Podcasts about Health education

In this episode of the SHE MD Podcast, host Mary Alice Haney is joined by Dr. Megan Rossi, internationally recognized as The Gut Health Doctor, to explore the powerful connection between gut health and hormones in women. Together, they uncover how the gut microbiome influences menstrual cycles, mood, fertility, and even symptoms of PCOS and endometriosis. Dr. Rossi breaks down complex science into approachable steps, sharing nutrition and lifestyle strategies to support a balanced microbiome and hormonal health. The conversation highlights how women's gut health impacts everything from bloating and digestion to mental clarity and emotional well-being. Listeners will walk away with evidence-based insights and actionable tools to take charge of their gut and hormone health from the inside out.Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PCOS, Endometriosis, fertility, and hormonal balance. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women's health and well-being.What You'll LearnHow gut health influences women's hormones and cyclesThe link between the microbiome, mood, and metabolismNutrition strategies to support hormonal balanceWhy gut diversity matters for women's wellnessPractical steps to reduce bloating and improve digestionKey Timestamps(00:00) Introduction with Mary Alice Haney and Dr. Megan Rossi(04:45) The science behind the gut-hormone connection(09:30) Why women experience more digestive symptoms than men(13:10) Hormonal changes that impact gut function(21:25) The role of probiotics and prebiotics in balancing hormones(28:45) How the microbiome affects mood and mental health(43:23) Understanding bloating, constipation, and IBS(49:11) Supplements beneficial for your microbiome(53:27) Different protocols for women who are pregnant, peri-menopausal and menopausal(1:01:56) Lifestyle and dietary habits to nurture your gut health(1:12:02) Episode wrap-up and final takeawaysKey TakeawaysThe gut microbiome plays a key role in regulating hormones and moodWomen's gut health shifts with hormonal changes throughout lifeNutrition and prebiotics can naturally support hormone balanceGut health impacts fertility, mood, and inflammationSmall, consistent changes can transform long-term well-beingGuest BioDr. Megan Rossi, known globally as The Gut Health Doctor, is a world-leading gut health scientist, registered dietitian, and nutritionist. She serves as a Research Fellow at King's College London, where she investigates nutrition-based therapies in gut health and women's wellness. Founder of The Gut Health Doctor®, The Gut Health Clinic, and the award-winning food brand Bio&Me, Dr. Rossi bridges the gap between cutting-edge science and everyday health. She's also the creator of SMART STRAINS®, a line of clinically proven live bacterial supplements designed to revolutionize digestive health. Through her bestselling books and global advocacy, she empowers women to take control of their gut and hormonal balance with evidence-based guidance.Resources Mentioned / Links

Pneumonia kills millions every year, often because people wait too long to get help. Learn why denial can be deadly, how to spot the warning signs early, and what you can do to protect yourself and the people you love. https://bit.ly/43S5ROBIn this Episode:01:40 - Avoiding Falls - Kiss Guitarist Ace Frehley Had a Fatal Fall in His Home03:49 - Road Trip to Wyoming and Cowboy Cookies04:43 - Diane Keaton, Died From Pneumonia, Produced a Documentary Called "Heaven"13:36 - Pneumonia-the Silent Global Killer17:01 - What Exactly is Pneumonia?21:05 - How to Avoid a Premature Death from Pneumonia26:00 - When Is It Time to Seek Help for Possible Pneumonia?27:02 - Pneumonia Summary29:03 -  Ticus Poetry from his book WHAT'S LEFT OF ME: Poems of a dead soul30:03 - OutroSupport the showGet show notes and resources at our website: every1dies.org. Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | mail@every1dies.org

Health Saint Lucian youth aged 11 to 16 years old, will get the opportunity to creatively express their views on the misuse of alcohol and the risks associated with its abuse, following the launch of the Alcohol Awareness Poster Competition by the Substance Abuse Advisory Council Secretariat (SAACS) within the Ministry of Health, Wellness and Elderly Affairs. The poster competition will allow the young people to put into perspective their views of the growing concern of alcohol misuse and abuse across communities, families, and young individuals through artistic expressions. Interested individuals can make submission of posters at the Office of the SAACS or the Bureau of Health Education. The deadline for submission of posters is Monday November 24, 2025.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Schenta D. Randolph.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Schenta D. Randolph.

Two-time Emmy and three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Schenta D. Randolph.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Marina Pavlovic Rivas, co-founder and CEO of Eli Health.

Marina Pavlovic Rivas, co-founder and CEO of Eli Health, reveals a revolution in personal health monitoring through advanced wearable devices. They discuss the journey from primitive step counters to sophisticated devices, such as continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) and the world's first instant hormone monitoring system by Eli Health. The conversation delves into the new cortisol testing kit from Eli Health, exploring its implications for understanding stress, sleep, metabolism, and overall health. Rivas explains the process of using the device, its integration with a smartphone, and how AI helps interpret the hormone data for actionable insights. Future plans for Eli Health's hormone monitoring technology, including progesterone and testosterone, are also discussed, offering a glimpse into the evolving landscape of self-monitoring and personalized health.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Alan Rozanski, a distinguished Professor of Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and Director of Nuclear Cardiology at Mount Sinai St. Luke's in New York City.

Dr. Alan Rozanski, a distinguished Professor of Medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and Director of Nuclear Cardiology at Mount Sinai St. Luke's in New York City, details the holistic aspects of medicine, emphasizing the integrative approach involving lifestyle, mental health, exercise, and the psychological dimensions of heart health. Dr. Rozanski reveals the six domains of optimal health and vitality, sharing insights from his pioneering work in integrating such approaches into cardiology, the significant impact of stress, and the importance of maintaining a sense of life purpose and social connections. He also delves into modern imaging techniques, the utility of coronary artery calcium scores, and emerging treatments like GLP-1 drugs for cardiovascular health. The conversation provides a thorough exploration of comprehensive health management strategies beyond just medication and surgery.

In this special episode of The Autism Little Learners Podcast, I'm celebrating 10 years of Sesame Workshop's Autism Initiative and the creation of the beloved character, Julia! I had the absolute joy of sitting down with Kama Einhorn and Dr. Abigail Bucuvalas from Sesame Workshop to talk about the incredible impact of authentic representation, inclusion, and collaboration with the autism community. We dive into how Julia was created to truly reflect the experiences of autistic children and families, the thoughtful research that goes into every Sesame Workshop project, and the global reach of their work. You'll also hear about puppeteer Stacey Gordon—whose personal connection to autism brings such authenticity to Julia's voice—and some exciting new projects on the horizon that continue to celebrate acceptance, understanding, and belonging for all children. Key Takeaways: Sesame Workshop's Autism Initiative has been making an impact for a decade. Julia was created to reflect the experiences of autistic children and promote understanding. Collaboration with autistic individuals, families, and experts is central to Sesame Workshop's process. Representation in media helps normalize conversations about autism and inclusion. Puppeteer Stacey Gordon brings personal insight and authenticity to Julia's character. Every piece of content is research-based and tested before release. The team continually evolves to ensure portrayals of autism are authentic and neurodiversity-affirming. Julia's story continues to grow — showing her friendships, family life, and even her communication with an AAC device. Free, bilingual resources are available for families at SesameWorkshop.org/Autism. The Autism Initiative has had a global impact, expanding to shows like Sisimpur in Bangladesh. Guest Bios: Before we jump in, I'd love to tell you a bit more about today's guests, Kama and Abby. Kama Einhorn As Senior Director of Content Design for Sesame Workshop's Global Education group, Kama Einhorn develops multimedia resources for children, parents, and providers. Before joining the Workshop in 2004, she wrote and edited early childhood teaching resources for Scholastic. Kama holds a master's degree in education from the University of California at Berkeley. Dr. Abigail Bucuvalas Dr. Abigail Bucuvalas is the Senior Director of Curriculum and Programs in the Global Education Department at Sesame Workshop. In this role, she leads the processes for curriculum development and program design, collaborates on monitoring and evaluation, and develops new project concepts within the areas of nature, health, and social norms and inclusion. Previously, she led education activities for LEGO Foundation-funded work in development and crisis-affected settings, managed educational content and partnerships for the Nigerian co-production of Sesame Street, and directed a professional development project for teachers in Ghana. Before joining Sesame Workshop, Abigail collaborated on health research in the U.S. and abroad, funded by the American Cancer Society and the National Institutes of Health. She holds an Ed.D. in Health Education and an Ed.M. in International Educational Development from Teachers College, Columbia University, and an A.B. in Psychology from Harvard University. Learn More: Explore all of Sesame Workshop's autism resources and celebrate Julia's 10th anniversary at www.sesameworkshop.org/autism.

Key TakeawaysThe why behind Your Health's expansion into pediatricsMJ's story of balancing motherhood and leadership in healthcareThe importance of accessible, same-day care for childrenThe growing role of telehealth in family wellnessA look ahead at what parents can expect from Your Health Pediatrics www.YourHealth.Org

In this episode of the Leading Voices in Food podcast, host Norbert Wilson is joined by food and nutrition policy economists Will Masters and Parke Wilde from Tufts University's Friedman School of Nutrition, Science and Policy. The discussion centers around the concept of the least cost diet, a tool used to determine the minimum cost required to maintain a nutritionally adequate diet. The conversation delves into the global computational methods and policies related to least cost diets, the challenges of making these diets culturally relevant, and the implications for food policy in both the US and internationally. You will also hear about the lived experiences of people affected by these diets and the need for more comprehensive research to better reflect reality. Interview Summary I know you both have been working in this space around least cost diets for a while. So, let's really start off by just asking a question about what brought you into this work as researchers. Why study least cost diets? Will, let's start with you. I'm a very curious person and this was a puzzle. So, you know, people want health. They want healthy food. Of course, we spend a lot on healthcare and health services, but do seek health in our food. As a child growing up, you know, companies were marketing food as a source of health. And people who had more money would spend more for premium items that were seen as healthy. And in the 2010s for the first time, we had these quantified definitions of what a healthy diet was as we went from 'nutrients' to 'food groups,' from the original dietary guidelines pyramid to the MyPlate. And then internationally, the very first quantified definitions of healthful diets that would work anywhere in the world. And I was like, oh, wow. Is it actually expensive to eat a healthy diet? And how much does it cost? How does it differ by place location? How does it differ over time, seasons, and years? And I just thought it was a fascinating question. Great, thank you for that. Parke? There's a lot of policy importance on this, but part of the fun also of this particular topic is more than almost any that we work on, it's connected to things that we have to think about in our daily lives. So, as you're preparing and purchasing food for your family and you want it to be a healthy. And you want it to still be, you know, tasty enough to satisfy the kids. And it can't take too long because it has to fit into a busy life. So, this one does feel like it's got a personal connection. Thank you both for that. One of the things I heard is there was an availability of data. There was an opportunity that seems like it didn't exist before. Can you speak a little bit about that? Especially Will because you mentioned that point. Will: Yes. So, we have had food composition data identifying for typical items. A can of beans, or even a pizza. You know, what is the expected, on average quantity of each nutrient. But only recently have we had those on a very large scale for global items. Hundreds and hundreds of thousands of distinct items. And we had nutrient requirements, but only nutrient by nutrient, and the definition of a food group where you would want not only the nutrients, but also the phytochemicals, the attributes of food from its food matrix that make a vegetable different from just in a vitamin pill. And those came about in, as I mentioned, in the 2010s. And then there's the computational tools and the price observations that get captured. They've been written down on pads of paper, literally, and brought to a headquarters to compute inflation since the 1930s. But access to those in digitized form, only really in the 2000s and only really in the 2010s were we able to have program routines that would download millions and millions of price observations, match them to food composition data, match that food composition information to a healthy diet criterion, and then compute these least cost diets. Now we've computed millions and millions of these thanks to modern computing and all of that data. Great, Will. And you've already started on this, so let's continue on this point. You were talking about some of the computational methods and data that were available globally. Can you give us a good sense of what does a lease cost diet look like from this global perspective because we're going to talk to Parke about whether it is in the US. But let's talk about it in the broad sense globally. In my case the funding opportunity to pay for the graduate students and collaborators internationally came from the Gates Foundation and the UK International Development Agency, initially for a pilot study in Ghana and Tanzania. And then we were able to get more money to scale that up to Africa and South Asia, and then globally through a project called Food Prices for Nutrition. And what we found, first of all, is that to get agreement on what a healthy diet means, we needed to go to something like the least common denominator. The most basic, basic definition from the commonalities among national governments' dietary guidelines. So, in the US, that's MyPlate, or in the UK it's the Eat Well Guide. And each country's dietary guidelines look a little different, but they have these commonalities. So, we distilled that down to six food groups. There's fruits and vegetables, separately. And then there's animal source foods altogether. And in some countries they would separate out milk, like the United States does. And then all starchy staples together. And in some countries, you would separate out whole grains like the US does. And then all edible oils. And those six food groups, in the quantities needed to provide all the nutrients you would need, plus these attributes of food groups beyond just what's in a vitamin pill, turns out to cost about $4 a day. And if you adjust for inflation and differences in the cost of living, the price of housing and so forth around the world, it's very similar. And if you think about seasonal variation in a very remote area, it might rise by 50% in a really bad situation. And if you think about a very remote location where it's difficult to get food to, it might go up to $5.50, but it stays in that range between roughly speaking $2.50 and $5.00. Meanwhile, incomes are varying from around $1.00 a day, and people who cannot possibly afford those more expensive food groups, to $200 a day in which these least expensive items are trivially small in cost compared to the issues that Parke mentioned. We can also talk about what we actually find as the items, and those vary a lot from place to place for some food groups and are very similar to each other in other food groups. So, for example, the least expensive item in an animal source food category is very often dairy in a rich country. But in a really dry, poor country it's dried fish because refrigeration and transport are very expensive. And then to see where there's commonalities in the vegetable category, boy. Onions, tomatoes, carrots are so inexpensive around the world. We've just gotten those supply chains to make the basic ingredients for a vegetable stew really low cost. But then there's all these other different vegetables that are usually more expensive. So, it's very interesting to look at which are the items that would deliver the healthfulness you need and how much they cost. It's surprisingly little from a rich country perspective, and yet still out of reach for so many in low-income countries. Will, thank you for that. And I want to turn now to looking in the US case because I think there's some important commonalities. Parke, can you describe the least cost diet, how it's used here in the US, and its implications for policy? Absolutely. And full disclosure to your audience, this is work on which we've benefited from Norbert's input and wisdom in a way that's been very valuable as a co-author and as an advisor for the quantitative part of what we were doing. For an article in the journal Food Policy, we use the same type of mathematical model that USDA uses when it sets the Thrifty Food Plan, the TFP. A hypothetical diet that's used as the benchmark for the maximum benefit in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which is the nation's most important anti-hunger program. And what USDA does with this model diet is it tries to find a hypothetical bundle of foods and beverages that's not too different from what people ordinarily consume. The idea is it should be a familiar diet, it should be one that's reasonably tasty, that people clearly already accept enough. But it can't be exactly that diet. It has to be different enough at least to meet a cost target and to meet a whole long list of nutrition criteria. Including getting enough of the particular nutrients, things like enough calcium or enough protein, and also, matching food group goals reasonably well. Things like having enough fruits, enough vegetables, enough dairy. When, USDA does that, it finds that it's fairly difficult. It's fairly difficult to meet all those goals at once, at a cost and a cost goal all at the same time. And so, it ends up choosing this hypothetical diet that's almost maybe more different than would feel most comfortable from people's typical average consumption. Thank you, Parke. I'm interested to understand the policy implications of this least cost diet. You suggested something about the Thrifty Food Plan and the maximum benefit levels. Can you tell us a little bit more about the policies that are relevant? Yes, so the Thrifty Food Plan update that USDA does every five years has a much bigger policy importance now than it did a few years ago. I used to tell my students that you shouldn't overstate how much policy importance this update has. It might matter a little bit less than you would think. And the reason was because every time they update the Thrifty Food Plan, they use the cost target that is the inflation adjusted or the real cost of the previous edition. It's a little bit as if nobody wanted to open up the whole can of worms about what should the SNAP benefit be in the first place. But everything changed with the update in 2021. In 2021, researchers at the US Department of Agriculture found that it was not possible at the old cost target to find a diet that met all of the nutrition criteria - at all. Even if you were willing to have a diet that was quite different from people's typical consumption. And so, they ended up increasing the cost of the Thrifty Food Plan in small increments until they found a solution to this mathematical model using data on real world prices and on the nutrition characteristics of these foods. And this led to a 21% increase in the permanent value of the maximum SNAP benefit. Many people didn't notice that increase all that much because the increase came into effect at just about the same time that a temporary boost during the COVID era to SNAP benefits was being taken away. So there had been a temporary boost to how much benefits people got as that was taken away at the end of the start of the COVID pandemic then this permanent increase came in and it kind of softened the blow from that change in benefits at that time. But it now ends up meaning that the SNAP benefit is substantially higher than it would've been without this 2021 increase. And there's a lot of policy attention on this in the current Congress and in the current administration. There's perhaps a skeptical eye on whether this increase was good policy. And so, there are proposals to essentially take away the ability to update the Thrifty Food Plan change the maximum SNAP benefit automatically, as it used to. As you know, Norbert, this is part of all sorts of things going on currently. Like we heard in the news, just last week, about plans to end collecting household food security measurement using a major national survey. And so there will be sort of possibly less information about how these programs are doing and whether a certain SNAP benefit is needed in order to protect people from food insecurity and hunger. Parke, this is really important and I'm grateful that we're able to talk about this today in that SNAP benefit levels are still determined by this mathematical program that's supposed to represent a nutritionally adequate diet that also reflects food preferences. And I don't know how many people really understand or appreciate that. I can say I didn't understand or appreciate it until working more in this project. I think it's critical for our listeners to understand just how important this particular mathematical model is, and what it says about what a nutritionally adequate diet looks like in this country. I know the US is one of the countries that uses a model diet like this to help set policy. Will, I'd like to turn to you to see what ways other nations are using this sort of model diet. How have you seen policy receive information from these model diets? It's been a remarkable thing where those initial computational papers that we were able to publish in first in 2018, '19, '20, and governments asking how could we use this in practice. Parke has laid out how it's used in the US with regard to the benefit level of SNAP. The US Thrifty Food Plan has many constraints in addition to the basic ones for the Healthy Diet Basket that I described. Because clearly that Healthy Diet Basket minimum is not something anyone in America would think is acceptable. Just to have milk and frozen vegetables and low-cost bread, that jar peanut butter and that's it. Like that would be clearly not okay. So, internationally what's happened is that first starting in 2020, and then using the current formula in 2022, the United Nations agencies together with the World Bank have done global monitoring of food and nutrition security using this method. So, the least cost items to meet the Healthy Diet Basket in each country provide this global estimate that about a third of the global population have income available for food after taking account of their non-food needs. That is insufficient to buy this healthy diet. What they're actually eating is just starchy staples, oil, some calories from low-cost sugar and that's it. And very small quantities of the fruits and vegetables. And animal source foods are the expensive ones. So, countries have the opportunity to begin calculating this themselves alongside their normal monitoring of inflation with a consumer price index. The first country to do that was Nigeria. And Nigeria began publishing this in January 2024. And it so happened that the country's national minimum wage for civil servants was up for debate at that time. And this was a newly published statistic that turned out to be enormously important for the civil society advocates and the labor unions who were trying to explain why a higher civil service minimum wage was needed. This is for the people who are serving tea or the drivers and the low wage people in these government service agencies. And able to measure how many household members could you feed a healthy diet with a day's worth of the monthly wage. So social protection in the sense of minimum wage and then used in other countries regarding something like our US SNAP program or something like our US WIC program. And trying to define how big should those benefit levels be. That's been the first use. A second use that's emerging is targeting the supply chains for the low-cost vegetables and animal source foods and asking what from experience elsewhere could be an inexpensive animal source food. What could be the most inexpensive fruits. What could be the most inexpensive vegetables? And that is the type of work that we're doing now with governments with continued funding from the Gates Foundation and the UK International Development Agency. Will, it's fascinating to hear this example from Nigeria where all of the work that you all have been doing sort of shows up in this kind of debate. And it really speaks to the power of the research that we all are trying to do as we try to inform policy. Now, as we discussed the least cost diet, there was something that I heard from both of you. Are these diets that people really want? I'm interested to understand a little bit more about that because this is a really critical space.Will, what do we know about the lived experiences of those affected by least cost diet policy implementation. How are real people affected? It's such an important and interesting question, just out of curiosity, but also for just our human understanding of what life is like for people. And then of course the policy actions that could improve. So, to be clear, we've only had these millions of least cost diets, these benchmark 'access to' at a market near you. These are open markets that might be happening twice a week or sometimes all seven days of the week in a small town, in an African country or a urban bodega type market or a supermarket across Asia, Africa. We've only begun to have these benchmarks against which to compare actual food choice, as I mentioned, since 2022. And then really only since 2024 have been able to investigate this question. We're only beginning to match up these benchmark diets to what people actually choose. But the pattern we're seeing is that in low and lower middle-income countries, people definitely spend their money to go towards that healthy diet basket goal. They don't spend all of their additional money on that. But if you improve affordability throughout the range of country incomes - from the lowest income countries in Africa, Mali, Senegal, Burkina Faso, to middle income countries in Africa, like Ghana, Indonesia, an upper middle-income country - people do spend their money to get more animal source foods, more fruits and vegetables, and to reduce the amount of the low cost starchy staples. They do increase the amount of discretionary, sugary meals. And a lot of what they're eating exits the healthy diet basket because there's too much added sodium, too much added sugar. And so, things that would've been healthy become unhealthy because of processing or in a restaurant setting. So, people do spend their money on that. But they are moving towards a healthy diet. That breaks down somewhere in the upper income and high-income countries where additional spending becomes very little correlated with the Healthy Diet Basket. What happens is people way overshoot the Healthy Diet Basket targets for animal source foods and for edible oils because I don't know if you've ever tried it, but one really delicious thing is fried meat. People love it. And even low middle income people overshoot on that. And that displaces the other elements of a healthy diet. And then there's a lot of upgrading, if you will, within the food group. So, people are spending additional money on nicer vegetables. Nicer fruits. Nicer animal source foods without increasing the total amount of them in addition to having overshot the healthy diet levels of many of those food groups. Which of course takes away from the food you would need from the fruits, the vegetables, and the pulses, nuts and seeds, that almost no one gets as much as is considered healthy, of that pulses, nuts and seeds category. Thank you. And I want to shift this to the US example. So, Parke, can you tell us a bit more about the lived experience of those affected by least cost diet policy? How are real people affected? One of the things I've enjoyed about this project that you and I got to work on, Norbert, in cooperation with other colleagues, is that it had both a quantitative and a qualitative part to it. Now, our colleague Sarah Folta led some of the qualitative interviews, sort of real interviews with people in food pantries in four states around the country. And this was published recently in the Journal of Health Education and Behavior. And we asked people about their goals and about what are the different difficulties or constraints that keep them from achieving those goals. And what came out of that was that people often talk about whether their budget constraints and whether their financial difficulties take away their autonomy to sort of be in charge of their own food choices. And this was something that Sarah emphasized as she sort of helped lead us through a process of digesting what was the key findings from these interviews with people. One of the things I liked about doing this study is that because the quantitative and the qualitative part, each had this characteristic of being about what do people want to achieve. This showed up mathematically in the constrained optimization model, but it also showed up in the conversations with people in the food pantry. And what are the constraints that keep people from achieving it. You know, the mathematical model, these are things like all the nutrition constraints and the cost constraints. And then in the real conversations, it's something that people raise in very plain language about what are all the difficulties they have. Either in satisfying their own nutrition aspirations or satisfying some of the requirements for one person or another in the family. Like if people have special diets that are needed or if they have to be gluten free or any number of things. Having the diets be culturally appropriate. And so, I feel like this is one of those classic things where different disciplines have wisdom to bring to bear on what's really very much a shared topic. What I hear from both of you is that these diets, while they are computationally interesting and they reveal some critical realities of how people eat, they can't cover everything. People want to eat certain types of foods. Certain types of foods are more culturally relevant. And that's really clear talking to you, Will, about just sort of the range of foods that end up showing up in these least cost diets and how you were having to make some adjustments there. Parke, as you talked about the work with Sarah Folta thinking through autonomy and sort of a sense of self. This kind of leads us to a question that I want to open up to both of you. What's missing when we talk about these least cost diet modeling exercises and what are the policy implications of that? What are the gaps in our understanding of these model diets and what needs to happen to make them reflect reality better? Parke? Well, you know, there's many things that people in our research community are working on. And it goes quite, quite far afield. But I'm just thinking of two related to our quantitative research using the Thrifty Food Plan type models. We've been working with Yiwen Zhao and Linlin Fan at Penn State University on how these models would work if you relaxed some of the constraints. If people's back in a financial sense weren't back up against the wall, but instead they had just a little more space. We were considering what if they had incentives that gave them a discount on fruits and vegetables, for example, through the SNAP program? Or what if they had a healthy bundle of foods provided through the emergency food system, through food banks or food pantries. What is the effect directly in terms of those foods? But also, what is the effect in terms of just relaxing their budget constraints. They get to have a little more of the foods that they find more preferred or that they had been going without. But then also, in terms of sort of your question about the more personal. You know, what is people's personal relationships with food? How does this play out on the ground? We're working with the graduate student Angelica Valdez Valderrama here at the Friedman School, thinking about what some of the cultural assumptions and of the food group constraints in some of these models are. If you sort of came from a different immigrant tradition or if you came from another community, what things would be different in, for example, decisions about what's called the Mediterranean diet or what's called the healthy US style dietary pattern. How much difference do this sort of breadth, cultural breadth of dietary patterns you could consider, how much difference does that make in terms of what's the outcome of this type of hypothetical diet? Will: And I think, you know, from the global perspective, one really interesting thing is when we do combine data sets and look across these very different cultural settings, dry land, Sahelian Africa versus countries that are coastal versus sort of forest inland countries versus all across Asia, south Asia to East Asia, all across Latin America. We do see the role of these cultural factors. And we see them playing out in very systematic ways that people come to their cultural norms for very good reasons. And then pivot and switch away to new cultural norms. You know, American fast food, for example, switching from beef primarily to chicken primarily. That sort of thing becomes very visible in a matter of years. So, in terms of things that are frontiers for us, remember this is early days. Getting many more nutritionists, people in other fields, looking at first of all, it's just what is really needed for health. Getting those health requirements improved and understood better is a key priority. Our Healthy Diet Basket comes from the work of a nutritionist named Anna Herforth, who has gone around the world studying these dietary guidelines internationally. We're about to get the Eat Lancet dietary recommendations announced, and it'll be very interesting to see how those evolve. Second thing is much better data on prices and computing these diets for more different settings at different times, different locations. Settings that are inner city United States versus very rural. And then this question of comparing to actual diets. And just trying to understand what people are seeking when they choose foods that are clearly not these benchmark least cost items. The purpose is to ask how far away and why and how are they far away? And particularly to understand to what degree are these attributes of the foods themselves: the convenience of the packaging, the preparation of the item, the taste, the flavor, the cultural significance of it. To what degree are we looking at the result of aspirations that are really shaped by marketing. Are really shaped by the fire hose of persuasion that companies are investing in every day. And very strategically and constantly iterating to the best possible spokesperson, the best possible ad campaign. Combining billboards and radio and television such that you're surrounded by this. And when you drive down the street and when you walk into the supermarket, there is no greater effort on the planet than the effort to sell us a particular brand of food. Food companies are basically marketing companies attached to a manufacturing facility, and they are spending much more than the entire combined budget of the NIH and CDC, et cetera, to persuade us to eat what we ultimately choose. And we really don't know to what degree it's the actual factors in the food itself versus the marketing campaigns and the way they've evolved. You know, if you had a choice between taking the food system and regulating it the way we regulate, say housing or vehicles. If we were to say your supermarket should be like an auto dealership, right? So, anything in the auto dealership is very heavily regulated. Everything from the paint to where the gear shift is to how the windows work. Everything is heavily regulated because the auto industry has worked with National Transportation Safety Board and every single crash investigation, et cetera, has led to the standards that we have now. We didn't get taxes on cars without airbags to make us choose cars with airbags. They're just required. And same is true for housing, right? You can't just build, you know, an extension deck behind your house any way you want. A city inspector will force you to tear it out if you haven't built it to code. So, you know, we could regulate the grocery store like we do that. It's not going to happen politically but compare that option to treating groceries the way we used to treat the legal services or pharmaceuticals. Which is you couldn't advertise them. You could sell them, and people would choose based on the actual merit of the lawyer or the pharmaceutical, right? Which would have the bigger impact. Right? If there was zero food advertising, you just walked into the grocery store and chose what you liked. Or you regulate the grocery store the same way we regulate automotive or building trades. Obviously, they both matter. There's, you know, this problem that you can't see, taste or smell the healthiness of food. You're always acting on belief and not a fact when you choose something that you're seeking health. We don't know to what extent choice is distorted away from a low-cost healthy diet by things people genuinely want and need. Such as taste, convenience, culture, and so forth. Versus things that they've been persuaded to want. And there's obviously some of both. All of these things matter. But I'm hopeful that through these least cost diets, we can identify that low-cost options are there. And you could feed your family a very healthy diet at the Thrifty Food Plan level in the United States, or even lower. It would take time, it would take attention, it would be hard. You can take some shortcuts to make that within your time budget, right? And the planning budget. And we can identify what those look like thanks to these model diets. It's a very exciting area of work, but we still have a lot to do to define carefully what are the constraints. What are the real objectives here. And how to go about helping people, acquire these foods that we now know are there within a short commuting distance. You may need to take the bus, you may need carpool. But that's what people actually do to go grocery shopping. And when they get there, we can help people to choose items that would genuinely meet their needs at lower cost. Bios Will Masters is a Professor in the Friedman School of Nutrition, with a secondary appointment in Tufts University's Department of Economics. He is coauthor of the new textbook on Food Economics: Agriculture, Nutrition and Health (Palgrave Macmillan, 2024). Before coming to Tufts in 2010 he was a faculty member in Agricultural Economics at Purdue University (1991-2010), and also at the University of Zimbabwe (1989-90), Harvard's Kennedy School of Government (2000) and Columbia University (2003-04). He is former editor-in-chief of the journal Agricultural Economics (2006-2011), and an elected Fellow of the American Society for Nutrition (FASN) as well as a Fellow of the Agricultural and Applied Economics Association (AAEA). At Tufts his courses on economics of agriculture, food and nutrition were recognized with student-nominated, University-wide teaching awards in 2019 and 2022, and he leads over a million dollars annually in externally funded research including work on the Agriculture, Nutrition and Health Academy (https://www.anh-academy.org), as well as projects supporting government efforts to calculate the cost and affordability of healthy diets worldwide and work with private enterprises on data analytics for food markets in Africa. Parke Wilde (PhD, Cornell) is a food economist and professor at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University. Previously, he worked for USDA's Economic Research Service. At Tufts, Parke teaches graduate-level courses in statistics, U.S. food policy, and climate change. His research addresses the economics of U.S. food and nutrition policy, including federal nutrition assistance programs. He was Director of Design for the SNAP Healthy Incentives Pilot (HIP) evaluation. He has been a member of the National Academy of Medicine's Food Forum and is on the scientific and technical advisory committee for Menus of Change, an initiative to advance the health and sustainability of the restaurant industry. He directs the USDA-funded Research Innovation and Development Grants in Economics (RIDGE) Partnership. He received the AAEA Distinguished Quality of Communication Award for his textbook, Food Policy in the United States: An Introduction (Routledge/Earthscan), whose third edition was released in April 2025. 

How does the environment impact a person's recovery journey over time? In this episode, Drs. Jalie Tucker and Katie Witkiewitz discuss their recently articulated dynamic behavioral ecological model of recovery, with a bonus discussion about shallow lakes! Dr. Jalie Tucker is the Founding Director of the Center for Behavioral Economic Health Research and the Mary F. Lane Endowed Professor in the Department of Health Education and Behavior at the University of Florida. Dr. Katie Witkiewitz is the Director of the Center on Alcohol, Substance use, and Addictions (CASAA) and a Distinguished Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of New Mexico.

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On this episode of SHE MD Podcast, Dr. Michelle Dees joins Mary Alice Haney and Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi to explore TMS Therapy for Women, a noninvasive approach reshaping mental wellness. Using the EXOMIND device, Dr. Dees explains how targeted brain stimulation can support women experiencing anxiety, depression, postpartum mood shifts, or perimenopausal changes.Through engaging stories and clinical insights, listeners learn how hormonal fluctuations influence brain chemistry and how TMS therapy can offer a natural, medication-free path to emotional balance. Dr. Dees shares practical strategies for leveraging technology alongside lifestyle and holistic care, giving women actionable tools to regain mental clarity and strengthen their mind-body connection.This episode blends science, compassion, and innovation, offering listeners a clear understanding of how women can use TMS therapy to support long-term mental wellness.Sponsored by EXOMINDTo learn more, visit https://bodybybtl.com/solutions/exomind/ and https://www.luxurypsychiatryclinic.com/psychiatry-services/exomind/Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PCOS, Endometriosis, fertility, and hormonal balance. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women's health and well-being.What You'll LearnHow TMS therapy works for women's mental wellnessThe connection between hormones and brain functionHow EXOMIND helps anxiety, depression, and mood swingsWays to approach women's mental health holisticallyKey Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Dr. Dees' background with hosts Mary Alice Haney and Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi05:05 What TMS therapy is and how it works10:45 How EXOMIND supports women's brain and hormonal health16:15 Patient success stories and clinical outcomes 21:40 Addressing postpartum and perimenopausal mental health 27:00 The future of technology in women's mental care 32:10 Dr. Dees' advice for women seeking emotional balance 36:30 Wrap-up and resourcesKey TakeawaysWomen's hormonal health directly affects brain chemistry and moodTMS therapy offers a safe, noninvasive option for mental wellnessEXOMIND delivers measurable improvement in anxiety and depressionIntegrative, tech-driven care supports lasting healingEmpowering women to take charge of mental health creates true balanceGuest BioDr. Michelle Dees, board-certified psychiatrist and founder of Luxury Psychiatry Clinic, is the lead author of a groundbreaking study on ExoTMS™, a next-generation TMS technology. Her research shows rapid, comfortable improvements in mood, anxiety, sleep, and overall mental well-being. ExoTMS™ offers a promising, patient-friendly alternative to traditional neuromodulation for women's mental health.Links https://bodybybtl.com/solutions/exomind/ https://www.instagram.com/luxurypsychiatry_/ https://www.luxurypsychiatryclinic.com/psychiatry-services/exomind/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tired of carrying “heavy” patients who only show up because you said so? Our conversation today with Dr. Eric DiMartino breaks down how to move people from polite compliance to true ownership of their health. You'll hear a simple model for the patient journey, why education creates staying power, and the one question every person is silently asking by month four. We dig into the Better Results Faster workshop, how to reinforce big ideas with everyday table talk, and why your certainty as a clinician sets the ceiling for results. You'll also learn how to bring your team into the story so wins get shared, reviews fuel morale, and progress checks become easy coaching moments that keep care on track.Key Highlights01:39 – What it takes to move people from seekers to believers to true understanders who own their health journey.03:37 – Why some patients lift your energy while others drain it—and the mindset shift that changes everything.06:50 – The turning point at month four that reveals whether someone's ready for lasting results or still chasing relief.08:15 – Workshops and table talk that turn polite agreement into genuine conviction about ongoing care.11:34 – Simple ways to use visuals, stories, and repetition so key ideas stick long after the visit.13:13 – Why teaching the hidden effects of daily stress creates clarity and long-term buy-in.15:37 – The power of your own certainty to anchor confidence and inspire commitment in every patient.17:52 – What to say when someone “feels fine” but doesn't yet understand what progress really means.20:13 – Stories and analogies that transform complex science into lessons anyone can connect with.23:18 – The team rhythm that keeps wins visible, language aligned, and retention consistently strong. Resources MentionedTo schedule a Strategy Session with Dr Lona: https://go.oncehub.com/DrLonaBuildPodcastTo schedule a Strategy Session with Dr Bobby: https://go.oncehub.com/DrBobbyBuildPodcastLearn more about the Remarkable CEO Podcast: https://theremarkablepractice.com/podcast

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Alexandra Shustina, NYC's and Miami's premier Integrative board-certified Gastroenterologist and gut health specialist, an expert in the gut microbiome and its role in health and wellness.

In this episode of the Intelligent Medicine podcast, Dr. Ronald Hoffman is joined by Dr. Alexandra Shustina, a distinguished integrative gastroenterologist based in New York City and Miami. They delve into Dr. Shustina's journey from conventional to integrative medicine, the importance of addressing the microbiome, and holistic approaches to treating gastrointestinal ailments like IBS, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis. Dr. Shustina shares her insights on diet, the impact of stress, and the role of supplements and herbal remedies. She discusses the significance of personalized care, visceral manipulation, and mind-body techniques in promoting gut health. The episode also touches on the rising incidence of gastrointestinal cancers in young people and the potential benefits of proactive, integrative healthcare approaches.

In this episode of SHE MD Podcast, Katie Thurston, former star of season 17 of The Bachelorette, sits down with Mary Alice Haney and Dr.Thaïs Aliabadi to discuss fertility, breast cancer, and navigating life as a public figure. They explore Katie's journey from the Bachelorette, her stage 4 breast cancer diagnosis, fertility preservation, and strategies to maintain confidence and resilience. Listen to gain guidance on self-advocacy, genetic testing, and building supportive communities while taking control of their health journey. This episode delivers hope, practical advice, and inspiration, empowering listeners to prioritize their wellness, advocate for their care, and embrace life fully, even in the face of serious health challenges.Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PCOS, Endometriosis, fertility, and hormonal balance. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women's health and well-being.Sponsors:Mirena - To learn more, visit mirena.com and ask your provider if Mirena could be an option for you. To view the full prescribing information, visit mirena.com/piRocket Money - Cancel your unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster with Rocket Money. Go to rocketmoney.com/shemd today.Peloton - Let yourself run, lift, sculpt, push, and go. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.comDavid's Protein - David is giving my listeners an exclusive offer – buy four cartons and get the fifth free at davidprotein.com/shemdCymbiotika - Go to Cymbiotika.com/Shemd for 20% off plus free shippingGet Joy - As a listener of SheMD, you'll get 50% off your first subscription order of Get Joy's Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food plus two exclusive gifts: a free scoop and a 4oz bag of treats. Shop getjoyfood.com/shemd to support your dog's gut health and overall wellnessWhat You'll Learn How Katie Thurston navigated fertility preservation and freezing eggs Strategies for managing stage 4 breast cancer with optimism and resilience The importance of genetic testing and early breast cancer detection Building supportive communities and advocating for your own healthKey Timestamps (00:00) Introduction with Katie Thurston, Mary Alice Haney, and Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi (04:03) Katie's journey navigating a cancer diagnosis and her personal life (05:15) Early cancer diagnosis, fertility preservation, and freezing eggs (13:10) Navigating treatment, clinical trials, and holistic wellness approaches (19:30) History of family cancer and genetic testing (29:00) Journey to starring on The Bachorlette (34:30) Online dating, relationships, and finding love while managing health (39:54) Daily life of treatment, including Lupron injections, scans, and managing side effects (47:00) Advocacy, the Booby Broadcast, and educating others on breast health and genetic testing (53:30) Reflecting on confidence, personal growth, and lessons from public life (57:35) Episode wrap-up, actionable advice for listeners, and resourcesKey Takeaways Fertility preservation and proactive health decisions empower long-term wellness Building strong support systems helps navigate the emotional toll of cancer Genetic testing and early detection are critical for personalized care Confidence and self-advocacy improve outcomes and mental health Publicly sharing your journey can inspire, educate, and save livesGuest BioKatie Thurston first appeared on television in 2020 on The Bachelor before stepping into the spotlight as The Bachelorette. Ultimately finding love on her own terms, she married comedian Jeff Arcuri, and together they now reside in New York City. Shortly after her move, Katie was diagnosed with stage IV breast cancer—a journey she now shares openly to raise awareness and empower others to advocate for their health.Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekatiethurston/Resources MentionedWisdom Panel – Free genetic testing for personalized breast cancer screening and prevention strategies https://www.thewisdomstudy.org/Booby Broadcast – Katie Thurston's community for breast cancer support on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thekatiethurston/Nodal – Online platform for matching surrogates and intended parents https://www.nodal.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

INFINITY Study on the timing of thyroid medication ingestionI have a growth near my eye that is changing in color and becoming crusty. What should I do?I've been suffering from hip pain for the last three years. Any suggestions on what to do?Could toxic exposures like mold cause conditions like low thyroid or autoimmunity?

With a calcium score of zero, is there any fat in your diet?  Are there any recommended supplements for IBS?What is the safest and most appropriate dose of vitamin D3 for most seniors?

In this special live episode of the SHE MD Podcast, Olivia Munn joins Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi, Mary Alice Haney, Dr. Shari Goldfarb, and Kristen Dahlgren, for a powerful Breast Cancer Awareness Month panel in New York City. The event coincided with NBC's Today Show coverage and the lighting of the Empire State Building in pink — marking the launch of a national conversation around early detection, AI, and prevention.Together, they explore how lifetime risk assessments, dense breast screening, and AI mammogram prediction tools like Clarity Breast are transforming breast health. The panel also discusses cancer vaccine research, genetic testing, and the importance of women knowing their individual risk scores.Listeners will hear Olivia's personal story of early detection after a high-risk score prompted further imaging, leading to her diagnosis and recovery. This episode offers clarity, action, and hope — empowering every listener to become their own health advocate and partner with their medical team.Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PCOS, Endometriosis, fertility, and hormonal balance. Share with friends and visit the SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women's health and well-being.What You'll LearnHow lifetime risk assessment tools can identify breast cancer risk before symptoms appearWhy dense breast tissue requires supplemental screening beyond mammogramsHow AI predictive tools like Clarity Breast are revolutionizing early detectionThe promise of vaccine research and genetic testing in future breast cancer preventionKey Timestamps(00:00) Live event intro and Breast Cancer Awareness Month context(03:30) Olivia's story: risk score, MRI findings, and early diagnosis(13:00) Dr. Aliabadi and Dr. Goldfarb on dense breast screening and AI tools(16:00) Cancer vaccine and immunotherapy discussion with Kristen Dahlgren(27:00) Genetic testing and family history: understanding your risk(34:00) Audience Q&A: emotional recovery and advocacy(42:00) Is there support for young women being diagnosed with breast cancer?(51:30) Clarifying the term Risk AssessmentKey TakeawaysEvery woman should know her lifetime breast cancer risk scoreDense breasts may obscure cancers — MRI and ultrasound can save livesAI mammogram tools are changing detection from reactive to predictiveResearch into cancer vaccines offers hope for prevention and recurrence reductionAdvocacy and awareness remain key — early action leads to better outcomesGuest BiosOlivia MunnOlivia Munn is an actress, health advocate, and breast cancer survivor. After receiving a high lifetime risk assessment score, she underwent further imaging that revealed cancer across multiple quadrants, leading to a bilateral mastectomy. Since publicly sharing her diagnosis in 2024, she has dedicated her platform toward raising awareness about early detection, risk assessment, and empowering women with knowledge about their breast health.Dr. Shari Goldfarb, MDDr. Shari Goldfarb is a breast medical oncologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering, with a clinical focus on early and advanced breast cancer. Her research centers on survivorship, symptom management, fertility, sexual health, and quality of life for breast cancer patients. She participates in clinical trials aimed at improving outcomes for women during and after treatment.Kristen DahlgrenKristen Dahlgren is a former NBC correspondent who, after her own stage 2 breast cancer diagnosis, left journalism to found the Cancer Vaccine Coalition. She collaborates with top cancer centers to accelerate immunotherapy and vaccine development in breast cancer and advocates for preventive strategies beyond current standards.LinksOlivia Munn – https://www.instagram.com/oliviamunnDr. Shari Goldfarb – https://www.mskcc.org/profile/shari-goldfarbKristen Dahlgren – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-dahlgren-886519292/Donna McKay – https://www.bcrf.org/teamResources MentionedBreast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF) – Funding for innovative breast cancer research and prevention programs

Many challenging medical conditions defy treatment and challenge clinicians to come up with innovative solutions—Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, fibromyalgia, Lyme Disease, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and autoimmune conditions; add now the growing burden of patients with Long Covid and vaccine injury. Dr. Tania Dempsey specializes in treating these complicated chronic disorders. She has embraced and advanced a new paradigm based on addressing Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). What is MCAS? How is it differentiated from ordinary allergies, and why are its symptoms so pervasive? What are its causes and triggers? What role for low-histamine diets? Antihistamines? Other novel medications? What nutritional supplements can facilitate its resolution? How does recognition of the contribution of MCAS facilitate treatment of patients suffering from Long Covid and vaccine injuries?

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with Dr. Tania Dempsey.

What role can poetry play in public health? Henneh Kyereh Kwaku joins Jared to explore how his MFA in Creative Writing intersects with his academic background in public health and disease control. Together, they discuss how Henneh uses a poetic lens to examine issues like vaccine hesitancy. He also reflects on writing about his home country of Ghana while living in the US, drawing from non-fiction and audio storytelling through cross-genre courses, and finding lasting support from MFA faculty even after his graduation.Winner of Poetry Magazine's J. Howard and Barbara M.J. Wood Prize, Henneh Kyereh Kwaku was born in Gonasua and raised in Drobo in the Bono Region of Ghana. He has received fellowships from the Library of Africa and the African Diaspora (LOATAD), Chapman University, and the Carolyn Moore Writing Residency. He is an interdisciplinary scholar with a Bachelor of Public Health (Disease Control), an MA in Health Education, an MFA in Creative Writing, and is pursuing a PhD with an emphasis in Health and Culture. His (public) health communication scholarship explores art-based approaches to addressing medical mistrust and vaccine hesitancy in Black populations. He's the author of Revolution of the Scavengers (African Poetry Book Fund/Akashic Books, 2020) and the founder/host of the Church of Poetry. His poems/essays have appeared or are forthcoming in the Academy of American Poets' A-Poem-A-Day, Poetry Magazine, Prairie Schooner, World Literature Today, Air/Light Magazine, Tupelo Quarterly, Poetry Society of America, Lolwe, Agbowó, CGWS, Olongo Africa, 20:35 Africa, and elsewhere. He shares memes on Twitter/Instagram at @kwaku_kyereh.MFA Writers is hosted by Jared McCormack and produced by Jared McCormack and Hanamori Skoblow. New episodes are released every two weeks. You can find more MFA Writers at MFAwriters.com.BE PART OF THE SHOWDonate to the show at Buy Me a Coffee.Leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts.Submit an episode request. If there's a program you'd like to learn more about, contact us and we'll do our very best to find a guest who can speak to their experience.Apply to be a guest on the show by filling out our application.STAY CONNECTEDTwitter: @MFAwriterspodInstagram: @MFAwriterspodcastFacebook: MFA WritersEmail: mfawriterspodcast@gmail.com

In this episode of SHE MD Podcast, Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi and Mary Alice Haney sit down with Dr. Tania Elliott to discuss allergies, immune health, and how hormonal changes impact symptoms. They explore practical strategies to reduce allergy triggers at home, boost immune health naturally, and adopt a personalized approach to allergy care. Dr. Elliott shares insights on seasonal allergies, food allergies, and hidden allergens in daily life, while providing actionable guidance for women navigating hormonal shifts during pregnancy, menopause, or with birth control. Listen to gain evidence-based tips to improve overall health, enhance quality of life, and take control of their wellness journey. Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PCOS, Endometriosis, fertility, and hormonal balance. Share with friends and visit SHE MD Podcast and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women's health and well-being.Sponsors:Saje: Visit Saje.com to purchase plant powered products to remedy your needs. Use Code ‘SHEMD' for 20% off sitewide and free shippingOpill: Opill is birth control in your control, and you can use code SHEMD for twenty five percent off your first month of Opill at Opill.com.iRestore: For a limited time, get a HUGE discount on the iRESTORE Elite + Illumina Face Mask Bundle with code SHEMD at iRestore.comMerit: It's time to simplify your morning (Alt: Ready to simplify your routine?). Head to meritbeauty.com and get their Signature Makeup Bag free with your first order.Peloton: Let yourself run, lift, sculpt, push, and go. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.comGetJoy: As a listener of SheMD, you'll get 50% off your first subscription order of Get Joy's Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food plus two exclusive gifts: a free scoop and a 4oz bag of treats. Shop getjoyfood.com/shemd to support your dog's gut health and overall wellnessProlon: For a limited time, you can be first in line to experience the new Next Gen at special savings. Prolon is offering SHE MD listeners 15% off sitewide plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-Day Program!Cymbiotika: Go to Cymbiotika.com/Shemd for 20% off plus free shippingWhat You'll LearnUnderstanding how seasonal allergies, food allergies, and intolerances differHow hormonal changes impact allergy symptoms in womenStrategies to reduce allergy triggers at home and boost immune health naturallyWhen to use at-home allergy tests safely versus consulting a professionalKey Timestamps(02:42) Dr. Tania Elliott's Introduction (05:23) Dr. Elliott's journey in allergy and immunology(08:45) Common myths about allergies and immune health(13:10) Actionable tips: reducing triggers, hormonal considerations, lifestyle adjustments(22:24) Understanding seasonal vs. food allergies and intolerances(28:05) Hormonal shifts affecting immune system and allergies in women(35:58) Microplastics and toxins(49:29) Top 3 lifestyle changes to reduce allergens and improve healthKey Takeaways Seasonal allergies, food allergies, and intolerances affect women differently, especially during hormonal changesHidden allergens in everyday life can trigger reactions without noticeLifestyle factors like sleep, stress, and gut health influence immune resiliencePersonalized allergy care is more effective than one-size-fits-all approachesAt-home allergy tests can be helpful but professional guidance is essential for accurate diagnosisGuest BioDr. Tania Elliott is a dual board-certified physician specializing in Internal Medicine and Allergy/Immunology. She serves as a Clinical Instructor at NYU Langone Health and is a spokesperson for the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. Dr. Elliott empowers people to take control of their health through actionable advice and personalized care. She is also the founder of Modern Medical, a consulting firm providing strategic support across healthcare sectors.Links:

In this episode, Jennifer Ong Tone, Manager of Health & Education at CPMA sits down with three alumni of CPMA's Passion for Produce (PFP) Program – Biagio Fonicolo, Senior Buyer at Canadawide Fruits, Janis Deschênes, Sales Manager (Retail, Wholesale, & Food Service) at Highline Mushrooms, and Jenna Peters, Brand Promotions Manager at Mucci Farms to discuss their experiences in the PFP program, the biggest lessons they've learned, and their top tips for anyone applying for the 2026 PFP program. 

RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about health education, the opening of the Toulon Tele-Pharmacy, Flu and COVID shots, fall clinics in Kewanee and Geneseo, insurance investigators, lead testing, and school flu shot clinics. Stark County is welcoming a new addition to its healthcare landscape. The Toulon Telepharmacy will open its doors on October 20, 2025, at 120 E. Court Street, offering local access to crucial pharmacy services. Hours run Monday through Friday, with a midday closure for lunch. Health officials highlight the telepharmacy's opening during National Pharmacy Week, emphasizing improved access for residents. Meanwhile, the Health Department is marking National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week and National Health Education Week by urging families to stay proactive on health issues—from lead testing to flu shots and updated COVID-19 vaccines—available at First Choice Healthcare locations across the county.

In this episode of SHE MD Podcast, Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi and Mary Alice welcome Dr. Janet Choi to discuss menopause health, women's wellness, and Progyny's whole-woman approach to care. They explore the impact of menopause on mental, physical, and emotional health, practical strategies for personalized care, and workplace advocacy to break down stigma. Listeners gain actionable guidance to navigate menopause, improve hormonal health, and take control of their wellness journey. This episode delivers expert insights into menopause care, empowering listeners to access evidence-based, connected solutions across all stages of women's health.Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PCOS, Endometriosis, fertility, and hormonal balance. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women's health and well-being.Sponsors:Progyny - https://www.progyny.comWhat You'll Learn Menopause impacts mental, physical, and emotional health, requiring specialized carePersonalized care is essential—Menopausal Hormone Therapy is not one-size-fits-allProgyny's whole-woman approach connects preconception, fertility, parenting, and menopause careWorkplace advocacy can break stigma and improve care pathways for womenTimestamps00:00 Intro and overview of menopause awareness05:23 How to get started with Progyny08:45 How menopause affects the whole woman13:10 Progyny's integrated approach and personalized care strategies19:50 How IUDs can help those dealing with perimenopause23:53 What to expect when starting Hormone Replacement Therapy35:50 How progyny is bridging the gap to ensure treatment for women's health42:50 Differences on how society handles menopause across the world45:40 Progyny's 2025 Menopause Awareness Month InitiativeKey Takeaways (5 Items)Menopause is more than hot flashes—it impacts mental, physical, and emotional healthFew doctors receive specialized menopause training; Progyny fills this gapEvery menopause experience is unique; care must be personalizedProgyny supports women across all stages—from preconception to menopauseWorkplace advocacy improves care and breaks stigma for women everywhereGuest BioDr. Janet M. Choi is a double board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and OB/GYN and serves as the Chief Medical Officer at Progyny, where she drives clinical strategy to ensure members receive the highest quality care in family building and women's health. A Menopause Society Certified Practitioner (MSCP), Dr. Choi emphasizes that menopause is far more than hormone replacement therapy—it impacts mental health, sleep, cognition, and long-term wellbeing. She has written, published, and lectured extensively on infertility, oncofertility, and fertility preservation, and is recognized by New York Magazine, Castle Connolly, and Super Doctors as a top physician.Links:

In this episode of the SHE MD, Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi & Mary Alice Haney sit down with Dr. Vonda Wright, an orthopedic surgeon, longevity expert, and founder of Precision Longevity, to discuss women's bone health, strength, and thriving in midlife. They explore how menopause affects muscles, bones, and overall vitality, and what women can do to stay strong, prevent fractures, and feel their best at every age. She shares practical strategies for keeping bones healthy through strength, balance, and mobility exercises, nutrition, and lifestyle habits. She also explains why osteoporosis is often overlooked, how hormones influence musculoskeletal health, and how women can proactively take charge of their wellness. This episode delivers actionable insights for women in their 20s through post-menopause, empowering listeners to stay mobile, strong, and unbreakable while embracing fit and 40 living.Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PCOS, Endometriosis, fertility, and hormonal balance. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women's health and well-being.Sponsors:Midi Health: You deserve to feel great. Book your virtual visit today at JoinMidi.comCymbiotika: Go to Cymbiotika.com/Shemd for 20% off plus free shippingPurely Elizabeth: Visit purelyelizabeth.com and use code SHEMD at checkout for 20% off. Purely Elizabeth. Taste the Obsession. Opill: Opill is birth control in your control, and you can use code SHEMD for twenty five percent off your first month of Opill at Opill.com.Arrae: Go to arrae.com and use code 'SHEMD' at checkout to receive 15% off your first purchase or autoship order,Prolon: For a limited time, you can be first in line to experience the new Next Gen at special savings. Prolon is offering SHE MD listeners 15% off sitewide plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-Day Program!What You'll Learn How to build an unbreakable body and mind through movement, strength, and lifestyle choices. The importance of flexibility, aerobic fitness, and lifting weights for women in perimenopause and beyond. How to protect your bones and prevent osteoporosis naturally with nutrition, exercise, and smart habits. The role of supplements like vitamin D, magnesium, K2, and NAD+ in supporting overall health and longevity.Key Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Ovii's new flavor of supplement for PCOS03:15 Dr. Wright's mission to challenge myths about aging and precision health & wellness06:50 Foundations for an unbreakable future: knowledge, self-awareness, and fit and 40 mindset10:30 Flexibility, walking, and mobility as primary motor skills22:00 Why it's important to think about osteoporosis and bone health in the teenager years28:45 Bone density testing, weight considerations, and importance of early baseline40:53 What supplements all women should be taking45:46 The key to bone longevityKey TakeawaysAging does not have to mean decline; women can maintain strong bones, muscles, and brain health with the right habits.The FACE method—Flexibility, Aerobic exercise, Carrying a load, Equilibrium—offers a roadmap for longevity.Lifting weights and resistance training are essential for preserving bone density and preventing frailty after menopause.Starting early matters; building muscle, strong bones, and healthy routines in your 20s and 30s sets the stage for midlife wellness.Nutrition and supplements like vitamin D, K2, magnesium, Omega-3, and creatine can support bone, muscle, and overall health, helping women thrive in perimenopause and beyond.Guest BioDr. Vonda Wright, MD, is an orthopedic surgeon, longevity expert, and founder of Precision Longevity. She helps women reclaim mobility, strength, and confidence at every stage of life with a movement-first, prevention-focused approach. Dr. Wright is the author of Unbreakable: A Woman's Guide to Aging with Power (2025) and founder of Women's Health Conversations, a platform promoting bold wellness dialogue. Links:Website: DrVondaWright.comInstagram: @Dr.VondaWrightLinkedIn: Dr. Vonda WrightPrecision Longevity: https://precisionlongevity.comBook: Unbreakable: A Woman's Guide to Aging with Power (2025)See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

State Rep. Jamie Thompson (R–28th District) joins the show to expose what she calls a “radical overhaul” of Michigan's public school health standards. Under the guise of “Health Education,” the Department of Education is quietly pushing explicit gender and sexual identity content into classrooms, starting in early grades, without parental transparency or consent. The plan, introduced under former Superintendent Michael Rice, blurs the legal line between standard health education and sex education, paving the way for contraception distribution and ideological instruction in schools. With new Superintendent Glenn Maleyko now in charge, parents are demanding answers, and accountability.

Curious how you can shape the future of IPC research? The APIC Research Network (ARN) makes it easy — with free membership, mentorship, and resources to help you learn, publish, and collaborate. Hear from Becca Crapanzano-Sigafoos and Sara Reese as they share how ARN is shaping global research, amplifying IP voices, and creating new opportunities for growth. Learn more about the ARN as well as how to join: https://apic.org/apic-research-network  Hosted by: Kelly Holmes, MS, CIC, FAPIC and Lerenza L. Howard, MHA, CIC, LSSGB About our Guests: Rebecca (Becca) Crapanzano-Sigafoos, DrPH, CIC, FAPIC Rebecca (Becca) Crapanzano-Sigafoos, DrPH, CIC, FAPIC is the Executive Director of APIC's Center for Research, Practice, and Innovation (CRPI). She received both her BS in Public Health, Health Education and her MPH in Epidemiology from East TN State University. She completed her Doctorate in Public Health in 2021. She has been CIC certified since 2008 and is an APIC fellow. Most notably, though, Becca is the mother of six amazing daughters, ages 11-28.   Sara Reese, PhD, MPH, CIC, AL-CIP, FAPIC Sara Reese is the Director of Research at APIC's Center for Research, Practice and Innovation (CRPI) with extensive experience in infection prevention leadership across major healthcare systems including Intermountain Health, Swedish Medical Center, and Denver Health. She has led pandemic response efforts, driven healthcare-associated infection reduction initiatives, and contributed to the field through mentorship, publications, and national conference presentations. She received her Bachelor's of Science and PhD in Microbiology at Colorado State University and her MPH at Colorado School of Public Health. In her spare time, she tries to keep up with her 14- and 10-year-old boys!

Sharing a special episode this week from past guest Dr. Sharon Malone. On her new podcast, The Second Opinion with Dr. Sharon, women take back the conversation on health with straight talk, real experience, and the care we all deserve. You'll hear prominent female advocates, experts and patients just like you sharing how they confronted gaps in our healthcare system and got second opinions that saved their lives. Alongside each guest, Dr. Sharon tackles the questions and topics we've been conditioned to ignore — the ones we search for at 3 a.m. but never bring up at the doctor's office. From dismissed symptoms to systemic failures, she pulls back the curtain on what's really going on in women's health and gives women the tools to advocate for themselves and each other. In this episode, Dr. Sharon talks to Board Certified Ob/GYN and Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgeon, Dr. Karen Tang. The two unpack the evolution of Obstetrics Gynecology, the different OB-GYN subspecialties, and surgical options for reproductive health. Plus, Dr. Tang shares experiences patients may have on the surgical table and why you may want to choose a minimally invasive surgery for gynecologic conditions.Find more episodes of The Second Opinion with Dr. Sharon Malone at https://link.mgln.ai/shemdSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this empowering episode of Keeping Abreast, Dr. Jenn Simmons welcomes bestselling author and women's-hormone expert Dr. Mariza Snyder for a candid conversation about perimenopause—the most misunderstood phase in women's health. Drawing on 17 years in practice and her own journey through postpartum, Hashimoto's, and perimenopause, Dr. Snyder unpacks what really happens when estrogen and progesterone begin to decline—and why this “zone of opportunity” is every woman's call to action.Together, she and Dr. Jenn break down the cultural myths, medical gaslighting, and scientific blind spots that leave millions of women unheard. They discuss brain fog, mood shifts, metabolic changes, and why bioidentical hormone therapy—when properly prescribed—can protect the brain, heart, and bones. It's an honest, hopeful roadmap for women to reclaim their vitality, advocate for better care, and navigate midlife with confidence and clarity.✨ Don't miss Dr. Mariza Snyder's new book, The Perimenopause Revolution, available now for pre-order at drmariza.com/book and officially releasing October 21, 2025.

In this episode of SheMD, Clea Shearer, co-founder of The Home Edit, opens up about her breast cancer journey, sharing lessons in resilience, self-advocacy, and home organization. From navigating treatment while balancing family and career to leaning on support systems, Clea's story reminds us that life does not stop with a diagnosis. Tune in for insights on courage, early detection, maintaining control, and using home organization to support well-being and women's health.Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PCOS, Endometriosis, fertility, and hormonal balance. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women's health and well-being.Sponsors: Cymbiotika: Go to Cymbiotika.com/Shemd for 20% off plus free shippingTimeline: Timeline is offering 10% off your order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/SHEMDNutrafol: Nutrafol is offering our listeners ten dollars off your first month's subscription and free shipping when you go to Nutrafol.com and enter promo code SHEMDPeloton: Let yourself run, lift, sculpt, push, and go. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.comDavid's Protein: David is giving my listeners an exclusive offer – buy four cartons and get the fifth free at davidprotein.com/shemdHoneylove: Save 20% Off Honeylove by going to honeylove.com/SHEMD WHAT YOU'LL LEARNClea Shearer's personal breast cancer journey and lessons in resilienceHow to advocate for yourself in healthcare, fertility, and hormonal healthBalancing career, family, and treatment during life's challengesThe power of support systems and asking for helpPractical strategies for self-care, organization, and maintaining controlKEY TIMESTAMPS00:00 Introduction04:40 Receiving a cancer diagnosis and initial reactions09:00 Navigating treatment options and decision-making15:13 Balancing career, family, and personal health22:47 Coping strategies & self-care practices28:53 What Clea brought to chemotherapy32:18 How to start navigating your cancer journey45:48 Where Clea is now on her cancer journey49:45 Final thoughts and Clea's tipsKEY TAKEAWAYS1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, highlighting the importance of early detection and screeningsSelf-advocacy in healthcare is crucial — trust your instincts and push for answers when something feels wrongSupport systems of family, friends, and community are essential for navigating treatment and recoveryOrganization and routines can help create a sense of control during overwhelming timesSharing your personal story can empower others facing similar health challengesGUEST BIOClea Shearer is the co-founder and CEO of The Home Edit, the organization behind the viral organizing brand and Netflix series Get Organized with The Home Edit. Known for her innovative approach to home organization, Clea has transformed spaces for celebrities, brands, and everyday clients alike. She is also a New York Times bestselling author, sharing her signature style and practical tips for decluttering and organizing. Clea's work combines creativity, functionality, and a love for beautiful design, inspiring millions to create order in their lives.RESOURCES MENTIONEDThe Home Edit Clea's Book: Cancer Is Complicated Watch Get Organized with The Home Edit – Netflix series featuring Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin.LINKSInstagram: @thehomeeditTikTok: @thehomeedit SHE MD Podcast WebsiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of SHE MD, hosts Mary Alice Haney and Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi welcome Dr. Gina Campbell from Myriad Genetics. They explore the importance of genetic testing in women's health and its potential to revolutionize cancer prevention and early detection. The discussion also provides insights into the MyRisk® Hereditary Cancer Test, the BRCA genes, and insurance coverage. Sponsor: Myriad Genetics: To learn more, visit getmyrisk.comWhat you'll learn in this episode:Genetic testing for cancer isn't just about BRCA. Myriad checks 48 cancer-causing genes, with 11 linked to breast cancer risk.Your risk isn't just in your genes. Family history, lifestyle, and even tiny DNA markers all play a role. So using tests like the MyRisk® test and Tyrer-Cuzick score or IBIS model can provide more information.Knowledge is power. Knowing your risk can lead to early screening and prevention strategies.Alcohol is a major, often overlooked cancer risk factor. Even one drink a day can significantly increase breast cancer risk.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction05:23 Genetic testing criteria and insurance coverage11:40 Importance of genetic testing for breast cancer risk16:29 Breast cancer screening recommendations and guidelines20:22 Data privacy concerns and benefits of testing24:48 Future of genetic testing and personalized medicine28:57 Advice for maximizing doctor visits and insurance31:33 How to get the MyRisk® genetic testDr. Gina Campbell's Key Takeaways:

In this episode of SHE MD, hosts Mary Alice Haney and Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi interview Micaela Riley, a board-certified functional nutritionist and founder of the Be Balance Method. They explore Micaela's personal journey with PCOS, diet, hormonal balance, and how it led her to develop a holistic approach to women's health. The conversation covers hormone health, metabolic balance, dietary considerations for individuals with PCOS, and practical strategies for achieving wellness.Access more information about the podcast and additional expert health tips by visiting SHE MD Podcast. Sponsors: Cymbiotika: Go to Cymbiotika.com/Shemd for 20% off plus free shippingOPill: Opill is birth control in your control, and you can use code SHEMD for twenty five percent off your first month of Opill at Opill.com.iRestore: For a limited time, get a HUGE discount on the iRESTORE Elite + Illumina Face Mask Bundle with code SHEMD at iRestore.comMyriad: Learn more about MyRisk with RiskScore at GetMyRisk.comMirena: To learn more, visit mirena.com and ask your provider ifMirena could be an option for you. To view the full prescribing information, visit mirena.com/piWhat you'll learn in this episode:Which foods to eat and which aren't good for PCOS to have a healthy dietWhat to do to support your metabolic healthHow to improve your hormone balanceThe effects of cortisol levels on PCOS and Women's CycleTimestamps:00:00 Introduction03:28 Healing PCOS through a functional medicine approach16:42 Lifestyle changes and PCOS Diet to regulate cortisol levels23:27 Understanding metabolic dysfunction and symptoms34:15 Tips to jumpstart hormone health40:18 What is Be Balanced by Micaela RileyMicaela Riley's Key Takeaways:Test Don't Guess: Micaela highlights the importance of taking the DUTCH test and any other tests needed to understand hormonal imbalances.Metabolic Health Impacts Hormones: 88% of Americans are metabolically unhealthy. Addressing insulin, blood sugar, and metabolism is vital for hormone balance.Cortisol Regulation Is Crucial For Hormonal Balance: Michaela found that addressing stress and cortisol levels was key to resolving her PCOS symptoms and regulating her cycle.Implement Lifestyle Change: Be aware of the foods to eat and not to eat in a PCOS diet. Focus on protein intake, whole foods, smart exercise, quality sleep, and basic supplements.ABOUT THE GUEST:Micaela Riley is a Board-Certified Functional Nutritionist and Functional Diagnostic Nutrition (FDN) Practitioner specializing in gut health, hormones, and metabolism. With advanced training in DUTCH, GI-MAP, and functional blood chemistry, she helps clients uncover the root causes of their health struggles and create personalized protocols for healing. After overcoming her own chronic gut and hormonal issues, Micaela is passionate about bridging the gap between traditional healthcare and functional wellness. Through in-depth lab testing, targeted nutrition, and strategic lifestyle shifts, she empowers individuals to restore balance, optimize metabolism, and feel their best.Instagram: @bebalancedbymicaela Be Balanced Website: https://welcome.bebalanced.co RESOURCES MENTIONED:OVI Supplements: ovi.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this episode of SHE MD, hosts Mary Alice Haney and Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi welcome Grey's Anatomy stars Jessica Capshaw and Camilla Luddington. The actresses discuss their friendship, motherhood, and mental health experiences. They also share insights from their popular podcast "Call It What It Is" and offer advice on relationships and personal growth.Access more information about the podcast and additional expert health tips by visiting SHE MD Podcast and Ovii. Sponsors: Cymbiotika: Go to Cymbiotika.com/Shemd for 20% off plus free shippingOpill: Opill is birth control in your control, and you can use code SHEMD for twenty five percent off your first month of Opill at Opill.com.Nutrafol: Nutrafol is offering our listeners ten dollars off your first month's subscription and free shipping when you go to Nutrafol.com and enter promo code SHEMD. Arrae: Go to arrae.com and use code 'SHEMD' at checkout to receive 15% off your first purchase or autoship order.1MD: Visit 1MD.org, use code SHEMD, and enjoy 15% off your first order.Merit: It's time to simplify your morning. Head to meritbeauty.com and get their Signature Makeup Bag free with your first order. Jessica Capshaw & Camilla Luddington's Key Takeaways:Laugh Together: Make laughter a priority in your relationship to navigate life's challenges.Learn to Fight Fair: Develop healthy arguing skills, avoiding low blows and learning to apologize.Find Your Foundation: Trust in your ability to rebuild and grow, even after significant loss.Embrace Strategy: View being strategic and ambitious as positive traits that can lead to success.Balance Push and Pull: Calibrate when to challenge yourself and when to be gentle for optimal growth.Reframe Obstacles: Approach challenges with a "how can I not?" mindset instead of doubting yourself.Build a Support Network: Seek out individuals who can assist you in areas where you need guidance.In This Episode: (00:00) Introduction(01:06) Mary Alice introduces Jessica and Camilla(05:03) Importance of authentic women's friendships(08:09) Origins and goals of their podcast, Call It What It Is(12:27) Discussing pregnancy loss and mental health(20:00) Camilla's experience with postpartum anxiety(25:00) Dealing with tinnitus and anxiety(28:40) Balancing motherhood and acting careers(34:00) Redefining “Success”(41:40) Lessons for their younger selves(43:48) Camilla on rebuilding after losing her mother(47:00) Closing thoughts on ambition and inspirationRESOURCES:JESSICA CAPSHAWS INSTAGRAMCAMILLA LUDDINGTON'S INSTAGRAMCALL IT WHAT IT IS INSTAGRAMCALL IT WHAT IT IS TIKTOKGUEST BIOGRAPHIES:Camilla LuddingtonCurrently starring on ABC's hit medical drama series Grey's Anatomy, Camilla Luddington has the gift of portraying characters with both strength and vulnerability, and her Dr. Jo Wilson displays plenty of both as she finds her way through complicated storylines of love and career.The sci-fi/fantasy world has come to love her too for her embodiment of Lara Croft, a different kind of heroine, in the video game Tomb Raider. When the game was released in 2013,critics praised Luddington for giving the classic icon a much-needed reboot. In 2015, Camilla reprised her role as Lara in the video game Rise of the Tomb Raider, and continued her work as this character in the anticipated video game Shadow of the Tomb Raider.Californication, she portrayed Lizzie, the seemingly sweet English nanny who would do whatever it took to make it in L.A.Jessica CapshawJessica Capshaw is best known for her role as “Dr. Arizona Robbins” in the long-running TV series Grey's Anatomy.Capshaw can most recently be seen opposite Grace Van Patten in the hit Hulu series“Tell me Lies,” which is based on the best-selling novel by Carola. Capshaw earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature at Brown University. In addition to this, she also attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts during her summer breaks, where she starred as “Puck” in a production of “A Midsummer Night's Dream.”Capshaw is based in New York.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Compassion & Courage, Marcus Engel speaks with Trisha Choi about her journey from being a patient to a healthcare professional, emphasizing the importance of compassion in patient care. They discuss personal experiences of kindness, innovative self-care practices at conferences, leadership lessons, and the significance of forgiveness and recovery in personal and professional growth.Resources for you: More communication tips and resources for how to cultivate compassion: https://marcusengel.com/freeresources/Connect with Marcus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcusengel/Connect with Trisha on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trishachoiLearn more about The Bahay Kubo: www.bahaykuboretreat.comReach out to Trisha on social media: @gametollhouse FB & Instagram Learn more about Marcus' Books: https://marcusengel.com/store/Subscribe to our podcast through Apple: https://bit.ly/MarcusEngelPodcastSubscribe to our podcast through YouTube: https://bit.ly/Youtube-MarcusEngelPodcastAbout Trisha Choi:Trisha Choi is a seasoned leader with 30 years of experience in healthcare, specializing in patient experience, leadership coaching, and organizational transformation. Her career has spanned various roles in top institutions, including Duke University Hospital, Cone Health, and New York-Presbyterian Hospital, where she has made a lasting impact on patient care, team development, and system-wide policy creation.At Duke University Hospital during the pandemic, Trisha led initiatives that maintained top decile patient experience scores for three years, managing a team of 100 across eight departments while coaching C-suite leaders and ensuring service excellence. She was instrumental in building cross-hospital collaboration and prioritizing care and kindness for both patients and staff. Trisha's role as Senior Manager of Patient Experience at Cone Health expanded her expertise in managing surge plans and developing communication tools for the broader healthcare community. Her extensive experience at New York-Presbyterian spanned over 17 years and included roles in patient experience, volunteer management, and program development, including the build of the Inpatient Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation department unit and residency programs at Weill Cornell and Columbia Medical Centers.With a background in Public Relations, Marketing, and Personal Assistance to celebrities, Trisha's transition to healthcare is marked by a unique blend of leadership and service excellence. She holds a Master of Arts in Change Leadership from Columbia University and a B.A. in Health Education from the University of Mount Saint Vincent.Date: 8/25/2025 Name of show: Compassion & Courage: Conversations in Healthcare Episode number and title: Episode 173 – The Journey from Patient to Advocate with Trisha Choi, MA, CPXPkeywordshealthcare, patient experience, compassion, leadership, self-care, forgiveness, recovery, narrative medicine, change management, resilience

Mentorship, Models, and the Future of Pelvic Health – with MJ ForgetWith 30 years of clinical and teaching experience, MJ Forget has helped shape the pelvic health field through mentorship, innovative teaching tools, and her leadership at Pelvic Health Solutions.In this episode, MJ shares:Her journey into pelvic health and why it wasn't part of her original trainingThe development of her signature laminated 2D-to-3D anatomical modelsWhy mentorship and trauma-informed approaches are so essential in this fieldHow Pelvic Health Solutions continues to evolve its courses to stay aligned with research and clinical best practices

In this episode of SHE MD, hosts Mary Alice Haney and Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi welcome Kendall Toole, former Peloton instructor and entrepreneur. Kendall shares her journey from struggling with mental health to becoming a fitness icon and an advocate for women's empowerment. This conversation covers topics ranging from personal growth to women's health. Kendall also discusses why she chose a Mirena IUD (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system 52 mg) for herself. For full prescribing information, visit mirena-us.com/pi. Sponsor: Visit Mirena.com for more information Access more information about the podcast and additional expert health tips by visiting SHE MD Podcast.Kendall Toole's 5 Key Takeaways: 1. Advocate For Yourself: Take an active role in the decisions for your health, understand your body, your lifestyle and your goals. Make sure your voice is heard and communicate your priorities and needs. 2. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Schedule a women's health appointment to discuss your needs and explore what options are available for you. You are your best advocate along with your healthcare provider.3. Educate Yourself: Knowledge is power. If you're interested in a Mirena IUD, visit mirena.com to learn more and access resources to help you prepare for your next appointment. 4. Check In With Yourself: You know yourself best but when things are feeling off, ask for help and lean on your support system. 5. Personal Fulfillment: Make sure you also take time to fill up your own cup, identify your core passions and dedicate yourself to pursuing them with authenticity and enthusiasm.INDICATIONS FOR MIRENAMirena® (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system) is a hormone-releasing IUD that prevents pregnancy for up to 8 years. Mirena also treats heavy periods for up to 5 years in women who choose intrauterine contraception. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATIONIf you have a pelvic or genital infection, get infections easily, or have certain cancers, don't use Mirena. Less than 1% of users get a serious pelvic infection called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).If you have persistent pelvic or stomach pain, or excessive bleeding after placement, tell your healthcare provider (HCP). If Mirena comes out, call your HCP and avoid intercourse or use non-hormonal back-up birth control (such as condoms or spermicide). Mirena may go into or through the wall of the uterus and cause other problems.Pregnancy while using Mirena is uncommon but can be life threatening and may result in loss of pregnancy or fertility.Ovarian cysts may occur but usually disappear.Bleeding and spotting may increase in the first 3 to 6 months and remain irregular. Periods over time usually become shorter, lighter, or may stop. Mirena does not protect against HIV or STIs.Only you and your HCP can decide if Mirena is right for you. Mirena is available by prescription only.For important risk and use information about Mirena, please see Full Prescribing Information.In This Episode:00:00 Introduction05:03 Overcoming mental health and finding inner strength10:10 Kendall's women's health journey15:09 Choosing a Mirena IUD20:17 Planning for now and the future24:50 Understanding and using a Mirena IUD26:12 Kendall Toole's Advice to younger self29:26 Following passion leads to success RESOURCES: Kendall Toole InstagramKendall Toole TikTok Mirena GUEST BIOGRAPHY:KENDALL TOOLE is a lightning rod of energy, a natural-born fighter, dynamic athlete, and top fitness instructor who commands the room and empowers her community. With a background in performance and athletics, Kendall has been a multi-sport athlete, amateur boxer, and actress. She graduated from USC's prestigious School of Cinematic Arts and began her career in content production before discovering her passion for inspiring others, especially women, to step into their power.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/ privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy - do-not-sell-my-info. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Imagine if you couldn't distinguish between dreams and reality. If you couldn't tell whether what you were seeing or hearing was really there in front of you. What if you discovered you couldn't trust your own perceptions? Psychosis is something three out of every a hundred people will experience at some point in their lifetimes. But what exactly is it, and is it something people can learn to live with?Today we're fortunate to have on the show Dr. Jacob Ballon, the founding co-director of Stanford Medicine's Inspire Clinic, and Shannon Pagdon, a doctoral student, peer counselor, and advocate for those living with psychosis.Learn More:Learn about the Inspire 360 Program at Stanford MedicineExplore Pagdon's Psychosis Outside the Box project and additional stories of the lived experience of psychosis from the Hearing Voices NetworkRead: "Psychosis 101: Unmasking one of the brain's most mysterious Malfunctions" (Stanford Medicine, 2024)Watch: "Demystifying Psychosis" (Stanford Medicine, 2024)Read: "Two key brain systems are central to psychosis, Stanford Medicine-led study finds" (Stanford Medicine, 2024)Watch: "Schizophrenia: Early signs and treatment options" (Stanford Center for Health Education, 2022)We want to hear from your neurons! Email us at at neuronspodcast@stanford.eduSend us a text!Thanks for listening! If you're enjoying our show, please take a moment to give us a review on your podcast app of choice and share this episode with your friends. That's how we grow as a show and bring the stories of the frontiers of neuroscience to a wider audience. Learn more about the Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute at Stanford and follow us on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

In this episode of SHE MD, hosts Mary Alice Haney and Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi sit down with model and actress Lori Harvey to discuss her journey with PCOS and endometriosis. Lori shares her struggles with misdiagnosis, painful periods, and weight fluctuations, shedding light on the importance of proper diagnosis and treatment for women's health issues.Access more information about the podcast and additional expert health tips by visiting SHE MD Podcast. Sponsors: Timeline: Timeline is offering10% off your order of Mitopure. Go to timeline.com/SHEMD.Cymbiotika: Go to Cymbiotika.com/Shemd for 20% off plus free shippingOPill: Opill is birth control in your control, and you can use code SHEMD for twenty five percent off your first month of Opill at Opill.com.iRestore: For a limited time, get a HUGE discount on the iRESTORE Elite + Illumina Face Mask Bundle with code SHEMD at iRestore.com1MD: Ready to show your vision some love? Visit 1MD.org, use code SHEMD for 15% off, and discover what VisionMD can do for youBelliWelli: Go to belliwelli.com and use our exclusive code SHEMD20 at checkout for 20% off our order. Use code SHEMD20 for 20% off your entire order.Lori Harvey's 5 Key Takeaways:Advocate for Your Health: Don't let your symptoms be dismissed. If you suspect PCOS or endometriosis, persist in seeking a proper diagnosis from healthcare professionals. Seek Expert Care: Finding the right medical team can be transformative. A correct diagnosis and personalized treatment plan can significantly improve your quality of life.Embrace Holistic Self-Care: Integrate lifestyle changes that support your well-being. Consider an anti-inflammatory diet, engage in low-impact exercises, and explore therapies like lymphatic drainage.Educate Yourself and Others: Understanding your body and these conditions is powerful. Share your knowledge and experiences to encourage early diagnosis and treatment for others.Break the Silence: There is no shame in managing chronic conditions. Speaking openly about your journey can help destigmatize these issues and foster a supportive community.In This Episode: 00:00 Introduction06:13 PCOS symptoms and disordered eating struggles12:00 Core systems affecting PCOS patients explained23:41 Endometriosis, egg quality, and fertility challenges27:13 Importance of early diagnosis and treatment35:13 Hormone replacement therapy after menopause38:54 Dr. Aliabadi's mission to educate women48:56 Lori's self-care routine for PCOS51:26 Lori Harvey on dating and relationshipsRESOURCES:Lori Harvey's InstagramLori Harvey's TikTokGUEST BIOGRAPHY:LORI HARVEY is an American model, entrepreneur, and actress. She is the daughter of Marjorie Harvey and comedian and television host Steve Harvey. Raised in Atlanta, Georgia, Lori initially pursued a career in competitive equestrianism, aspiring to compete in the Olympics. However, a back injury led her to shift her focus to modeling. In 2015, Lori began her modeling career, signing contracts with LA Model Management in the United States and Select Model Management in Europe. She has walked the runway for Dolce & Gabbana and appeared in campaigns for brands like Michael Kors, Valentino, Burberry, and Pat McGrath's Beauty Lab. In addition to her modeling and entrepreneurial endeavors, Lori made her acting debut in the Peacock mini-series "Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist."See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

To honor PCOS awareness month, we have compiled the highlights from different episodes talking about PCOS with guests like Florence Pugh, Olivia Culpo, Victoria Garrick Browne, Sarah Pieterse Sheaffer, and more. Hosts Mary Alice Haney and Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi dive deep into PCOS, a condition affecting 10-20% of women. Dr. Aliabadi explains the diagnostic criteria and multifactorial nature of PCOS. Guests share their experiences of being misdiagnosed and dismissed by healthcare providers. The conversation emphasizes the need for better education, early detection, and personalized treatment approaches for PCOS.Access more information about the podcast and additional expert health tips by visiting SHE MD Podcast and Ovii. Guests' Key Takeaways:Understand Your Cycle & Get Screened Early: Begin tracking your menstrual cycle diligently. If you notice irregularities, request an ultrasound to check your ovaries, and consider getting your AMH levels tested by age 18 to establish a baseline for your ovarian reserve.Adopt a PCOS-Friendly Diet: Significantly reduce your intake of sugar and processed foods. Focus on a diet that helps manage insulin resistance and chronic inflammation, which are key factors in PCOS.Incorporate Post-Meal Movement: Make it a habit to walk for 10-15 minutes after meals. This can help improve insulin sensitivity and manage blood sugar levels, benefiting those with PCOS.Proactively Plan for Fertility: If you have a PCOS diagnosis, or suspect you might, discuss egg freezing options with a reproductive endocrinologist by age 30 to preserve your fertility due to potential declines in egg quality associated with PCOS.Be Your Own Health Advocate: Be prepared to advocate for yourself if healthcare providers dismiss your concerns. Seek out a doctor who listens, understands PCOS, and is willing to work with you to achieve a proper diagnosis and effective treatment plan.In This Episode: (00:00) Introduction(05:07) Diagnosing PCOS: Criteria and personal experiences(10:27) Fertility concerns and treatment options(15:28) Sleep issues and PCOS connections(20:49) Advocating for yourself with doctors(25:52) Raising awareness and empowering womenRESOURCES:Ovii: Hormone Metabolic SupplementSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of SHE MD, host Mary Alice Haney speaks with renowned dermatologist Dr. Haleh Bakshandeh to discuss skincare across different life stages. From teenage acne to menopausal skin changes, they cover a wide range of topics, including the latest in skincare treatments, the importance of sunscreen, and how to age gracefully. Dr. Bakshandeh shares her expert insights on everything from retinol to fillers, offering valuable advice for listeners of all ages.Access more information about the podcast and additional expert health tips by visiting SHE MD Podcast and Ovii. Sponsors: Myriad: Learn more about MyRisk with RiskScore at GetMyRisk.comCymbiotika: Go to Cymbiotika.com/SHEMD for 20% off your order + free shipping today.Live Conscious: Head to LiveConscious.com and use code SHEMD for 15% off your first purchase.Opill:Opill is birth control in your control, and you can use code SHEMD for twenty five percent off your first month of Opill at Opill.comVionic: Use code SHEMD at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use only.Prolon: For a limited time, you can be first in line to experience the new Next Gen at special savings. Prolon is offering SHE MD listeners 15% off sitewide plus a $40 bonus gift when you subscribe to their 5-Day Program! Dr. Haleh Bakshandeh' 5 Key Takeaways:Universal Sun Protection: Sunscreen is vital for everyone's skincare, at every age. Don't forget it, even on cloudy days, as a significant portion of UV rays still penetrates.Vitamin C - Your 20s Ally: Incorporate Vitamin C serum into your routine in your twenties to combat oxidative stress and achieve a brighter complexion.Retinol - The Anti-Aging Powerhouse: By your thirties, introduce retinol to your skincare regimen. Begin with a low frequency to allow your skin to adjust, as it's highly effective for anti-aging benefits.Perimenopause and Skin Changes: Be aware that perimenopause can lead to skin dryness and a decrease in collagen due to estrogen reduction. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) might be a beneficial option to consider.Lifestyle is Key: Prioritize sleep, stay hydrated, and moderate alcohol consumption, as these lifestyle factors profoundly influence your skin's health and overall appearance.In This Episode: (01:07) Dr. Haleh Bakshandeh joins as a guest dermatologist(02:40) Changing landscape of skincare and prevention(05:14) Aggressive laser treatments and skin barriers(08:18) Microneedling benefits and frequency recommendations(10:31) Acne treatments for teenagers: boys vs girls(24:23) Skincare recommendations for 20s and 30s(29:13) Pregnancy skincare and safe treatments(31:09) Perimenopause skin changes and treatments(39:27) Fillers: Benefits and avoiding overdone looks(49:02) Face washing tips and essential products(51:12) Sunscreen types and importance of daily useRESOURCES:Haleh Bakshandeh MD's WebsiteHaleh Bakshandeh MD's InstagramGUEST BIOGRAPHY:Dr. Haleh Bakshandeh is a board-certified dermatologist based in Beverly Hills, California, with over 20 years of experience delivering exceptional dermatologic care. She earned her medical degree and did her Dermatology residency at the prestigious Department of University of Miami School of Medicine.Since beginning her practice in 2003, Dr. Bakshandeh has built a reputation for clinical excellence, artistic precision, and compassionate patient care. She specializes in the treatment of acne, hyperpigmentation, acne scarring, and anti-aging, offering customized solutions that address both medical and aesthetic concerns. Her expertise in all skin types has made her a trusted authority, and she is widely recognized for her thoughtful, effective approach to treating diverse skin types.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this empowering conversation, Lesley Logan welcomes back sex educator Dr. Celeste Holbrook to talk about her new book Missionary Position: A Slightly Irreverent Guide to Sex After Purity Culture. Together they unpack healing from harmful narratives, navigating seasons of change in your sex life, and discovering the ‘glittery middle,' where you get to define pleasure, intimacy, and authenticity on your own terms.If you have any questions about this episode or want to get some of the resources we mentioned, head over to LesleyLogan.co/podcast https://lesleylogan.co/podcast/. If you have any comments or questions about the Be It pod shoot us a message at beit@lesleylogan.co mailto:beit@lesleylogan.co. And as always, if you're enjoying the show please share it with someone who you think would enjoy it as well. It is your continued support that will help us continue to help others. Thank you so much! Never miss another show by subscribing at LesleyLogan.co/subscribe https://lesleylogan.co/podcast/#follow-subscribe-free.In this episode you will learn about:How to let your sex life evolve with every stage of life.The five-year journey and setbacks behind Celeste's debut book.The four archetypes for healing and reclaiming sexual agency.Why faking orgasms is a “fawn response” and how to break the cycle.The freedom of defining your own sexual ethic in the “glittery middle”.Episode References/Links:Dr. Celeste Holbrook's Website - www.drcelesteholbrook.comDr. Celeste Holbrook's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drcelesteholbrookDr. Celeste Holbrook on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DrCelesteHolbrookMissionary Position: A Slightly Irreverent Guide to Sex After Purity Culture by Dr. Celeste Holbrook - https://a.co/d/3UimUKxA Well-Trained Wife by Tia Levings - https://a.co/d/ibRaesYFourth Wing Series by Rebecca Yarros - https://a.co/d/7Qhgk2REp. 202: Jake Kelfer - https://beitpod.com/jakekelferEp. 265: Daniella Mestyanek Young - https://beitpod.com/daniellayoungGuest Bio:Dr. Celeste Holbrook is a sex educator, speaker, and small-town Texas horse girl who's on a mission to make conversations about sex less awkward and way more empowering. With a Ph.D. in Health Education from Texas Woman's University and a thriving virtual practice, Celeste helps people create lives filled with pleasure, connection, and confidence—starting in the bedroom. After years of struggling with pain and shame around sex, she set out to find answers no one else could give her—and ended up becoming the expert she needed. Today, she guides women toward pleasurable sex by helping them understand their bodies, claim their worth, and ask for what they want without apology. If you enjoyed this episode, make sure and give us a five star rating and leave us a review on iTunes, Podcast Addict, Podchaser or Castbox. https://lovethepodcast.com/BITYSIDEALS! DEALS! DEALS! DEALS! https://onlinepilatesclasses.com/memberships/perks/#equipmentCheck out all our Preferred Vendors & Special Deals from Clair Sparrow, Sensate, Lyfefuel BeeKeeper's Naturals, Sauna Space, HigherDose, AG1 and ToeSox https://onlinepilatesclasses.com/memberships/perks/#equipmentBe in the know with all the workshops at OPC https://workshops.onlinepilatesclasses.com/lp-workshop-waitlistBe It Till You See It Podcast Survey https://pod.lesleylogan.co/be-it-podcasts-surveyBe a part of Lesley's Pilates Mentorship https://lesleylogan.co/elevate/FREE Ditching Busy Webinar https://ditchingbusy.com/Resources:Watch the Be It Till You See It podcast on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq08HES7xLMvVa3Fy5DR8-gLesley Logan website https://lesleylogan.co/Be It Till You See It Podcast https://lesleylogan.co/podcast/Online Pilates Classes by Lesley Logan https://onlinepilatesclasses.com/Online Pilates Classes by Lesley Logan on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjogqXLnfyhS5VlU4rdzlnQProfitable Pilates https://profitablepilates.com/about/Follow Us on Social Media:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lesley.logan/The Be It Till You See It Podcast YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq08HES7xLMvVa3Fy5DR8-gFacebook https://www.facebook.com/llogan.pilatesLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesley-logan/The OPC YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@OnlinePilatesClasses Episode Transcript:Celeste Holbrook 0:00  Expecting your sex life to look the same when you are 20 and 30 and 50 and 70 is not helpful for you, and so allowing it to mature as you mature is the most helpful thing that you can do for yourself, I think, when when it comes to your sex life.Lesley Logan 0:19  Welcome to the Be It Till You See It podcast where we talk about taking messy action, knowing that perfect is boring. I'm Lesley Logan, Pilates instructor and fitness business coach. I've trained thousands of people around the world and the number one thing I see stopping people from achieving anything is self-doubt. My friends, action brings clarity and it's the antidote to fear. Each week, my guest will bring bold, executable, intrinsic and targeted steps that you can use to put yourself first and Be It Till You See It. It's a practice, not a perfect. Let's get started. Lesley Logan 1:02  Hey, Be It babe, okay, this might be the first guest that is coming on for a third appearance. I think she won. I could be wrong, but I think she won. Dr. Celeste Holbrook is back. She's back. We're gonna talk about a couple of things. We're gonna talk about sex, we're (inaudible) we're gonna talk about her book. We're gonna talk about the journey that one goes on to get their work out into this world. And so even if you are like, I don't want to talk about the sex part, like, well, we should talk about the sex part. That's actually what we should do. But I want you to hear this, because I think it's so easy to hear people on a podcast go, oh, it's so easy for them because they got on a podcast, like, it's so easy, and you don't hear all the doors that get shut all the time. And I also am excited for you to hear like there are people in this world who just want to help each other out, and I think we need evidence of that. And I'm super, super excited that I get to be a cheerleader for amazing humans in this world like that. When I think about my, like, genius zone or something like that. Like, sometimes I think it's that I just get to cheer on people who are doing hard things and go, I see you, and you're doing great. And I can't wait. I can't wait. So guys, I'm gonna stop this, because we're gonna get right into we get right into it. And if you have this is the first time you're hearing about Dr. Celeste Holbrook, I really encourage you to go back to the first two episodes we did together. Go do the oldest one, then the second one, because I think you'll get a full picture of everything. We talked about a lot of good stuff. So she's gonna change your life. All right, here she is. Lesley Logan 2:31  All right, all right. So you guys, we're just gonna get right into this episode. Dr. Celeste Holbrook is back. You guys, third time won't be the last time. I somehow have to have her on annually. I think, Celeste, can you tell everyone why you're back. Let's just get in. Let's just start there. Celeste Holbrook 2:46  Okay, so I'm so excited, I can't even, like, contain myself. So I'm back because I have a book out, and I have a book really, truly because of Lesley Logan, because I have tried to publish this book for so long with traditional publishing, and I just got closed door after closed door after closed door for a lot of different reasons, which maybe we do and don't go into, I don't know, but Lesley reached out to me and was like, Celeste, I have this company. They do professional publishing. They're really great, and I just latched onto it, and I did every single thing that they suggested, and it was such a beautiful experience. So the whole point of this is I have a book, and I have a book because of you, and I want to aggressively love you today for encouraging me to do this.Lesley Logan 3:38  I am taking all that love also like this podcast, is why you have it, because I met that guy, because I interviewed him. And I have to, like, I'm not even I'll have to go back to the archives to figure out how I got this person, but I interviewed him, and I'm like, I really like this person. Like, I think he's great. Like, I've written a book, and I would have loved his help. Then, because I met him and had him on the pod, we had three of our clients use him, so I got to see from different perspectives how it was so when, and here's the thing, you were always on my feed, like, the algorithm would always, like, send you, and I like, just love all your stuff. And then it, like, kind of stopped, because I don't know that's how the algorithm works. And I happened to look at your stories, it was your stories, I'm pretty sure, and you were sharing this thing. And I'm not normally someone who's like, let me go in on the six minutes of a story. But I was like, I'm procrastinating. I'm in and so I was like, wow, what perfect timing this was, because I could have easily missed that whole section. And so I just want to, I'm just so grateful for divine like, I think that, like, there's divine appointments and divine interventions in a non-church way, guys, but we're meant to be in each other's lives and this book. Okay, so I guess, in case people don't know who you are, maybe we should do a quick like, who are you? Because we have new listeners, right? Hi, new listeners. You're going to want to go back to the other two. We're going to link them in the show notes. But can you tell everyone who you are and what you rock at? Celeste Holbrook 4:57  Yes, absolutely. So my name is Dr. Celeste Holbrook, I am a sex educator, and I have a PhD in health behaviors with a postgraduate emphasis in sexual behaviors. So I help people, a lot of women and lots of couples, figure out how to make sex better, whether that is they are experiencing pain or they're experiencing shame from growing up in like, ultra religious household, or they just need, like, some help through menopause or through after having a baby or things like that. So I am your very practical sexual health help. That's what I do. Lesley Logan 5:38  I love it the practical because, you know, like, I will say, having lived in L.A. and going to different sex shops, you don't look like the person who works the sex shop. Celeste Holbrook 5:48  No, no. Lesley Logan 5:50  Not to like, like to stereotype. But there's a, there would be a type that, like, works at the sex shop, and it's not you.Celeste Holbrook 5:56  Yeah, no, it's not me. And I just want to be super accessible, because not everybody wants to, like, swing from the chandeliers all the time. You know, a lot of people are out there just struggling to find the time to connect. Like, I cannot tell you how many times I have had a conversation about what to do with the dog in your bedroom when you want to have sex so the dog's not looking over at you or jumping on the bed, or, like, these are the practical applications that we are talking about in sex education in my consult sessions.Lesley Logan 6:27  Yeah, well, and because, because I think everyone's just so overwhelmed, like I saw something, and someone's stories, and they're like, went to their friend, their niece's like, soccer game, and she's like, looking around just like, no wonder no one's having sex. Like everybody is at the soccer game and they're exhausted, and then get the soccer game they're fighting about to do or you forgot the thing. Like, no, no answer. But nobody wants to have sex after this. Celeste Holbrook 6:53  No, no. Why would you want to have sex after that? Exactly right. That's exactly right, yep. Lesley Logan 6:59  So, so I want to touch on, like, there's a lot of different chapters, and maybe this is something that your book covers, but like, there's, you know, I think when we're younger and like, it feels like it's easier to do things, maybe, and then you get older, and like, there's more responsibilities and there's more stuff to think about. And like, it becomes something that goes away, and then your hormones change. So, in your book, do you cover, like, the journeys that were all going on, or is it more specifically for people from the purity culture, like, what? What were you excited to write about?Celeste Holbrook 7:30  Sure. So the book is called, I have the manuscript and printed out right here. It's called Missionary Position: A Slightly Irreverent Guide to Sex After Purity Culture. So I do take the approach of, like you growing up in a purity culture background, in, like, a high demand religion background, evangelical culture, things like that. But the book is in four parts. So like a four-part guide to basically healing, and you can apply these steps to any issue you are having in sex. So, yes, I do talk quite a bit about the effects of purity culture and how to overcome those effects. But it can, you can apply it to, you know, the trauma you had from a sexual assault. You can apply it to just the doldrums of being married to the same old penis for like, 20 years or whatever, you know, like you can apply these steps to anybody. So basically, there's four steps, and I have made them into archetypal women. So your first step is your analyst. She's like, the nerd she's looking at, like, okay, what are we carrying around? What does your backpack look like that you're carrying around? Is it full of shame? Is it full of neglect? Is it full of fear? Like she's the analyst. Your second archetypal woman is your assassin. She's she is taking what the analyst has found, and she is just like, slicing through it, right? She's your assassin. She's your inner assasin. She's your deconstruction, basically. Your third archetypal woman is your healer. So after you've done the work of understanding what's in your backpack, slicing out what needs to go, then your healer starts helping you regenerate your ideas about sex through a gentle reeducation. So we're relearning about some things that maybe we have always thought one way about. Maybe we're relearning about the idea of virginity. We're relearning the I about masturbation. We're relearning about what great sex is, right? The healer is our gentle reeducation, and then our fourth archetypal women woman is our explorer, and she's like, gonna try some new things. She's gonna go to the sex toy store, she's going to touch herself in a new way, and maybe, if that's too much, maybe she's gonna try sex with the lights on, right. And so these are the four women. They represent four steps, and within each step there are some really practical things that you can do to help move you to the next step. So you can apply this to any issue you're having in sex, and get to the other side where you're trying, you're you're now exploring, you're trying new things.Lesley Logan 10:12  I that's a way. I mean, well, like an archetype. I like that. And I've, you've been on my mind a lot lately, because society is quite interesting right now, like the trad wife situation. I'm like, that looks really beautiful. Like, I would love, like, I have white countertops. I'd love them to clean all the time. I'm certainly not capable of doing it. But I'm like, I don't know that. I think they're doing a really good job marketing a beautiful esthetic without realizing, like, all the stuff that comes with that, you know, like, all the religious stuff that comes with that, and how that can harm how we feel about our bodies. And I, I like, was raised in purity culture, and I didn't think it affected me. I'm like, I'm good. But actually, no, actually, I remember, like, I remember, oh, it does, because you're like, you think that you're like, oh, I'm on that. I'm that doesn't affect that like you, you start to realize, even if you weren't raised in church, just the way that public school systems have appropriated some of the modesty rules, like what you're told, what you can wear to school and and how thick this the tank top strap can be, and you can't be disruptive, even though the boys' pants are halfway down their legs, and I'm looking at underwear all the time. You know, I think that even for people who weren't raised where they're told, like, your father has you until you're given away to someone else, there is some level where all of us were affected by like, don't be a distraction. Don't, make sure you don't wear that so you don't look like a certain like you're not attracting bad people, you know, that kind of a thing.Celeste Holbrook 11:44  Yeah, I totally agree, Lesley. I think that there's very few people in the United States that have a great, comprehensive, inclusive sex education. I think very few of us. I think this is changing, and hopefully with, you know, recycle breaking next and next generations, but American society in general wants to put sex on either end of a spectrum. We want to either like, don't think about it. Don't talk about it. This is not for you until you are reaching a certain age or marriage or whatever, and then on the other side is like, why aren't you liberated enough to have all to do all these things you know, like, so there's these two, like, ends of the spectrum, and all of us really live in the middle. Yeah, none of us is really on either side at all, but we but it like breaks America's brain to try and think about, like, living outside of one of those two spectrums. So I talk about in the book about the non, about the non-binary. We are not binary people. As far as what we want to do in our sex life, and figuring out, how do you live in the middle area, which we often call gray, but I call glitter. Yes, it's the most fabulous place to live is in the middle, in this glittery middle, where you get to define your own sex ethic based on your value system, on your intuition, on your sex education, and you get to decide what works best for you. And maybe that is boundaries around when you have sex awesome, as long as it's your choice that's amazing. And maybe that is opening your relationship up and trying swinging or whatever it is that's awesome as long as it's your decision and not one manipulated by society or cultural values or religious values.Lesley Logan 13:27  Yeah, I think that's, I think I like to think about that even this thing, it's, you're right, it's America, it's people like, I'm in Pilates industry. And I said something the other day where I was like, well, you can say that, but it doesn't like, there's also the idea that we could prepare people for an exercise, right? And this person, like, went off on me, and I was like, so you need to understand that what you're mad about me is what you're doing here. Second, Pilates is not black or white. It's not this or that. It's a lot of gray. It's a lot of glitter, like glitter. It's like, because our bodies are different and where we are in our practice, where we are in our life, maybe what season we're in, maybe you're in a season of young children, it's going to be very different what you're wanting and ready for, and have the capacity to take on versus they're teenagers and out of the house and really don't care where you are versus you don't have kids at all. Like, there's all these different seasons. And I think we are like, oh, this is how I've always liked it, so this is how I have to keep liking it. Celeste Holbrook 14:25  Yes, yes, that's so wise, Lesley, that's so wise. I think there are a lot of and we talked about this in our last on our last podcast together, a lot of the similarities between what happens in sex and what happens in like a Pilates, a workout space or Pilates space, as far as how we view our bodies and what we feel is like, right, or what we feel is appropriate, I guess, for our bodies like I should be wanting this, because that's what I did when I was 27 or I should be looking like this, because that's what I looked like when I was whatever, 30 or whatever. And I think there's lots of room to allow ourselves compassion to grow as we grow in our sex life, in our workouts and whatever, expecting your sex life to look the same when you are 20 and 30 and 50 and 70 is not helpful for you, and so allowing it to mature as you mature is the most helpful thing that you can do for yourself, I think, when, when it comes to your sex life. Lesley Logan 15:28  Yeah, we'll keep talking about this, it'll come up. But I do, I do want to go back to like, the journey of this book, because this book has been in you for a really long time. And I think whether or not people want to write a book, you can insert goal, whatever your goal is, because you we will all in trying to get something out into the world or get something that we desire done, hit roadblocks. So you hit some roadblocks. Can we talk about, how many years of roadblocks? Can we talk about what you like, what kind of roadblocks you were hitting and, like, how did you keep going? Because quite honestly, I'm surprised you even told the story, you know what I mean, like, I'm surprised you didn't go, okay, well, that's that, the door, the door has been slammed shut.Celeste Holbrook 16:12  Yeah, yeah. And I really appreciate you asking this, because I know sex is really fun to talk about, but this is, like, my personal, like, lifelong dream is to have a book, and it feels really, I feel really seen when you ask about the process of it, and when I think about the be it, you know, be it till you see it, bold, executable. I think I'm getting this right, intrinsic, targeted, so I think about my word for this year was bold. So that was like, my like, I gotta be more bold. I want to say what I want to say. I don't want to be making myself smaller anymore. So the story behind the book, I have always thought about writing a book. I myself am a slow reader. I don't read very fast, and I for a long, long time I thought I was dumb because I don't read very fast, which is silly when I think about it now, but all growing up, I was slower than all of my friends reading. It was frustrating to read. And I've just, I like, I was still a good student. I still did all of the things that I needed to do, but I just, I just took time. I just took more time to write, to read all of those things, and I think in part, that's what made me get a PhD, because I wanted to prove to myself that I wasn't dumb. Turns out, I'm not dumb. I just am. I need to go at my own pace. And so one of the things that you talk about a lot on the podcast is like, how do you prioritize yourself? I prioritize myself by allowing myself to go at my own pace, like I can read as slow as I need to read, I can answer emails as slow as I need to answer emails. It's frustrating to me and other people, but at the end of the day, like it, it's honestly who I am. I'm just considerate and slow and thoughtful, and I've learned to like that about myself instead of hate that about myself. So the idea of writing a book was really, like tantalizing to me, but I had a lot of insecurities about my ability to actually do it. I'd written a dissertation, which is I, in my opinion, harder because it's boring. Lesley Logan 18:19  Yeah, yeah, no, that's one of the reasons why I, like, stopped going to school. I was like, I can't write another boring paper.Celeste Holbrook 18:25  Oh, my God. Like, who's reading? Like, my mom didn't even read it. She's like, oh, congratulations. It's like, collecting dust, right? So I had done that, and so I thought, like, well, if I'd written a dissertation, it just take you just take a chunk at a time. I can surely write a book. So in 2000 and let's see 2016, Nate and I was like, Nate, I really want to write a book. I'm going to go to a writer's conference. So he's like, great, let's go. I was like, found one in Hawaii. He's like, even better, let's go.Lesley Logan 18:55  I love, I love when a goal and a tax write off can be in a place you want to go. Celeste Holbrook 19:01  That's right, that's exactly right. We ended up getting a tent. There's like, these glamping tents on Maui that you can get, and it's just, like, really fun. It's like, on the beach, but you still have, like, sort of a bathroom, you know. But so we're, like, we needed to do it on cheap, because we were kind of broke, like, got these glamping tents, and I went to these writers conference during the day, and Nate did whatever during the day was at this writing conference, and it was through Hay House, and there was a contest. So if you went to the writers conference and you wrote a proposal, you could enter it in, and they were going to pick three writers to to give a book deal to, I would, and this is me being so sure of myself. Like, yes, I've spent a lot of time feeling insecure that about my reading and writing. But for the most part, my whole life, I have been, like, with no good reason, confident. Like, I'm just like, I don't know, confident.Lesley Logan 19:53  Yeah. I mean, that's cool. That's a great that's so many people don't inherently have that. I. And like to kind of have that and then use it is a wonderful, it's a wonderful thing. Celeste Holbrook 20:06  Yeah, I just, I just was like, no, I'm gonna get this, you know, I'm gonna write this proposal. People are gonna love it. I'm gonna get this competition. Anyway, long story short, did not win any (inaudible). Lesley Logan 20:16  Oh, I thought this was going towards you won. Oh, my God, she won. It. (inaudible) second look. I automatically just assumed you're gonna slay. So I'm just like, she won.Celeste Holbrook 20:32  This is about closed doors, Lesley. Lesley Logan 20:34  Okay, that's true. That's true. Celeste Holbrook 20:36  Yes. So I did not win. I was for sure I was gonna win, did not win, not even, like, a hello, right? So I was like, oh, maybe I need to work a little harder. So I had this whole proposal. My book was like, looking back, I'm like, I'm so glad that I didn't win. My book was called Sexual Wealth. Lesley Logan 20:54  Oh, yeah, that's that's not you.Celeste Holbrook 20:57  It's not me. I was like, it was like, sex through finance, bro language or something. And I was just like, this is a terrible idea, but the spark was there, like, I really wanted to write a book. So that was 2016 I kind of held onto it, thought about it, kind of put it in a drawer for a while. In 2019 I got on a fairly large podcast with Jen Hatmaker, so she's an author, and she does a lot of work in, like the ex-evangelical space, or had started down that road. So I got on this podcast through just like pitching. I got on this podcast. It's pretty big, big podcast. And not long after that, a person from HarperCollins, like a division of Harper Collins, reached out to me and said, hey, have you ever considered writing a book? So the publisher reached out to me, which is very unusual. Lesley Logan 21:47  That is cool, though. Yes. Celeste Holbrook 21:49  Yeah, yeah, very unusual. Usually, you are pitching to publishers. So they heard me on the podcast, and they were like, hey, you know, we're interested in you submitting a proposal. I'm like, I'm freaking out. Like, this is so exciting, right? I realize I probably need representation, so I get a literary agent. I kind of shop around and get a literary agent. She's amazing, Rochelle, and I end up pitching my proposal. I worked it out, you know, I update it from sexual wealth to something else. I update it, I pitch it, and they're pretty slow. The publishing industry is so slow, you know this, you know this, so slow. Lesley Logan 22:24  I have watched too many of my friends write books. I'm so great. I'm proud of all of them. But also the ones that have gone traditional publishing, it is slow, like molasses moves faster, you guys. That's, you know, like, just don't bet on don't hold your breath.Celeste Holbrook 22:40  Oh my gosh, it's the slowest process of all time. And so I was like, okay, I, you know, they reached out to me. So I'm here in my very confident space, like, oh no, they're gonna laugh. Yeah, they're gonna choose. They reached out to me. Why wouldn't they choose me? At this point, I have like, 1500 followers. I have, like, I have no platform, right? I still have a very small platform, but a bunch of really engaged, lovely humans. So I'm, I'm fairly sure they're going to choose me. Eventually, months and months and months later, they get back to me and they're like, yes, we want it is literally like, I don't know, six months later, they're like, we want to offer you a contract, and we want to go under contract, just small. It's a $20,000 contract. They're gonna pay me 10,000 upfront, and then 10,000 the book publishes. I was like, great, I have to pay out my agent too. So I'm I'm coming home with like, $8,500. I was like, oh my gosh, this is amazing. Just to get one dime to like (inaudible).Lesley Logan 23:36  I mean that you got anything, because it's not, it's not always normal that even a first time writer gets anything until the book sells. So, yeah.Celeste Holbrook 23:44  Yes. So I was thrilled. I was thrilled. So I started writing my little heart out. They don't actually give me anything, a contract or anything, until my my my first draft is due. So I turned in my first draft and then they signed me. So I write the whole book without a contract. So submit the first draft. This is like March of 2020, so keep that in, put to context. Things that are. Lesley Logan 24:08  Things are things are going on. Celeste Holbrook 24:10  Things are going on. What's happening? So I get my first round of edits back. I'm still super excited. And then in July, my agent calls me, and she's like, I hate to have this conversation with you, but your book has been orphaned. Your editor left the company, and nobody else wants to pick it up. Lesley Logan 24:32  No, no. Celeste Holbrook 24:35  Yeah. So this is like, in the big scheme of things, like, it was the way it needed to work out, because they were already giving me feedback. It was the (inaudible) the imprint. And I'm not trying to slander any publishing industry, but this is just what happened to me, right? I was getting feedback of, like, oh, I don't know if you should, like, go that hard. Or I don't know if you should. You might alienate readers. If you talk about religion in this way, or, you know, this is you're gonna lose your Catholic audience. I'm like, I'm not trying to make the Catholics happy. I'm sorry. Lesley Logan 25:12  Yeah, yeah, yeah. When I interviewed, I don't know if it was in my interview, but when I was talking with Daniella Mestyanek Young who wrote Uncultured, she was only allowed to talk about three sexual like, misconduct, things that happened to her, and not even the worst ones. They actually, like, got rid, yes, yeah, they were like, and you can only talk like they she had to. And she's been very vocal about it. She's like, because she was talking about God and all these things and like, like, yeah, you can't really talk about that. And then she was like, you know, saying that she got raped in military. And they're like, so we don't like, maybe we just do only one of those, like, very and so, and she was with a publisher, and she got published, but she it's a watered down version of her story, because apparently readers wouldn't be able to handle the true thing. And it's like, you know, like, we're, how are we supposed to change the world? We don't know what's going on. So anyways, yeah. Celeste Holbrook 26:02  Yeah, I and I heard, I heard that kind of from different places, like, oh yeah. I had to, like, say this instead of that or whatever. And I'm like, yeah, that's a little bit happening to me. And I had written it with the understanding, like, this is for a still Christian audience. I understood this, it was with a Christian publisher. So I'm like, that's fine. Like, as a sex educator, you have to be able to be fluid enough to write to the audience that's in front of you. Like, when I go speak, sometimes I'm in front of really conservative audiences, and I adapt my language. That's fine. Like, that's okay to do. I'm still, I still feel helpful. I still feel like I'm pushing the envelope, but in a way that feels the most accessible for the audience in front of me. So I'm okay adjusting, but also like I didn't, I didn't want to water it down so much that I felt like it wasn't me. Lesley Logan 26:51  Yeah, yeah, yeah. Celeste Holbrook 26:53  So anyway, lost my contract in July 1st of 2020, which was and that whole thing, the whole next two years was really difficult. My husband is an emergency medicine physician and it was just a real hard time in the family, family. Lesley Logan 27:09  Yeah, no, lots, lots going on, lots of stress, lots of worry, lots. Yeah, you're afraid, yeah, you know. So like, you know. So we live where we live, and not everyone believe we're going through certain things. So that's even more stressful. Yeah. Oh, my God, that's a lot. The book, the book hit a wall.Celeste Holbrook 27:26  It hit it hit a wall, and probably had to find time. But I was, I was really, just really sad. Rochelle, my agent, was like, okay, we're just gonna, like, pick it back up. We have this proposal, we have a book written. It's, it'll be easier for another publisher to pick us up. And so we start, like, pitching to these other publishing companies. She has all these connections, you know, she's pitching, pitching, pitching, nothing's landing. I'm getting good feedback back. Like, you know, your platform's too small. That's fair. I started trying to grow it. You know, that's when Instagram was a little easier to grow. Now it's super hard to grow. But started growing it. I went from 1500 to 20,000 you know. Lesley Logan 28:04  That's a big deal, because other 20,000 like, those are not bought, you know, like, yeah.Celeste Holbrook 28:09  No, yeah. And I'm a hard follow. I get that. I have, like, you know, dildos in my videos. Like, I get that I'm not an easy follow. It's not and I'm, you know, Shadow banned all the time, and I get all these notifications that my stuff is not being shown to new audiences. I get that. I get that I'm a hard follow, but that's what publishers want. They want you to have a ready-to-buy platform, which I get. They're trying to make money. But I got a lot of that feedback. I got a lot of, ooh, this is a little it's a little too much for us as a Christian publisher. Like, okay, I get that. And then it was kind of like this line for non, non-Christian publishers, like, we don't really, we don't really talk about religion that much, and then we're not really talking about sex that much.Lesley Logan 29:00  Right? So you're like, too much of the different things for the different people, that's really rough, because it's like, we'll never be everything for anyone, but to not feel like you fit somewhere when you have something to say, that's hard.Celeste Holbrook 29:13  Yeah, yeah, it is really hard. And I think it's what people needed. It's because it's, again, it's the glitter, it's the middle. Like, yeah, I don't fit into either of these spaces. I'm kind of like exploring the middle, right? So that was the feedback I was getting. And finally, we did that for five years, from 2020 to 2025 October of 2025 Rochelle had a call with me, and she's like, honey, I have nowhere else to go. I'm sorry. This has to be the end of it. Bless her. She she did the best that she had, and I am forever grateful for her. But that was it, and that was that's where we're caught up to, where you saw my story, and I was like, just sharing with my audience like I had an unhappy ending, and I'm gonna sit in my sadness right now and just tell you, like life isn't always hunky dory for a sex educator, for anybody, for you for me, and this is where I am right now, and I'm pissed and I'm sad, and the end, right? And then sweet Lesley shows up in my DMs, and she's like, babe, I have this great idea for you. I'm like, okay, so she you send me this information for this company I have a call with, I think Jake who you interviewed. Lesley Logan 30:19  Yeah, Jake Kelfer. Yep, yep, yep. Celeste Holbrook 30:21  I have a call with Jake, and let me tell you, working with them has been and I'm not getting paid for any of this right to for BIB, but working with them has been so healing, so much agency in the process. I got to say exactly what I wanted to say. I got to go at the pace that I wanted to go, like, it was just incredible. Lesley Logan 30:44  So is this book, like a new book? It's not what you're pitching around. It's the glitter you really wanted to write. Celeste Holbrook 30:51  It's the glitter I really wanted to write. Totally different. Yeah.Lesley Logan 30:54  Yes, oh, I love that. And also, like, so, first of all, you guys, did you hear five years? Five years and now we're going on, you know, like, so, yeah, five years and then now big. But here's the other thing, like going through all of those things, you got feedback and made tweaks and did these things. So then when you're writing the book that we're gonna all get to read, I can't even wait to read it. It's the best version of a book that could ever be, because it's really not your first book you've written so manyCeleste Holbrook 31:24  You're so right. And over the course of the years, I changed, as we should. I hope I look back in five years and go like, yeah, I'm a different, new person from who wrote this book. But I was different, and I was more comfortable, like, straight up saying I'm not a Christian anymore. You know, I was more comfortable saying, like, is this a religious book? Yes, because we talk about religion. Do I identify as Christian? No, because of these reasons. Do I think we could learn some stuff from the Bible? Sure. Do I think we're going to talk about the Bible? Yes. I think we have to, because we're talking about purity culture. But I don't, you know, certainly not in 2020 was I willing to be like, yeah, I'm not a Christian, but so much stuff happened between 2020 and 2025, that just took me right on out.Lesley Logan 32:10  Yeah, yeah, no, I hear you on that. I and, you know, like, I have a brother in seminary school, so it's very interesting around here. And I had just said, you know, if, if, the if, all the Christians in the world actually did what Jesus said, like, we would have solved child child poverty and immigration and health care. And, you know, I've had a family member respond, well, if everyone just came to know, and I'm like, no, no, no, that's actually not what the Bible says. Here's the problem, I've read it so like I where I am in my life, which five years ago I was definitely not. Is just like I'm frustrated that a book, any book, has controlled people in such a way that's affecting even their sex lives, but also just lives, the lives of people who didn't even read the book. And so that's where, like, I get upset we don't have to have religious talk on this podcast. But that's that's just where, like, I'm coming from as a person with it. I'm, like, I have a really hard time with it, because it's not a loving world, and it with all the people who say they are, you know, believers. It should be. It should be a very loving world. So, so I think it's really I love. Thank you for sharing the story. This is great.Celeste Holbrook 33:30  Yeah, I totally. I just want to affirm what you're saying. Because I think the the main bottom line for me was it has harmed more than it has helped. Has it helped? Absolutely, there's some really beautiful ways in which Christianity has helped, but has it harmed more than it has helped? I absolutely believe, yes. And so for me, that was the final straw. Do I think Jesus was cool? Yeah. I think He was a radical non-white dude who did really amazing things that we can learn from, right? I believe he saved me from my sins. Not really, but, yeah, that's where I landed. And I was able to say this in in this book, which I would never have been able to do before. Lesley Logan 34:09  Well, also, thank you for sharing it with us, because I also just someone like to see it's a really interesting thing to say, like my husband and I, like go like to say out loud, it's very I don't want to speak for him, because, like, maybe it was a different but, like, it's really hard to say out loud when you're like, I don't believe anymore, and you're like, you know?Celeste Holbrook 34:29  Right, it feels really weird. Lesley Logan 34:31  Yeah, it does. But because it's such an identity that you're raised with, and I think going back to, like, that purity culture that your book is about, and by the way, everyone, like, I just want to say, like, even if you haven't been in that, it's, I think that reading about those things really helps me. It makes it helps make the world make sense to me. Like, I read Tia Levings book, A Well-Trained Wife, and I was like, oh, I get it now. I get why they're acting like this. I get why they're thinking this. Because, like, otherwise, you're like looking at people like they're aliens, and you're like, I don't understand. So I also think it can be really impactful to read just to understand, what are people thinking? What are they going through? Why is it harder for some people to have great sex, or want to have great sex, or feel comfortable having great sex, than for other people? Celeste Holbrook 35:18  Yeah, I totally agree with you. It's so fun, interesting. Most of couples that I talk to, most of them are straight couples, heterosexual couples, and a lot of times, the woman in the partnership will, you know, talk about sex in one way, and the man in the partnership will talk about sex in a different way. And just like, I just don't get it. If it feels good, why wouldn't you want to do it? And so when we kind of like, deconstruct and explain, like, well, she's been taught that sex is dangerous her whole life, and so her nervous system feels on alert, even when there are good things in the future to come with that sexual experience. So to have to overcome this idea of fear and danger in your nervous system, just to get to the beginning of arousal is a whole different ball game than you who starts at arousal, and because it feels very regulating, like, I lean into arousal because it feels regulating as a straight man who's raised in America, and so like, just being able to, like, if you're a dude who picks up this book, It might help you understand the women in your life a little bit better, even if they didn't grow up in purity culture. Most of us grew up with the idea that sex is going to harm us. Lesley Logan 36:28  Yeah, yes. Well, I mean, like, yeah, it's like, even if you weren't raised that way, you also, as a woman, were raised like, be fearful of any bad any man who's coming near you, walking up next to you, like, all these different things. And so it is very difficult to just like, let that go. It's not like, it's like, oh, it's Halloween. I can get Todd Kenny from a stranger now, like, this doesn't work like that. You know, like especially because it's like, your whole life these just little things that are being told. I think that's great for men to read. I think that's such a that's a, what a wonderful way to think about it, who this book could be helpful for? I want to take a brief detour, because you said something on your Instagram a bit ago that truly, like, blew my mind and also made so much sense, right? You said, if you're faking an orgasm, you're fawning, right? It's a fawn response. So can we talk about what a fawn response is? And that a little bit, because I think too many women do that. I only say that because I have friends who talk about it and I'm like, I mean, I just wouldn't just would be like, it's not working today, sir.Celeste Holbrook 37:38  Yes, yeah. I mean, I've done it when I was experiencing really painful sex when I first got married, because of vaginismus, because of purity culture, like I did anything to try and get out of the situation, right? So, so a fawn response is something that we do in response to something traumatic. When something traumatic happens, we go into fight, flight, freeze or on. So fawn is I'm pleasing you know this, this circumstance or person in my life, so there are no negative consequences, all right. So when we fake orgasms, and a lot of women have a lot of guilt around doing this, and this is why I posted that, because I want you to feel not guilty about this. I don't want you to do it forever, but I want you to understand why you're doing this. We fawn response an orgasm when we feel overwhelming pressure to have an orgasm when we feel overwhelming pressure to have an orgasm, it's coming from a fragile man who cannot handle or has put too much value on your ability to come as a validation for his ability to be great, right? I put too much pressure on your ability to be to come is a validation of my ability to be good or great. So part of the work has to become men saying like my validation is not wrapped up in her ability to come, without saying, I still can't give her pleasure. It's kind of, it's, it's, it's nuanced, but I really want women to understand when you're fawning, when you're faking an orgasm, you are essentially doing harm reduction. I don't want the negative consequences of his fragility, so I will fake it so I don't have to deal with that. That is easier for me. That is harm reduction.Lesley Logan 39:47  Right, right, right. And one would hope that a conversation or few could be had, like, here's what's going on and here's how I don't want you to feel and here like, yeah, that's probably where you come in. Celeste Holbrook 40:01  Yes, yeah. It's a really delicate situation. I do have lots of times people come in and the female, the woman in the partnership, will be like, hey, you know, this is what's going on, and this is why I want us together to come but to sessions, but like, I don't know how to tell him, like, it's been years and I've been faking it for years, right? Okay, no problem. We don't have to. I don't believe full transparency is always kind. I believe in honesty. I don't necessarily believe in full transparency. Like, you can, you can be really unkind with full transparency, but you can still be honest. Like, hey, I really want to experience a little bit more sensation when we have sex. Can we work on some new techniques? Can I show you how I masturbate? Can we make it slower so I can feel something different? I really want to make my orgasm stronger, right? So we can be clear with what we want going forward without being like, you know what? I faked it for the last 12 years, right? Because that's on you for not for not saying something as well. Lesley Logan 41:08  Yeah? Because that doesn't like, it can only be, it's not anyone's fault. But also, like, they can't change if they don't know, yeah. Oh, you're so brilliant. You're so amazing. Wait, when is the book coming out? When do I get to read it? When can I preorder, like.Celeste Holbrook 41:23  You are so cute. So it'll by the time this drops, it'll already be out, and we'll send links to to upload it, but it comes out on June 10th and so it's right around the corner. Lesley Logan 41:32  Okay, well, I'm gonna pre I'm gonna pre order. I gotta or I'll order on June 10th. So we can make you a number one, Bestselling Author. We get whatever we get to do, so I can write my authenticated review. After buying it, all the things I can't wait. I'll take it with me on tour.Celeste Holbrook 41:49  Thank you. I'm so like, I just like, I'm cheesing so hard because I'm so excited about it. I reread it again this morning, just like as a skim to look at all the layout on the pages. And I'm just so proud of it. I'm so proud of it, like it finally is here.Lesley Logan 42:07  I have so many chills. I'm gonna cry. Okay, we're gonna take a brief break. We're gonna find out how people can find you, follow you and work with you. Celeste Holbrook 42:14  Okay. Lesley Logan 42:15  All right, Dr. Celeste Holbrook, where do you hang out? You said Instagram. Is there anywhere else? What links? What input handles? Where can they go to buy the book is it on your website, all the things.Celeste Holbrook 42:25  Yes, the book is on the website, but you can buy it the most easily on Amazon. If you do, please leave a review that would be really helpful. And you can go to my website to get into Pleasure Club. That's my monthly subscription where we have a sex ed session every month and a book club session every month we flip between fiction and nonfiction books, which is really, really fun. Lesley Logan 42:44  Oh, fun. I know Brad and I got into the, of course, like everybody in the world, we got into the the dragon situation, yeah. Okay, every. Celeste Holbrook 42:52  Fourth wing? Lesley Logan 42:53  Yeah, yes. Fourth wing, the second one, the third one. You guys, we actually reread the first and second one to listen to the third one, we're going to go back through all three. Highly recommend it with your, with your partner. I think it's a great she writes good sex stories. They don't it's not super cheesy. So I really like them. Celeste Holbrook 43:13  I love that. I think this revolution. I mean, people have been reading Roman ensembles forever, but I think it's really healing. I actually wrote about this in my newsletter this week. Reading sex scenes through a female lens is really, really healing and really helpful, because it it gives you the confidence to be like, oh, I can ask for that, or I can wait for that, or I can ask to slow down or speed up, or whatever, and I can expect somebody to listen and garner consent and all of those things. So reading sex scenes through the female lens or listening to them, I think, is very, very helpful. Celeste Holbrook 43:46  Yeah, yeah. Anyways, I got distracted from your book club. So what's your website again? What's your handle? Celeste Holbrook 43:53  So you can find me at Dr. Celeste Holbrook on Instagram, on and on YouTube, and my web, my website. drcelesteholbrook.com. I just had like a whole mind blowing, like I was thinking about sex scenes written through the female Iens and I couldn't I couldn't go back. Yeah.? So, drcelesteholdbrook is where you can find me almost anywhere. Dr Celeste Holbrook. Lesley Logan 44:14  Perfect, yeah. Sorry, I have an ADHD brain. Lesley Logan 44:16  I love it. I love it. Lesley Logan 44:18  Bold, executable, intrinsic or targeted steps people can take to be it till they see it. What do you have for us this time? Celeste Holbrook 44:23  Oh, well, something we talked about already earlier. But the way that I am best executable is actually just to go at my own pace, even though it's slow.Lesley Logan 44:32  Yeah. Oh, I love that. I really do love that. And I also, you mentioned, like, the prioritizing of self. That's one of the ways you did it. I wanted to acknowledge like when you sat in your car and you shared that something had come to an end, that is also a way of prioritizing yourself, because you're feeling your feelings, and you're also letting people know that you're feeling these feelings, like we don't have to, like pretend around people, so just thank you for being you, and always for, you are always in the word gets misused, but you are so authentic and so authentic and just, I really feel like I've it's been so fun over the past five years to watch you grow with what you're doing and how you're educating people and how you're supporting people. And so I'm just so grateful to be on your journey. I can't wait to read your book. I'm so stoked for you. This is the coolest thing. And and you guys, how are you gonna use these tips in your life? Please tag Dr. Celeste Holbrook, send this to a friend. Here is the deal, not all friendships talk about sex, so one of the things you can do is just send the podcast or the book. You don't have to have the if you're not there yet, that's okay. But I think like, the more, the more women hear about all these different things that could be glitter, the more life we're living and the more fun we're having, the more we feel seen. So just thank you so much for being you, Dr. Celeste Holbrook.Celeste Holbrook 45:53  Lesley, you are the reason this book exists. I cannot thank you enough. Thank you so much for having me in your life and on your podcast. And someday, someday we will hug each other in real life.Lesley Logan 46:03  Yeah, yeah, yeah. We will. It'll happen. I think this winter tour, I feel it in me. All right, you guys, you know what to do. Until next time, Be It Till You See It. Lesley Logan 46:12  That's all I got for this episode of the Be It Till You See It Podcast. One thing that would help both myself and future listeners is for you to rate the show and leave a review and follow or subscribe for free wherever you listen to your podcast. Also, make sure to introduce yourself over at the Be It Pod on Instagram. I would love to know more about you. Share this episode with whoever you think needs to hear it. Help us and others Be It Till You See It. Have an awesome day. Be It Till You See It is a production of The Bloom Podcast Network. If you want to leave us a message or a question that we might read on another episode, you can text us at +1-310-905-5534 or send a DM on Instagram @BeItPod.Brad Crowell 46:54  It's written, filmed, and recorded by your host, Lesley Logan, and me, Brad Crowell.Lesley Logan 46:59  It is transcribed, produced and edited by the epic team at Disenyo.co.Brad Crowell 47:03  Our theme music is by Ali at Apex Production Music and our branding by designer and artist, Gianfranco Cioffi.Lesley Logan 47:11  Special thanks to Melissa Solomon for creating our visuals.Brad Crowell 47:14  Also to Angelina Herico for adding all of our content to our website. And finally to Meridith Root for keeping us all on point and on time.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/be-it-till-you-see-it/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of SHE MD, host Mary Alice Haney delves into the world of sleep and female insomnia with Dr. Shelby Harris, author of "The Women's Guide to Overcoming Insomnia." Dr. Harris shares her expertise on behavioral sleep medicine, addressing common sleep issues faced by women across different life stages. The discussion covers everything from pregnancy-related sleep disturbances to the challenges of perimenopause and menopause.Access more information about the podcast and additional expert health tips by visiting SHE MD Podcast and Ovii. Sponsors: Purely Elizabeth: Visit purelyelizabeth.com and use code SHEMD at checkout for 20% off. Purely Elizabeth. Taste the Obsession. Cymbiotika: Go to Cymbiotika.com/Shemd for 20% off plus free shippingMidi: You deserve to feel great. Book your virtual visit today at JoinMidi.com Opill: Opill is birth control in your control, and you can use code SHEMD for twenty five percent off your first month of Opill at Opill.com.Vionic: Use code SHEMD at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use onlyNutrafol: Nutrafol is offering our listeners ten dollars off your first month's subscription and free shipping when you go to Nutrafol.com and enter promo code SHEMD. Dr. Shelby Harris' 5 Key Takeaways:Establish a Sleep Schedule: Aim to go to bed and wake up within a consistent 1.5-hour window each day, even on weekends. This helps regulate your body's natural sleep-wake cycle.Prepare for Rest: Just as many women embrace evening rituals like skincare, preparing for sleep is a crucial step in combating insomnia. Indulge in a warm bath approximately two hours before your intended bedtime. This allows your body temperature to drop naturally, signaling that it's time to sleep.Mind Your Intake: Be mindful of your consumption of alcohol and caffeine. It's best to avoid them within 3 to 8 hours of bedtime to prevent interference with your sleep quality.Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Transform your bedroom into a sleep sanctuary by keeping it cool, ideally in the mid-60s Fahrenheit, and ensuring it is as dark as possible.Focus on Feeling, Not Just Numbers: If you're tracking your sleep, pay more attention to how rested and functional you feel during the day rather than fixating solely on the data. Remember, the effort to sleep is often counterproductive; allow rest to come naturally.In This Episode: (00:00) Introduction(03:05) Explaining the behavioral sleep medicine specialty(08:16) Insomnia vs. normal sleep disturbances(11:14) Treating female insomnia without medication(27:18) When to prescribe medications and which ones(36:44) Sleep needs across different age groups(49:45) Sleep challenges during pregnancy and postpartum(54:38) Perimenopause: A perfect storm for sleep(1:02:16) Non-negotiables for better sleep habitsRESOURCES:Accuracy of Three Commercial Wearable Devices for Sleep Tracking in Healthy Adults - NIH Study GUEST BIOGRAPHY:Dr. Shelby Harris is a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice in White Plains, New York who specializes in behavioral sleep medicine (BSM), working to improve the sleep of everyone from babies through older adults using evidence-based methods.She is also a specialist in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression in adolescents and adults. Her unique expertise is frequently sought out by colleagues and well-respected medical institutions world-wide.She is one of the very few board-certified BSM specialists in the northeast, with less than 160 clinicians worldwide who hold this distinction.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this eye-opening episode of SHE MD, hosts Mary Alice Haney and Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi welcome Dr. Kerry Assil, a renowned Lasik and cataract surgeon. Dr. Assil shares his expertise on various eye conditions, innovative treatments, and the latest advancements in eye care. The discussion covers a wide range of topics, from refractive lens exchange to dry eye disease, macular degeneration and hidden dangers from makeup and eye rubbing. You'll walk away from this episode with a clear understanding of common eye conditions—and practical, everyday tips to keep your vision at its best.Access more information about the podcast and additional expert health tips by visiting SHE MD Podcast and Ovii. Sponsors: Timeline is offering10% off your order of Mitopure - Go to timeline.com/SHEMDCymbiotika: Go to Cymbiotika.com/Shemd for 20% off plus free shipping + free shipping today.Opill is birth control in your control, and you can use code SHEMD for twenty five percent off your first month of Opill at Opill.comUse code SHEMD at checkout for 15% off your entire order at www.vionicshoes.com when you log into your account. 1 time use onlyHead to LiveConscious.com and use code SHEMD for 15% off your first purchaseSave 20% Off Honeylove by going to honeylove.com/SHEMD Dr. Kerry Assil's 5 Key Takeaways:Blink consciously to preserve eye health: Set reminders to blink frequently when using screensAdjust sleep position: Sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees to reduce eye strain.Clean eyelids daily: Use soapy water (or a gentle cleanser) to wash eyelids and lashes during showers.Stop rubbing your eyes: Be mindful to avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent corneal damage.Consume antioxidant-rich foods: Add blueberries and other antioxidant-packed foods (like leafy greens, nuts, and fish) to your diet for better eye health.In This Episode: (00:00) Introduction(06:30) Refractive lens exchange for vision correction(11:22) Dr. Aliabadi's experience with eye surgery(21:00) Dry eye causes and treatments for better eye health(26:30) Eye issues unique to women(35:33) Eagle Eye LASIK technique explained(38:10) Macular degeneration and treatment advances(40:41) Corneal scratches and proper care(42:21) Eye makeup safety and allergiesRESOURCES:Dr. Kerry Assil's InstagramDr. Kerry Assil's YouTubeDr. Kerry K. Assil's FacebookDr. Kerry K. Assil's WebsiteGUEST BIOGRAPHY:Dr. Kerry K. Assil is a world-renowned, board-certified LASIK and cataract surgeon, recognized as one of the foremost experts in laser vision correction. With over 30 years of experience and more than 70,000 eye surgeries performed, he is one of the most experienced cataract surgeons in the United States.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.