What happens when you stop living in survival mode and begin listening to the deeper wisdom within you?In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine welcomes Mary Armendarez, author of Return to Your Soul, for a heartfelt conversation about soul-searching, self-love, energy, healing, and learning to trust yourself again.Mary shares her personal journey from years of people-pleasing, trauma, anxiety, and giving her power away to discovering practices that helped her reconnect with herself. She describes reaching a point where she realized she had spent much of her life surviving rather than asking two simple but powerful questions:What am I feeling? What do I need?Mary and Dana explore the mind-body-spirit connection and the importance of paying attention to the signals our bodies give us. Mary encourages women to become curious about physical and emotional patterns rather than continually disconnecting from themselves.The conversation shifts to practical spiritual tools Mary uses in her own life and teaches others, including breathwork, visualization, intention, grounding, energetic boundaries, and working with color. She shares her practice of visualizing violet energy as a symbol of transformation and protection, along with simple rituals you can incorporate into everyday moments—from showering and washing your hands to walking through a doorway.Mary also discusses reconnecting with Mother Earth, balancing what she describes as divine feminine and masculine energies, learning to receive instead of constantly giving, and creating stronger energetic boundaries.Her message throughout the conversation is simple: you have permission to come home to yourself.After years of difficult experiences, Mary describes reaching a place where she can finally say she feels peace and calm. Those experiences eventually inspired her to write Return to Your Soul, which includes guided practices and meditations designed to help readers explore their own healing journey.A Simple Practice to TryBefore reaching for your phone tomorrow morning, stop.Take a breath and ask:What am I feeling?What do I need?What is my next step?You don't need to solve your entire life in one morning. Sometimes transformation begins by becoming present enough to hear yourself again.Connect with MaryLook for Mary Armendarez and her book Return to Your Soul. Mary also offers courses, guided practices, personalized meditations, and tools focused on energetic alignment and self-connection.Connect with DanaContinue your journey with Dana Irvine, FDNP, host of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Breast Health Educator, and Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner.Explore functional wellness, hormone and breast health education, root-cause testing, and the Wise Divine Women community at DanaIrvine.com.Wise Divine Women — where faith meets functional wellness.soul searching, Return to Your Soul, Mary Armendarez, self-love, energy healing, visualization, spiritual healing, divine feminine, divine masculine, self-trust, energy protection, inner peace, grounding, women's empowerment, mind-body-spirit connection

What if love could be more than an emotion? What if intention, presence, compassion, and human connection could shape how we care for one another?In this thought-provoking episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine welcomes lifelong nurse and author Winston M. Meikle to discuss his book, The Power of Love: A Nursing Theory — When Science Meets Spirit, a New Kind of Nurse Is Born.Winston's healthcare journey began while he was still in high school. Just one year after graduating, he became a licensed practical nurse and began what would become a lifelong career devoted to caring for others.Throughout his years at the bedside, Winston noticed experiences and patient interactions he felt traditional nursing education didn't fully explain. He started documenting these observations and asking deeper questions about the role of human connection, intention, energy, compassion, and love in the healing environment.Those observations eventually became the foundation for the nine principles presented in his nursing theory and book.A Different Conversation About HealingOne of the most compelling themes in this episode is the distinction between treating a patient and truly connecting with a person.Winston's nursing theory grew from decades of personal observations in healthcare. He believes nurses can influence the care environment through how they think, interact, communicate, and show up for the people in front of them.His ideas about quantum physics and related scientific concepts reflect his theoretical interpretation of what he has observed throughout his career, rather than established evidence that thoughts or love directly produce specific medical outcomes.But the larger question is powerful:What changes when care is rooted in love rather than fear?For Winston, this means recognizing that nursing involves more than procedures, medications, charts, and clinical protocols. It also involves presence, intention, compassion, relationships, and the energy we bring into an interaction.About the GuestWinston M. Meikle is a lifelong nurse and author of The Power of Love: A Nursing Theory — When Science Meets Spirit, a New Kind of Nurse Is Born. His work brings together decades of observations from his nursing career with his exploration of spirituality, ancient wisdom, and scientific concepts to encourage a love-centered approach to nursing and patient care.Connect with DanaContinue exploring women's wellness, functional health, breast health, hormones, metabolism, and root-cause approaches with Dana Irvine, FDNP, host of the Wise Divine Women Podcast.Visit DanaIrvine.com to learn more or schedule a Health Clarity Call.Wise Divine Women — Where Faith Meets Functional Wellness.KeywordsWinston M. Meikle, The Power of Love A Nursing Theory, nursing theory, nursing and spirituality, compassionate nursing, love-centered healthcare, holistic nursing, patient care, science and spirituality, nurse patient relationship, healthcare transformation, intentional care, Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine

What if people-pleasing, perfectionism, overthinking, and self-doubt aren't who you are—but protective patterns you learned along the way?In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine welcomes Katherine Flechaus, founder of Aligned Core Life Coaching, for a powerful conversation about limiting core beliefs, the behaviors they create, and what can happen when women finally learn to separate their identity from their patterns.Katherine spent more than 30 years working at the intersection of clinical mental health and behavioral change. But she also recognized these patterns from the inside long before she named them for clients. She was the woman who over-prepared for conversations that should have felt easy and second-guessed her instincts until she felt “sure enough” to speak.“This Is Who I Am” vs. “This Is a Pattern I Can Change”One of Katherine's most important messages is that awareness alone doesn't necessarily create change.Women often describe themselves by saying:“I'm a people-pleaser.”“I'm a perfectionist.”“I'm an overthinker.”“I have imposter syndrome.”But Katherine encourages women to externalize these reactive patterns.Instead of believing, “This is who I am,” we can begin asking, “What belief is driving this behavior?”When we recognize something as a behavior rather than a personality flaw, we create room for change.Through her Safeguard Profile™ assessment and The Aligned Core Framework, Katherine helps clients identify the specific protective belief behind behaviors such as over-preparing, self-doubt and people-pleasing—and understand where that belief came from before trying to change it.As Katherine says:“We can't be wise and divine if we're exhausted and miserable.”Connect with Katherine FlechausKatherine works with women who are done managing the pattern and ready to change it.Visit Aligned Core Life Coaching at AlignedCoreLifeCoaching.com to learn more about Katherine, the Safeguard Profile™, The Aligned Core Framework and opportunities to work with her.Wise Divine Women PodcastHosted by Dana Irvine, FDNP, the Wise Divine Women Podcast explores women's health, personal growth, functional wellness, breast health, hormones and the wisdom that comes from truly learning to understand ourselves.Ready to Better Understand Your Own Body?For support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, stress, and whole-body wellness, DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman who is entering a new season of life, love, identity, or self-discovery.Katherine Flechaus, Choose Yourself Without Guilt, people pleasing, perfectionism, overthinking, imposter syndrome, limiting core beliefs, women's self-confidence, women empowerment, healthy boundaries, behavioral change, self-doubt, burnout in women, life coaching for women, Aligned Core Life Coaching, Safeguard Profile, Aligned Core Framework, Wise Divine Women Podcast

What if the relationship you keep chasing isn't actually aligned with who you are—but instead feels familiar because it mirrors an old pattern?In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine sits down with Jena Jake, compatibility strategist, former marital therapist, personality assessment expert, and creator of the Love Smarter approach.Jena shares how her own divorce, career transition, and season of profound personal loss led her back to the work she loves most: helping women understand themselves, recognize relationship patterns, establish stronger boundaries, and choose relationships from a place of wholeness rather than fear.The conversation explores why chemistry alone is not enough to build a healthy relationship, especially when attraction can sometimes be connected to patterns formed much earlier in life.Jena introduces her PAWS Method, a powerful self-inquiry tool designed to help women pause before reacting or attaching and ask whether they are choosing from an old wound or from true alignment.She also shares why women need to stop asking, “Does he like me?” and start asking, “Do I like him? Is this relationship actually right for me?”The PAWS MethodJena encourages women to pause and ask:P — Person or Pattern: Is this truly my person, or am I repeating an old pattern?A — Attachment or Alignment: Am I attracted because this feels familiar, or because this person is genuinely aligned with who I am today?W — Wound or Wholeness: Is a wound being activated, or am I responding from a place of wholeness?S — Standard & Serving: Is this relationship meeting my standards? Is this serving my ego and fear, or my soul and possibilities?A Powerful ReminderOne of Jena's most important messages is that you are the love you're looking for.A relationship isn't meant to create your worth, validation, identity, or ability to feel loved. The deeper work is learning to cultivate those things within yourself—and then allowing the right relationship to reflect that love back to you.As Jena reminds us:It's not about getting someone. It's about being someone.Connect with Jena JakeWebsite: JenaJake.comInstagram & TikTok: @jena.jakeLook for Jena's upcoming book, Ask Him This, exploring the questions women can ask to better understand who they're dating—while also turning the mirror inward and understanding themselves.Ready to Better Understand Your Own Body?For support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, stress, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman who is entering a new season of life, love, identity, or self-discovery.Jena Jake, compatibility strategist, dating after divorce, dating after 40, dating after 50, relationship compatibility, dating coach for women, relationship patterns, attachment patterns, people pleasing, self abandonment, self love, self trust, healthy relationships, relationship boundaries, dating non negotiables, relationship red flags, relationship green flags, emotional compatibility, dating strategy, midlife dating, women and relationships, dating in midlife, finding love after divorce, PAWS Method, personality assessment relationships, emotional healing, Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine

The conversation with Kim Costa explores the concept of the 'Wheelhouse Method' and its application to personal growth and fulfillment. Kim shares her journey and insights on living authentically, mastering one's potential, and creating a supportive environment. The discussion delves into the significance of self-awareness, purpose, and the impact of one's environment on overall well-being.TakeawaysAuthentic livingMastery of potentialChapters00:00 Introduction to the Wheelhouse Method02:03 Living Authentically and Maximizing Potential04:54 The Impact of Environment on Well-being07:54 Recognizing Intuition and Inner Voice11:03 The Role of Faith and Spirituality13:58 Personality Tests and Self-Reflection20:03 Purpose, Passion, and Mission28:01 Conclusion and TakeawaysKim Costa's Website - https://kimcostabooks.comWheelhouse Method Book - https://kimcostabooks.com/wheelhouseMyers Briggs Personality Test - https://www.myersbriggs.orgEnneagram Personality Test - https://www.enneagraminstitute.comWebsite - https://kimcostabooks.comInstagram - https://instagram.com/kim.e.costaFor support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman who is ready to stop fighting her body and start understanding it. 

What if the hardest season of your life isn't the end of your story—but an invitation to become more fully who you were created to be?In this inspiring episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine welcomes Marisa Handler, author, creator, teacher, and coach, for a powerful conversation about spirituality, creativity, resilience, and the transformational journey back to your authentic self.Marisa shares her personal experience of moving through a profound physical, emotional, and spiritual breakdown while living in India. What initially felt like everything falling apart ultimately became an initiation into a deeper way of living, creating, and connecting with the Divine.Together, Dana and Marisa explore the concept of the dark night of the soul and why seasons of illness, grief, exhaustion, divorce, menopause, uncertainty, or major life transitions can become portals into greater clarity, purpose, and spiritual growth.They discuss why so many women are conditioned to constantly give, achieve, caretake, and remain productive—while struggling to rest, receive, and listen inwardly.Marisa also shares the deep connection between creativity and spirituality, explaining how our gifts flourish when we create space for stillness, authenticity, vulnerability, intuition, and trust.This conversation is an invitation to slow down, return to yourself, and consider that the obstacle in front of you may hold the doorway to your next chapter.In This EpisodeUnderstanding the dark night of the soulWhy obstacles can become portals for transformationReconnecting with yourself during major life transitionsThe importance of rest, stillness, and receivingCreativity as a spiritual practiceListening to your body and intuitionMoving beyond caretaking and self-abandonmentVulnerability, authenticity, and finding your tribeWhy women can struggle with visibilityFaith, surrender, and trusting the processFinding purpose and legacy in midlife and beyondMaking space to feel and process emotionsWhy slowing down can create clarityWords of WisdomMarisa shares a powerful idea inspired by jazz pianist Thelonious Monk:“A genius is a person most like themselves.”The more permission we give ourselves to become who we authentically are—to honour what nourishes us, what we love, what we are called to create, and what we are here to contribute—the more fully we step into our unique genius.About Marisa HandlerMarisa works with women at the intersection of creativity, spirituality, and transformation. Her nine-month program, Live Your Creative Genius, helps women move beyond conditioning, reconnect with their authentic selves, and become the creators they were born to be.Learn more about Marisa, her teachings, coaching, and programs at marisahandler.com.For more conversations supporting women through health, faith, purpose, and their Age of Wisdom, visit DanaIrvine.com.spiritual awakening, dark night of the soul, creativity, spirituality, women empowerment, authentic self, resilience, faith, self-discovery, transformation, mindfulness, inner peace, women in midlife, purpose, intuition, vulnerability, spiritual growth

What happens to your business when you're ready to step away?In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine speaks with Matt Middendorp of VisionPoint Capital about Employee Stock Ownership Plans, or ESOPs, and how business owners can approach succession, retirement, wealth, and legacy with greater intention.Matt explains how an ESOP can give qualifying U.S. business owners another option beyond selling to private equity or an outside buyer. Through an employee ownership structure, owners may be able to transition all or part of their company while protecting the culture, leadership, employees, and community they worked so hard to build.The conversation explores why business transitions should be deliberate rather than something that simply “happens” to an owner. Matt shares how succession planning involves much more than the sale price. Owners also need to consider control, identity, profitability, employee retention, company culture, future leadership, and the legacy they want to leave behind.Dana and Matt also discuss the potential benefits of employee ownership for team members, including increased engagement, stronger retention, and the opportunity to build long-term retirement wealth through the success of the company.Matt explains what types of businesses may be a good fit for an ESOP, why profitability and management alignment matter, and how a feasibility study can help owners understand the potential financial impact before making a decision.They also explore how employee ownership may apply to women-owned businesses, wellness practices, spas, yoga studios, retail companies, service businesses, and organizations with government contracts.Key TakeawaysBusiness succession should be intentional. Your transition should reflect your financial goals, personal values, leadership wishes, and vision for the future.Legacy is about more than money. For many owners, protecting employees, culture, and community matters just as much as the final sale price.Employee ownership can align interests. Employees may become more connected to the success of the company when they participate in its long-term value.ESOPs are not right for every business. Profitability, employee count, management alignment, business structure, and ownership goals all need to be considered.There is rarely only one path forward. Matt encourages owners to explore their options rather than assuming a traditional sale is the only choice.About Matt MiddendorpMatt Middendorp works with VisionPoint Capital, helping business owners explore employee ownership and determine whether an ESOP may align with their succession, financial, and legacy goals.Learn more and take the ESOP readiness assessment at:This conversation focuses primarily on ESOPs under U.S. law. Canadian business owners should seek guidance specific to Canadian employee ownership, tax, legal, and succession planning regulations.ESOP, Employee Stock Ownership Plan, business succession planning, employee ownership, business exit strategy, retirement planning, women business owners, selling a business, business legacy, private equity alternatives, employee retention, wealth building, business valuation, VisionPoint Capital, Matt Middendorp, women entrepreneurs

What if your DNA could give you an owner's manual for your health?In this fascinating episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine welcomes Dr. Aaron Goldman of DNA Labs Canada to explore how genetic testing is helping shape the future of personalized health, nutrition, lifestyle, and medicine.Dr. Goldman shares how his background in molecular biology and genetics led him to create DNA Labs and explains how advances in genetic sequencing have made personalized DNA information increasingly accessible.Together, Dana and Dr. Goldman discuss how genetics can influence everything from the way we metabolize medications to nutrient requirements, food sensitivities, hormone metabolism, detoxification pathways, brain health, and long-term disease risk.One of the most important messages from this conversation is that genetic risk is not destiny. Your DNA sequence generally does not change, but understanding your genetic predispositions may help you make more informed decisions about food, lifestyle, testing, and prevention.Dr. Goldman also explains the difference between genetics and epigenetics—how lifestyle and environmental factors may influence the way certain genes are expressed.In This Episode, You'll Discover:

What happens when the life you've known begins to change—and you're left wondering what comes next?In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine welcomes Dacia Moore of Second Wind Counseling for a heartfelt conversation about navigating life transitions, emotional wellness, spiritual growth, self-care, and discovering purpose in a new season.Dacia shares how her own experience with depression following divorce led her to counseling and ultimately inspired her to help other women find their “second wind.” Today, her work focuses especially on women moving through major transitions who may feel depleted, uncertain, overlooked, or unsure of what God is calling them toward next.Dana and Dacia explore why women can become exhausted after years of caregiving, career responsibilities, family commitments, and constantly putting others first. They discuss the importance of giving ourselves permission to rest, creating healthy boundaries, developing spiritual practices, and remembering that aging does not diminish our value or purpose.Dacia also introduces principles from Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT) and explains the powerful connection between our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Becoming aware of the thoughts behind emotions such as guilt, regret, disappointment, fear, or self-pity can be an important first step toward developing greater emotional intelligence and learning how to respond differently.The conversation also explores faith, community, comparison, people-pleasing, self-acceptance, and the importance of understanding that we were never meant to navigate life alone.In This Episode✨ Why women often need a “second wind” during major life transitions✨ Finding purpose and confidence after 50✨ How caregiving and overextending ourselves can lead to depletion✨ Developing deeper spiritual practices and a relationship with God✨ Why rest and Sabbath are essential forms of self-care✨ Understanding the connection between thoughts and emotions✨ How self-awareness supports emotional intelligence✨ Moving beyond self-pity and negative thought patternsWords of WisdomUnderstanding how deeply God loves you can become the foundation for learning to accept yourself—your personality, your gifts, your quirks, your appearance, and the season of life you are in.You do not have to be liked by everyone. Learning to know, accept, and value yourself can help protect you from the expectations and opinions of the world.Connect with Dacia MooreSecond Wind Counseling: secondwindcc.comDacia Moore: daciamoore.comVisit Second Wind Counseling to learn more about Dacia's counseling and coaching, join her twice-monthly newsletter, and explore her emotional-awareness resources.Mentioned Resource: Sabbath by Wayne MullerConnect with DanaReady to understand your health and your next steps more clearly?Visit danairvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.Second Wind Counseling, Dacia Moore, women empowerment, women over 50, spiritual growth, Christian women, emotional intelligence, self-care, counseling, mindset, life transitions, self-acceptance, faith, community support, personal development, healthy boundaries, emotional wellness, Wise Divine Women Podcast

What if midlife isn't a crisis at all—but an invitation to become more fully who you are?In this inspiring episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine welcomes holistic health and wellness coach Erin Dougherty for a powerful conversation about reinvention, menopause, the mind-body connection, energy healing, and learning to trust yourself through life's transitions.Erin shares her own winding journey from an 18-year career as an English teacher to clinical research and eventually holistic health coaching. After experiencing severe burnout during the pandemic, Erin made the courageous decision to leave teaching at age 47 without knowing exactly what would come next.That leap became the beginning of a new chapter.Erin reminds us that when we reinvent ourselves in midlife, we are not starting from zero. We carry our lived experiences, education, wisdom, challenges, relationships, successes, and failures with us. Every experience can become “fodder for your next move.”Dana and Erin explore why women in perimenopause and menopause often need more than another one-size-fits-all wellness plan. Hormonal changes may collide with chronic stress, changing bodies, aging parents, children leaving—or remaining—in the home, career transitions, relationship changes, and years of putting everyone else first.Erin's whole-person approach begins by asking deeper questions: What is happening in your life? What do you value? What do you truly want to change? And perhaps most importantly—why does that change matter to you?Rather than focusing only on numbers such as weight on the scale, Erin helps women connect their health goals to the life they actually want to live.The Mind-Body Connection in MidlifeThis conversation also explores two of Erin's therapeutic tools: Reiki and Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT/tapping).Erin shares how grief originally led her to Reiki after the sudden loss of her best friend. After experiencing a profound shift in grief she had carried for years, she became a Reiki practitioner and eventually a Reiki Master.She also explains EFT tapping, a technique that combines tapping specific points on the body with intentional language and thought patterns. Erin uses EFT to help clients explore emotional blocks, repetitive thought patterns, stress, setbacks, and beliefs that may be keeping them stuck.During perimenopause and menopause, when hormonal fluctuations may coincide with anxiety, overwhelm, disrupted sleep, changing emotions, body changes, and increased stress, reconnecting with the body can become an important part of wellness.Wordds of Wisdom“Wherever you go, there you are.”Erin encourages women to stop trying to escape themselves through the next house, job, relationship, goal, or version of the future. Instead, begin meeting yourself where you are—with compassion, curiosity, and love.If this conversation speaks to you, share it with a friend, sister, or woman in your life who needs the reminder that midlife can be a rebirth—not a crisis. Reach out to ErinVisit DanaIrvine.com to learn more about Dana's work supporting women through breast health, hormones, functional wellness, and healthy aging.midlife wellness, holistic health, menopause, perimenopause, energy healing, EFT tapping, Reiki, women's health, hormone balance, mind-body connection, personal transformation, self-care, women over 40, stress management, holistic wellness, healthy aging, midlife reinvention

What does it mean to move beyond simply believing and begin seeking a deeper, personal relationship with God and the spiritual realm?In this thought-provoking episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine welcomes spiritual teacher and author Michael McAdams for a conversation about faith, spiritual guidance, angels, intuition, prayer, and recognizing the guidance available to us.Michael shares how his spiritual journey began within a deeply Pentecostal family. Although faith was foundational to his upbringing, he also carried questions about spirituality, heaven, the soul, and what exists beyond our physical experience. That curiosity eventually opened the door to decades of spiritual exploration.A central part of Michael's story is the extraordinary experience of his mother, Wilma Jean Jones, who received written messages and teachings over a period of 22 years. Michael describes these communications as messages from spiritual teachers or angels and shares several passages from the writings collected in his book, An Angel Told Me So.Dana and Michael explore the idea that spiritual guidance may come through prayer, intuition, thoughts, impressions, and moments of inner knowing. Michael encourages listeners to remain grounded in faith while becoming more aware of the subtle ways guidance may appear in everyday life.The conversation also explores free will, spiritual discernment, affirmations, prophecy, the importance of asking for guidance, and Michael's belief that each of us can become more receptive to divine direction.One of the most powerful themes of the episode is simple: spiritual growth requires participation. Asking, seeking, listening, and remaining open are all part of developing a deeper relationship with God.In This Episode✨ Michael's Pentecostal upbringing and evolving spiritual journey✨ Why he says, "I want to know, not just believe"✨ Wilma Jean Jones' 22 years of spiritual writings✨ Angels, spirit teachers, intuition, and divine guidance✨ Understanding free will and personal choice✨ Recognizing thoughts versus spiritual impressions✨ Using prayer and affirmations for spiritual discernment✨ Why spiritual teachings can speak differently to each person✨ The Urantia Book and the work of Edgar Cayce✨ Prophecy, spiritual teachers, and timeless wisdom✨ Why asking and listening are essential parts of faith✨ Carrying spiritual wisdom forward for future generationsConnect With Michael McAdamsLearn more about Michael, Wilma Jean Jones, the spiritual teachings, and An Angel Told Me So at: SpiritSpeaks.comThe book is also available through Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and independent bookstores.Connect With DanaContinue your journey from fed up to faith-fueled and discover more episodes of the Wise Divine Women Podcast at DanaIrvine.com.spiritual guidance, faith, angels, personal journey, communication with the divine, affirmations, spiritual realm, intuition, prayer, spiritual teachings, wisdom, spirit teachers, personal growth, Wise Divine Women Podcast

In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine welcomes Greg, known online as “The Hydrogen Man,” for a fascinating conversation about his personal journey toward a more intentional approach to wellness.Important NoteThe experiences and opinions shared in this conversation are personal to the guest and are provided for educational and informational purposes only.The Wise Divine Women Podcast encourages listeners to conduct their own research and speak with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional when making decisions related to their individual well-being.Greg shares how a difficult season in his life pushed him to ask deeper questions about the everyday choices that shape how we feel. His curiosity led him to explore water quality, nutrition, environmental exposures, lifestyle habits, emerging wellness research, and the importance of being thoughtful about the products we bring into our homes and routines.Dana and Greg also discuss why wellness can be about much more than what we eat or drink. Their conversation explores stress, gratitude, purpose, faith, relationships, personal responsibility, and the value of listening to our bodies.Greg shares how his own experiences encouraged him to become more selective about quality, simplicity, and consistency. He also explains why he enjoys studying scientific literature, observing nature, and questioning popular wellness trends rather than automatically following the latest advice.The conversation eventually moves into the spiritual side of Greg's story, including an experience that changed his perspective on life, love, gratitude, and service. Dana and Greg reflect on the importance of caring for ourselves while also considering how our choices can positively influence the people around us.This episode is ultimately a conversation about curiosity, personal responsibility, clean living, faith, gratitude, and creating a wellness lifestyle that feels aligned with your values.In This Episode✨ Greg's personal journey into the wellness space✨ Why he began questioning conventional lifestyle habits✨ Becoming more aware of water quality and environmental exposures✨ Why purity and product quality matter to Greg✨ Exploring emerging wellness research✨ Nutrition, minerals, hydration, and everyday lifestyle foundations✨ Why Greg believes wellness is rarely about one single thing✨ Learning to question trends and do your own research✨ Stress, mindfulness, and creating greater balance✨ Greg's spiritual journey and changing perspective on life✨ The connection between gratitude, purpose, love, and well-being✨ Why serving others became an important part of Greg's missionConnect With GregFollow Uprising144k on YouTube and Greg's other social platforms to learn more about his personal research, experiences, and wellness journey.Continue Your Wellness JourneyWant to better understand your own body and create a wellness plan that works with your lifestyle?Visit DanaIrvine.com to learn more and book a Health Clarity Call.wellness, healthy lifestyle, clean living, water quality, nutrition, hydration, longevity, lifestyle habits, mindfulness, gratitude, spirituality, faith, personal growth, wellness research, environmental wellness, healthy aging, purpose, self-care, Wise Divine Women Podcast

What if the fatigue, joint pain, digestive issues, skin changes, or inflammation you've learned to live with are actually clues your body has been giving you for years?In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine welcomes VJ Hamilton, The Autoimmunity Nutritionist, to explore autoimmune conditions, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic fatigue, gut health, inflammation, and the role nutrition can play in supporting recovery.VJ's passion for autoimmune health began with her own journey. Diagnosed with alopecia areata at just seven years old, she later experienced psoriasis, joint problems, severe fatigue, and eventually chronic fatigue syndrome. Combined with her background in immunology and biochemistry, these experiences ultimately led her from a career as a chartered accountant into functional nutrition.Today, VJ works with clients worldwide, helping them investigate potential contributors to chronic inflammation and autoimmune symptoms.Dana and VJ take a closer look at rheumatoid arthritis, how it differs from age-related arthritis, and why symptoms such as fatigue, stiffness, joint discomfort, headaches, digestive concerns, skin changes, gum inflammation, and foot pain may deserve deeper investigation.They also explore the connection between oral health, gut health, inflammation, and immune function, including how microbiome imbalances, nutrient depletion, digestive health, stress, and environmental exposures may influence overall immune health.In This Episode, You'll Learn:How VJ's personal autoimmune journey shaped her careerWhat vasculitis is and why autoimmune conditions can be complexWhy rheumatoid arthritis should not simply be dismissed as agingWhy fatigue may appear early in autoimmune conditionsCommon signs of inflammation worth paying attention toThe possible connection between oral bacteria and rheumatoid arthritisWhy gut health is central to VJ's functional approachHow nutrition and nutrient density can support recoveryBlood markers such as CRP, hs-CRP, ferritin, and ANA to discuss with your providerFunctional testing including stool testing, DUTCH hormone testing, organic acids testing, and food sensitivity assessmentConnect with VJ HamiltonWebsite: theautoimmunitynutritionist.comInstagram: @theautoimmunitynutritionistReady to Understand Your Own Health Story?If you're experiencing persistent fatigue, inflammation, digestive changes, hormone concerns, breast health changes, or symptoms that simply don't feel like “you,” it may be time to look deeper.For support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.autoimmunity, autoimmune disease, rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune nutritionist, functional medicine, functional nutrition, chronic fatigue, gut health, gut microbiome, inflammation, women's health, autoimmune symptoms, nutrition for autoimmunity, holistic healing, autoimmune recovery, chronic inflammation, oral health and autoimmunity, long COVID, menopause and autoimmunity, functional medicine testing

Caring for a parent with Alzheimer's can bring love, frustration, grief, exhaustion, laughter, and unexpected moments of beauty—sometimes all in the same day.In this deeply personal episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine continues her conversation with author Sarah Vosburgh about navigating her mother's Alzheimer's journey, the difficult decisions surrounding independence and driving, and the emotional realities families face as a loved one's cognitive abilities change.Sarah shares a powerful example of meeting her mother where she was rather than forcing a confrontation. Her mother repeatedly insisted, “No one is taking my keys.” Instead of removing the keys and creating distress, Sarah's family recognized that the keys represented independence and security. They quietly disabled the vehicle while allowing her mother to keep the keys exactly where she expected them to be.The conversation also explores the importance of community support. Friends, church members, Sarah's husband, and her children all played meaningful roles during the caregiving journey.One particularly beautiful connection remained through music. Sarah's mother continued singing in her church choir until shortly before entering memory care. Even when she could no longer properly follow the sheet music, the songs remained within her. Sarah recalls singing Mozart's Ave Verum Corpus beside her mother—one of those precious moments that became a memory to hold onto.Sarah also speaks candidly about the complicated relationship she shared with her mother, the expectations often placed on women as caregivers, the exhaustion that can come from caring too long without enough support, and the criticism caregivers sometimes receive from people who only see part of the situation.Through it all, Sarah reminds us that caregiving is rarely simple. There are often two sides to every decision, and compassion is needed not only for the person receiving care but also for the person providing it.A Message for CaregiversYou may not always be able to change what is happening, but you can look for opportunities to preserve dignity, connection and love.Sometimes caregiving means solving a problem differently.Sometimes it means accepting help.And sometimes it simply means remembering the song, sharing the coffee, sitting beside someone you love, and recognizing that these seemingly ordinary moments may someday become extraordinary memories.Connect with SarahLearn more about Sarah, her book, upcoming events and book club opportunities at SarahVosburgh.com.Sarah's book launches April 22, followed by an eight-city tour. She also shares that an audiobook version includes the voices of both of her daughters, creating an especially personal telling of their family story.Connect with DanaFor support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone navigating Alzheimer's, dementia, caregiving, aging parents, or the complicated journey of loving someone through change.Alzheimer's caregiving, dementia caregiving, caring for aging parents, Alzheimer's family support, memory care, caregiver burnout, women caregivers, dementia and driving, Alzheimer's and music, faith and caregiving, caregiving support, caring for a mother with Alzheimer's,

In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine welcomes Brett Aldrich of Seed the Spirit for a beautiful conversation about Ayurveda, breast health, prevention, self-care, and understanding the body's natural rhythms.Brett shares how her journey into Ayurvedic medicine began during a season when the wellness practices that had once supported her were no longer enough. As a former athlete and yoga practitioner, she had always valued physical health, but rising stress, shifting energy, family responsibilities, and life's natural transitions led her to search for something deeper.Her introduction to Ayurveda began simply—with a card outlining Ayurvedic daily practices. She began experimenting with circadian rhythms, meal timing, sleep, rest, and Abhyanga, the Ayurvedic practice of self-massage. Within weeks, Brett noticed meaningful changes. That experience eventually grew into a deeper study of Ayurveda and a new understanding of health as something that encompasses the physical, emotional, energetic, and spiritual aspects of our lives.Ayurveda & Breast HealthDana and Brett explore breast wellness through an Ayurvedic lens.Breast tissue does not exist independently from the rest of the body. Breast health is interconnected with the lymphatic system, endocrine system, digestion, elimination, inflammation, circulation, emotional health, and the body's ability to process and remove waste.From an Ayurvedic perspective, imbalance may appear as inflammation, stagnation, sluggish movement, or difficulty processing what the body no longer needs.Brett discusses gentle practices that may be incorporated into a holistic breast-care routine, including self-massage, supportive oils, breathwork, and individualized lifestyle practices.The conversation also explores the emotional and energetic connection of the breasts, heart, lungs, chest, grief, love, and loss.Don't Ignore the Body's Natural SignalsOne of the most powerful conversations in this episode centers around elimination and the natural functions we often suppress.Bowel movements, sweating, crying, breathing deeply, resting, and responding to the body's signals are natural processes. Continually holding back what the body is designed to release may contribute to feelings of stagnation and imbalance.Dana and Brett discuss why something as simple as regular elimination can become an important foundation of a wellness plan.Her message is simple and empowering:You may wish you knew these things years ago—but now you know. And now is your opportunity to begin.There is no need to live in regret over what you didn't know before. Your body is constantly changing, and every season offers another opportunity to listen, learn, and support yourself differently.Connect with BrettLearn more about Brett Aldrich and Seed the Spirit.Brett offers one-on-one Ayurvedic support, breathwork education, personalized lifestyle guidance, and virtual consultations.For more conversations supporting women through health, faith, purpose, and their Age of Wisdom, visit DanaIrvine.com.Ayurvedic medicine, Ayurveda for women, breast health, holistic health, lymphatic health, self-massage, Abhyanga, prevention, natural healing, elimination, emotional wellness, detoxification, women's health, self-care, energy balance, holistic breast care

What if aging beautifully had less to do with fighting wrinkles—and more to do with nourishing your body, trusting yourself, and understanding what your skin is trying to tell you?In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine welcomes Dr. Natalya Borakowski for a refreshing conversation about skincare, perimenopause, aesthetics, self-love, faith, and redefining what it means to age well.Dr. Natalya shares her unexpected journey into the beauty industry and how helping women feel beautiful eventually became a passion that carried into naturopathic medical school and her clinical work.Together, Dana and Natalya explore why so many women enter perimenopause and suddenly say, “I don't recognize myself anymore.” Rather than dismissing this as vanity, Natalya explains how hormonal and physical changes can affect confidence, identity, and the way women experience aging.The answer isn't always another expensive serum, injectable, peptide, or procedure.It starts with the foundation.In This EpisodeWhy women can feel like they “aged overnight” during perimenopauseHow estrogen changes influence dryness, collagen, and skin appearanceWhy protein and vitamin C are important for healthy aging skinHow hydration supports a healthy, radiant complexionSimple ways to use nourishing oils on aging or dry skinWhy expensive skincare does not always mean better skincareWhen professional-grade skincare may be worth the investmentHow whole-body wellness influences what we see on the skinWhy sleep, nutrition, movement, and stress support come before quick fixesAge on Your Own TermsAging well is not about trying to look 25 forever.It is about becoming a woman whose face and body reflect health, wisdom, confidence, peace, and a life well lived.A beautiful woman at 70 may have wrinkles—but she may also have bright eyes, radiant skin, open posture, kindness, confidence, and a presence that draws others toward her.That kind of beauty cannot simply be injected.It is cultivated.Natalya's message is simple: build your foundation, nourish your body, care for yourself consistently, listen to what your body needs, trust yourself, trust God, and age on your own terms.Connect with Dr. Natalya BorakowskiVisit Unveil.life to explore Dr. Natalya's philosophy and education around aging, aesthetics, and developing greater self-trust.Her upcoming book, Emotional Aesthetics, explores aging, the biology of beauty, hormonal transitions, and trusting yourself through the changes of midlife.Ready to Understand Your Body More Deeply?For support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman who needs the reminder that taking care of herself is not vanity—it is part of honoring the body she has been given.healthy aging, women over 40, perimenopause skincare, menopause skincare, aging skin, skincare after 40, collagen and menopause, estrogen and skin, hormonal aging, self-trust, self-love for women, Christian wellness, faith and aging

What if aging wasn't something to fear—but an invitation to become more fully who you were always meant to be?In this deeply reflective episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine welcomes Dr. Susanne Eden, educator, author, lifelong learner, and an inspiring 87-year-old woman who continues to write, explore, travel, learn, and challenge conventional ideas about aging.Susanne shares her remarkable journey from beginning her teaching career with 48 Grade One students in Richmond Hill, Ontario, to working in educational publishing, completing her doctorate, teaching at York University, and eventually becoming a full-time writer.But her greatest education may have come through her own health journey.After years of chronic illness, inflammatory challenges, diabetes, medications, specialists, and eventually being forced into early retirement, Susanne began questioning the idea that healing could come only from outside herself.That journey became the foundation of her book, Healing From the Inside: Living Fully as You Age.Together, Dana and Susanne explore what it means to take ownership of your health, reconnect mind, body and spirit, discover purpose later in life, remain curious, embrace new technology, journal for deeper understanding, and refuse to accept the message that you are ever “too old” to grow.Susanne reminds us that aging is not simply about maintaining the physical body. True wellness includes our mental, emotional and spiritual lives—and our purpose does not disappear simply because we get older.A Powerful Reminder From This ConversationYou do not lose your purpose because you reach a certain age.Your body may change. Your circumstances may change. Your career may change. But there are still things to discover, people to love, wisdom to share, experiences to embrace and ways to leave the world better because you were here.As Susanne beautifully reminds us:Trust the journey. Keep shoveling the coal—but remember, you may not be the one driving the train.Connect With Dr. Susanne EdenBook: Healing From the Inside: Living Fully as You AgeAvailable through Amazon.Website: https://susanneeden.com/booksVisit Susanne's website to explore her writing, blogs, newsletters, conversations, recipes and resources on healing and living fully as we age.Ready to Better Understand Your Own Body?For support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman who needs the reminder that her wisdom, purpose and potential do not expire with age.healthy aging, aging with purpose, Dr Susanne Eden, Healing From the Inside, living fully as you age, women and aging, lifelong learning, purposeful aging, healthy longevity, spiritual wellness, mind body spirit health, holistic aging, women over 50, women over 60, women over 70, women over 80, journaling for healing, self-discovery, finding purpose after retirement, aging gracefully,

If you've ever felt like your body suddenly stopped responding to the diets and exercise routines that once worked, this episode is for you.On this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine sits down with Debbie Harris, integrative nutrition health coach, certified hypnotist, author, and creator of the Balanced Warrior approach, for an honest conversation about why dieting can feel so frustrating for women over 40.After more than five decades of dieting herself, Debbie knows the cycle of losing weight, regaining it, feeling frustrated, blaming yourself, and wondering why you don't have enough willpower. Her message is simple: you are not the problem. Diet culture has failed women.As hormones shift through perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause, our bodies require a different approach. Debbie explains why cortisol, insulin, estrogen, stress, sleep, hydration, movement, mindset, and our lifelong relationship with food all matter.Instead of another restrictive diet, Debbie encourages women to focus on balance, awareness, and becoming a “freedom eater”—learning how your unique body responds to food so you can nourish yourself well most of the time while still enjoying life.In This Episode, We DiscussWhy traditional diet culture often fails women over 40How hormonal changes can influence body composition and abdominal weightThe connection between cortisol, stress, insulin, and estrogenWhy guilt, shame, and “lack of willpower” are not the answerDebbie's first 30-day Balanced Warrior approachWhy walking, Pilates, yoga, barre, Tai Chi, and restorative movement may support this season of lifeHydration and why Debbie considers water foundationalUnderstanding your individual response to different foodsThe difference between dieting and freedom eatingWhy mindset must be addressed alongside nutritionGLP-1 medications and weight-loss surgery—and the importance of asking, “What happens next?”Intermittent fasting and why it isn't right for everyone Connect With Debbie HarrisFreedom Eater, Bestselling Author, Founder of the https://30tolife.org/, a proprietary solution for women 45-60 to elevate their health, release excess weight, minimize menopause symptoms, and become Freedom Eaters."Dieting Sucks for Women Over 40 - 30 to Life:  The Ultimate Weight Loss and Hormone Balancing Solution". GET YOUR COPY NOW!Ready to Better Understand Your Own Body?Your body isn't asking you for another punishment-based diet. It may be asking you to understand your hormones, metabolism, digestion, stress response, and unique health story.For support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.women over 40 weight loss, weight management after 40, menopause weight gain, perimenopause weight loss, hormones and weight gain, cortisol and belly fat, diet culture, freedom eating, healthy relationship with food, women's hormone health, menopause nutrition, midlife weight management, mindful eating,

What if your relationship with alcohol isn't really about alcohol at all?In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine sits down with Australian hypnotherapist and alcohol-reduction expert Georgia Foster to explore why so many high-functioning women find themselves drinking more than they intended—especially during midlife, perimenopause, menopause, empty nesting, retirement, stress, and major life transitions.Georgia's approach is refreshingly different. Rather than assuming everyone who is concerned about their drinking needs to quit completely, she helps people understand the emotional patterns, habits, and internal dialogue that can cause alcohol to gradually begin managing them instead of the other way around.At the heart of the conversation is what Georgia calls the inner critic—that relentless internal voice reminding you what you didn't accomplish, what you should have done differently, or why you're falling short.For many women, a glass of wine temporarily quiets that voice.But Georgia explains that it may not necessarily be the alcohol we are craving. Instead, we may be seeking the chemical and emotional relief that comes when the inner critic finally becomes quiet.Georgia's Simple Inner Critic ExerciseWhen you notice negative internal dialogue, Georgia encourages you to:Write down exactly what your inner critic is saying.Beside it, write the opposite or more supportive statement.Speak the new statement aloud when possible.Close your eyes for five minutes and visualize your day unfolding calmly and successfully.When negative thoughts appear, breathe them out and return to the new thought.One example Georgia shares is:“It is safe for me to achieve things today.”Repeated practice helps create a new emotional reference point instead of automatically reaching for alcohol, food, or another coping mechanism.A Powerful ReminderGeorgia reminds us that the way you drink today does not have to define the way you drink tomorrow.Your patterns are not set in stone.By becoming aware of your thoughts, strengthening your self-esteem, creating alcohol-free space, and learning how to calm the inner critic before reaching for a drink, you can begin changing your relationship with alcohol from one of need to choice.Connect with Georgia FosterLearn more about Georgia, her hypnotherapy work, the Drink Less Bootcamp, and her resources at: GeorgiaFosterReady to Better Understand Your Own Body?If alcohol, stress, hormones, metabolism, digestion, breast health, or nervous-system changes feel different than they used to, your body may be asking for a different kind of support.For support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, stress, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman who is ready to stop judging herself and start understanding the patterns her body and mind are trying to reveal.alcohol and menopause, drink less alcohol, mindful drinking, moderate drinking, alcohol reduction, women and alcohol, perimenopause and alcohol, menopause and alcohol, hypnotherapy for drinking, Georgia Foster, Drink Less Bootcamp, inner critic, emotional drinking, alcohol-free days, sober curious women, alcohol habits,

What if cardiovascular disease could be identified before traditional warning signs appear?In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine speaks with Dr. James Thompson, cardiovascular radiologist and specialist in advanced cardiac imaging, about the rapidly evolving role of artificial intelligence in heart health, cardiovascular prevention, and early detection.Heart disease remains a major health concern for women, yet during perimenopause and menopause, cardiovascular health can sometimes be overshadowed by conversations about hormones, weight, breast health, sleep, and other symptoms.Dr. Thompson explains why cardiovascular disease often begins much earlier than people realize and how newer imaging technologies, including coronary CT angiography (CTA) combined with artificial intelligence, are helping physicians identify and characterize plaque with greater precision.In This EpisodeHow AI is transforming cardiovascular imagingWhy cardiovascular disease can develop silentlyWhy prevention needs to begin earlier in lifeThe difference between a calcium score and coronary CTAWhy a calcium score of zero does not completely rule out diseaseCalcified versus non-calcified plaqueHow plaque may begin forming in the 20s, 30s, and 40sHow AI can help quantify plaque and inflammationWhy women may experience cardiovascular symptoms differentlyThe connection between inflammation, metabolism, and heart healthCalcium Score vs. Coronary CTAOne of the most important distinctions in this conversation is the difference between a coronary artery calcium score and coronary CTA.A calcium score identifies calcified plaque. Dr. Thompson explains that coronary CTA provides a more detailed view of the coronary arteries and can identify both calcified and earlier non-calcified plaque.As he shares:“A calcium score of zero does not fully mean that you do not have coronary artery disease.”Understanding this difference may become increasingly important as cardiovascular medicine moves toward earlier identification and prevention.Women & Cardiovascular HealthWomen do not always experience the symptoms traditionally associated with heart disease. This makes awareness, personal risk factors, and communication with healthcare providers especially important.Dr. Thompson encourages listeners to understand that heart disease is not simply a condition of older age. Earlier awareness may provide more opportunity to address modifiable risk factors before cardiovascular disease progresses.Learn MoreLearn more about Dr. James Thompson's work and advancements in preventative cardiovascular imaging at:https://preventi.ai/For support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, cardiovascular wellness, and whole-body health, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.AI in cardiology, artificial intelligence in medicine, cardiac imaging, women's heart health, heart disease prevention, cardiovascular health, coronary CTA, cardiac CTA, calcium scoring, non-calcified plaque, vulnerable plaque, coronary artery disease, early heart disease detection, cardiovascular screening, menopause heart health,

What if your struggle with sugar isn't simply about willpower—but about biology, habits, emotions, and the deeper invitation to care for the body God has given you?In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine sits down with Christine Trimpe, sugar addiction specialist and Christian health coach, for a powerful conversation about breaking free from sugar, improving metabolic health, and inviting faith into the wellness journey.Christine shares her personal transformation from living with morbid obesity to reclaiming her health, energy, and purpose. Her journey wasn't built on perfection or complicated diet rules. It began with understanding what sugar was doing to her body, recognizing the patterns behind cravings, and inviting God into the process.Together, Dana and Christine explore how sugar can influence insulin resistance, appetite, mood, energy, inflammation, and emotional eating. They also discuss why many women struggle with cravings even when they know what they “should” be eating—and why shame and restriction rarely create lasting change.Faith, Food & FreedomOne of Christine's most powerful messages is that health does not have to be pursued alone.By inviting God into her journey, she began seeing wellness differently—not simply as weight loss, but as an opportunity to become physically and spiritually equipped for the purpose she was created to fulfill.As Christine reminds us:“I invited the Lord into my journey.”“Keep it super simple.”“God created you for a purpose.”The goal isn't dietary perfection. It is learning to understand your body, recognize the patterns keeping you stuck, and make intentional choices that support the life you want to live.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Sugar Addiction and Faith-Based Health Coaching02:47 Christine's Personal Journey with Sugar Addiction05:49 Understanding Sugar Addiction and Its Impact on Health08:35 Breaking the Sugar Cycle: Practical Steps and Awareness11:21 Navigating Sugar Alternatives and Their Effects14:22 Recognizing Signs of Insulin Resistance and Health Issues16:59 The Role of Fasting in Managing Sugar Addiction20:04 Setting Boundaries for Health and Wellness22:41 The Ripple Effect of Personal Health on Community25:32 The Importance of Protein and Nutritional Choices28:29 Simplifying the Journey to Health and Wellness31:22 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for ListenersReady to Better Understand Your Body?If you're struggling with cravings, blood sugar changes, weight resistance, hormone shifts, digestion, breast health, metabolism, or simply feel like your body isn't responding the way it once did, you don't have to keep guessing.For support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman who is ready to stop fighting her body and start understanding it.sugar addiction, sugar cravings, Christian wellness, faith-based health, Christine Trimpe, Christian health coach, women's health, insulin resistance, blood sugar balance, metabolic health, emotional eating, food addiction, fasting for women, intermittent fasting, protein for women,

Sexual health is not separate from whole-body health. Hormones influence our muscles, metabolism, mood, cognition, energy, relationships, and how we age.In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine sits down with George Ibrahim for an eye-opening conversation about sexual health, hormone optimization, testosterone, peptides, regenerative medicine, and the importance of becoming an active participant in your own healthcare.George shares his journey from traditional urology into regenerative medicine and explains why sexual health often provides important clues about what may be happening throughout the rest of the body.Together, Dana and George explore the hormonal changes that occur as men and women age, including the gradual decline of testosterone in men and the misconception that women simply stop producing hormones after menopause.They also discuss the growing interest in bioidentical hormone therapy, testosterone therapy, peptides, cognitive health, muscle preservation, and longevity—and why treatment should always be individualized rather than based solely on age or a single laboratory number.George explains how peptides are emerging as another tool within regenerative medicine, with potential applications involving recovery, cognitive health, body composition, wellness, and healthy aging.One of the strongest messages of this conversation is the importance of health advocacy. If you know something feels different in your body, keep asking questions. Finding a knowledgeable practitioner who listens, investigates, and understands hormone health can make an enormous difference.Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Sexual Health and Hormones02:42 – The Journey of George Ibrahim05:31 – Understanding Hormones in Sexual Health08:28 – The Importance of Testosterone for Men11:16 – The Role of Hormones in Mental Health14:00 – Finding the Right Provider for Hormone Therapy16:40 – Peptides and Their Impact on Health19:20 – Cognitive Health and Peptide Therapy22:08 – Advocating for Your Health24:51 – Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSupporting Your Own Hormone & Whole-Body HealthYour symptoms are information.Changes in energy, sleep, libido, mood, cognition, metabolism, muscle mass, digestion, or how you feel in your body can all be signals worth exploring rather than simply accepting as “normal aging.”For support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call. Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman—or man—who wants to better understand their hormones, sexual health, and options for aging with greater strength and vitality.sexual health, hormone health, hormones, testosterone, testosterone therapy, low testosterone, menopause hormones, women's hormones, men's hormones, hormone replacement therapy, bioidentical hormone therapy, peptide therapy, peptides, regenerative medicine, sexual wellness, libido, cognitive health, brain health, mental health, healthy aging, longevity, muscle health,

What if education prepared young people not only to graduate—but to confidently step into a career? And what if women in midlife realized it is never too late to learn a new skill, pursue a new calling, or completely reinvent what comes next?In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine sits down with Dr. Nelva Lee, entrepreneur, author, educator, advocate, and former 2026 candidate for Georgia State School Superintendent, for an inspiring conversation about education, workforce readiness, faith, courage, resilience, and creating meaningful change.Dr. Lee shares why she believes trade education deserves a much larger place in our schools. Her vision is simple but powerful: give young people opportunities to graduate from high school with practical, industry-recognized skills that can lead directly to meaningful careers—with or without a traditional four-year college degree.But this conversation isn't only about teenagers.Dana and Dr. Lee explore how women in midlife can also rediscover their passions, explore certification programs, learn new skills, and step into an entirely different career chapter. After years spent raising families, building careers, and meeting everyone else's needs, this may be the season to ask: What has God placed on my heart now?Episode Highlights & Timestamps00:49 – A Heart for Advocacy02:05 – Why Trade Education Matters03:31 – Preparing Students for the Workforce05:51 – What Actually Counts as a Trade?08:33 – Reinventing Yourself in Midlife09:28 – Scholarships and Funding Opportunities12:48 – Redefining Courage14:30 – Turning Down the Noise16:32 – Test the Waters17:31 – Books as Written Testimonies24:06 – Dr. Lee's Word of WisdomConnect With Dr. Nelva LeeLearn more about Dr. Nelva Lee, her books, advocacy, educational work, interviews, and projects at DrNelvaLee.com.A Final ThoughtYour purpose does not expire because you've reached a certain age, raised your children, completed one career, or taken an unexpected path. Sometimes the next chapter begins by becoming quiet enough to hear the direction God is giving you—and courageous enough to take the first step.For support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman who is ready to step courageously into her next chapter.Editor's note: The interview references Dr. Lee's 2026 campaign for Georgia State School Superintendent and the May 19 election. That primary has since taken place; the episode's discussion reflects the circumstances at the time it was recorded. Official Georgia election results show the Republican primary was led by incumbent Richard WoodsDr. Nelva Lee, trade education, vocational education, career education, career change for women, women in midlife, midlife career change, women over 40, workforce development, high school trade certification, skilled trades, career certification, education reform, student debt, career readiness, women and education, faith and purpose,

Money, Mindset, and Freedom: Helping Women Take Control of Their Finances with Emily StroudMoney can feel intimidating, emotional, and overwhelming—but understanding your finances can also create freedom, confidence, and peace.In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine sits down with Emily Stroud, faith-based financial advisor, to talk about financial empowerment for women, money mindset, budgeting, financial education, and creating a healthier relationship with money.Emily shares her journey into finance and explains why financial literacy is especially important for women. Whether navigating marriage, divorce, widowhood, single life, career changes, caregiving, or simply wanting more confidence around money, understanding your financial picture can help you make decisions from clarity rather than fear.Dana and Emily also explore how childhood experiences, family beliefs, faith, and life circumstances shape our relationship with money. One of Emily's most important reminders: money is a tool. It is how we understand, manage, and use it that matters.This conversation is about creating financial awareness, having honest conversations, building confidence, and developing skills that can positively impact your life—and the generations that follow.You can learn more about Emily on her website https://faithfulfinance.comAnd check out her Facebook page here.Key TakeawaysMoney is a tool. Understanding how to manage it responsibly can create greater freedom, security, generosity, and opportunity.Financial freedom is powerful. Knowing where you stand financially helps you make choices based on your priorities instead of fear.Your money mindset matters. Beliefs formed through childhood, family, and past experiences can continue influencing financial decisions until we consciously examine them.Budgeting creates clarity. A budget helps you understand where your money is going and intentionally direct it toward what matters most.Women need financial education. Career interruptions, caregiving, divorce, widowhood, and other life transitions can create unique financial challenges.Teach the next generation. Giving children practical money-management skills can influence their financial wellbeing for decades.Episode Chapters00:00 Introduction to Financial Empowerment02:49 Navigating Financial Challenges for Women06:21 The Importance of Financial Education09:55 Personal Experiences Shaping Financial Perspectives13:12 Understanding Money Mindsets16:26 Teaching Financial Literacy to the Next Generation20:51 Creating a Supportive Financial Environment22:44 Conclusion and Resources for Financial GrowthKnowledge creates confidence—and confidence creates choices.For support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call: https://wisedivinehealthclaritycall.youcanbook.me/Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman who is ready to stop fighting her body and start understanding it.financial empowerment, women and finance, women and money, financial literacy for women, financial education, money mindset, budgeting for women, Emily Stroud, Dana Irvine

The conversation covers a range of financial topics, including year-end financial planning, transitioning to a financial advisory career, the importance of financial literacy and planning, financial planning in your 40s and 50s, balancing finances and life decisions, money as a tool for self-care, and the concept of generosity and financial blessings. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by women in understanding and managing finances, highlighting the lack of exposure to financial discussions in families. It also emphasizes the importance of women's involvement in financial planning and decision-making, especially in the context of retirement and long-term financial security.TakeawaysLongevity and financesGenerosity and financial blessings Financial literacy in womenInvolvement in financial planningChapters00:00 Preparing for Fall and Year-End Financial Planning03:03 Transitioning to Financial Advisory Career06:09 The Importance of Financial Literacy and Planning08:01 Financial Planning in Your 40s and 50s09:45 Balancing Finances and Life Decisions13:01 Money as a Tool for Self-Care17:00 Generosity and Financial Blessings22:24 The Challenge of Financial Literacy29:44 The Importance of Involvement in Financial PlanningLearn more about Lisa Clements and the ways she can empower your fiances For support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman who is ready to stop fighting her body and start understanding it. 

Lisa Clements, a financial guru, shares insights on financial planning, generational perspectives, and the importance of giving and receiving. She also discusses the challenges and realities of financial planning and shares words of wisdom for the audience.TakeawaysGenerational perspectives on financesThe importance of giving and receivingChapters00:00 Preparing for the Fall Season02:13 Transitioning Careers and Financial Independence03:26 Generational Perspectives on Finances04:23 The Importance of Financial Planning06:34 The Role of Giving and Receiving07:21 Challenges and Realities of Financial Planning09:28 Words of Wisdom and Final ThoughtsLearn more about Lisa ClementsFor support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman who is ready to stop fighting her body and start understanding it.

The conversation delves into the redefinition of healthcare, emphasizing the importance of lifestyle medicine and the role of movement in healthcare. It explores the understanding of hormone replacement therapy, the impact of hormones on health, and the principles of functional medicine and holistic health. The conversation covers topics related to empowerment through self-advocacy, the shift in healthcare consumerism, biometric analysis and wearable technology, stress management and recovery, and rituals of self-care and habit stacking. It emphasizes the importance of knowing your 'why' and making small, consistent changes for long-term impact.TakeawaysRedefining healthcareImportance of lifestyle medicine Empowerment through self-advocacyImportance of knowing your 'why'Chapters00:00 Redefining Healthcare03:05 The Role of Movement in Healthcare08:07 Understanding Hormone Replacement Therapy15:07 The Impact of Hormones on Health19:50 Functional Medicine and Holistic Health23:00 Empowerment through Self-Advocacy24:22 The Shift in Healthcare Consumerism25:30 Biometric Analysis and Wearable Technology27:09 Stress Management and Recovery38:30 Rituals of Self-Care and Habit StackingFind out more Kristin Oja the CEO + Founder of STAT WellnessFor support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman who is ready to stop fighting her body and start understanding it.

Riana Malia shares her journey of overcoming challenges, finding clarity, and creating a life of purpose and fulfillment. She emphasizes the importance of clearing old patterns, integrating new beliefs, and embodying a new frequency of being. The conversation delves into the transformative power of quantum healing, the impact of emotional trauma on the body, and the importance of self-worth and values in women's healing journeys. It also explores the concept of extraordinary love and the role of self-awareness in personal growth.TakeawaysClarity is essential for creating the life you desireClearing old patterns and integrating new beliefs is crucial for personal transformation Quantum healing and energy work have a profound impact on emotional trauma and physical well-being.The journey to healing and self-discovery involves understanding self-worth, values, and the concept of extraordinary love.Chapters00:00 The Journey to Clarity03:05 Overcoming Adversity11:25 The Power of Clearing and Creating13:22 Releasing Energetic Weight22:11 Reverse Engineering Goals25:28 Quantum Healing and Emotional Trauma26:24 The Power of Self-Worth and Values28:00 The Journey to Healing and Self-Discovery30:10 The Concept of Extraordinary Love and Self-AwarenessFind your transformation with Riana MaliaRiana MaliaBoard-Certified Integrative Neurosomatic PractitionerIdentity Architect for High-Achieving Womeninfo@rianamalia.comwww.rianamalia.comWhat's standing between you and extraordinary love? → Take the ELIInstagram Facebook LinkedIn YouTube  SubstackFor support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman who is ready to stop fighting her body and start understanding it.

Can women improve fat burning and metabolic health without keto, extreme fasting, or restrictive dieting?In this episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine welcomes health and lifestyle coach, podcaster, author, and business consultant Jenn Trepeck for a practical conversation about women's metabolism, blood sugar, fasting, functional nutrition, and sustainable wellness.Jenn shares how her own weight-management journey inspired her transition from business into health coaching. After learning the nutrition information many of us were never taught, she was able to change her relationship with food and move beyond chronic dieting.Together, Dana and Jenn explore why fat loss is not simply about eating less and exercising more. Blood sugar, insulin, muscle mass, stress, sleep, hydration, minerals, meal timing, and mindset all influence how the body uses and stores energy.Jenn explains why restrictive diets such as keto may not be sustainable or supportive for every woman. Instead, she encourages women to build a strong health foundation, listen to their body's signals, and create habits that allow flexibility, nourishment, and joy.How women can burn fat without ketoHow blood sugar and insulin affect fat storageWhy chronic under-eating may slow progressThe relationship between stress and metabolismWhy muscle supports metabolic health and longevityFasting considerations for womenThe importance of hydration and mineralsBiohacking versus Jenn's concept of “biostacking”How to build realistic and flexible wellness habitsWhy accountability and small wins matterHow to rebuild trust with your bodyBlood sugar balance is essential for metabolic health. Balanced meals containing protein, fiber, healthy fats, and quality carbohydrates can support steadier energy while reducing cravings and blood sugar crashes.Eating less is not always better. When the body senses ongoing restriction or stress, it may conserve energy rather than release stored fuel.Fasting is not one-size-fits-all. A woman's stress levels, sleep, activity, hormones, menstrual cycle, and overall nutrition should be considered before extending fasting windows.Jenn also introduces biostacking, the practice of layering foundational habits that work together. Hydration, balanced meals, movement, sleep, stress support, and mindset may create better long-term results than relying on one complicated wellness hack.Most importantly, lasting health does not require perfection. Flexibility and consistency are what make healthy habits sustainable.00:00 – Jenn's wellness journey02:20 – Listening to the body instead of diets05:30 – Burning fat without keto07:01 – Blood sugar, insulin, and fat storage10:54 – Under-eating, stress, and metabolism15:04 – Rebuilding trust with your body17:03 – Muscle, fat, and fuel storage19:05 – Fasting for women20:54 – Biohacking and biostacking23:48 – Building a health foundation27:05 – Hydration and minerals31:58 – Creating a flexible wellness plan34:04 – Celebrating progress35:59 – Closing thoughts and guest linksShe is the host of Salad With a Side of Fries and the author of Uncomplicating Wellness, a practical, science-informed guide designed to help people cut through wellness confusion and trust their bodies again.Website: https://saladwithasideoffries.comPodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/salad-with-a-side-of-fries/id1476796444Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jentrepickBook: Uncomplicating WellnessFor support with hormones, metabolism, breast health, digestion, and whole-body wellness, visit DanaIrvine.com and book a Health Clarity Call.Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with a woman who is ready to stop fighting her body and start understanding it.

What if the habits you've been trying to build were never designed for your life in the first place?In this insightful conversation, Dana Irvine sits down with identity coach and author Monica Packer to explore how perfectionism, invisible labor, and shifting life seasons can disconnect women from themselves. Together, they discuss why traditional habit formation often fails women and how reclaiming your identity is the key to creating sustainable habits that truly support your well-being.Monica shares her personal journey from perfectionism and burnout to developing a more compassionate, flexible approach to growth. She introduces the concept of "sticky habits"—habits designed to fit real life rather than demanding perfection.Whether you're navigating menopause, an empty nest, career changes, or simply feeling disconnected from yourself, this episode offers practical wisdom to help you build habits that honor who you are and who you're becoming.✨ Why perfectionism is often a coping mechanism rather than a personality trait✨ The hidden impact of invisible labor on women's health, energy, and self-care✨ How identity influences every habit we create✨ Why traditional habit advice often doesn't work for women✨ The Sticky Habit Method and how flexibility leads to consistency✨ How to redefine success and stop measuring your worth by your productivity✨ Practical ways to build habits that support your real life✨ Why it's never too late to change, grow, and reinvent yourselfConnect with Monica Parker

"I'd rather regret something I did than something I didn't do."— Dr. Liz DuBois ErskineWhat happens when success, ambition, and leadership collide with trauma, mental health challenges, and the desire for something more meaningful?In this powerful episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine sits down with executive coach, leadership expert, and podcast host Dr. Liz DuBois Erskine to explore the hidden struggles many high-achieving women face. Together, they discuss how trauma influences decision-making, why women often stay small despite big dreams, and how authentic leadership begins with self-awareness.Dr. Liz shares her personal journey through recovery, entrepreneurship, mental health advocacy, and the bold decision to leave city life behind and move onto a yacht during the pandemic. She also opens up about living with Bipolar I Disorder, breaking stigma around mental health, and helping women leaders move beyond limiting beliefs into purposeful action.This conversation is equal parts inspiring, practical, and refreshingly honest. If you've ever felt stuck between what you want and what feels safe, this episode will encourage you to trust yourself, take courageous action, and stop waiting for perfection before pursuing your dreams. ✨ Growth requires action before certainty.✨ Trauma-informed leadership helps women make decisions from intention instead of fear.✨ Success without authenticity often leads to burnout and dissatisfaction.✨ Mental health challenges do not diminish leadership potential.✨ Community, connection, and purpose are essential for overall well-being.✨ Sometimes the greatest opportunities come from taking unconventional paths.✨ You don't need perfection—you need momentum.✨ Regret often comes more from opportunities missed than mistakes made.00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Liz DuBois Erskine01:30 – Recovery, entrepreneurship, and personal transformation03:00 – How trauma impacts leadership and decision-making05:00 – Midlife transitions, purpose, and creating a meaningful life08:00 – Imposter syndrome and limiting beliefs in women leaders12:00 – Finding purpose versus following market trends15:00 – When coaching helps leaders break through plateaus16:00 – Selling everything and moving onto a yacht during the pandemic21:00 – Parenting, education, and creating memorable experiences26:00 – Writing books and leadership development29:00 – The Psyched Podcast and mental health conversations31:00 – Living openly with Bipolar I Disorder35:00 – Mental health treatment, medication, and self-care36:00 – Where to find Dr. Liz and her coaching programs37:00 – Words of wisdom: courage, risk-taking, and living fully

Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming, confusing, and rushed. In this insightful conversation, Dana Irvine sits down with naturopathic oncologist Laura James to discuss how women can navigate a diagnosis with confidence, build the right support team, and make informed decisions about their care. Dr. James shares her 25+ years of experience helping women understand pathology reports, treatment options, nutrition, anti-estrogen therapies, and the importance of individualized care. She also explains how integrative oncology can work alongside conventional medicine to improve resilience, quality of life, and treatment outcomes.This episode is a powerful reminder that while breast cancer treatment may feel urgent, women deserve the time, support, and education needed to advocate for themselves and make choices that align with their values.Episode HighlightsHow Dr. Laura James transitioned from conventional medicine to naturopathic oncologyWhy nutrition became the foundation of her healthcare philosophyThe role of integrative oncology alongside conventional cancer treatmentUnderstanding the "breast cancer industrial complex" and the importance of informed decision-makingWhy women should build both a medical team and a personal support teamThe significance of love languages when receiving care during illnessCommon questions women ask after a breast cancer diagnosisUnderstanding anti-estrogen therapies and individualized treatment approachesThe differences between Stage 0, Stage 1, Stage 2, Stage 3, and Stage 4 breast cancerEmerging advances in personalized medicine and circulating tumor DNA testingThe challenges facing younger women diagnosed with breast cancerWhy advocacy and human-centered healthcare matter more than everThe importance of grace, resilience, and self-ion, and healthcare transformationResources MentionedLaura James ND Official WebsiteOncology Association of Naturopathic Physicians (OncANP)Five Love Languages AssessmentLaura James is a naturopathic oncologist with more than 25 years of experience supporting individuals affected by cancer. She specializes in helping women navigate breast cancer treatment through evidence-informed integrative oncology, combining conventional care with nutrition, lifestyle medicine, and supportive therapies. She provides consultations, educational resources, and courses designed to help women better understand their diagnosis and treatment options.If this episode encouraged you, please:⭐ Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast⭐ Leave a review and share this episode with a friend⭐ Follow Dana for more conversations on breast health, hormones, functional wellness, and women's empowerment⭐ Visit Dana's website to book a Health Clarity Callbreast cancer, integrative oncology, naturopathic oncology, breast health, cancer prevention, women's health, anti-estrogen therapy, tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors, nutrition for cancer, breast cancer support, cancer advocacy, personalized medicine, genomic testing, circulating tumor DNA, breast cancer recovery, functional medicine, hormone health, survivorship, women's wellness, Dana Irvine, Laura James, Wise Divine Women Podcast, oncology support, holistic cancer care, breast cancer education, cancer resilience, health advocacy, menopause and breast cancer, patient empowerment

In this deeply inspiring conversation, Dana Irvine welcomes Australian nurse, educator, entrepreneur, and cancer advocate Bron Watson. Bron shares her powerful journey from a successful nursing and business career to navigating two life-changing cancer diagnoses: breast cancer in 2017 and multiple myeloma in 2023.Through her experiences, Bron discovered the importance of slowing down, listening to her intuition, and embracing what she calls "Serenity Moments." She explains how these moments help people move from overwhelm and fear into courage, presence, and healing. Bron introduces her growing initiative, The Serenity Project, an online community supporting people living with cancer, caregivers, and healthcare professionals through a blend of science, soul, evidence, and lived experience. Together, Dana and Bron discuss self-advocacy, resilience, the power of pausing, emotional awareness, faith, and why healing is available to everyone—even when a cure may not be. This conversation offers hope, practical wisdom, and a refreshing perspective on navigating adversity with grace and courage.✨ Bron's transition from nurse and entrepreneur to cancer advocate✨ The wake-up call that followed her breast cancer diagnosis✨ Why "rest is work" and self-care is not a luxury✨ How naming emotions creates space for healing✨ The concept of "Serenity Moments"✨ Learning to respond rather than react to adversity✨ The difference between healing and curing✨ Why worry creates "dis-ease"✨ Becoming an active participant in your health journey✨ The vision behind The Serenity Project community✨ The power of courage, faith, and being present✨ Bron's upcoming book: Be Where Your Feet AreResources MentionedWebsite: https://bronwatson.com.auSerenity Project: https://serenityproject.com.auPodcast: The Serenity Project PodcastCall to ActionIf this episode encouraged you, inspired you, or reminded you to slow down and embrace the present moment, please:✅ Subscribe to the Wise Divine Women Podcast✅ Leave a review and share this episode with someone navigating a health challenge✅ Visit Bron at serenityproject.com.au to learn more about The Serenity Project✅ Book a Health Clarity Call with Dana at danairvine.comRemember: Healing begins when we pause, breathe, and choose courage over fear.

In this inspiring conversation, Dana Irvine welcomes Rebecca Zook, founder of Happi Rituals, for her very first podcast interview. Rebecca shares the deeply personal journey that led her to create a natural skincare line rooted in self-love, intentional living, and embracing the aging process with grace.Together, Dana and Rebecca explore the pressure women face from unrealistic beauty standards, the importance of reducing exposure to endocrine-disrupting ingredients, and how skincare can become a meaningful daily ritual rather than another task on the to-do list. Rebecca discusses the creation of her tallow-based skincare products, her philosophy of nourishing the skin as a living organ, and why happiness may be the ultimate beauty secret.This episode is a refreshing reminder that true beauty comes from within, and that aging is not something to fear—it's a privilege to embrace.Episode Highlights✨ Rebecca's journey from frustrated skincare consumer to founder of Happi Rituals✨ Why anti-aging messaging often leaves women feeling like the goalposts keep moving✨ The hidden impact of endocrine disruptors and toxic skincare ingredients✨ How simplifying skincare can reduce stress and increase consistency✨ The benefits of tallow-based skincare and nutrient-rich botanical oils✨ Creating daily rituals that support emotional wellness and self-connection✨ Why happiness and self-acceptance are powerful beauty practices✨ Raising daughters in a world filled with unrealistic beauty expectations✨ The importance of embracing aging as a gift rather than a problem to solve✨ How small moments of mindfulness can transform your dayAbout Rebecca ZookRebecca Zook is the founder of Happi Rituals, a natural skincare company dedicated to helping women embrace aging with confidence, self-love, and intention. Her tallow-based skincare products combine nutrient-rich ingredients with a philosophy centered on happiness, wellness, and mindful daily rituals. Rebecca's mission is to encourage women to care for themselves from the inside out while embracing every stage of life with grace.Resources & LinkHappi Rituals Official WebsiteHappi Rituals InstagramHappi Rituals FacebookIf this episode inspired you, Please subscribe, Rate and review the Wise Divine Women Podcast. Share this conversation with a woman in your life who needs encouragement to embrace her beauty, wisdom, and worth at every age.Ready to take charge of your health and wellness journey?Visit Dana Irvine to book your Health Clarity Call and discover the next steps toward vibrant health.Rebecca Zook, Happi Rituals, natural skincare, tallow skincare, aging gracefully, women over 40, self-care, self-love, happiness, skincare rituals, hormone health, endocrine disruptors, clean beauty, mindful living, women's wellness, healthy aging, beauty standards, confidence, menopause wellness, Wise Divine Women Podcast.

Are hormones really just about hot flashes and libido?In this eye-opening episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine sits down with functional medicine practitioner, yoga instructor, and menopause educator Cindy Dupuie to discuss one of the most important—and misunderstood—topics in women's health: hormone replacement therapy, bone health, brain health, and aging well.Cindy shares her personal journey into early menopause at age 43 and how her experience led her to become passionate about helping women navigate perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. Together, Dana and Cindy explore the evolving science around hormone replacement therapy (HRT), the lasting impact of the Women's Health Initiative study, and why so many women are still struggling to access informed care today. In this conversation, you'll learn:✨ Why estrogen affects every organ system in the body✨ The connection between hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and gut health✨ How hormone health influences bone density, cardiovascular health, and cognitive function✨ Why osteoporosis prevention must start before symptoms appear✨ The importance of strength training, protein, and lifestyle habits during menopause✨ Common misconceptions about hormone replacement therapy✨ How to become a stronger advocate for your own health care✨ Why women need to understand their lab work and ask better questions✨ The role of functional and integrative practitioners in supporting healthy aging✨ How community and education empower women through menopause and beyondDana and Cindy also discuss the importance of personalized care, looking beyond symptoms, and creating a strong foundation through nutrition, movement, stress management, sleep, and hormone balance.Instagram @cindy_dupuie https://www.instagram.com/cindy_dupuie/Website alivingbalance.net https://alivingbalance.netYouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@alivingbalanceFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/cdupuie/Course: Grace In Transition for Women Of A Certain Age https://alivingbalance.net/course/Download Lab Checklist for The Pause Years https://mailchi.mp/ec838eef0e74/lab-checklistTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to women's health, menopause, and hormonal balance02:00 - Cindy's journey from dietetics to functional medicine for women's wellness05:00 - How estrogen impacts cell function and overall health08:00 - The gap in conventional hormone management practices11:00 - The Dutch Test and hormone monitoring innovations14:00 - The critical connection between gut health and hormones17:00 - Why HRT is like the “icing on the cake” in a foundation of health20:00 - Navigating conversations with healthcare providers about hormone therapy23:00 - The importance of baseline blood tests for preventative health26:00 - The impact of hormones on bone density and osteoporosis risk30:00 - Common barriers in accessing hormone care in the U.S. and Canada33:00 - Strategies for women over 60 to maintain vitality and independence37:00 - The role of lifestyle factors (stress, sleep, exercise) in hormonal and bone health41:00 - Key lab markers to assess bone health and inflammation44:00 - The importance of multifaceted approaches: diet, sleep, stress, and hormones48:00 - Community programs and online courses for women of a certain age“Take a breath and stay curious” — Embrace continuous learning and compassionate advocacy for your health.

In this powerful and heart-centered conversation, Helen Williams Malinowski joins Dana Irvine on the Wise Divine Women Podcast to explore the profound connection between stress, trauma, and the nervous system. Together, they discuss how somatic therapy helps women reconnect with their bodies, regulate stress responses, and begin healing from chronic overwhelm and emotional exhaustion.Helen shares practical tools to calm the nervous system, including simple breathing exercises, body awareness practices, and ways to recognize the subtle signals our bodies send when stress and trauma are unresolved. The conversation also dives into the conditioning many women experience around boundaries, people-pleasing, and ignoring their own needs — and how reclaiming body awareness can become a pathway back to healing, authenticity, and resilience.Listeners will walk away with compassionate, practical strategies for managing stress, honoring their body's wisdom, and creating healthier emotional boundaries in everyday life.Key Topics DiscussedUnderstanding stress and nervous system dysregulationHow somatic therapy supports trauma healingLearning to listen to the body's stress signalsBreathwork and simple grounding exercises for daily stress reliefThe impact of conditioning and people-pleasing on women's healthWhy boundaries are essential for healing and emotional wellnessMovement and body awareness as tools for releasing stored stressHelen's upcoming book, Coming Back, and its message for women and practitionersStress symptoms are often the body's way of asking for attention and supportDeep breathing and intentional exhaling can help regulate the nervous system quicklyHealing begins when women learn to pause and listen to their body's signalsChronic stress and trauma can disconnect women from their intuition and boundariesSomatic practices create space between reaction and responseHonoring discomfort instead of avoiding it can support emotional healing and growthSimple daily body-awareness practices can have a profound impact on overall wellnessTimeline00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Helen Williams Malinowski01:03 – What Is Somatic Therapy?02:08 – Stress in Women, Entrepreneurs & Caregivers03:21 – How the Body Responds to Stress04:03 – Recognizing Stress Signals & Nervous System Dysregulation05:54 – Trauma Healing & Creating Space Before Reacting06:16 – Why Women Struggle with Boundaries07:43 – The Growing Stress Load Women Carry Today08:43 – Hormones, Conditioning & Emotional Stress10:50 – Breathwork Techniques to Calm the Nervous System12:21 – Movement, Somatic Release & Body Awareness16:27 – Helen's Upcoming Book Coming Back23:50 – Final Thoughts & Encouragement for ListenersHelen Williams Malinowski WebsiteComing Back by Helen Williams MalinowskiOfficial Website of Helen Williams MalinowskiHosted by Dana Irvine, the Wise Divine Women Podcast explores functional wellness, women's health, hormone balance, breast health, nervous system healing, faith, and holistic living for women seeking deeper healing in mind, body, and spirit.Visit Dana Irvine for more information

If your bloodwork keeps coming back "normal," but youstill feel exhausted, anxious, and hormonally off — this episode is for you.Dana Irvine, FDNP CCT, breaks down Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA): what it is, what it reveals, and why it catches what standard blood tests routinely miss. From magnesium depletion and adrenal burnout to the zinc-copperconnection behind estrogen dominance symptoms, Dana shows how a single hair sample can map three months of your body's metabolic story — and how that blueprint becomes a truly personalized healing protocol. What You'll Learn• Why HTMA captures what blood tests miss• Key minerals tied to perimenopause brain fog, hair loss, and breast tenderness• How sodium/potassium ratios reveal adrenal exhaustion patterns• The zinc-copper imbalance driving estrogen dominance symptoms• How HTMA integrates into a root-cause hormone protocol Episode Timeline00:00  Introduction to HTMA01:44  What HTMA is and how it works03:01  Blood tests vs. HTMA — the key difference03:47  Why mineral ratios matter more than individual levels05:33  Magnesium, sodium & potassium — your stress and adrenal minerals06:53  Zinc, copper & the estrogen dominance connection08:13  Symptoms that point to mineral dysfunction09:57  HTMA inside the FDN H.I.D.D.E.N. framework11:46  Personalized protocols and the four oxidation types12:39  Retesting and tracking your healing progress13:32  Thermography as a companion tool16:02  RESTORE Program — HTMA with CanAlt built in18:11  Your next step: 10 Day Breast & Hormone Reset or the 5 Root Causes Disrupting Your Breast and Hormone Health 19:50  Closing Resources• CanAlt Laboratories — Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis — https://canaltlabs.com• Thermography Medical Clinic  Ready to Find Your Root Cause?

Are hot flashes really just about low estrogen? In this eye-opening episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine explores the deeper root causes behind hot flashes, night sweats, and hormone chaos during perimenopause and menopause.Many women are told that suffering through menopause is simply part of aging — but Dana explains why the body is not broken and why symptoms are often signals of deeper imbalances within the body.In this educational solo episode, Dana uncovers how adrenal stress, cortisol dysfunction, mineral imbalances, thyroid health, gut dysfunction, blood sugar instability, heavy metals, and poor estrogen clearance can all contribute to hot flashes and hormone symptoms.You'll learn why a personalized “test, don't guess” approach matters and how functional testing and thermography can help uncover hidden stress patterns and inflammation before symptoms worsen.Why hot flashes are not always caused by estrogen declineHow stress and adrenal exhaustion impact hormone productionThe connection between cortisol rhythms and night sweatsWhy gut health affects estrogen recycling and detoxificationHow thyroid function influences temperature regulationThe role of magnesium, copper, and mineral imbalancesWhy nighttime blood sugar crashes can trigger hot flashesHow heavy metals may mimic estrogen and disrupt hormonesWhy personalized testing creates better long-term outcomesHow thermography helps visualize stress and inflammation patterns in the bodyTimeline00:00 – Introduction: Hot Flashes and Misconceptions00:52 – The Body Is Not Broken: Understanding Menopause02:50 – Common Misunderstandings About Hot Flashes03:44 – Hormone Therapy and Its Limitations04:25 – Estrogen and Its Role in Hot Flashes05:33 – Adrenal Exhaustion and Hormone Production06:47 – Cortisol Rhythm and Night Sweats07:59 – Estrogen Clearance Pathways and Methylation09:16 – Gut Recycling of Estrogen10:34 – Mineral Imbalances and Thyroid Function12:16 – Magnesium and Copper's Role in Hot Flashes13:11 – Blood Sugar Fluctuations and Night Sweats13:59 – Heavy Metals and Estrogen Mimicry15:39 – The Power of Testing and Personalized Protocols15:57 – Visualizing Stress with Thermography17:55 – Empowering Women with Knowledge and Tools18:50 – Next Steps: Testing and Support19:41 – Book a Health Clarity Call and Take ActionIf you're struggling with hot flashes, night sweats, exhaustion, brain fog, or hormone chaos, know this: your body is speaking — and there are answers.At Wise Divine Women, Dana Irvine combines functional testing, thermography, nutrition, and personalized wellness strategies to help women uncover the true root causes behind their symptoms.✨ Ready to stop guessing and start understanding your body?Visit DanaIrvine.com to book your personalized Health Clarity Call and take the next step toward balanced hormones, restored energy, and empowered health. keywordsmenopause, hot flashes, hormone health, adrenal function, estrogen, cortisol, gut health, mineral analysis, thermography, personalized treatment

Have you ever walked out of a doctor's office feeling dismissed — told that your labs were 'normal' while youknew in your body that something was profoundly wrong? You are not alone, and this episode may be the validation and the roadmap you have been searching for.Dana Irvine sits down with Elizabeth Gaines, Director of Education at Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® (FDN), for a deeply resonant conversation about what it truly means toinvestigate — not just manage — your health. Elizabeth shares her own remarkable transformation from burnout and chronic fatigue (fuelled by a decade of trauma-recovery work) to becoming one of the leading educators in the functional diagnostic space.Together, Dana and Elizabeth unpack the philosophy and practice behind FDN: why functional lab testingreveals what standard blood work misses, how the DRESS protocol (Diet, Rest,Exercise, Stress Reduction, and Supplementation) creates a sustainable foundation for healing, and why metabolic typing is the missing key for women who have tried every diet and still feel stuck.This episode is equal parts science, story, and empowerment — a master class in understanding why your body behaves the way it does, and what you can do about it right now.Elizabeth Gaines, MFA, MA, FDN-P is the Director of Education at Functional Diagnostic Nutrition® (FDN) — one of the world's most respected certification programs in functional health — where she leads curriculum design, live practitioner training, and mentor development.Her path to functional health began not in a laboratory, but in survival. For more than a decade Elizabeth ,served in nonprofit trauma recovery, supporting survivors of domestic minor sextrafficking. The relentless weight of that work eventually took a toll: compassion fatigue spiraled into chronic fatigue, depression, digestive dysfunction, and a profound sense of invisibility in her own body. Doctors told her it was "all in her head." She knew better.Through FDN, Elizabeth discovered how to identify hidden healing opportunities through functional lab testing that conventional medicine had missed — and she reclaimed her energy, joy, clarity, and purpose. Today she trains the trainers and guides clients back to their naturally vibrant state through the same evidence-informed, root-cause lens.Elizabeth operates her own functional wellness practice, Break Thru Burnout, specializing in chronic stress, burnout recovery, and the physiological impact of emotional depletion.

In this episode, host DanaIrvine sits down with Jennifer Gularson PA-C to tackle the often-overlooked topics at the intersection of women's health, sexual wellness, and hormonal balance. Together, they explore what it really means for women to thrive throughperimenopause and menopause — from reclaiming libido and intimacy to understanding the science behind hormone replacement therapy. Jennifer brings her integrative and functional medicine lens to a candid, empoweringconversation that reminds every listener: you don't have to suffer in silence.About Jennifer Gularson,PA-C, IFMCPAs a menopause educator and board-certified Functional Medicine provider, Jennifer is deeply committed tohelping women navigate hormonal transitions with clarity, confidence, and evidence-based care. Her approach goes beyond symptom management — she addresseshormone, thyroid, and adrenal imbalances from a root-cause perspective, integrating lifestyle medicine, targeted nutrition, supplementation, and conventional therapies when appropriate. ocfhealingocfhealingJennifer believes menopause is not something to simply endure, but a pivotal season where the right supportcan dramatically improve quality of life. She practices at the Osteopathic Center for Healing in Rockville, Maryland, where she works collaboratively to deliver truly personalized, patient-centered care that examines the full picture of health — including genetics, environment, emotional wellbeing, andlifestyle patterns. ocfhealingocfhealingJennifer has been featured on Good Morning Washington and FOX 5, and is a sought-after podcast guest on women's hormonal health.Connect with Jennifer: ocfhealing.com/jennifer-gularson Key Takeaways•    Women frequently suffer in silence when it comes tosexual health during menopause — this episode breaks that silence.•    Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be alife-changing tool for improving quality of life when approached thoughtfully.•    Libido exists on a spectrum: understanding thedifference between spontaneous and responsive desire is a game-changer forcouples.•    Vaginal estrogen is a non-negotiable component ofsexual health for many women post-menopause.•    Peptides are an emerging area of interest for enhancingoverall well-being and sexual health.•    Open communication between partners — and with yourhealthcare provider — is foundational to healing.•    Integrative and functional medicine offer a holisticalternative to conventional approaches to women's health.•    Women deserve education about their bodies and theoptions available to them — knowledge is power.•    Health is a longevity game, not a quick fix. Giving yourself grace is part of the process. Memorable Moments"You just wait, you just wait.""It's a longevity game, it's not a quick fix.""Giving yourself grace, giving your body grace." Episode Chapters00:00  Introduction to Women's Health andHormones04:05  The Journey to Hormone ReplacementTherapy10:52  Understanding Libido and Intimacy16:44  The Role of Hormones in Women'sHealth23:44  Peptides and Their Impact onHealth33:14  The Importance of Communication inSexual Health Topics Covered#womenshealth #hormoneReplacementTherapy #libido  #intimacy  #menopause #sexualhealth #peptides  #communication  #integrativemedicine  #functionalmedicine  Connect & Resources

Are you ready to stop guessing about your health and start getting answers? In this episode, Dana Irvine, FDNP, sits down with Kristy Berry, CEO of Cenegenics, to unpack what performance aging actually looks like for women — and why the conventional healthcare model is failing us. Together, they dig into the power of comprehensive biomarker testing, personalized health protocols, and the functional, root-cause approach to navigating menopause, hormone imbalance, and long-term vitality.Kristy shares how Cenegenics uses over 270 blood biomarkers alongside cognitive and physical assessments to build truly individualized health strategies — moving far beyond the one-size-fits-all advice most women have been handed for decades. You'll hear why continuous monitoring matters, how lifestyle factors like sleep, nutrition, and stress are non-negotiable foundations, and why hormones and peptides — while powerful tools — should support a solid wellness framework, not replace one.If you've ever felt dismissed by your doctor, confused by conflicting hormone health advice, or simply ready to take a proactive, empowered approach to aging well, this episode is your roadmap.Kristy Berry is the CEO of Cenegenics, the world's largest and most experienced performance health and age management medicine practice, with 20 U.S. locations and 8 international centers. Since joining the executive team in 2021, Kristy has led the transformation of Cenegenics from a disease-treatment model to a proactive, preventive approach that helps individuals achieve peak cognitive and physical health at every stage of life. With a background in nursing and healthcare management, Kristy is a passionate advocate for personalized medicine, comprehensive biomarker testing, and empowering women to take full ownership of their health journey.

In this episode of the Wise Divine Women podcast, Dana Irvine and Cassandra Bodzak explore the themes of mindfulness, body wisdom, and nourishment. Cassandra shares her personal journey of overcoming a complicated relationship with her body and how she found healing through connecting with her intuition and body wisdom. They discuss the importance of aligning with one's true self, the role of love in nourishment, and how to teach children healthy relationships with food. The conversation emphasizes the significance of spiritual awakening and the power of intuition in making mindful choices about food and wellness.Cassandra's book  “The Mindful Table”, it supports listeners who feel overwhelmed by food rules, disconnected from their bodies, or stuck in cycles of restriction, guilt, or “doing everything right” but still not feeling good.Connect with Cassandra:Website: https://cassandrabodzak.com/aboutInstagram: cassandrabodzak Facebook: CassandraBodzak TakeawaysCassandra's journey began with a complicated relationship with her body.Mindfulness and nourishment are interconnected.Intuition plays a crucial role in understanding our body's needs.The importance of self-love in dietary choices.Spiritual awakenings can lead to deeper connections with our bodies.Coaching women involves helping them express their creativity.Alignment with one's true self is essential for wellness.Family meals can be a source of connection and love.Teaching children about healthy relationships with food is vital.Mindfulness practices can enhance daily decision-making.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Mindfulness and Nourishment01:33 Cassandra's Journey to Body Wisdom06:19 Spiritual Awakening and Intuition09:18 Coaching Women Towards Creative Expression11:25 The Importance of Alignment in Wellness12:54 The Mindful Table: A New Perspective on Food16:59 Connecting with Family Through Food20:36 Teaching Children Healthy Relationships with Food26:12 The Role of Love in Nourishment28:48 Building Mindfulness in Daily Life36:36 Faith and Intuition in NourishmentIf you're over 40 and feeling:• Tired but wired • Bloated or inflamed • Hormonal and frustrated • Concerned about breast health • Unsure what testing you truly needYou don't need another quick fix. You need clarity.The⁠ ⁠Wise Divine Health Clarity Call⁠⁠ is your 1:1 strategy session to uncover root causes and map out your next best steps — whether that's functional testing, thermography, nutrition coaching, or hormone support.

In this episode of the Wise Divine Woman podcast, Dana Irvine speaks with Ann-Marie Schofield, a massage therapist and coach, about her journey from corporate life to pursuing her passion for massage therapy. They discuss the challenges women face when transitioning careers, the importance of self-care, and the need for supportive communities. Ann-Marie shares her plans to launch a coaching program aimed at helping women find fulfillment and navigate their career transitions, emphasizing the significance of accountability and planning for success.Ann Marie SchofieldInstagramCoaching: https://www.instagram.com/annmarie.schofield/Massage: https://www.instagram.com/restore.massage/Here is the link for the Coaching Interest Form: https://forms.gle/v7xERrqtcneFjSQY7267.229.8222annmarie.schofield@gmail.comTakeawaysAnn-Marie transitioned from a corporate job to massage therapy after feeling unfulfilled.Many women struggle with the desire to change careers but lack support.Ann-Marie is developing a coaching program to help women leave corporate jobs.Self-care is essential for personal and professional fulfillment.Habit stacking can help incorporate new healthy habits into daily routines.Building a supportive community is crucial for accountability and motivation.Planning and structure are key to achieving career goals.Women often carry the weight of multiple responsibilities and need to prioritize themselves.Finishing projects can be challenging, especially with distractions.You can only help others if you take care of yourself first.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Transformation02:43 The Journey to Massage Therapy05:34 Empowering Women to Transition08:12 Habit Stacking for Transformation10:52 Launching a Coaching Program13:13 The Importance of Support and Accountability16:08 Creating a Business Plan19:08 Final Thoughts and WisdomIf you're over 40 and feeling:• Tired but wired • Bloated or inflamed • Hormonal and frustrated • Concerned about breast health • Unsure what testing you truly needYou don't need another quick fix. You need clarity.The ⁠Wise Divine Health Clarity Call⁠ is your 1:1 strategy session to uncover root causes and map out your next best steps — whether that's functional testing, thermography, nutrition coaching, or hormone support.

In this insightful interview, Allison Lorne, a perimenopause somatic specialist, shares her holistic approach to navigating perimenopause through mind, body, and spirit. Discover practical tools, the importance of self-advocacy, and how to embrace this transformative phase with empowerment and wisdom.Key  TopicsHolistic health and the mind-body-spirit connectionThe importance of emotional expression and somatic practicesEmpowering women through self-advocacy and inner workHeal with Alison - https://healwithalison.comPerimenopause Portal Program - https://healwithalison.com/perimenopause-portalSomatic Magic Membership - https://healwithalison.com/somatic-magicIf you're over 40 and feeling:• Tired but wired • Bloated or inflamed • Hormonal and frustrated • Concerned about breast health • Unsure what testing you truly needYou don't need another quick fix. You need clarity.The⁠⁠ ⁠Wise Divine Health Clarity Call⁠⁠⁠ is your 1:1 strategy session to uncover root causes and map out your next best steps — whether that's functional testing, thermography, nutrition coaching, or hormone support. This is where confusion turns into confidence.Book your call today and let's create your personalized health roadmap.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Alison and her holistic approach01:05 Allison's journey into holistic health and perimenopause04:03 Perimenopause as a rite of passage and empowerment04:49 The disconnect in the triad of health and emotional expression06:31 The role of authentic living and voice in midlife07:48 Societal conditioning and breaking free from old roles09:03 Self-advocacy in healthcare and listening to your body11:40 Alison's perimenopause program and modules13:30 Somatic practices for emotional release and inner child work15:58 The three pillars of holistic health: body, mind, and spirit17:27 Community support and ongoing growth in perimenopause18:20 Tools for stability and empowerment during transition20:10 Understanding labs and the importance of follow-up23:10 What is somatic therapy and how it supports emotional health26:20 Inner child work and physical sensations as emotional indicators28:21 The gradual process of inner work and emotional capacity29:04 The connection between emotional health and physical illness30:18 The concept of the wise woman era and embracing aging33:05 Empowering future generations through shared wisdom33:19 Details of the Perimenopause Portal program35:21 Creating a positive narrative around menopause36:20 Words of wisdom: sovereignty and self-knowledgePerimenopause, Holistic Health, Somatic Therapy, Women's Wellness, Mind-Body-Spirit, Hormonal Balance, Inner Child, Empowerment, Self-Advocacy, Women's Health

In this episode of the Wise Divine Woman podcast, Dana Irvine and Megan Edge explore the transformative journey of heart-centered healing. Megan shares her personal experiences with intuition, the significance of listening to one's heart, and the creation of her heart-centered oracle cards. The conversation delves into the importance of meditation, self-connection, and the power of storytelling in healing. They discuss how oracle cards can serve as tools for guidance and reflection, emphasizing the need for women to find their voices and embrace their unique journeys. The episode concludes with a reminder to invite ease into our lives as we navigate challenges.Megan EdgeMaster Healer & Educator | Plant Medicine | Essential Oils | Wild Craftinghttps://meganedge.ca/http://www.beyondthegardengate.ca/https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/MeganEdgeBotanicalsAuthor:  The Heart's Journey: Healing Hearts Oracle Cards & GuidebookPublished with Hay House & Balboa PressTo order your copy, click hereTakeawaysListening to your heart is essential for personal growth.Intuition can guide us through life's challenges.Meditation can be integrated into daily activities.Self-love is crucial for healing and empowerment.Oracle cards can serve as tools for reflection and guidance.Sharing personal stories fosters connection and support.Each person's experience of love is unique and valid.Asking for signs can help us recognize divine guidance.Finding your voice is a powerful step in healing.Inviting ease into our lives can transform our experiences.If you're over 40 and feeling:• Tired but wired • Bloated or inflamed • Hormonal and frustrated • Concerned about breast health • Unsure what testing you truly needYou don't need another quick fix. You need clarity.The⁠⁠ ⁠Wise Divine Health Clarity Call⁠⁠⁠ is your 1:1 strategy session to uncover root causes and map out your next best steps — whether that's functional testing, thermography, nutrition coaching, or hormone support. This is where confusion turns into confidence.Book your call today and let's create your personalized health roadmap.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Heart-Centered Healing03:04 The Journey of Trusting Your Heart06:12 Understanding Intuition and Divine Guidance09:09 The Language of Signs and Symbols12:00 Meditation as a Daily Practice14:57 The Power of Self-Connection17:51 Creating Heart-Centered Oracle Cards21:04 The Healing Journey Through Storytelling23:44 Using Oracle Cards for Guidance26:52 Deepening the Connection with Oracle Cards29:59 Monthly Energy Readings and Intentions33:07 The Importance of Sharing Our Stories35:49 Finding Your Voice and Empowerment38:49 Closing Thoughts on Love and Healingheart-centered healing, intuition, oracle cards, meditation, self-love, storytelling, divine guidance, empowerment, personal growth, emotional healing

In this episode of the Wise Divine Women podcast, Dana Irvine and DANIELLE ARNOLD, MS, CNS, LDN, explore the intricate connections between gut health, hormonal balance, and breast health. They discuss the importance of personalized care through testing, the role of probiotics and digestive enzymes, and the impact of genetics on health outcomes. The conversation emphasizes the need for preventative measures and understanding one's unique health profile to optimize well-being. Danielle is a clinical nutritionist and functional medicine practitioner who supports providers in interpreting functional tests and building microbiome-centered care plans, and she teaches clinical nutrition in an academic setting as well. Together, they are experienced educators who regularly speak with both professional and lay audiences about gut health and the microbiome's role in whole-person care. They can be found online at DesignsforHealth.com.TakeawaysGut health is foundational for overall hormonal balance.Testing is crucial for personalized health care.Probiotics should be tailored to individual needs.Digestive enzymes can significantly improve nutrient absorption.Methylation plays a key role in health and disease prevention.The gallbladder is essential for hormone detoxification.Genetics can inform health strategies but should not be the first step.Lifestyle choices can influence genetic expression.Breast health is closely linked to gut microbiome health.Preventative measures are vital for long-term health.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Journey of Healing02:53 Understanding Hormonal Health and Its Impact05:36 The Role of Gut Health in Hormonal Balance08:11 Exploring the Connection Between Gut and Breast Health10:51 The Importance of Testing and Personalized Care13:46 Probiotics and Their Role in Gut Health16:40 Digestive Enzymes: A Key to Nutrient Absorption19:11 The Impact of Genetics on Health22:16 Preventive Measures for Breast Health24:47 The Importance of Methylation and Nutrient Absorption27:32 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsIf you're over 40 and feeling:• Tired but wired • Bloated or inflamed • Hormonal and frustrated • Concerned about breast health • Unsure what testing you truly needYou don't need another quick fix. You need clarity.The ⁠Wise Divine Health Clarity Call⁠ is your 1:1 strategy session to uncover root causes and map out your next best steps — whether that's functional testing, thermography, nutrition coaching, or hormone support.

In this episode of the Wise Divine Women podcast, Dana Irvine introduces the concept of Functional Diagnostic Nutrition and its significance in understanding health. She discusses the importance of identifying root causes of health issues through various testing methods, including thermography. Dana explains the DRESS protocol, which focuses on diet, rest, exercise, stress reduction, and supplementation. She emphasizes the need for personalized health plans and the integration of faith in the healing process. .The episode aims to empower women by providing education and resources for better health management.If you're over 40 and feeling:• Tired but wired • Bloated or inflamed • Hormonal and frustrated • Concerned about breast health • Unsure what testing you truly needYou don't need another quick fix. You need clarity.The ⁠Wise Divine Health Clarity Call⁠ is your 1:1 strategy session to uncover root causes and map out your next best steps — whether that's functional testing, thermography, nutrition coaching, or hormone support.