Inspired Wellness

Many women have already figured out that dieting doesn't work. Yet even after leaving diets behind, many of us still carry the mindset of diet culture: obsessing over food choices, labeling foods as "good" or "bad," constantly second-guessing our bodies, and chasing the next wellness trend in hopes that it will finally be the answer. In this week's episode, Michelle sits down with nutritionist, author, and podcast host Laura Heflin to discuss a topic that doesn't get talked about nearly enough: orthorexia—the unhealthy obsession with eating "perfectly" healthy. Laura shares her deeply personal story of falling into a cycle of over-exercising, under-eating, losing her menstrual cycle, and becoming consumed by the pursuit of health. What began as a desire to feel better slowly turned into a toxic relationship with food, exercise, and body image. Together, Michelle and Laura explore why so many women remain trapped in diet culture thinking even when they no longer follow formal diets, how social media fuels food confusion, and why learning to trust your body may be one of the most important wellness skills of all. Laura also shares the 10 Lifestyle Principles that helped her heal her relationship with food and now serve as the foundation of her work helping women create sustainable, realistic wellness habits. In This Episode You'll Learn: What orthorexia is and why it often goes unrecognized The difference between pursuing health and becoming obsessed with health Signs that healthy habits may be crossing into unhealthy territory Why diet culture continues to influence women long after they stop dieting How social media contributes to confusion around food and wellness The power of intuitive eating and learning to trust your body's signals Why perfectionism often sabotages long-term health goals Laura's 10 Lifestyle Principles for creating lasting wellness How small daily habits create meaningful health transformations Why food freedom and health can coexist Laura's 10 Lifestyle Principles:Don't start something today you can't do for the rest of your life.Embrace the 80/20 lifestyle.Become a planner.Eat real food.Eat small and eat often.Stop counting calories.Tune into your body.Remember: you are what you drink.Prioritize sleep.Move the way your body wants to move. If you've ever felt exhausted by wellness rules, confused by conflicting nutrition advice, or trapped in an endless cycle of trying to "get healthy," this conversation will remind you that health doesn't have to be complicated—and that peace, not perfection, may be the real goal. Connect with Laura HeflinLaura Heflin is a certified nutritionist, four-time published author, and host of the Live Healthy with Laura Podcast. Through her books, coaching, and podcast, she helps women build sustainable wellness habits, heal their relationship with food, and create healthy lifestyles that last. Website: livehealthywithlaura.com Instagram: @livehealthywithlaura Facebook: Laura Heflin Podcast: The Live Healthy With Laura Podcast (Apple Podcasts | Spotify) Check out Laura’s most recent book: Just Jump: And Overthinker’s Guide to Getting Unstuck, Gaining Traction, and Taking Chances (Amazon) Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation!

What if the fatigue, weight gain, brain fog, and hair loss you’ve been told are “just perimenopause” are actually a thyroid issue your standard labs are missing?In this episode of the Inspired Wellness Podcast, Michelle and Tabitha sit down with Angela Brown — a functional medicine health coach, Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner (FDN-P), licensed physical therapist, and certified personal trainer — who specializes in thyroid and hormone health for women. Angela was diagnosed with hypothyroidism at 22 and spent nearly fifteen years being told her numbers looked “normal” while her symptoms told a very different story. It wasn’t until she discovered she actually had Hashimoto’s that her healing journey truly began.In this conversation, Angela breaks down what the thyroid is really doing in the body, why thyroid dysfunction becomes so common and confusing in perimenopause and menopause, and why the standard TSH-only test is failing so many midlife women. She explains why Hashimoto’s is the number one cause of hypothyroidism — and why most women have it for years without ever being told. She also walks us through what a complete thyroid workup actually looks like, what to do when your doctor won’t run it, and what real, root-cause thyroid healing looks like through her ReBalance program.If you’ve ever felt dismissed, gaslit, or stuck on the thyroid medication carousel — this is the episode you’ve been waiting for.In This Episode, We Cover:Why thyroid issues become so common — and so confusing — in midlifeA plain-language breakdown of TSH, Free T3, Free T4, and reverse T3Why Hashimoto’s is the #1 cause of hypothyroidism (and why most women aren’t told)The critical difference between autoimmune thyroid disease and “regular” hypothyroidismWhy the standard thyroid panel is failing women — and which markers you actually needAffordable, direct-to-consumer options when your doctor won’t run a full panelWhy “TSH improved but I still feel awful” is a clue, not a dead endA note on hyperthyroidism and Graves’ — what’s different and what’s the sameThe advanced functional tests Angela uses (HTMA, DUTCH, GI mapping, full thyroid panel)What real results look like through Angela’s ReBalance programAbout Angela BrownAngela is a functional medicine health coach based in St. Louis, MO, specializing in thyroid and hormone health for women. She is a board-certified Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner (FDN-P), licensed physical therapist, and certified personal trainer. After being diagnosed with hypothyroidism at 22, Angela experienced firsthand the frustration of “normal” labs but ongoing symptoms. Through advanced functional testing and a root-cause approach, she was able to restore her health. She now helps women uncover what standard testing often misses using data-driven protocols, and is the creator of the ReBalance program — designed to help women heal their thyroid, rebalance their hormones, and finally feel like themselves again.Connect with AngelaInstagram: @angelabrowncoachWebsite: angelabrown.orgConnect with Michelle Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation!Email: michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.comSchedule a free discovery call with Michelle: theinspiredwellnesscoach.comFollow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoachCheck out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here!Michelle@TheInspiredWellnessCoach.com Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

If your child plays sports and suddenly started dealing with breakouts, forehead acne, chin strap irritation, or skin issues that seem impossible to control… this episode is for you.This week on the Inspired Wellness Podcast, Michelle and Tabitha sit down with Dallas Miller, founder of Clear Champion, to talk about the very real connection between sports, sweat, bacteria, helmets, sunscreen, and teen athlete acne.Dallas shares how watching her own daughter struggle with sports-related breakouts led her to create a skincare line specifically designed for young athletes and busy sports families.Together, they discuss:Why athletes often experience more acne and skin irritationHow sweat, friction, helmets, chin straps, and gear affect the skinThe surprising role bacteria plays in sports-related breakoutsWhy many teen skincare routines are actually damaging the skin barrierSimple skincare habits that busy kids will actually stick withSports bag essentials for athletesWhy cleaning sports gear matters more than most parents realizeNutrition and hydration tips for active kids and teensEasy pre-game fueling ideas for athletes who “aren’t hungry”The importance of recovery, rest, and protecting young athletes from overtrainingThis episode is packed with practical advice for sports moms, parents of active kids, and anyone navigating the world of teen athlete skincare.Connect with Dallas Miller & Clear Champion:Website: Clear ChampionInstagram: @clearchampion Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation!Email: michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.comSchedule a free discovery call with Michelle: theinspiredwellnesscoach.comFollow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoachCheck out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here!Michelle@TheInspiredWellnessCoach.com Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

In this episode of Inspired Wellness Podcast, Michelle sits down with wellness creator, 50+ model, and founder of Silver Highlights 1971, Juliana Spaven, for a refreshing conversation about what it really means to age well naturally in midlife. After struggling through perimenopause symptoms including insomnia, anxiety, weight gain, irritability, and burnout, Juliana completely transformed her approach to wellness. Instead of chasing quick fixes, she began focusing on foundational habits like sleep, nutrition, strength training, clean beauty, mindset, and facial exercises — and the results changed her life. Today, Juliana inspires hundreds of thousands of women online with her message that aging is not something to fear — it’s something we can approach with strength, vitality, and intention. In this conversation, Michelle and Juliana discuss:Why so many women are told their symptoms are “normal” in perimenopauseThe foundational habits that truly support healthy agingWhy sleep, strength training, protein, and mindset matter more than expensive “hacks”The hidden toxins in conventional skincare and beauty productsWhat facial exercises and face yoga actually do for the muscles and fascia in the faceHow lymphatic drainage and fascia release can impact puffiness and jowlsWhy aging well naturally is about consistency, not perfectionThe mindset shift women need to stop fearing agingHow to start making healthier swaps without feeling overwhelmedWhy midlife can actually become your most vibrant season yet This episode is packed with empowering, practical advice for women navigating perimenopause, menopause, and midlife wellness. Connect with Juliana Spaven:Instagram: @silverhighlights1971Facebook: Silver Highlights 1971 on FacebookTikTok: @silverhighlights1971 on TikTokWebsite: Silver Highlights 1971Resources Mentioned:Beauty Heroes Clean Beauty Subscription: Beauty Heroes Subscription BoxJuliana’s Facial Exercise Program: Facial Exercise ProgramSign Up for Juliana’s Newsletter: Silver Highlights NewsletterIf you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — it truly helps more women discover these conversations. Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation!Email: michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.comSchedule a free discovery call with Michelle: The Inspired Wellness CoachFollow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoachCheck out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here! Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Peptides are everywhere right now—from social media to wellness clinics—but what are they really… and are they safe?In this episode of the Inspired Wellness Podcast, Michelle and Tabitha sit down with board-certified physician Dr. Angela Straface, founder of Feel Ideal 360, to break down the truth about peptides—what they are, how they work, and what midlife women need to know before trying them.If you’ve been hearing about peptides for weight loss, anti-aging, energy, or hormone balance… but feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start—this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode What peptides actually are (in simple terms) Why peptides are trending right now—and what’s driving the hype The difference between safe, medical-grade peptides vs. “gray market” options Major red flags to watch for when buying peptides online Real risks of unsafe peptides (and why this matters more than you think) How peptides support energy, hormones, sleep, and longevity The top peptides Dr. Straface recommends for midlife women Why foundational health still matters more than any “quick fix” The Part Most People Aren’t Talking AboutThis conversation goes deeper than the typical peptide hype.Dr. Straface shares:Why many peptides sold online are labeled “not for human consumption”The dangers of unregulated products and improper dosingWhy working with a qualified provider is essentialBecause when it comes to your health—more is not better, and cheaper is not safer. A Smarter Way to Think About PeptidesInstead of seeing peptides as a shortcut, this episode reframes them as: A tool (not a magic fix) Something that should be personalized to your body Most effective when combined with foundational habits like sleep, nutrition, and stress supportAs Michelle always says:“Foundations first—then optimize.” About Dr. Angela StrafaceDr. Angela Straface is a board-certified physician with over 25 years of experience and the founder of Feel Ideal 360 in Southlake, Texas.After years in emergency medicine, she shifted to a proactive, root-cause approach—helping patients optimize hormones, energy, and longevity through personalized, physician-led care. Connect with Dr. Straface Website: www.feelideal360.com Location: Southlake, TX (in-person + telemedicine available nationwide) Phone: 972-656-1200 Listen NextIf you missed it, go back and listen to: Peptides 101: What They Are & Why Everyone Is Talking About ThemApple Podcasts Episode 55Spotify Episode 55This episode builds on those basics and goes much deeper into safety and real-life application. Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation!Email: michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.com Schedule a free discovery call with Michelle: theinspiredwellnesscoach.comFollow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoach Check out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here!Michelle@TheInspiredWellnessCoach.com Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

What if the colors you wear could change how people perceive your confidence, credibility, and leadership?In this episode of Inspired Wellness Podcast, Michelle and Tabitha sit down with Christy Meaux, founder of Cohesive Confidence, to explore the powerful connection between color psychology, personal branding, and confidence — especially for women navigating midlife reinvention.After experiencing seasons of profound grief and transformation, Christy began re-examining how women show up in the world. That journey led her to create Cohesive Confidence, a business that helps women align their identity, visibility, and personal brand in a way that feels authentic and empowering.Through color analysis and brand strategy, Christy helps entrepreneurs and professionals understand how the colors they wear — and the way they present themselves — can influence confidence, connection, and credibility.In this inspiring conversation, Michelle, Tabitha, and Christy discuss:• Why many women feel called to reinvent themselves after 40• How color psychology affects perception and confidence• The surprising impact color can have on your personal brand• Why shifting from “I have to” to “I get to” changes your mindset• How women can reclaim confidence and visibility in midlife• Christy’s inspiring “50 in 50” goal — 50 speaking engagements during her 50th yearIf you’ve ever felt like you're entering a new chapter in life, career, or identity, this episode will inspire you to step into that season with confidence.What You’ll Learn What color psychology really means Why color analysis goes far beyond fashion How color influences confidence, trust, and connection Why many women experience reinvention in midlife How to begin building a personal brand that reflects who you really areConnect with Christy MeauxWebsite: https://cohesiveconfidence.com/Book a color analysis: https://cohesiveconfidence.com/color-analysisInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cohesiveconfidenceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christymeauxTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cohesiveconfidence$50 Off Color Analysis + Personal Brand StrategyCoupon code: INSPIRED50 Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation!Email: michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.com Schedule a free discovery call with Michelle: theinspiredwellnesscoach.comFollow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoach Check out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here!Michelle@TheInspiredWellnessCoach.com Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

In this episode of the Inspired Wellness Podcast, Michelle White and Tabitha Kane sit down with Sarah Kennedy, founder and CEO of Calocurb, a science-backed, natural appetite management supplement developed from over 15 years of research. They dive deep into the science of GLP-1 hormones, how appetite regulation really works, and the key differences between synthetic weight loss drugs (like Ozempic) and natural alternatives. Sarah shares how Calocurb leverages the body’s own biology to reduce cravings, quiet “food noise,” and support sustainable weight management—without harsh side effects.If you’re curious about weight loss, hormone health, appetite control, or natural alternatives to GLP-1 medications, this episode is packed with insights.What You’ll LearnWhat GLP-1 hormones are and how they regulate hungerThe difference between natural vs synthetic GLP-1 (Ozempic, Wegovy)Why most diets fail (hint: it’s not willpower)What “food noise” is—and how to reduce itHow Calocurb works using plant-based bitter compoundsThe role of the gut-brain axis in appetite and cravingsWhy people regain weight after stopping GLP-1 medicationsHow to safely transition off GLP-1 drugsThe impact of perimenopause and menopause on metabolism and hungerReal-world results from clinical trials on appetite and calorie reductionKey TakeawaysYour appetite is controlled by hormones and biology—not willpowerSynthetic GLP-1 medications flood the body at extremely high levels, while natural approaches support normal pathwaysCalocurb stimulates your body’s own appetite hormones, helping you feel full faster and eat lessMany users report reduced cravings and quieter mental chatter around foodUnlike injectables, Calocurb does not suppress your natural hormone productionSustainable weight management requires working with your body—not against itAbout the Guest: Sarah KennedySarah Kennedy is the founder and CEO of Calocurb, a plant-based, science-backed weight management company developed through New Zealand government-funded research. With over 20 years of experience in global nutrition and food innovation—and leadership roles at major companies like Fonterra—Sarah brings deep expertise in metabolic health, appetite regulation, and functional nutrition.Who This Episode Is ForThis episode is perfect for you if you are:Exploring natural weight loss optionsCurious about GLP-1 medications and alternativesStruggling with cravings or food noiseNavigating perimenopause or menopause weight gainLooking for science-backed wellness solutionsResources & LinksLearn more: https://calocurb.com Get 10% off: calocurb.com/inspiredwellnessUse code: INSPIRED Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation!Email: michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.com Schedule a free discovery call with Michelle: theinspiredwellnesscoach.comFollow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoach Check out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here!Michelle@TheInspiredWellnessCoach.com Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

If you’ve been feeling “off” in your late 30s, 40s, or early 50s and can’t quite explain why… this episode will help you understand what may really be happening.In this special Episode 50 of the Inspired Wellness Podcast, Michelle shares an interview from the Emotional Eats podcast with host Kim Hynes — and it’s a conversation every midlife woman needs to hear.Perimenopause is one of the most misunderstood stages of a woman’s life, and many women experience symptoms for years before realizing hormones may be the root cause. Even more confusing? Many women are told their lab results are “normal,” despite experiencing anxiety, fatigue, weight gain, sleep issues, and mood changes.In this episode, Michelle breaks down what perimenopause actually is, what hormonal shifts are happening in the body, and why so many women feel like the strategies that used to work for their health suddenly stop working.You’ll also learn about the four stages of perimenopause, surprising symptoms that are rarely discussed, and simple ways to support your body through this transition.If you’ve ever found yourself thinking:“I used to tolerate this just fine… what is happening to me?” — this conversation will help you feel informed, supported, and less alone.In This Episode, We Cover:• What perimenopause actually is (and why menopause is technically just one day)• Why progesterone declines first and estrogen can start to fluctuate• Why many women experience symptoms even when lab tests look normal• The four stages of perimenopause and what they can feel like• Surprising symptoms women aren’t warned about — including joint pain, frozen shoulder, heart palpitations, histamine reactions, itchy skin, and burning tongue• How cortisol, blood sugar, and sleep influence cravings, mood, and energy• Why the old rules for dieting and exercise stop working in midlife• Simple ways to support your body with blood sugar balance and nervous system regulation• A powerful mindset shift: focusing on building your strong, future self Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation!Email: michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.com Schedule a free discovery call with Michelle: theinspiredwellnesscoach.comFollow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoach Check out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here!Michelle@TheInspiredWellnessCoach.com Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Are you struggling with emotional eating in midlife—even though you “know what to do”?In this powerful episode of the Inspired Wellness Podcast, Michelle and Tabitha sit down with emotional eating expert Kim Hynes to unpack why overeating feels harder than ever after 40—and why willpower was never the solution.If you’ve ever found yourself reaching for sugar, wine, or snacks at night… feeling frustrated, ashamed, or stuck in a cycle you can’t seem to break—this conversation will feel like a deep exhale.Because emotional eating isn’t about food.It’s about your nervous system, hormones, and long-standing patterns—especially during perimenopause and midlife. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why emotional eating increases in perimenopause and after 40The difference between emotional hunger vs physical hungerWhy willpower, dieting, and restriction don’t workHow hormones + nervous system dysregulation drive cravingsWhy nighttime overeating often starts in the morningThe role of shame—and how to break free from itPractical, realistic strategies to stop overeating without restriction Key Takeaway:You don’t need more discipline.You need a different approach—one that works with your biology, not against it.This episode will help you shift from guilt and frustration → to understanding, awareness, and sustainable change. About the Guest:Kim Hynes specializes in helping women over 40 break free from emotional eating and chronic dieting cycles by addressing the root causes—hormonal shifts, nervous system patterns, and mindset. Connect with Kim:WellSpring Counseling and Health Instagram + Facebook: @kimhynesmidlife TikTok: @kimhynesmidlife Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation!Email: michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.com Schedule a free discovery call with Michelle: theinspiredwellnesscoach.comFollow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoach Check out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here!Michelle@TheInspiredWellnessCoach.com Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

If you’ve been told that weight gain, low energy, and stubborn body changes are “just part of getting older,” this episode will completely reframe what you think you know.In this conversation, Michelle sits down with Kinsey Diment, founder of Fit After 40, to unpack why age itself is not what slows your metabolism — and what actually changes in perimenopause and menopause.Together, they explore how muscle loss, hormonal shifts, insulin resistance, and reduced daily movement quietly drive metabolic changes in midlife — and why dieting harder or exercising more intensely often backfires for women in their 40s and 50s.This episode is empowering, science-grounded, and incredibly practical — especially if you feel like you’re “doing everything right” but not seeing results.In this episode, we cover:Why age alone does NOT slow your metabolismThe role of muscle loss (sarcopenia) in midlife weight gainHow declining estrogen impacts muscle, blood sugar, and fat storageWhy many women become more insulin resistant in perimenopauseThe hidden metabolic power of daily movement (NEAT)How chronic dieting and under-fueling can lower metabolic healthWhy strength training improves metabolism — even without weight lossHow muscle helps regulate blood sugar independent of insulinWhy “doing less, more consistently” often works better in midlifeHow women can start strength training safely at any ageWhat a realistic, supportive fitness approach actually looks likeKey takeaways for midlife women:You are not brokenYour metabolism hasn’t failed youYour body is asking for support, not restrictionMuscle is a powerful ally for energy, longevity, and metabolic healthIt is never too late to build strengthWhether you’re navigating perimenopause, menopause, or simply noticing that your body responds differently than it used to, this episode will help you understand why — and what to do next. Listen now and start working with your body, not against it. Resources & Links: Fit After 40 Podcast Fit After 40: Strength Training for Menopause (work with Kinsey) Free Menopause & Muscle Webinar Instagram: @kinsey.does.the.fitness Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation!Email: michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.com Schedule a free discovery call with Michelle: theinspiredwellnesscoach.comFollow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoach Check out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here!Michelle@TheInspiredWellnessCoach.com Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

In this powerful episode of the Inspired Wellness Podcast, Michelle sits down with former palliative care nurse practitioner Alli Bannister to share her extraordinary healing journey. After being diagnosed with two rare cancers, undergoing radical organ removal surgery, and entering surgical menopause overnight, Alli faced a recovery that tested her physically, emotionally, and mentally. What followed was a profound shift — one rooted in hope, mindset, and reclaiming vitality. Alli opens up about:Medical gaslighting and self-advocacyLife after surgical menopauseFinding hope after devastating diagnosesThe role of molecular hydrogen water in her recoveryTurning pain into purpose through Healing on the RoadThis episode is a reminder that healing is possible — and that mindset may be one of our greatest tools. Connect with Alli:Website: https://allihealingontheroad.com/Instagram: @alli.healingotheroadFacebook: Alli.healingontheroadTikTok: alli.healingontheroad Documentary Waitlist:Drowning in Sickness Documentary:https://drowninginsickness.com/join-the-waitlist?am_id=allibannister4109 Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation!Email: michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.com Schedule a free discovery call with Michelle: theinspiredwellnesscoach.comFollow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoach Check out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here!Michelle@TheInspiredWellnessCoach.com Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

If you’re in perimenopause and suddenly feel inflamed, reactive, bloated, tired, or sensitive to foods that never bothered you before, this episode is for you.In this conversation, Michelle and Tabitha sit down with Dr. Atoosa Kourosh, a board-certified physician in pediatrics, allergy & immunology, and a leader in integrative medicine, to explain why midlife can feel like your body is turning against you — and what’s actually happening behind the scenes. Dr. Kourosh breaks down how hormonal shifts in perimenopause interact with the gut microbiome and immune system, leading to inflammation, autoimmunity, histamine issues, and “new” sensitivities in women who were previously healthy and resilient.This episode goes beyond “just hormones” to explain the root causes — and what a more complete, personalized approach can look like. In this episode, we cover:Why perimenopause often triggers inflammation, immune changes, and autoimmune flaresWhat “loss of immune tolerance” means — and why foods, stress, and the environment can suddenly feel overwhelmingHow gut microbiome disruption plays a central role in midlife symptomsThe connection between histamine intolerance, allergies, and perimenopauseWhy “just taking a Zyrtec” doesn’t address the root causeHow nutrigenomics (genetic testing) can personalize hormones, supplements, detox pathways, and even exerciseWhy some women feel worse on hormone therapy — and how genetics can explain itMold, toxins, antibiotics, and other hidden triggers that can amplify symptomsWhat to test before going gluten-free (including celiac screening)Simple, practical gut-supportive steps you can try now while you wait for answers If you’ve been told:“This is just part of aging”“Your labs are normal”“It’s stress”“Just push through it” This conversation will help you understand why your symptoms are real, why perimenopause can last 10–15 years, and why you don’t have to accept feeling miserable in this season of life. About today’s guest:Dr. Atoosa Kourosh, MD, MPH is a board-certified physician in pediatrics, allergy & immunology and the Chair of the Integrative Medicine Committee for the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology. She specializes in whole-person, root-cause care — helping patients uncover how genetics, gut health, environment, and immune function intersect.She works with both adults and children, and is especially known for solving “diagnostic mysteries” when traditional approaches fall short. Learn more & connect:Website: doctoratoosa.comInstagram: @doctoratoosaX (Twitter): @allergyhealth Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation!Email: michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.comSchedule a free discovery call with Michelle: theinspiredwellnesscoach.comFollow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoach Check out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here!Michelle@TheInspiredWellnessCoach.com Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

If you’ve been confused about intermittent fasting, hormones, cortisol, and weight loss in midlife, this episode is going to clear it ALL up.Today, Michelle and Tabitha sit down with New York Times bestselling author Gin Stephens, one of the leading voices in intermittent fasting, to break down what actually works—and what’s just noise.We dive into:The truth about intermittent fasting for women over 40Whether fasting really impacts hormones and cortisolWhy most diets fail (and what to do instead)The science behind clean fasting vs “dirty fasting”How to lose weight without restriction, guilt, or burnoutWhy diet culture has failed women for decadesAnd how to finally trust your body againGin shares her personal story of losing 75+ pounds and maintaining it for over a decade—and explains why intermittent fasting is about so much more than calories.If you’ve been told:❌ “Fasting is bad for women”❌ “You need to eat every 2–3 hours”❌ “Skipping breakfast ruins your metabolism”This episode will challenge everything you’ve heard—and empower you with real, science-backed clarity.🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✔️ How intermittent fasting actually works (beyond calories)✔️ Why insulin—not willpower—is the key to fat loss✔️ The difference between clean fasting vs dirty fasting✔️ The truth about cortisol and fasting for women✔️ Why diet culture keeps you stuck✔️ How to reduce food guilt and eat in a more sustainable way✔️ What “eating like a grown-up” really means✔️ How to listen to your body and find your own rhythm⏱️ Timestamps (optional but GREAT for SEO + YouTube)00:00 – Why diet culture starts so young06:00 – What intermittent fasting actually is12:00 – Clean fasting vs dirty fasting explained18:00 – The real reason fasting works (insulin + fat burning)22:00 – Cortisol myths & fasting for women30:00 – Removing guilt around food (clean-ish approach)34:00 – Eat Like a Grown-Up program explained40:00 – How to trust your body again👩‍⚕️ About Gin Stephens:Gin Stephens is a New York Times bestselling author, podcast host, and leading expert in intermittent fasting, helping thousands of women transform their health, metabolism, and relationship with food.She is the author of:Fast. Feast. Repeat.Delay, Don’t DenyClean(ish)🔗 Resources & Links:Gin Stephens Website: https://jenstephens.comFast Feast Repeat App: https://app.fastfeastrepeat.comBook: Fast. Feast. Repeat.Book: Delay, Don’t Deny Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation!Email: michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.comSchedule a free discovery call with Michelle: theinspiredwellnesscoach.comFollow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoach Check out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here!Michelle@TheInspiredWellnessCoach.com Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.