Episodes

  • Ep. 486 The Ultimate Progesterone Masterclass for Women Part 2 with Cynthia Thurlow, NP

    Ep. 486 The Ultimate Progesterone Masterclass for Women Part 2 with Cynthia Thurlow, NP
    Jul 26 2025
    We have a follow-up from our last mashup episode on progesterone today, featuring Dr. Amy Killen, Dr. Anna Cabeca, and me, as we share our insights on the significance of progesterone for women’s health and the importance of personalized hormone therapy. In this mashup episode, I explore the importance of individualized hormone therapy and the benefits of progesterone, even post-hysterectomy. Dr. Amy Killen explains how progesterone sensitivity affects some women, discusses the importance of laboratory tests when evaluating hair loss, and cautions against popular but ineffective treatments. Dr. Anna Cabeca emphasizes the need to build foundational health before starting bioidentical hormones and outlines her approach to hormone replacement. Join us for an informative discussion on how progesterone, when tailored to individual needs, can support hormone balance and overall well-being. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Amy Killen On her website HopBox (Supplement Company) Subscribe to Dr. Amy’s Substack Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca Website On social media: @the girlfriend doctor
    Show more Show less
    54 mins
  • Ep. 485 Emotional Dysregulation & Nervous System Repair with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge

    Ep. 485 Emotional Dysregulation & Nervous System Repair with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge
    Jul 23 2025
    Today, I am delighted to reconnect with Dr. Roseann, an integrative children's mental health expert and the founder of the Global Institute of Children's Mental Health. Over the last 30 years, Dr. Roseann has helped thousands of children and families overcome the most challenging behavioral and mental health conditions. In our conversation today, we take a deep dive into emotional dysregulation, exploring the biology behind it and the origin of emotional triggers. We discuss parenting and boundaries, the effects of rumination and negative thinking, the value of mindset changes, the role of gut health, vagal tone, and the connection between the gut and brain. Dr. Roseann also walks us through QEEG brain testing, touching on pharmacological options, lifestyle, AI, and tech, and sharing her favorite supplement for mental health. As always, this discussion with Dr. Roseann is rich and insightful, and I know you will enjoy it as much as I did. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: What emotional dysregulation is, and what it takes to break free from emotionally dysregulated patterns How the brain's perception of safety can either support or block emotional regulation Steps to take if you find yourself in a pattern of dysregulation The importance of teaching children about boundaries How changing your mindset can help you break free from negative thought patterns How subliminal negative messaging from parents trickles down to the children The link between rumination and emotional dysregulation How stress affects gut bacteria and impacts brain function The benefits of QEEG brain mapping AI technologies that can help regulate the nervous system Bio: A mental health trailblazer, media personality, and founder of The Global Institute of Children’s Mental Health and Dr. Roseann, LLC, who is on a mission to change the way we view and treat mental health, showing people it's gonna be ok with science-backed tools that calm the brain. With her trademarked BrainBehaviorResetTM Program, she has helped thousands address the most challenging conditions affecting kids and families today, including PANS/PANDAS, OCD, anxiety, mood/behavior, and ADHD/executive functioning. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on X Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge On her website Podcast: Science Fact Solutions for Dysregulated Kids
    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 8 mins
  • BONUS: Toxic Food Culture: How Our Food Choices Impact Our Health with Dr. Will Cole

    BONUS: Toxic Food Culture: How Our Food Choices Impact Our Health with Dr. Will Cole
    Jul 21 2025
    I am honored to reconnect with Dr. Will Cole today! Dr. Cole is a leading functional medicine expert who specializes in clinically investigating underlying factors of chronic disease and customizing a functional medicine approach. He is the author of many books, including the New York Times bestseller Intuitive Fasting and, most recently, Gut Feelings, a book I think everyone will benefit from reading. Today, Dr. Cole and I delve into the impetus behind his latest book, discussing the toxic food culture, mixed messages, the psychology of food, finding peace with food, and how to reduce our toxic tribalism. We also discuss inflammatory foods and their impact on our gut microbiome, the role of the vagus nerve, how chronic stress is the ultimate junk food for the body, the effects of adverse childhood experiences and trauma, and what shame-flammation is. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Cole discusses his latest book, Gut Feelings The role of mixed messages What is most important in the wellness world? Types of foods that do not serve the best needs of our bodies Is it the grain, or is it what we have done to it? What are we feeding our bodies? How to differentiate between poor vagal tone and dysautonomia Stress and how it impacts our biochemistry How stress is implicated in many health problems Re-negotiating your relationship with life The role of trauma in weight loss How shame can be the basis of many physical and emotional health issues. Bio- Dr. Will Cole: Dr. Will Cole is a leading functional medicine expert who specializes in clinically investigating underlying factors of chronic disease and customizing a functional medicine approach for thyroid issues, autoimmune conditions, hormonal imbalances, digestive disorders, and more. He is the host of The Art of Being Well podcast and author of Ketotarian, The Inflammation Spectrum, New York Times bestseller Intuitive Fasting, and now, Gut Feelings: Healing the Shame-Fueled Relationship Between What You Eat and How You Feel. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on ⁠Twitter ⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠ Check out Cynthia’s ⁠website⁠ Connect with Dr. Will Cole On his ⁠website⁠ ⁠The Art of Being Well Podcast⁠ Get a copy of Dr. Will Cole’s new book, ⁠Gut Feelings⁠ ⁠Ep. 138 – Our Authentic Intuition: What It Can Teach Us About Fasting with Dr. Will Cole
    Show more Show less
    55 mins
  • Ep. 484 AMA #13: Strength, Hormones & Muscle in Midlife with Cynthia Thurlow, NP

    Ep. 484 AMA #13: Strength, Hormones & Muscle in Midlife with Cynthia Thurlow, NP
    Jul 19 2025
    Today, I am excited to welcome you to AMA #13. In this AMA episode, I cover a wide range of topics, including satellite stem cells and the importance of strength training as estrogen and testosterone levels decline. I also answer many questions about hormone replacement therapy, offering general explanations and resources rather than medical advice. Join me for another information-packed AMA session. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why strength training and sufficient protein intake are essential when your estrogen and testosterone levels drop Importance of HRT for women experiencing mood disorders What reverse dieting is, and how it is more challenging for middle-aged individuals than younger people Benefits of testosterone for muscle building and executive function How low estrogen levels impact the body When should you start taking estrogen? How reduced satellite cell activity during menopause can impair muscle repair and regeneration The value of progesterone, beyond the uterus What are peptides, and why are they important? How GLP-1s can assist blood flow and immune regulation, and support tissue regeneration Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on X, Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Research Links: Estrogen Regulates the Satellite Cell Compartment in Females Sarcopenia and Menopause: The Role of Estradiol (2021)/Frontiers in Endocrinology Previous Episodes Mentioned: Ep. 470 Your Midlife Hormone Survival Guide with Dr. Amy Killen Ep. 198 Dispelling Myths about Hormone Replacement Therapy with Dr. Bluming and Carol Tavris Ep. 448 Hair Loss in Women: Causes, Fixes & Expert Tips with Dr. Omer Ibrahim Ep. 463 Midlife Body Masterclass: Strength, Bone, Metabolism with Dr. Vonda Wright, Dr. Stacy Sims, Dr. Shannon Ritchey, and Debra Atkinson Ep. 406 Protein, Creatine, and Training for Menopause and Beyond with Dr. Stacy Sims Ep. 386 Muscle Strength in Menopause: Key Tests & Lifestyle Measures with Dr. Vonda Wright Ep. 456 Why Muscle Matters: Metabolism, Myths & More with Dr. Shannon Ritchey Ep. 321 Muscle, Bone & Joint Health in Menopause with Debra Atkinson Recommended Books: Estrogen Matters by Dr. Avrum Bluming and Dr. Carol Tavris
    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Ep. 483 Menopause, Mood & Inflammation Insights with Dr. Aaron Hartman

    Ep. 483 Menopause, Mood & Inflammation Insights with Dr. Aaron Hartman
    Jul 16 2025
    I am delighted to have Dr. Aaron Hartman, the founder of Richmond Integrative and Functional Medicine, joining me today as my very first guest in my podcast studio! In our conversation, we dive into the common mood issues women experience during perimenopause and menopause. We explore the immune and inflammatory impact of hormonal changes, the role of protein and key supplements, and the importance of comprehensive nutritional support in preventing chronic disease. Dr. Hartman also highlights the effects of hormone fluctuations, stress, and nutrient deficiencies, as well as the importance of gut health, hormone optimization, and personalized treatment plans in addressing chronic inflammation, trauma, and environmental factors such as mold. This conversation with Dr. Aaron Hartman is full of insight, wisdom, and practical guidance that every middle-aged woman deserves to hear. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: How societal expectations exacerbate women’s stress and mood issues Dr. Hartman shares his foundational approach to hormone optimization. The value of breath work for managing dysautonomia and trauma Environmental mold and mycotoxins, and their impact on our health The link between Lyme disease and autoimmune disorders Immune system changes menopausal women experience and the protective benefits of estrogen How protein is essential for proper immune functioning, and the benefits of supplementing with whey protein and collagen Addressing inflammation to help women avoid heart disease and cancer Trace minerals in bone broth and benefits to menopausal women maintaining optimal health Potential impact of long-term fasting and low-calorie diets on appetite and overall health Bio: Dr. Hartman's journey with functional medicine started when he & his wife adopted their first daughter from foster care. She has cerebral palsy & countless dietary issues. They went from specialist to specialist and, even as a physician, he felt let down & confused. His daughter's health struggles forced him to confront an uncomfortable realization: Our current healthcare system doesn't have all the answers. His wife, however, refused to give up hope. She ultimately pointed him to functional medicine. His daughter & other two kids began to thrive. After years in family practice, he felt called to make a dramatic shift. He now helps patients identify leverage points in key areas of their lifestyle & health that harness their body's remarkable power to heal and begin living the vibrant life they deserve. He has become the go-to doctor for difficult and complex cases in central Virginia. As a clinical researcher, Dr. Hartman has been involved with over 70 clinical studies. He is the founder of the Virginia Research Center and currently serves as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Family Medicine at the VCU School of Medicine. In 2016, he founded Richmond Integrative and Functional Medicine. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Aaron Hartman Richmond Integrative and Functional Medicine Made for Health Podcast YouTube Channel
    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 34 mins
  • BONUS: The Thyroid Debacle: All About Thyroid Health with Dr. Eric Balcavage

    BONUS: The Thyroid Debacle: All About Thyroid Health with Dr. Eric Balcavage
    Jul 14 2025
    I’m delighted to reconnect with Dr. Eric Balcavage today! He is the owner and founder of Rejuvagen, a functional medicine clinic in Pennsylvania. He is also a nationally recognized speaker and educator on various health-related topics, including thyroid physiology, detoxification, methylation, and chronic illness. Dr. Eric Balcavage joins me for the third time today to discuss his new book, The Thyroid Debacle, co-authored with Dr. Kelly Halderman. We dive into his motivation for writing his book, discuss cellular hypothyroidism and its triggers, and get into the impact of chronic low-grade inflammation on our mitochondrial health. We go into why hypothyroidism is a spectrum, the role of bile in thyroid functioning, and the impact of hypothyroidism on our sex hormones. We also discuss the incidence of Hashimoto’s, why iodine is so controversial, labs we want to look at more closely with thyroid issues, and supplements and nutrition. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Eric explains why clinicians are failing their patients concerning thyroid management and diagnosis. A better clinical approach to thyroid issues. Dr. Eric unpacks cellular hypothyroidism. Why weight loss is a lot more complicated than simply counting calories and fasting. The function of bile, apart from breaking down and emulsifying fat Problems that might occur after having the gallbladder removed. The impact of hypothyroidism on the sex hormones. How a broader approach could ultimately result in more effective treatment strategies. Dr. Eric shares his view on what triggers the development of goiters. Is iodine supplementation necessary? Dr. Eric shares his thoughts on nutrition for thyroid health. The best supplements for reducing inflammation. Bio Dr. Eric Balcavage is the owner and founder of Rejuvagen, a functional medicine clinic in Chadds Ford, PA. He is a nationally recognized speaker and educator on various health-related topics, including thyroid physiology, bile physiology, detoxification, oxidative stress, methylation, and chronic illness. Dr. Balcavage is a Certified Nutrition Specialist (C.N.S.), a Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner, Board Certified in Integrative Medicine, along with being a licensed Chiropractor in Pennsylvania. Dr. Balcavage is the co-host of the Thyroid Answers Podcast. The podcast focuses on answering the pressing questions that those suffering from chronic hypothyroid symptoms can’t get answered elsewhere. You can find his educational Thyroid Thursday videos on Vimeo and YouTube. Dr. Balcavage has made it his mission to change the way medicine looks at hypothyroidism. He is the co-author of the book The Thyroid Debacle. The book, co-written by Dr. Kelly Halderman, addresses the problems with current allopathic and functional medicine approaches to hypothyroidism as well as the solutions to restoring thyroid physiology. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on X, ⁠Instagram ⁠LinkedIn⁠ Check out Cynthia’s ⁠website⁠ Connect with Dr. Eric Balcavage On his ⁠website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ Dr. Balcavage’s book, ⁠The Thyroid Debacle⁠, is available from Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Balboa Press, or online. Listen to episodes ⁠105⁠ and ⁠166⁠ with Dr. Eric Balcavage
    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 11 mins
  • Ep. 482 How the Oral Microbiome Impacts Your Whole Body with Dr. Staci Whitman

    Ep. 482 How the Oral Microbiome Impacts Your Whole Body with Dr. Staci Whitman
    Jul 12 2025
    I am thrilled to connect with Dr. Staci Whitman today. She is a leading authority in functional dentistry, on a mission to revolutionize oral healthcare with a unique blend of scientific expertise and compassionate care, dedicated to creating a knowledgeable and cavity-free world. In our discussion, Dr. Staci explains how the oral microbiome functions as a gatekeeper for systemic health, and we examine the impact of chronic mouth breathing and the significance of nitric oxide production. We explore allergies, myofascial symmetry, physical therapy, sleep disorders, and breathing as a continuum, and discuss changes during menopause that impact the oral microbiome, affecting salivary flow, bacterial diversity, risk for gum disease, changes in taste, oral pain, and impaired immune defences. Dr. Staci shares her thoughts on how dentistry needs a reboot, whether fluoride should be in drinking water and toothpaste, and the impact of veneers, braces, and Invisalign. She also offers tips and tools for optimal oral health. This discussion with Dr. Staci Whitman offers powerful insights, and I look forward to having her join us again after her book comes out in 2027. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why is the oral microbiome so important? Why chronic mouth breathing is not benign The steps middle-aged women can take, from a dental perspective, to help navigate hormonal changes during menopause How oral dysbiosis affects various organ systems How hormone replacement therapy can save the quality of your jawbone and teeth Why women must optimize their diets to support midlife hormonal changes How common dental advice can sometimes be more harmful than beneficial for the long-term health of your microbiome. Ways to optimize your oral microbiome The benefits of tongue scraping and oil pulling Popular dental trends that concern Dr. Staci, as a dental expert Bio: Dr. Staci Whitman, a leading authority in functional dentistry, is on a mission to revolutionize oral healthcare. With a unique blend of scientific expertise and compassionate care, she's dedicated to creating a cavity-free world. Dr. Staci is board-certified in pediatrics, integrative dentistry, and naturopathic dentistry and is one of the only dentists in the world to have her Functional Medicine Certification from the Institute of Functional Medicine. She founded one of the leading Functional Pediatric Dental offices in the country, where she takes a whole-body and holistic approach to her care. She is the co-founder of the Institute for Functional Dentistry, launching in summer 2025, and lectures globally on Functional Dentistry and the Oral Systemic Connection. She is also the co-founder of Feed Your Good Guys (Fygg), a microbiome-friendly oral care. With a passion for optimizing the oral microbiome, hormonal health, nutritional status, and sleep and airway health, she is a sought-after expert and educator with a heavy focus on preventative dentistry, cavity arrest, and remineralization, and the oral-gut-brain axis. Dr. Staci passionately shares her knowledge and insights on creating happy teeth and healthy lives. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Staci Whitman On her website Instagram
    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Ep. 481 Alcohol’s Impact on the Brain, Hormones, and Cancer Risk with Dr. Brooke Scheller

    Ep. 481 Alcohol’s Impact on the Brain, Hormones, and Cancer Risk with Dr. Brooke Scheller
    Jul 9 2025
    I am delighted to reconnect with Dr. Brooke Scheller today. She is a doctor of Clinical Nutrition, an author, and the founder of Functional Sobriety, a nutrition-based program for alcohol reduction. In our discussion, we explore current trends and shifts in alcohol use and what it means to be sober-curious. Dr. Scheller shares insights on how to have conversations about alcohol use with teenagers and young adults, on recognizing the signs of blackouts and binge drinking, and on the brain changes and elevated cancer risks associated with alcohol use. She also offers her perspective on using GLP-1s to reduce or prevent alcohol cravings, highlights the physiological differences in how alcohol affects men and women, and clarifies how to support the natural detoxification pathways of the body when consuming alcohol or navigating a sober-curious lifestyle. This valuable and insightful conversation with Dr. Brooke Scheller is essential listening for anyone seeking a healthier approach to alcohol use. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: How awareness and acceptance of sobriety and reduced alcohol consumption are growing The value of approaching alcohol reduction as a proactive health decision The long-term effects of alcohol on cortisol levels and overall health The importance of addressing your relationship with alcohol before counseling teenagers or young adults on alcohol use The potential neurological risks and brain effects of long-term alcohol use How alcohol use is linked to seven types of cancer The potential benefits and limitations of GLP-1s for managing alcohol cravings The different ways in which alcohol affects men and women Some simple ways to support detoxification Bio: Brooke Scheller, DCN, CNS Dr. Brooke Scheller, Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, stands at the forefront of a transformative movement in health and wellness. As the esteemed founder of Functional Sobriety and the author of "How to Eat to Change How You Drink," Dr. Scheller has dedicated her career to revolutionizing the approach to alcohol recovery and holistic well-being. Inspired by her journey to sobriety in 2021, Dr. Scheller embarked on a mission to empower others to reclaim their lives through nutrition and functional medicine. Drawing upon her extensive expertise, she crafted an innovative approach that not only liberates individuals from the grips of alcohol but also fosters profound improvements in brain health, mood regulation, energy levels, focus, gut health, and hormone balance. In 2022, Dr. Scheller launched Functional Sobriety, a groundbreaking approach that has since garnered global recognition and acclaim. Serving as a beacon of hope for those seeking an alcohol-free lifestyle, Functional Sobriety provides a comprehensive platform encompassing a supportive wellness community, educational resources on alcohol recovery through nutrition, and pioneering custom supplement solutions tailored for both the sober and the sober-curious. Beyond her role as a visionary entrepreneur, Dr. Scheller is a motivational speaker, captivating audiences with her passionate advocacy for functional nutrition, alcohol-free wellness, and the transformative power of sobriety. For further insights and guidance on your journey to wellness, connect with Dr. Brooke Scheller on Instagram (@drbrookescheller) or visit her websites at brookescheller.com and functionalsobriety.com. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Brooke Scheller On her website Book website Instagram Substack
    Show more Show less
    57 mins