Dear body, I’m listening
Dear Body, I'm Listening is the podcast for women living with chronic pain, mysterious symptoms, and invisible illness. Hosted by movement therapist, Pilates instructor, and chronic illness navigator Donna Piper, this show is a sanctuary for those who’ve tried everything, felt dismissed, and are still searching for answers. If you've ever felt like your body is speaking a language no one else understands—you’re not crazy, and you’re not alone. In this space, nothing is off the table. We talk openly about swelling, fatigue, brain fog, body shame, and more. We go beyond diagnosis to explore what may be worth investigating—and more importantly, how to reconnect with yourself in the process. Through somatic spirituality, movement, and truth-telling, Donna offers support, insight, and hope. Because healing isn’t linear, and neither are we.
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How Trauma Rewrites Pain Part 3—When Trauma Turns on the Immune System
11/20/2025
How Trauma Rewrites Pain Part 3—When Trauma Turns on the Immune System
“Trauma doesn't just live in your memories, your fascia, or your nervous system. It can also reshape your immune system, especially when no one helped you feel safe. That doesn't mean it's your fault, and that doesn't mean your body isn't on your side. It means that your body has been on your side this whole time, trying to protect you the only way it knew how.” —Donna Piper Some days your body throws signals you cannot ignore, but no one seems to hear them. The swelling, the exhaustion, the crashes that make no sense on paper start to feel like a secret only you and your body understand. There is nothing dramatic about it. It is simply your reality. Donna shares the long road of being dismissed, misdiagnosed, and told to push harder until her symptoms forced a different truth. Her background in dance movement therapy and her lived experience with lipedema, MCAS, POTS, hypermobility, EDS, and chronic fatigue shaped how she now teaches women to understand the deeper layers of their symptoms. Press play for a grounded blend of story and science that helps you see your immune system in a completely new way and gives you language for things you have never been able to explain. Topics discussed: • How trauma and chronic stress reshape immune function • Why medical dismissal can worsen inflammation and flares • The link between ACEs, nervous system patterns, and autoimmune risk • The biggest myths women hear when labs look “normal” • Simple somatic practices to help your system stand down • A reframing that removes blame and builds self-trust Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 02:02 Medical Dismissal and “Normal” Labs Spiral 04:36 Self-Blame and Turning Invalidation Inward 08:05 Childhood Stress and Autoimmune Disease Research Breakthrough 14:06 Immune Red Alert Mode 17:16 Grounding Techniques to Rewire Safety 21:05 Teaser for Part 4 Resources: 🤔Got a question for me? Every month, I do a listener coaching episode—and I’d love to hear from you! Send your questions, stories, or flare-up confessions to , and you just might hear your answer on the show. X: Your body has been protecting you for decades, not failing you. This episode dives into trauma-informed immunity, survival responses, and tiny practices to help you feel safer again. #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #MindBodyConnection #TraumaRecovery #ChronicIllnessSupport #NervousSystem MedicalGaslighting #ChronicFatigue #AutoimmuneHealth Quotes: 05:10 “Being invalidated for decades turned all of that invalidation inward, and I was like, ‘maybe there's just something wrong with me’.” —Donna Piper 08:01 “Research papers about childhood trauma and autoimmune disease: women with multiple adverse childhood experiences have a much higher risk of being hospitalized with autoimmune diseases later in life.” —Donna Piper 11:30 “Emotional, physical abuse, neglect, and early stress have been associated with higher autoimmune rates in women, including lupus and thyroid disease.” —Donna Piper 11:51 “Your history is not separate from your biology. Your immune system remembers what you survived, how you survived, how you lived” —Donna Pipe 14:28 “If you've lived through any childhood stress— but you told yourself it wasn't that bad, you learned to people please, over-function, ignore your needs to be safe, your nervous system got really good at scanning for danger, even when it wasn't there in any room.” —Donna Pipe 15:40 “Your body adapted to survive, and now it needs the support to feel safe again.” —Donna Pipe 16:14 “Normal labs with abnormal suffering do not equal your fine. It equals they don't have the right tool to measure your reality.” —Donna Pipe 16:36 “Does that mean you chose or manifested autoimmune disease because you weren't positive enough? NO! You're not a failed manifestation. You're a human being whose body was walked through stress, genetics, environment, and a medical system that often didn't protect you. They all interacted. You didn't cause it alone, and you do not have to fix it alone either.” —Donna Piper 20:29 “Trauma doesn't just live in your memories, your fascia, or your nervous system. It can also reshape your immune system, especially when no one helped you feel safe. That doesn't mean it's your fault, and that doesn't mean your body isn't on your side. It means that your body has been on your side this whole time, trying to protect you the only way it knew how.” —Donna Piper 21:43 “Your body isn't broken. She's been trying to keep you alive in a world that didn't understand her.” —Donna Piper Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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Thermal Imaging for Health: Early Answers, Less Guesswork with Dr. Robert Kane
11/12/2025
Thermal Imaging for Health: Early Answers, Less Guesswork with Dr. Robert Kane
"It's a balance between getting information and trusting experts. It's really important that as a patient, you have to be your own advocate." —Robert Kane When it comes to our body, uncertainty can be the hardest symptom to treat. Worry sets in when answers are fuzzy, and bouncing between specialists leaves us more confused than before. The real question is: how can we know what’s happening inside before a health crisis begins? After doubting conventional answers and searching for tools that deliver real clarity, Dr. Robert Kane turned a career in health into a mission to champion thermal imaging. The pursuit for earlier answers and proof led straight to this breakthrough method that helps patients spot what matters sooner with zero guesswork. Jump in as Dr. Kane answers questions about thermal imaging, how it pairs with mammograms, why dense tissue matters, patient advocacy, beating invisible illnesses, prevention tips, and what it takes to really track your health. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 02:15 Meet Dr. Kane— From Chiropractic to Thermography 05:32 Mammography vs Thermography 10:42 Doctors and New Technology: Getting Buy-In 16:46 Using Thermography for Complex, Chronic Symptoms 21:30 Early Detection Beats Symptoms: Preventive Possibilities 28:22 Medicine 3.0— Prevent, Not Just Manage 32:11 How to Access Thermography: Where and How Much? 39:27 Affording Care: Geographic Differences 45:28 Can Thermography Help with EDS & Connective Tissue Disorders? 50:02 Lifestyle Change and Feedback Loops X: Your body isn’t a mystery waiting to happen; thermal imaging can uncover hidden issues before they get serious. Catch insights on early detection, real patient stories, and how this tech changes care in this episode as Donna interviews Dr Robert Kane. #DearBodyImListening #MCAS #Lymphedema #Lipedema #ChronicIllness #ThermalImaging #healthtech #earlydetection #womenshealth #preventivehealth Quotes: 05:47 "I'm a fan of using technologies appropriately, not demonizing one and glorifying another." —Robert Kane 06:02 "We've seen studies now that have shown detection rates are higher. So you've got a mammogram that maybe shows 80 to 90% accuracy in detecting cancer. We've seen that number go up to 95% when we add thermography into the mix." —Robert Kane 23:40 "We're moving toward prevention. So before we can actually say we can prevent breast cancer, we need to start looking at the ways that it's possible." —Robert Kane 26:20 "When you talk to a lot of groups or women, you see what works. But again, the bigger companies that fund don't always look at the anecdotal sort of things.” —Donna Piper 28:52 “Part of getting the right diagnosis or getting your health where you like it is you always have to be your own advocate, and you can advocate more if you have more information.” —Donna Piper 30:17 “Medicine 3.0 is when we move past managing chronic disease, and we move towards the prevention of chronic disease.” —Dr. Robert Kane 50:08 “We have a lot of evidence with different conditions to say that risk factors can be lowered… So to be able to get a baseline, take an action and then see how the body changes.” —Dr. Robert Kane 52:11 “The AI is just going to be used to try to get to the source of the problem faster and more reliably.” —Dr. Robert Kane 55:49 "It's a balance between getting information and trusting experts. It's really important that as a patient, you have to be your own advocate." —Robert Kane Connect with Robert: For over three decades, Dr. Robert L. Kane has been at the forefront of clinical thermography for the integrative medical doctor and holistic practitioner— leveraging advanced infrared imaging to detect signs of inflammation, nerve injury, impaired circulation, and physiological stress, often before symptoms manifest. He is recognized as one of North America’s leading interpreters, supporting over 50 thermography centers worldwide. Dr. Kane’s mission is to empower health care providers with objective science-based tools to maximize health and wellness. Website:
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Chronic Pain & Trauma: Gently Breaking The Invisible Link with Science
11/05/2025
Chronic Pain & Trauma: Gently Breaking The Invisible Link with Science
"The body's intelligent. We just have to show up. I equate it to a dance where the body leads and I follow." —Peter Stuart You can run from nagging pain, but it keeps showing up in new ways—wrecking sleep, fouling up moods, and shutting down energy. The worst part? Real answers are rare, and the world keeps telling you to just “push through” or “try harder.” Maybe it’s not about willpower at all—it’s about listening to the actual story your body’s been trying to tell for years. Peter Stuart spent decades fighting through his own injuries, dismissed symptoms, and invisible struggles before discovering gentle myofascial therapy. His hard-won insights as a chronic pain “insider” and now trauma-informed therapist reveal what really keeps people stuck and what finally helps them move forward with less pain and more hope. Get the truth about pain, trauma, and what real healing looks like, plus smart self-care tools, the science behind gentle relief, why support systems matter, how medical dismissal damages recovery, and the most overlooked reason chronic pain lingers in this episode. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 02:41 Pain and Identity: How Chronic Pain Changes Who You Are 10:30 Why Relief Doesn’t Last: Understanding Chronic Pain Cycles 18:09 The Mind-Body Link in Pain 27:33 How Trauma Gets Stuck: The Science Behind Chronic Pain 33:22 When Emotional Release Ends Pain 42:47 Overcoming Medical Dismissal 47:17 Chronic Fatigue, Brain Fog, and Healing Brain 55:00 Support Speeds Recovery 59:19 When Pain Affects Relationships 01:06:56 Fast Action Beats Waiting 01:12:36 Connection Heals: Why Real Relationships Matter 01:17:38 Don’t Wait: Heal Before It Gets Worse Resources: 🎧Listen to Peter’s interview with Coach360 How Trauma Leaves a Mark and What It Means for Healing: X: Life keeps piling on until your body keeps the score. It’s time to listen! Catch this week’s episode as Donna and trauma-informed therapist Peter Stuart drop truth bombs on trauma, chronic illness, pain relief, holistic healing, and smart self-care. #DearBodyImListening #MCAS #Lymphedema #Lipedema #ChronicIllness #TraumaHealing #BodyWork #MyofascialRelease #InvisibleIllness Quotes: 03:31 "It's a real identity shift. Not very talked about is when you lose who you think you are to pain, the amount of depression that sets in later on." —Peter Stuart 11:56 "My body is learning to survive but creating new pathways… Chronic pain is very insidious, and it changes you." —Donna Piper 14:59 "Aggressive styles tended to flare the nervous system, and the last thing you want to do is flare the nervous system with somebody who has chronic issues." —Peter Stuart 16:40 "A low-level pressure will create a change in the nervous system over time. It's patience… Incremental change over time creates permanency in the brain to make those changes happen and establish new neural pathways." —Peter Stuart 17:08 "The body's intelligent. We just have to show up. I equate it to a dance where the body leads and I follow." —Peter Stuart 18:56 "The pelvis is the foundation of the body. If you're off in your pelvis, everything above and everything below is going to be off." —Peter Stuart 25:12 "Sometimes people just want to tell their story— they just have pushed it down." —Donna Piper 30:22 "If you ignore people's scars, then you're doing them a great disservice." —Peter Stuart 34:18 "Most people will emote without making a connection to an event. It's just stuff that we've held on to—baggage—and just feeling like they have a safe place to allow that to happen." —Peter Stuart 35:41 "As much as your brain is trying to say, your thoughts are trying to control things all the time, your emotions and your feelings need to be expressed as well for health." —Peter Stuart 37:27 “No one goes through childhood unscathed. Everyone has stuff. Life brings stuff with us.” —Donna Piper 39:05 “Most people who get into my profession are very empathetic people and are on the sensitive scale pretty high— and that makes for a really good therapist to be able to understand that some people will have these traumas.” —Peter Stuart 42:06 "Most women usually underdo their pain… People can't see pain." —Donna Piper 56:51 "Having a provider that has that listening aspect is supportive, too…Just by not being dismissed, that's support." —Donna Piper 01:00:02 "Let's grieve what was so we can embrace this new path." —Donna Piper 01:06:59 "Once you recognize that you've changed, if there's a shift in pattern or your inability to do activities that you normally did, get on it. The sooner you get on your situation, the more likely you won't have to incur more, because trauma is cumulative." —Peter Stuart 01:10:36 “Being in relationship with what other actually is a healing aspect.” —Donna Piper 01:10:54 “It's the relationship between the therapist and the patient and the transference and countertransference—that is the magic. It's not really the technique always.” —Donna Piper 01:17:20 “If you want to get good at therapy, get therapy.” —Peter Stuart Connect with Peter: For more than 30 years, Peter has helped people overcome chronic pain and trauma through trauma-informed myofascial release — a gentle, body-led approach that integrates science, empathy, and nervous-system awareness. He teaches practitioners worldwide, emphasizing that true healing addresses the whole person, not just symptoms. Peter’s grounded, compassionate style would complement Kristen’s audience beautifully, particularly around themes of emotional release, embodied healing, and reconnecting with self after trauma. Website: LinkedIn: Facebook:
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How Real Connection Supports Healing (Even When You’re Exhausted) with Heather Nelson
10/29/2025
How Real Connection Supports Healing (Even When You’re Exhausted) with Heather Nelson
“Push your life to be the life that you want and not accept that it's just the way it is. Every choice that you make should be toward loving the life that you have.” —Heather Nelson Connection isn’t just a feel-good extra. It’s a lifeline when the world feels heavy and invisible battles make us want to shut down. Isolation, overwhelm, and invisible struggles don’t need to be our whole story; even small acts of reaching out can reshape everything. The truth is, connecting with the right people and sharing our messy middle is stronger than any secret solution. Heather Nelson, founder of and Host of Life Conversations with a Twist Podcast, turned a knack for listening into a movement, making careers, health challenges, and even surrogacy a shared experience, not a solitary climb. Her unfiltered take on relationships and resilience inspires a fresh perspective on both strangers and friends. Press play to explore the profound impact of human connection as Donna and Heather delve into invisible illness, friendship, self-care rituals, flexible work arrangements, honest communication, and the raw beauty of surrogacy, all with candor and no sugarcoating. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 03:55 Living for Connection 12:33 Simple Ways to Connect 26:28 Setting Business Model Based on Flexibility and Accommodation 33:11 Connection When You Don’t Feel Like It 37:01 Navigating Surrogacy Journey 48:42 Challenges and Support in Surrogacy 01:01:44 Balancing Personal and Professional Life 01:04:59 Advocating for Surrogacy X: Some days, a real connection is stronger than any quick fix or advice. Listen in for raw stories about chronic illness, supportive friendships, and building a life that fits you as Donna sits with Founder, Heather Nelson. #DearBodyImListening #MCAS #Lymphedema #Lipedema #ChronicIllness #connection #community #authenticity #support #surrogacyjourney #selfcare Quotes: 04:53 “We all have a story, and I really want women to embrace theirs and be okay with talking about it, because at the end of the day, the goal is to inspire and empower other women to do the same.” —Heather Nelson 08:23 “The more we talk about things that we think are shameful or embarrassing, the more we put our self-esteem.” —Donna Piper 24:46 “We're here to learn how to connect with people and how to improve and go on through our relationships.” —Donna Piper 28:38 “Something that goes missed with employers is showing appreciation, telling people you're doing a great job; I see you; I'm thankful for you.” —Heather Nelson 30:44 “The more trust you build, the more that they're going to want to do for you.” —Heather Nelson 35:08 “Give yourself grace when it's really not a moment that you can show up; it's okay to take a break.” —Heather Nelson 50:44 “I really never push it upon people. If people want to have the conversation about [surrogacy], I will have it. If they don't, I leave it alone.” —Heather Nelson 01:02:10 “Connect with an open-ended presence. Be flexible— that makes your connection with people and yourself and the world around you an easier flow.” —Donna Piper 01:03:27 “The more you talk about things, even if it's scary or you feel weird about it, or you don't want to be judged, it opens up more true conversations, so you can have relationships that are more rooted in trust.” —Donna Piper 01:04:21 “Push your life to be the life that you want and not accept that it's just the way it is. Every choice that you make should be toward loving the life that you have.” —Heather Nelson Connect with Heather: A seasoned expert in the hospitality industry with over 20 years of experience in events. Heather is a significant influencer in Sonoma County. As the founder of The Connection Hive, she is committed to empowering small businesses by curating innovative business development plans. Her extensive network allows her to link individuals with the precise resources needed for growth—spanning marketing strategies, event curation, and business relations management. Website: LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: YouTube:
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The Science of Rest— What the Lipkin Study Taught Us About ME/CFS
10/22/2025
The Science of Rest— What the Lipkin Study Taught Us About ME/CFS
“Pace first, safety builds capacity.” —Donna Piper There’s a kind of tired that sleep can’t fix, a crash that feels invisible to everyone but you. You push, you pace, you try to “do all the right things,” yet your body still calls a timeout. Maybe it’s not weakness or lack of willpower. Maybe your body’s simply working harder than anyone realizes. In this episode, Donna unpacks a revolutionary study on chronic fatigue, the real science behind “the crash,” and why pacing, rest, and nervous system care are the new power moves for healing. Expect myth-busting, practical science, and the kind of honesty your exhausted body has been waiting for. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 01:48 Not Lazy, You’re Overloaded 04:17 What Science Says 07:09 Crash Under the Microscope 09:48 Myths vs Truths 14:31 Trade Crashes with Capacity Resources: 🤔Got a question for me? Every month, I do a listener coaching episode—and I’d love to hear from you! Send your questions, stories, or flare-up confessions to , and you just might hear your answer on the show. 🔎Research and Studies X: Rest is not optional when your body’s in survival mode. Learn how science is finally mapping the truth about chronic fatigue and the power of real rest. #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #BodyConfidence #ChronicIllness #ChronicFatigueSyndrome #RestIsMedicine #MindBodyHealing #NervousSystemHealing Quotes: 01:48 “There's actual science proving that for people with ME/chronic fatigue syndrome, your body isn't lazy, it's overloaded.” —Donna Piper 03:14 “A lot of the prescription to help you heal is rest.” —Donna Piper 07:59 “Your body isn't weak, it's working overtime in every direction just to maintain balance.” —Donna Piper 09:56 “Pace first, safety builds capacity.” —Donna Piper 09:59 “Myth: It’s just anxiety. Truth: immune activation and metabolic strain show up in labs. This is biology, not mindset.” —Donna Piper 10:26 “Subgroups differ in age, sex, and root drivers matter. Personalize everything.” —Donna Piper 11:00 “Rest isn't laziness; it is a biological necessity.” —Donna Piper 13:49 “Taking my perspective and intentionally resting is a game-changer.” —Donna Piper 14:33 “Your crashes are not character flaws, they are a multi-system response that science is finally mapping out.” —Donna Piper Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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Beyond the Diagnosis: Reclaiming Life and Purpose With Lipedema with Hiba Hamati
10/15/2025
Beyond the Diagnosis: Reclaiming Life and Purpose With Lipedema with Hiba Hamati
"Trust your instinct… Our bodies sound an alarm bell that something isn’t right, and we ignore it for years. Don’t ignore it. Don't accept the bare minimum answer. Just because your labs are normal does not mean that your body is functioning optimally." —Hiba Hamati Going to doctor after doctor, trying every tip, and still wondering why your pain and swelling never make sense. You know there’s something happening that nobody else seems to see, and not getting answers just wears you down. This chat right here puts a name to all that frustration. Hiba Hamati has been through the misdiagnoses, the surgery rollercoaster, the self-doubt, and all the “shoulds” that never quite fit to finally figuring out what actually helps. Now, she’s sharing what it’s really like to deal with lipedema: the messy, honest stuff plus a few wins along the way. Listen in as Donna sits with Hiba to talk about the suffering of getting misdiagnosed, getting correctly diagnosed (at last), the good and bad of surgery, how body image messes with your head, daily survival tricks, what support really looks like, and why it pays to speak up. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 02:58 Anger to Advocacy: Discovering Lipedema 08:06 Facing Unmet Expectations 13:37 Wrestling with Body Image and Grief 24:27 The Unseen Emotional Toll and Daily Life Calculations 31:24 Life After Surgery: Trauma, Identity, and Breaking Free 38:51 Life Before and After Diagnosis 43:45 Finding What Works and Letting Go 48:33 Support and Advocacy 58:28 Naming the Invisible Battles: Finding Body Neutrality and Appreciation 01:04:11 Giving Back: Turning Pain Into Meaning X: Some pain steals life in quiet ways no doctor's report shows. Hear the truth about living with lipedema: hard lessons, true support, and tiny wins that matter with “Lipediva” Hiba Hamati. #DearBodyImListening #MCAS #Lymphedema #Lipedema #ChronicIllness #selfadvocacy #mentalhealth #invisibleillness #painmanagement #bodyacceptance #supportcommunity #healthjourney Quotes: 04:21 "Anger destroyed me for a while, because that's all I could focus on. It's just how much of my life had been wasted, how much different my life could have been had I had a proper diagnosis. I realized I could let anger consume and destroy me, or I could funnel it into passion for helping others, for advocating for patients." —Hiba Hamati 07:01 "Just because someone doesn’t have the time or resources doesn’t mean they have to live with this horrible condition without knowing treatment options or ways to manage it." —Hiba Hamati 08:11 "We’re very fortunate to have more and more surgeons well versed in lipedema, but an area that is severely lacking is post-op mental health care." —Hiba Hamati 08:40 "It is a huge undertaking to have surgery. When you focus on the physical but not give proper attention to the mental and emotional toll, it can be very dangerous." —Hiba Hamati 13:16 ""When you’re not feeling well, recovering, and you’ve never had it before, you don’t really know what to expect. It’s brand new. There’s a lot of anxiety and fear—what if it’s worse than before?" —Donna Piper 17:06 "Sitting in that grief of never having a typical, standard body… I'm shaming myself because I can't make it look like how I want it to look. [It’s important to] pause on that for your mental health and deal with those feelings. " —Donna Piper 18:42 "Your feelings really do influence your thoughts. It’s not always the thoughts going down. You can't trick yourself into believing something that you know is not true." —Donna Piper 20:03 "I have to address the disconnect with my body... For so many years, everything hurt, nothing felt good, and I just wasn’t aware of what my body was doing." —Hiba Hamati 25:22 "Pain makes you a completely different person. It chips away a little bit every day, and one day you look and there’s a big gaping hole." —Hiba Hamati 45:44 "You have to constantly reassess and figure out where you put your time, because if you keep trying to do everything all the time, you’ll end up doing nothing." —Hiba Hamati 47:50 "Trauma does change how we perceive things—it's also trying to realistically see how we were before, and how far we've come." —Hiba Hamati 53:33 "Trust your instinct… Our bodies sound an alarm bell that something isn’t right, and we ignore it for years. Don’t ignore it. Don't accept the bare minimum answer. Just because your labs are normal does not mean that your body is functioning optimally." —Hiba Hamati 57:03 “Chronic Illness of any kind is very, very difficult to manage… Try to anchor and ground your body and your emotions are so critical.” —Hiba Hamati 58:35 “Maybe you don't love it, but having a different appreciation is the first step to that road.” —Donna Piper 01:00:01 “When you think about your body carrying all of that excess weight and still functioning normally— that's phenomenal!” —Hiba Hamati 01:01:29 “It's the things you can't see that are way more painful and debilitating.” —Donna Piper 01:04:05 “Putting meaning towards our life too, is when you heal your trauma.” —Donna Piper 01:05:10 "Being able to turn that pain into something helpful really makes it feel less cruel. It feels cruel to have gone through this for so long because it feels like so much of my life was stolen by this disease in so many different ways." —Hiba Hamati 01:05:58 "It’s not about enduring something— it’s about acceptance, forgiveness. It could be messy and raw and that makes life more exciting and living the pain ‘worth’ it." —Donna Piper Connect with Hiba: Hiba Hamati is a prominent advocate and educator in the lipedema community, widely known as “Lipediva.” As a board member of the American Lipedema Association, she leverages both her personal experience with lipedema and her professional commitment to raise awareness, improve care, and advance research for this chronic condition. Hiba is an international speaker and thought leader, frequently presenting on the challenges of diagnosis, the importance of mental health in chronic illness, and empowering patients to advocate for their needs. Through her online presence and community work, she offers support and guidance for those navigating lipedema and related health challenges. Website: Instagram:
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If Only I Were Skinny…
10/08/2025
If Only I Were Skinny…
"Your body is not the enemy—the world's impossible standards are. And every time you name that truth out loud, you don't just free yourself, you also free someone else.” —Donna Piper Some lies are so loud they start to sound like truth—like the idea that confidence waits on the other side of weight loss. And the hardest part? The shame of not being skinny can at times feel heavier than our own weight, turning every step forward into a fight against an invisible anchor. Donna spent years believing her size erased her gifts. It wasn’t until she uncovered her diagnosis of lipedema and connected her lived experience with research on weight stigma that she began reframing her story—not as a failure to fix her body, but as proof that shame, not size, was her real burden. In this conversation, Donna unpacks the shame-weight connection, how stigma literally rewires the nervous system, myths about size and illness, hidden biases in the wellness culture, why unlearning shame is as vital as any treatment, and simple daily practices to reclaim confidence without waiting on the scale. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 01:36 The Shame of Not Being Skinny 04:04 Weighed Down by Weight 08:19 Studies on Weight Stigma 14:27 Myths About Being Skinny 15:47 Clummping the Anchor 19:37 Start from “Me” First 21:31 The Real Enemy Resources: 🤔Got a question for me? Every month, I do a listener coaching episode—and I’d love to hear from you! Send your questions, stories, or flare-up confessions to , and you just might hear your answer on the show. Weight stigma and cortisol (stress response) When people experience weight stigma, their cortisol levels spike—the same hormone that rises when your body senses danger. This study shows how shame literally stresses the body on a biochemical level. The stress of stigma — cortisol reactivity In a lab setting, women exposed to weight-related stigma had higher stress-hormone responses than those who weren’t. It’s proof that judgment—even subtle—activates the body’s fight-or-flight system. Chronic stress model of weight stigma This review describes the “cyclic obesity/weight-based stigma” model: stigma triggers stress, stress alters metabolism, and the cycle keeps repeating. Lipedema, stigma, and depression A study of 1,000+ women with lipedema found that internalized shame—not body size—was one of the strongest predictors of depression. It’s not the fat; it’s the stigma about the fat. Internalized weight bias and mental health Researchers created the Weight Bias Internalization Scale and found that self-directed stigma predicts worse emotional health, disordered eating, and avoidance of care. Review of internalized weight stigma A systematic review showing that internalized stigma often acts as the missing link between outside judgment and the physical and emotional fallout that follows. X: Confidence isn’t about losing pounds—it’s about losing shame. This week, Donna gets real about chronic illness, fat bias + showing up as you are. #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #BodyConfidence #ChronicIllness #SelfCompassion #BodyPositivity #SelfLove #WeightStigma Quotes: 01:59 “Shame is sneaky. It doesn't just whisper in the dressing room. It leaks into your career, into your relationships, and sense of purpose.” —Donna Piper 04:41 “It's incongruent— what you want to believe and what you truly believe. You can't trick yourself, so you really have to do a lot of different work around this.” —Donna Piper 06:55 “It's a medical condition. It is not a lack of willpower. It's not laziness, it's not discipline failure. It's lipedema.” —Donna Piper 10:06 “It just wasn't the fat, it was the shame about the fat.” —Donna Piper 14:40 “Confidence doesn't come from subtracting pounds. It comes from subtracting shame.” —Donna Piper 14:53 “Illness is not a size issue. It's a systemic issue.” —Donna Piper 14:57 “Respect doesn't come from a body type. It comes from the humanity inside the body.” —Donna Piper 16:03 “Living with and changing this internal system is tough, especially when you believe it, because here's the thing: affirmations only work if you really believe them.” —Donna Piper 17:29 “Shame does interfere with your healing. It does affect your cortisol, it does affect your inflammation.” —Donna Piper 20:37 “Looking at yourself in the mirror without judging yourself and saying positive things is a very powerful. Your system will slowly begin to shift because you're not just saying the words, you're teaching your body that it's safe to believe them.” —Donna Piper 21:27 “Your body is not the enemy—the world's impossible standards are. And every time you name that truth out loud, you don't just free yourself, you also free someone else.” —Donna Piper 21:41 “You're calling, your leadership, your gifts— they don't shrink because of your size. They expand the moment you show up as you are.” —Donna Piper 21:55 “If you're breathing, you are worthy.” —Donna Piper Meet Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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How Trauma Rewrites Pain, Part 2: When Fight or Flight Gets Stuck
10/01/2025
How Trauma Rewrites Pain, Part 2: When Fight or Flight Gets Stuck
"If trauma rewrote the wiring one way, that means safety relationship and somatic practices can rewrite it the other way— it is the long game; there is no quick fix.” —Donna Piper Sometimes you do everything right, but your body keeps sending SOS signals no one else can see. Doubt creeps in—is this real, or is something deeper going on? You’re not alone; your body’s story matters, and what you feel makes perfect sense. For years, Donna felt invisible, questioned, and let down by quick fixes and dismissive answers. Her experience battling chronic pain, trauma, and misunderstood conditions led her to uncover how trauma tangles with our nervous system—and how small, real changes can finally bring comfort. Step in for a raw look at how trauma rewires the fight or flight system, how connective tissue and fascia feed into it, why this connection explains so many chronic illness symptoms, the role of the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS), myths about pain, and the importance of safety relationships and somatic practices in rewriting the body’s wiring. Next up in part 3: explore the bridge between trauma and autoimmune conditions— and chronic illness, and what steps could make a real difference. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 02:03 A Need for Rewiring 06:04 What It Feels to be in a Trauma Loop 09:04 The Autonomic Nervous System 14:00 The Chronic Fatigue Syndrome 17:55 Pain Myths Busted 22:24 Recap Resources: 🤔Got a question for me? Every month, I do a listener coaching episode—and I’d love to hear from you! Send your questions, stories, or flare-up confessions to , and you just might hear your answer on the show. X: When your body won’t quit sounding the alarm, it’s time to listen. Dive into how trauma shapes nerves, movement, and daily life in this real-talk episode—no sugarcoating, just support and practical tips. #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #TraumaStories #HealingJourney #FasciaHealth #SomaticPractice #PainAwareness #NervousSystem Quotes: 07:08 “It wasn't weakness, it wasn't something going off of what I was doing. It was that I need to rewire how I view my exercise… Having these connective tissues issues in this state that I'm in now is just constantly adding fuel to the fire.” —Donna Piper 08:21 “There's studies now showing that chronic fatigue isn't something that's just lumped together. It is a neurological issue. There is some things going on with your brain.” —Donna Piper 11:38 “The body is always trying to survive and do what it needs to do with what it's given.” —Donna Piper 16:24 “Trauma doesn't just quietly sit in the background. It weaves itself through fascia, nerves, immune cells, amplifying the symptoms of every connective tissue also heightens the other ones. That's why many of us that have these invisible illnesses carry both trauma and pain. And it's not coincidence, it's biology.” —Donna Piper 17:55 “Here's the myth: if your tests are normal, the pain must be in your head. But, there's no test for pain.” —Donna Piper 19:34 “Your pain is real. Your nervous system is real. It's having a real response.” —Donna Piper 23:18 “There's a dysregulation in your system. It's actually amazing that it's working for you. So be grateful.” —Donna Piper 24:31 “If trauma rewrote the wiring one way, that means safety relationship and somatic practices can rewrite it the other way— it is the long game; there is no quick fix.” —Donna Piper 25:47 “Your body isn't broken. It's been working overtime to protect you, and now, tell your body it's safe now, that will help a lot.” —Donna Piper Meet Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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Dollars and Cents: The Real Financial Stress of Being Sick
09/24/2025
Dollars and Cents: The Real Financial Stress of Being Sick
"I'm not my bills. I'm not my debt. I am worthy of care." —Donna Piper Being sick isn’t just exhausting—it’s expensive in ways nobody warns you about. The stress of medical bills, insurance denials, and endless receipts can weigh just as heavily as the symptoms themselves. If you’re tired of feeling like your wallet is as worn out as your body, you’re not alone. In this episode, Donna opens up about the real price tag of chronic illness, sharing her journey through misdiagnoses, out-of-pocket treatments, and the emotional toll of fighting for care. She breaks down the true costs while offering hard-won tips for tracking expenses, finding support, and making every dollar count. Tune in and get the unfiltered truth about insurance battles, budgeting for treatments, organizing medical expenses, funding hacks, and the mindset shifts that make it all survivable—plus a few laughs and a lot of solidarity. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 01:30 Why Money Stress Hits Harder with Chronic Illness 06:12 The True Price of Treatments, Surgery, and All the Little Extras 17:04 Mindset Shift: Spending for Quality of Life, not Guilt 25:22 Smart Spending: Where to Splurge, Where to Save 31:16 Why Documentation and Planning Every Expense Matters 39:00 Shake Off the Stress: Letting Go of Financial Tension 46:05 Practical Reset: Clear Your Mind Before Spending 54:11 Make a Money Map 01:02:48 Money Stress is Felt by the Body Resources: 🤔Got a question for me? Every month, I do a listener coaching episode—and I’d love to hear from you! Send your questions, stories, or flare-up confessions to , and you just might hear your answer on the show. X: Money stress hits harder when you’re already fighting for your health. Get real talk on medical bills, insurance battles, and smart spending in this episode as Donna shares practical tips to track costs, budget smarter, and shake off the financial tension. #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #Lymphedema #lipedema #MCAS #ChronicIllness #HealthCosts #SelfCare #Insurance #FinancialHealth #PatientAdvocacy Quotes: 01:49 "Financial stress has its own smell, its own energy, and you feel it everywhere when you live in a body like ours." —Donna Piper 03:23 "Being sick is expensive, and I don't just mean co-pays and deductibles. I mean the whole invisible price tag." —Donna Piper 15:27 "When I spend this money, I'm buying for something that is going to drastically shift my quality of life." —Donna Piper 16:26 "Stress fuels the inflammation, which then fuels all the other stuff that we have. Having chronic inflammation and having chronic stress feed off of each other." —Donna Piper 31:31 “Figure out what other comorbidities you may or may not have, and then start to make purchases based on what you need.” —Donna Piper 38:35 “Figure out where you need to splurge and save.” —Donna Piper 43:46 “Invest in something that you want to do and what you like to do.” –Donna Piper 51:52 "Think of a budget as what you want to spend, not what you are constricted by." —Donna Piper 54:17 "You can create a money map that supports your body without drowning your finances." —Donna Piper 01:04:33 "Say: I'm not my bills. I'm not my debt. I am worthy of care." —Donna Piper 01:05:21 "Just let your body feel free. Your body is already carrying enough. You don't have to carry the stress of money on top of it." —Donna Piper 01:07:11 "Say the numbers out loud, name the stress, and break the silence. It's a small rebellion, and it does help you come to grips with what is important." —Donna Piper 01:07:54 "Make the invisible visible with not only what the illnesses are, but all the other things that come with it." —Donna Piper 01:09:03 "Be gentle with your capacity. Meet yourself where you are." —Donna Piper Meet Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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How Trauma Rewrites Pain, Part 1: My Body Kept Score
09/17/2025
How Trauma Rewrites Pain, Part 1: My Body Kept Score
“Moving is medicine. There's something with moving that you don't need to know why or how, or how it relates to your emotions or trauma. And just like how trauma rewrites pain, it is also the opposite when you feel safe, embodied, and in a compassionate relationship with yourself, you can rewrite your story for safety.” —Donna Piper Sometimes pain isn’t just in your head—it’s woven deep into your body, shaping how you move, feel, and even how you see yourself. When life keeps telling you to “push through” but your body keeps shutting down, it’s easy to wonder if you’re missing something bigger. What if the real story behind your pain is hiding in places you haven’t looked yet? From childhood migraines to years of being dismissed by doctors, Donna lived through the confusion and frustration of chronic symptoms. This week, Donna breaks down how trauma gets trapped in your tissues and why real healing starts with listening to your body’s truth. Hit play and discover the real link between trauma and pain, the science of fascia, connective tissue, and why your body might be stuck in survival mode, myth-busting truths, practical advice on finding safety and community, and a simple fascial release exercise you can try today—so you can finally start rewriting your own story. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 01:47 From Childhood Migraines to Movement Specialist 09:28 The Connection Between Trauma and Chronic Illness 12:02 The Role of Movement and Trauma Therapy 15:32 The Impact of Trauma on the Body 29:43 Practical Tips for Healing and Safety 33:19 Addressing Trauma for Overall Health Resources: 🤔Got a question for me? Every month, I do a listener coaching episode—and I’d love to hear from you! Send your questions, stories, or flare-up confessions to , and you just might hear your answer on the show. X: Your body remembers what your mind tries to forget. This week, Donna gets real about pain, trauma, and healing by letting your body feel safe first. #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #Lymphedema #lipedema #MCAS #ChronicIllness #TraumaSupport #TraumaRecovery #SelfCare #ConnectiveTissue Quotes: 03:24 "The body carried the secrets the mind couldn't always speak." —Donna Piper 05:20 "I learned to tough it out, to keep going, and to push through. I thought that was strength, and that was my only option if I wanted to be present in my life." —Donna Piper 10:04 "Until my body really, really broke, I had to face the truth that there was something I was missing." —Donna Piper 11:23 "Trauma doesn't have to be a big thing that came down. A significant distressing event is something your body holds on to and creates trauma." —Donna Piper 13:21 “Moving is medicine. There's something with moving that you don't need to know why or how, or how it relates to your emotions or trauma. And just like how trauma rewrites pain, it is also the opposite when you feel safe, embodied, and in a compassionate relationship with yourself, you can rewrite your story for safety.” —Donna Piper 19:35 "The connective tissue is the scaffolding of the body… When trauma happens and doesn't get discharged, fascia reacts, it tightens, hardens, and knots up, and that restriction can last for years and even decades." —Donna Piper 22:16 "The body really needs to feel safe for any sort of trauma work to happen. We think we can force our way through, but all that really does is create more defenses." —Donna Piper 33:44 "You're not broken, you're not lazy. There's nothing wrong with you. Your body has just been carrying stories, and these stories can be rewritten." —Donna Piper Meet Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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Pacing 101— Stop the Boom-Bust Cycle Before It Stops You
09/10/2025
Pacing 101— Stop the Boom-Bust Cycle Before It Stops You
"No one's handing out a gold star for the most depleted woman in the room… Rest now, rest every day, build that in. The rest is the healing aspect." —Donna Piper Tired of feeling great one day, then totally wiped out the next? Maybe it’s not about trying harder but about finding a pace that actually works for you. Donna’s been there—pushing through, crashing hard, and wondering what she was doing wrong. Now she’s all about helping folks with chronic stuff find a better way, using real-life tips and a lot of honesty. Her big message: pacing isn’t giving up, it’s how you start feeling like yourself again. Want to break out of the boom-bust cycle for good? Hit play for straight talk on energy budgets, the Visible app, post-exertion crashes, and why rest is actually part of the workout plan. You’ll get real stories, smart tips, and a little nudge to be kinder to yourself. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 02:49 The Importance of Pacing 07:11 Learning to Pace 16:43 The Science Behind Pacing 18:37 Myths and Realities of Pacing 23:47 Practical Tips for Pacing 27:04 Support and Resources Resources: 🤔Got a question for me? Every month, I do a listener coaching episode—and I’d love to hear from you! Send your questions, stories, or flare-up confessions to , and you just might hear your answer on the show. 💰Discount Visible Get $20 off: 🎙️Podcast Ground Control for Bendy Bodies: How to Move Without Pain (Finally!) with Dr. Melissa Koehl: X: Feel like your body’s running on empty? You’re not alone. Check out this week’s episode for real-life pacing tips, energy tracking, and honest talk about chronic illness. #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #Lymphedema #lipedema #MCAS #ChronicIllness #Pacing #EnergyManagement #RestIsHealing Quotes: 27:06 "You're not lazy, you're not weak, you're not broken, you're simply learning a new rhythm, one that will actually sustain you." —Donna Piper 04:37 "Energy isn't a gift card you have to use up in one go— it's a budget. When you are dealing with an invisible illness, you have a budget. Some days you've got a hundred bucks, and some days you've got twenty, and some days you're in overdraft. I realized I had a choice: spend smarter or keep going broke." —Donna Piper 10:16 "Pushing through was costing me way more than just sore muscles. It was costing me days of my life." —Donna Piper 10:32 "Learning to listen instead of push is what gave me back a sense of control and confidence." —Donna Piper 12:08 "Women need more spaces where modifying isn't shameful, pacing isn't optional— rest is built into the program, not treated like a weakness." —Donna Piper 13:49 "No system gets sick alone and no system heals alone." —Donna Piper 15:02 "Pacing is essentially a nervous system rehab. It tells your cells you're safe." —Donna Piper 23:08 "Rest is part of the training, saying ‘no’ is a part of the workout, and stopping early before the crash is the bravest thing you can do." —Donna Piper 23:30 "No one's handing out a gold star for the most depleted woman in the room… Rest now, rest every day, build that in. The rest is the healing aspect." —Donna Piper 28:58 "Rest isn't quitting. It's healing. Sometimes the bravest thing you could do is stop before you crash." —Donna Piper Meet Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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Medical Trauma is Real Trauma— Healing from Healthcare
09/03/2025
Medical Trauma is Real Trauma— Healing from Healthcare
“You're not overreacting, you're healing in a system that was never built for your complexity— that makes you a damn warrior… Let's normalize naming the pain without being entangled in labels of being traumatized.” —Donna Piper When your body says something’s wrong but the doctor’s office says you’re fine, it cuts deeper than you think. The pain of being dismissed, misdiagnosed, or told “it’s all in your head” isn’t just frustrating—it can shake your trust in yourself and leave scars you can’t see. If you’ve ever left a medical appointment feeling smaller, unheard, or doubting your own reality, you’re not alone. Hit play to hear real talk on the emotional toll of medical dismissal, why your trauma is valid even if it’s invisible, how to rebuild trust in your body, and simple steps to reclaim your voice and safety in healthcare spaces. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 01:41 Understanding Medical Trauma 03:36 The Impact of Medical Trauma 05:43 Rebuilding Trust and Safety 09:30 Advocating for Yourself 10:12 You Don’t Need to Explain Your Pain to Earn Compassion Resources: 🤔Got a question for me? Every month, I do a listener coaching episode—and I’d love to hear from you! Send your questions, stories, or flare-up confessions to , and you just might hear your answer on the show. X: Being dismissed by doctors isn’t just frustrating—it’s trauma. Your pain is real, your story matters. Tune in as Donna exposes medical gaslighting and arms you with tools to heal and be heard. #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #Lymphedema #lipedema #MCAS #ChronicIllness #MedicalTrauma #Validation #HealingJourney #Empowerment Quotes: 01:44 “If your heart races at the thought of a doctor's office, if you've ever sobbed in the car after a five-minute appointment, if you've ever left a medical space feeling smaller than you walked in, you're not overreacting— you're reacting to harm.” —Donna Piper 02:25 “Medical trauma isn't an isolated horror story— it's systematic, it's repetitive, and it's invisible to everyone but us.” —Donna Piper 03:35 If you flinch at white coats, dread follow-ups, or have panic attacks in waiting rooms, your nervous system is remembering what your mind is suppressing— that deserves healing, not shame.” —Donna Piper 05:45 “The body is smart and wants to protect you and keep you alive… We don't have to carry it forever. In addition to everything else, we want to look for a way to start to regulate our body so we're not carrying that.” —Donna Piper 09:15 “You're not overreacting, you're healing in a system that was never built for your complexity— that makes you a damn warrior.” —Donna Piper 09:37 “Let's normalize naming the pain without being entangled in labels of being traumatized.” —Donna Piper 10:50 “You can be heard. It may take some time, but you can get your medical team on your side. Trust your body and remember that you don't have to explain your pain to earn compassion.” —Donna Piper Meet Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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Clearing the Fog— How the Lymphatic System Supports Lipedema & Healing with Tina Shin, OTD
08/27/2025
Clearing the Fog— How the Lymphatic System Supports Lipedema & Healing with Tina Shin, OTD
"If you are going through a struggle with lymphedema, lipedema, or anything related to your lymphatic system, don't be afraid to do your own research and be your own advocate." —Tina Shin What if the most important system in your body is also the least understood—even by your own doctor? This episode of Dear Body, I’m Listening dives into the hidden world of the lymphatic system and why it matters for anyone living with lipedema, lymphedema, or chronic illness. Tina Shin is a certified lymphedema therapist and occupational therapist with years of hands-on experience helping patients navigate the confusing world of lymphatic health. From leading clinical teams at major medical centers to running her own practice, Tina has seen firsthand how misunderstood the lymphatic system is, and she’s passionate about empowering people to understand their bodies, advocate for their needs, and find the right support—whether it’s for chronic illness, post-surgical recovery, or everyday wellness. Tune in to learn how to spot lymphatic dysfunction, find the right therapist, understand lymphedema vs. lipedema, and get clear guidance on the lymphatic system, MLD, post-surgical care, emotional healing, and self-advocacy. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 02:38 The Lymphatic Wake Up Call 06:07 Why Doctors Don’t Talk About Lymph 13:41 Lymphedema vs Lipedema 19:42 MLD Explained— What’s Real and What’s Hype 28:35 Is Your Lymphatic System Healthy? 39:50 Post Surgery Recovery— Best Practices 50:22 How Does Lymph Move? 57:44 When Lymph Gets Stuck— Fibrosis and Realistic Expectations 01:02:57 Biggest Lesson: Be Your Own Advocate X: Tired of the medical runaround? Get the facts on swelling, healing, and finding the right help this week with LANA-certified lymphedema therapist, . #DearBodyImListening #MCAS #Lymphedema #Lipedema #ChronicIllness #LymphaticHealth #MLD #SelfAdvocacy #Healing Quotes: 01:00 "Swelling, brain fog, nervous system crashes, and the kind of symptoms that don't always show up on lab results—these are the things we need to talk about with honesty and compassion." —Donna Piper 32:00 "If you feel like you have something with your lymph or swelling, seek out a therapist. At least you could get some good information on what to do." —Donna Piper 45:12 "There's a transitional time with lots of emotions [post-surgery]. There's a period of reacquainting with your new body." —Donna Piper 01:01:49 "Your MLD, your OT, your PT, whoever does this, is really your partner in all this, and it really is a big support." —Donna Piper 04:00 "The lymphatic system is an incredibly important system, but it is greatly underappreciated. If our lymphatic system were to fail, we would die within about 24 to 48 hours." —Tina Shin 08:02 "The lymphatic system is so intertwined with other systems that it's difficult to parse out whether an issue is lymphatic, liver, kidney, or cardiac. That's why we don't have any lymph-specializing doctors." —Tina Shin 09:03 "With more awareness, advocacy, and more people getting educated, it's definitely getting better." —Tina Shin 16:33 "People with lipedema can eventually develop lymphedema because of the stress on the lymphatic system, evolving into lipo-lymphedema. But someone with lymphedema isn't going to get lipedema unless they were born with it." —Tina Shin 25:42 "Whoever you're working with should have a license to touch… Beyond that, look for a certified lymphedema therapist (CLT) or someone with MLD certification." —Tina Shin 30:22 "Most people have pretty well-functioning lymphatic systems, but they can get abused." —Tina Shin 40:55 "MLD and proper compression are huge for post-surgical care. Working with a qualified therapist gives you another set of eyes, reassurance, and support through the emotional ups and downs of recovery." —Tina Shin 45:32 “Letting people know that these emotions are common and they're not alone can be reassuring." —Tina Shin 01:03:54 "If you are going through a struggle with lymphedema, lipedema, or anything related to your lymphatic system, don't be afraid to do your own research and be your own advocate." —Tina Shin 01:04:16 "Don't be afraid to buck what some of them might be saying, because there's still a lot of education and growth needed in this area." —Tina Shin 01:05:02 "Educate yourself and then educate others. Just keep moving this forward." —Tina Shin Connect with Tina: Tina Shin is a LANA-certified lymphedema therapist with a clinical doctorate in occupational therapy. She completed her residency at the Keck Medical Center of USC in Los Angeles, where she eventually served as the lead lymphedema therapist for several years. In 2021, she also opened her private practice, OC Lymphatics, where she provides mobile lymphatic services throughout Orange County. She specializes in lymphedema, lipedema, oncology, peri-surgical care, and helping patients who suffer from chronic conditions. Website: Facebook: Instagram:
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Let SEO Work While You Rest with Brittany Herzberg
08/20/2025
Let SEO Work While You Rest with Brittany Herzberg
"It starts with you. What do you want to get found for? What do you want to open your schedule and see, and what projects do you want to be working on?" —Brittany Herzberg Feeling invisible online or too tired to keep up with the hustle? You’re not alone—building a business shouldn’t mean burning out or hiding your real self. There’s a smarter way to get seen, make an impact, and still have energy left for life. Brittany Herzberg started with zero clients and a lot of doubt, but a few smart SEO moves changed everything. Now known as the “SEO Queen,” she’s on a mission to help you use simple, human-centered SEO to get found, attract the right people, and grow your business—no matter your energy level or experience. Her approach flips the script: it’s about your story, your voice, and making SEO work for you. Tune in for real talk on SEO basics, practical website tips, content that connects, and how to show up online without losing yourself. You’ll get honest advice, a few laughs, and the confidence to let your words do the heavy lifting—so hit play and start getting found, your way. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 03:49 Meet Brittany: From Struggling to Getting Found 06:15 Breaking Down the Basics: 3 Questions That Matter 14:00 Chronic Illness & Business: Making It Work Even When You’re Tired 19:46 DIY SEO: Simple Strategies Anyone Can Use 23:04 How to Spot Bad SEO Help 27:05 Blending Personality with SEO 32:48 How Long Does SEO Take? The Three-Phase Approach 36:21 No Social Media? How SEO Still Works 42:48 AI & SEO: Why Optimization Still Matters 53:48 SEO is the Magnet: Attracting the Right People 57:51 Business Building Despite Chronic Illness 01:05:09 No Apologies Needed 01:09:17 Make SEO Fun, Simple, and Yours X: Tired of hustling for every client? Let SEO work for you—even on your worst days in this week’s episode with Donna and “SEO Queen”, #DearBodyImListening #MCAS #Lymphedema #Lipedema #ChronicIllness #SEOTips #OnlineVisibility #BusinessGrowth #WomenInBusiness Quotes: 08:23 "The three questions are: Who do you help? How do you help them? And what do you want to be known for?" —Brittany Herzberg 09:57 "You want your client to come buy stuff, but you have to really put yourself first. How do you want to be searched?" —Donna Piper 10:29 "You do not have to know anything about your ideal client. You are starting with you." —Brittany Herzberg 11:23 "It starts with you. What do you want to get found for? What do you want to open your schedule and see, and what projects do you want to be working on?" —Brittany Herzberg 15:20 "Chronic illness is super expensive. When you're sick, you still need to eat, you still need to make rent, and you have to pay all this extra money to get healthy." —Donna Piper 18:40 "There are lots of chronic illnesses where that's the case, and you do feel really bad. I know I felt really bad when I would have to cancel massage appointments or push deadlines for clients." —Brittany Herzberg 19:17 "You don't have to worry about that with SEO, because it's just plugging words into these different places. You can optimize stuff that you already have." —Brittany Herzberg 21:46 "Even just by having image titles change, the impact and the quickness of the impact, the fast turnaround, the fast ROI, is so huge for people." —Brittany Herzberg 24:49 "You want to know that you're spending money on something that is going to actually happen." —Brittany Herzberg 26:57 "I blend really well, making sure the personality is there and the keyword. So it's like the art and the science are both present." —Brittany Herzberg 38:29 "It's not about the numbers necessarily. It's like, are you attracting the right people, and are they then converting in whatever that converting means?" —Donna Piper 44:05 "SEO can grow with you. Maybe you have this anchor word, but that can change as you go into the next season." —Brittany Herzberg 44:23 “Once SEO is in place, it does all the heavy lifting for you. You just have to make sure that you're still consistent with what you're doing,” —Donna Piper 46:43 "SEO is front-loaded. You're doing a lot of work and putting a lot of time and effort in at the beginning, but then it gets easier, because you've already learned what this stuff even means." —Brittany Herzberg 54:19 "At the end of the day, if people can't find you, it doesn't matter how awesome you are." —Donna Piper 01:03:05 "If it's time to leave and you're getting the hint that it's time to leave, it's okay to end it. It was good for the time that it was in your life; you can go on to do something else." —Brittany Herzberg 01:07:53 "Honoring your intuition of knowing when to stop something is a huge thing, and then having the courage to keep doing that over and over, especially when you're shut down with it." —Donna Piper Connect with Britany: Brittany Herzberg is a copywriter, SEO expert, and host of The Basic B Podcast. Known as the "SEO Queen" by hundreds of happy clients, Brittany specializes in helping service providers—especially heart-led, energy-sensitive entrepreneurs—use storytelling and search engine optimization to get found online, attract clients, and create more space for rest. Brittany brings a unique, human-centered approach to SEO, making it accessible and empowering for business owners at any stage. She offers a range of services, from DIY courses and group mentorship to done-for-you SEO solutions, and is passionate about teaching others how to leverage their voice and expertise to grow their impact. Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: YouTube: Threads;
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The Pain You Can’t See: Lipedema Hurts Like Hell
08/13/2025
The Pain You Can’t See: Lipedema Hurts Like Hell
“The pain I carry is real, and I no longer have to carry it in silence." —Donna Piper How do you explain pain that no one can see? Lipedema isn’t “just extra weight”—it’s burning thighs, unexplained bruises, stabbing aches, and heaviness so dense it changes how you move through the world. This is the reality behind the polite smiles and quiet endurance. With unflinching honesty, Donna gives language to a pain that millions silently carry. She reveals how her lipedema symptoms were mistaken for lifestyle issues, while the truth was a chronic, progressive illness impacting every part of her life—from digestion to mobility. If you’ve ever been told you “look fine” while your body feels like a war zone, this conversation is for you. Hit play now to learn the signs, challenge the myths, and find solidarity in a community that sees you. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 01:20 Lipedema: The Physical and Emotional Toll 03:43 Acknowledging and Validating Pain 05:14 Creating a Supportive Community Resources: 🤔Got a question for me? Every month, I do a listener coaching episode—and I’d love to hear from you! Send your questions, stories, or flare-up confessions to , and you just might hear your answer on the show. X: Pain doesn’t have to look loud to be true. Lipedema is real— and it hurts like hell! In this episode, Donna exposes lipedema’s hidden pain & daily fight. Listen now. #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #Lymphedema #lipedema #MCAS #ChronicIllness #BodyAdvocacy #PainIsReal #PainValidation #HealthEquity #ChronicPain Quotes: 01:46 “Lipedema pain just isn't uncomfortable. It hurts like hell— and not just sometimes." —Donna Piper 02:16 "The worst part is being told you're fine." —Donna Piper 03:09 "Lipedema is an excruciating, underdiagnosed, soul-bruising condition that deserves better awareness. End of story; full stop." —Donna Piper 03:35 "Chronic pain doesn't always look loud." —Donna Piper 03:46 "We're masters of masking. We smile with pain levels at 7, 8, 9, 10." —Donna Piper 03:59 "Just because someone isn't writhing on the floor doesn't mean their pain isn't real." —Donna Piper 04:04 "Pain doesn't have to be performative to be valid." —Donna Piper 05:01 "The pain I carry is real, and I no longer have to carry it in silence." —Donna Piper 05:22 "You're not crazy, you're not lazy, and you're definitely not alone." —Donna Piper Meet Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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Ground Control for Bendy Bodies: How to Move Without Pain (Finally!) with Dr. Melissa Koehl
08/06/2025
Ground Control for Bendy Bodies: How to Move Without Pain (Finally!) with Dr. Melissa Koehl
"You have to give your body the time to repair between sessions and respect from a cellular perspective how much energy they can effectively produce on any given day." —Dr. Melissa Koehl Why does exercise leave you in more pain—even when you're doing 'everything right’? If you’re hypermobile, traditional fitness advice might be sabotaging your body instead of healing it. The truth? Bendy bodies need a whole new rulebook for movement—one that prioritizes stability over stretching and rest over reps. Dr. Melissa Koehl is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Pilates instructor, and founder of . With 24 years of experience—and her own late-stage EDS diagnosis—Melissa bridges clinical expertise with hard-won personal insight to redefine what "healthy movement" really means for connective tissue disorders. Ready to finally move without pain? Tune in to uncover why less is more, how to spot the hidden signs of overexertion, and the game-changing strategies Dr. Melissa uses to help her clients reclaim strength (and sanity). Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 04:09 Melissa’s Journey Living with Hypermobility 07:15 The Ground Control Program 10:26 Common Symptoms and Misconceptions of Hypermobility 21:13 The Role of Rest and Recovery in Hypermobility 32:08 The Importance of Diagnosis and Self-Advocacy 36:31 Resources and Support for Patients 39:43 You Are an Orchid, Not a Dandelion Resources: Ground Control is starting again in October: Two courses that are always available: Navigating Healthcare as a Hypermobile Human: ChimeraFit Video library: X: If your joints are 'too flexible' but your pain is relentless, you’ve been lied to about exercise. Hypermobility isn’t just about bendy limbs—it’s fatigue, brain fog, and a body that rebels against normal workouts. Doctor of Physical Therapy and Pilates Instructor, Dr. Melissa Koehl, drops truth bombs on the shocking links between EDS, mast cells, and why your PT might be missing the big picture. Listen now to learn how to move smarter, not harder. #DearBodyImListening #MCAS #Lymphedema #Lipedema #ChronicIllness #dysautonomia #hypermobility #painmanagement #EDS Quotes: 02:54 "Even though I had been hypermobile my whole life, I had no idea it affected my daily living as much as it did." —Donna Piper 04:52 "I definitely didn't know anything about EDS or connective tissue disorders or anything like that. It just really like it made sense to me that, because I was bendy, I might have more injuries." —Dr. Melissa Koehl 11:40 "I think a big thing is understanding that your body shouldn't be in pain all the time." —Dr. Melissa Koehl 12:17 "Fatigue is a huge common symptom of hypermobility. I have yet to meet a patient or client of mine that doesn't struggle with it in a very serious way." —Dr. Melissa Koehl 17:02 "If more of your blood is hanging out in your feet and at the bottom of your pelvis, not as much as getting back up to your heart and up to your head, and that's a big driver of brain fog and fatigue as well." —Dr. Melissa Koehl 21:40 "It's not just your muscles that you're working out when we move, it's all of the tendons and the ligaments and the fascia, all of it needs to repair." —Dr. Melissa Koehl 22:24 "You have to give your body the time to repair between sessions and respect from a cellular perspective how much energy they can effectively produce on any given day." —Dr. Melissa Koehl 30:00 "There's a misconception that hypermobility spectrum disorder is a lesser than diagnosis than hypermobile EDS, when in fact, they are two completely overlapping things. " —Dr. Melissa Koehl 40:33 "I think the one important thing that everyone benefits from hearing is that it's not your fault." —Dr. Melissa Koehl 41:31 "There are extra things that need to be considered with a connective tissue issue. It is more challenging; give yourself the time to find the providers that truly understand it. “Give yourself the time to rest without apology, give your body the rest that it needs." —Dr. Melissa Koehl 43:40 "You don't need joint dislocations to have connective tissue disorder." —Dr. Melissa Koehl 46:10 “These symptoms are just not normal, so symptom management is huge. You don't have to be a pain all the time.” —Donna Piper Connect with Melissa: Melissa Koehl is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and Pilates instructor based in Chicago, IL, with over 24 years of experience. She's a board-certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist and spent more than a decade co-specializing in vestibular rehab. Today, Melissa runs a virtual and mobile PT practice focused on helping people with symptomatic hypermobility, including Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Before launching her own practice, she worked at the University of Illinois Hospital, where she treated patients with complex chronic illness and trauma, and taught in their Doctor of Physical Therapy program. After years of struggling with her own mysterious health issues—and nearly leaving the profession—Melissa was finally diagnosed with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. That turning point gave her the clarity and treatment she needed to not only stay in the field, but to build a practice dedicated to helping others like her. Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok:
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Wellness Culture, You Can Sit Down Now
07/30/2025
Wellness Culture, You Can Sit Down Now
“If you have felt left out of wellness culture, it's not because you've failed; it's because it was never built for you in the first place. No matter what we look like, what our experiences are, what we're dealing with, we are all worthy of care. Healing is not a branding opportunity, and it is a birthright.” —Donna Piper Ever felt like wellness advice wasn’t written for your body—or your life? When smoothies, sunrise meditations, and superfoods feel more like pressure than peace, maybe the problem isn’t you… maybe it's the culture. If you’ve ever silently wondered, “Why does nothing work for me?”—this episode will hit home in the best way. Donna has done all the things wellness culture says should work—only to discover they often do more harm than good. And when she finally realized how her invisible, complex conditions intersect with fatphobia, performative health, and outdated medical systems, she stopped chasing quick fixes and started building a sustainable path rooted in self-trust, rest, and radical honesty. Join Donna as she reclaims healing as a birthright, unpacks the myths that dominate mainstream wellness, and gives practical, lymphatic-friendly tools that actually honor your body. You don’t need to be fixed—you need to be heard. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 01:21 Unlearning the Wellness Culture 04:43 The Complexity of Chronic Conditions 16:14 Supporting the Lymphatic System 24:36 Myths and Misconceptions in Wellness 28:21 Embracing a New Wellness Paradigm Resources: 🤔Got a question for me? Every month, I do a listener coaching episode—and I’d love to hear from you! Send your questions, stories, or flare-up confessions to , and you just might hear your answer on the show. X: Tired of being told to “just detox” when your body is fighting for its life? Your host, Donna Piper, unpacks the gaslighting in wellness culture + what real healing looks like. Tune in for truths, tools & lymphatic love. #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #Lymphedema #lipedema #MCAS #ChronicIllness #WellnessMyths #WellnessCulture #Fatphobia #HealingJourney #RestIsMedicine Quotes: 28:44 “If you have felt left out of wellness culture, it's not because you've failed, it's because it was never built for you in the first place. No matter what we look like, what our experiences are, or what we're dealing with, we are all worthy of care. Healing is not a branding opportunity, and it is a birthright.” —Donna Piper 02:11 “When you're navigating a complex diagnosis like lipedema, MCAS, hypermobility, the full spectrum of EDS to HSD, POTS and chronic fatigue... this wellness culture is not made for our bodies.” —Donna Piper 04:30 “There is no one map, one thing: Do this, and you'll get better.’ Actually doing those wellness culture things made me feel bad; it didn’t work.” —Donna Piper 04:55 “Even when I did get answers from my doctors, which—that was a relief—but they didn’t give me a straightforward plan.” —Donna Piper 07:34 “Our version of wellness isn’t what the mainstream version of wellness is.” —Donna Piper 10:07 “The only thing that's going to help realign your system is not about doing more, it’s about doing less.” —Donna Piper 10:57 “I had to stop viewing myself with harsh eyes and through other people’s expectations.” —Donna Piper 11:57 “You are doing healing right for you. We are not doing healing wrong.” —Donna Piper 12:26 “So much of wellness culture and just how people view things now… is rooted in ableism, fat phobia, and a polished aesthetic.” —Donna Piper 13:24 “It’s not about performative wellness. It’s not about trying to do things to force our bodies into a way.” —Donna Piper 23:11 “Resting—it's not laziness, it's not willpower—it's really more about biology. You need rest.” —Donna Piper 28:10 “I release all the shoulds. I let go of wellness shame and just feel good about that. I know that my wellness looks different, and I stand with pride in that.” —Donna Piper Meet Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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The Weight I Carry Isn’t Just Physical
07/23/2025
The Weight I Carry Isn’t Just Physical
"Shame lives in the body, but so does compassion." —Donna Piper If shame could be seen, would you finally believe it’s not your fault? So many of us carry invisible burdens—chronic symptoms, exhaustion, and the silent weight of feeling misunderstood or blamed for what we can’t control. The real struggle isn’t just in our bodies, but in the stories we tell ourselves when healing doesn’t look the way the world expects. Donna Piper knows this journey firsthand. After years of being dismissed and doing everything “right” but still getting sicker, she’s learned how shame embeds itself in our bodies—and how compassion and psychological flexibility can set us free. Tune in as Donna unpacks the truth about shame, busts the myth of willpower, and guides you through a powerful practice to help you move from self-blame to self-love. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 01:27 Understanding and Addressing Shame in Chronic Illness 03:15 The Role of Self-Compassion and Psychological Flexibility 09:34 The Impact of Shame on Healing and Relationships 17:04 Practical Techniques for Shame Release 23:10 Myth-Busting: Willpower vs Shame Resources: 🤔Got a question for me? Every month, I do a listener coaching episode—and I’d love to hear from you! Send your questions, stories, or flare-up confessions to , and you just might hear your answer on the show. X: Ever feel like your body’s pain is only half the battle? Discover how shame shapes healing & learn to break the cycle in this week’s episode as Donna shares tips, tools, & truth! #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #Lymphedema #lipedema #MCAS #BodyShame #SelfCompassion #InvisibleIllness #HealingJourney #PsychologicalFlexibility #ShameRelease #SelfCare #ChronicFatigue Quotes: 02:08 Shame lives in the body, but so does compassion." —Donna Piper 02:13 "Shame just isn't a feeling, it's a somatic experience. It gets stored in your body— in your thighs, and in your belly, and in your nervous system— and over time, it becomes a lens you see yourself through." —Donna Piper 03:35 "Shame is very prevalent. It's very silent. It hides in the shadows, and it's lurking over everything that we want to do, and how we see who we are." —Donna Piper 04:17 "Self-compassion means speaking to yourself in a way that you would to a dear friend, and it sounds like this: This part of me is hurting. This part of me deserves care." —Donna Piper 05:00 "We want to feel part of a group, that's just how we're made. We want to have community and connection and be understood." —Donna Piper 06:39 "Psychological flexibility... just really means allowing uncomfortable emotions to exist without letting them control your choices. It's noticing the shame without becoming ashamed, choosing your values over your fear, and letting your truth lead the way." —Donna Piper 09:21 "Shame is like any other emotion. Once it's seen, once it's acknowledged, then it can move through you. So it's not a life sentence, it's just another level of awareness." —Donna Piper 09:46 "Resting is self-care… Resting is critical. It's part of the healing." —Donna Piper 12:57 "[Lipedema] isn't about laziness. This isn't about willpower. It is a medical condition rooted in inflammation and hormones, and it deals with connective tissue issues." —Donna Piper 14:47 "Be compassionate with yourself and be loving with yourself. This is something that you didn't cause." —Donna Piper 15:47 "Willpower isn't the problem, it's the shame." —Donna Piper 16:43 "You could be doing everything right and still see no change. That doesn't mean that you or I have failed. It's just a mismatch about the care that's available and what our bodies are experiencing." —Donna Piper 17:51 "What I do need is a little more love and compassion and education for how my body responds." —Donna Piper 19:30 "You don't have to explain your shame to anyone— that's not really liberating… because the people around you may not be equipped to hear. If it doesn't land in the right place, then it creates more trauma, and it doesn't have the healing effect that you think it is." —Donna Piper 22:46 "I hold myself with love, even when the world doesn't." —Donna Piper Meet Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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The Inflammation Fix: How Keto Diet Supports Your Lymphatic System
07/16/2025
The Inflammation Fix: How Keto Diet Supports Your Lymphatic System
"It's not all about obesity, it's not all about weight. It is about giving your body the nutrients it needs to be healthy." —Leslyn Keith Forget calories-in-calories-out. If you’re eating "clean" but still battling swelling, fatigue, or pain, the problem isn’t your willpower—it’s how your food fuels (or strangles) your lymphatics. Carbs don’t just go to our hips—they clog our body’s drainage system. And when our lymphatics are drowning in carbs, every symptom—from brain fog to stubborn weight—becomes a distress signal. Leslyn Keith, a lymphatic therapist and researcher with 25 years of clinical experience, reveals how the ketogenic diet isn’t just about weight loss—it’s a lifeline for stagnant lymphatics, inflammation, and conditions like lipedema. With brutal honesty and science-backed insights, she dismantles the myth that fat is the enemy and shares why protein and healthy fats are the unsung heroes of lymphatic drainage. Tune in as Donna and Leslyn unpack why carbs sabotage your lymph flow, how keto can reduce pain and swelling before the scale moves, and the one dietary shift that could finally make your body feel like yours again. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 04:52 Why We Get Fat 09:43 The Impact of Keto Diet on the Lymphatic System 19:53 Understanding Your Body’s Needs 27:29 Body Fat vs Dietary Fat 34:03 Challenges, Benefits, and Practical Tips for Adopting to Keto Diet 47:13 The Lymphatic Code Correct 49:33 Proper Nutrients Matter Resources: Book The Lymphatic Code: Using a Ketogenic Lifestyle to Enjoy a Robust Lymphatic System That Promotes Overall Health and Wellness by Leslyn Keith Buy the print soft cover on Amazon: X: Your ‘healthy’ diet could be starving your lymphatic system. Game-changing convo with lymphatic therapist and researcher Leslyn Keith on why keto = lymphatic rescue. and the #1 thing to eat instead. Don’t miss this week’s episode! #DearBodyImListening #KetogenicDiet #LymphaticHealth #ChronicInflammation #MetabolicHealing #FatDisorder Quotes: 03:38 “I was on a diet or a cleanse for 40 years because I was trying to figure out why my body didn't respond." —Donna Piper 04:25 "I wanted to make sure my food, what I could eat was servicing the body that I had with all these conditions." —Donna Piper 10:31 “There's something that is inflammatory about a high carbohydrate diet, and it's particularly inflammatory to the lymphatics, so they don't work as well." —Leslyn Keith 13:37 "We try to impress upon people is that you got to heal first, then the pounds come off." —Leslyn Keith 14:26 "It's all those other non-scale victories that are telling you that you are healing and you're doing better. For a lot of people, that pain reduction or resolution is the ultimate motivator, because they go into it thinking, ‘I just want the scale to go down, but if, in two weeks, they have a lot less pain, well, I'm going to stick with this way of eating just because of that’, because that that's huge." —Leslyn Keith 18:20 "Using a Keto or carnivore diet is the easiest to modify to accommodate each of those individual needs— your comorbidities, your preferences, what you like to eat— all those things. We can do this in a way that is going to promote your health." —Leslyn Keith 26:59 “There was a point where my body was craving more fat. Because I was a teenager in the 80s and up, so fat was bad, like fat would make you fat. And that is really not true." —Donna Piper 27:30 “It's quite a disservice that that we have the same word for body fat as what we eat in dietary fat. Because that's it's very easy to come to that conclusion that if I eat fat, it will make me become more fat. And it's simply not true. It is the carbohydrates that get turned into fat in your body." —Leslyn Keith 40:11 “It's daunting because of how people treat too, and how they perceive you because most people see obesity as a lifestyle poor willpower, and it is your fault that you're there." —Leslyn Keith 44:41 "It's not all about obesity, it's not all about weight. It is about giving your body the nutrients it needs to be healthy." —Leslyn Keith 43:57 “If I would have known that lipedema was a thing when I was 15, how I viewed my body and how I viewed dieting or not dieting would have been different." —Donna Piper Connect with Leslyn: Leslyn Keith is a certified lymphedema therapist and has a Clinical Doctorate in Occupational Therapy with an emphasis on lymphedema and obesity. Dr. Keith has started four lymphedema therapy programs in California including two in private practice. She has treated lymphatic and fat disorders for over 20 years and currently researches, consults, and lectures on lymphedema, lipedema, and obesity nationally and internationally. She is the author of and published several articles about the efficacy of a ketogenic diet for lymphatic and fat disorders. Currently, Dr. Keith is a consultant with , LLC and , an instructor in lymphedema therapy for , and directs , an online course and community for managing weight and lymphedema. Website: YouTube:
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My Body Changed Overnight… and Finally, I Got Answers
07/09/2025
My Body Changed Overnight… and Finally, I Got Answers
"Remember, your symptoms aren't just physical, and your healing won't be either. Listen to your body, it's been whispering the truth all along." —Donna Piper Your body changes overnight—sudden weight gain, relentless pain, and doctors who dismiss it as "just aging." What if it’s not? Donna shares her shocking journey from unexplained swelling and crushing fatigue to life-changing diagnoses: lipedema, mast cell activation syndrome, and hypermobility. For years, her symptoms were brushed off as "normal," but rapid physical changes forced her to dig deeper. As a movement therapist and chronic illness navigator, Donna reveals how these invisible conditions masquerade as everyday health struggles—and why trusting your body’s signals is the first step to answers. If you’ve ever felt betrayed by your body or gaslit by the system, this episode is your roadmap to validation and actionable next steps. Listen now—your healing starts here. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 02:18 A Sudden Weight Shift 07:56 Exploring the Body’s Signals 11:07 The Importance of Tracking and Seeking Medical Advice 19:06 Weekly Feel Good Flow 22:36 Listen to Your Body! Resources: 🤔Got a question for me? Every month, I do a listener coaching episode—and I’d love to hear from you! Send your questions, stories, or flare-up confessions to , and you just might hear your answer on the show. 🔗Links Dr. Emily Iker: Dr. Perrin Technique: X: Just exercise more’ didn’t fix my pain. Why? Donna found out the REAL culprit. If your body’s screaming, don’t silence it—investigate. Tune in to find out more! #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #Lymphedema #lipedema #MCAS #Hypermobility #bonespurs #HealthAwareness #ChronicPain Quotes: 00:25 "Always know that your instincts are valid, and it could be a multitude of things." —Donna Piper 06:28 "When my body started screaming through the swelling, the weight gain, the pain, and the mobility loss, I had no choice but to listen." —Donna Piper 08:42 “It's not just fat. It was a disordered fat, a condition, a real one— one that I have never heard of before." —Donna Piper 11:55 "This sudden shift was my wake-up call. And as painful and scary as it was, I'm grateful for it now, because it cracked me open up to the truth, to the science, and to healing." —Donna Piper 22:38 "Just listen to your body, support, and allow the healing to begin." —Donna Piper 23:02 "If your body is changing fast, don't panic. Get curious. You pretty much know your body." —Donna Piper 23:19 "Remember, your symptoms aren't just physical, and your healing won't be either. Listen to your body, it's been whispering the truth all along." —Donna Piper Meet Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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Hot Girls Wearing Compression
07/02/2025
Hot Girls Wearing Compression
"Compression might not be cute by mainstream standards... but compression is healing. And healing is hot." —Donna Piper What if compression gear could be your secret weapon against chronic pain and swelling— while making you feel confident, not constrained? This week, Donna reveals how symptoms like swelling and pain were once dismissed as "normal" struggles, and how compression has become a lifeline for managing inflammation, fibrosis, and daily discomfort. From decongestion wrapping to custom flat-knit garments, Donna breaks down the science and self-care rituals that help her reclaim her health—and her confidence—while navigating invisible illness. Listen now to discover how healing can be hot—and why your compression gear might just become your favorite accessory. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 02:59 Body Positivity: More Than Just Feeling Hot 07:00 Lymphatic Rescue: Decodign Decongestive Therapy 10:30 Medical Gear and Compression Basics 13:00 Fashion Meets Function 17:04 Self-Care Lymphatic Massage 22:34 Thank Your Body For What It Can Do Resources: 🤔Got a question for me? Every month, I do a listener coaching episode—and I’d love to hear from you! Send your questions, stories, or flare-up confessions to , and you just might hear your answer on the show. 🔗Links Solidea Compression Garments Complete Decongestive Therapy X: Hot girls wear compression—and no, it’s not about aesthetics. Learn the truth about custom compression, lymphatic health, and self-love in this week’s episode, with your host, Donna Piper! #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #Lymphedema #lipedema #MCAS #CompressionGear #painmanagement #ChronicIllnessWarrior #Inflammation Quotes: "There's absolutely nothing glamorous about pulling on full pantyhose or thigh-high compression hose or even socks, especially in the summer!" —Donna Piper "Function is not the opposite of beauty." —Donna Piper "It's about being present, it's being about hydrated and supported and doing what your body needs to make it feel good." —Donna Piper "I know when I wear my compression hose, I don't feel sexy, but I do know I have less pain, and I wear them a lot." —Donna Piper "Compression might not be cute by mainstream standards... but compression is "Sometimes you just have to make yourself feel cute, whether it's glasses or accessories." —Donna Piper "I have tried to integrate some of these practices a little bit more so I could start looking at my body and start accepting it more, and start giving a little bit more love and nourishment and thanking it for what it does do, not what it's not doing." —Donna Piper Meet Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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So Flexible It Hurts: Living with Hypermobility & EDS
06/29/2025
So Flexible It Hurts: Living with Hypermobility & EDS
"If you call yourself lazy or out of shape, you really are not. You're an Olympic-level competitor, because your body is doing so much more than everyone else." —Donna Piper Modern medicine often misses this critical truth: flexibility can be a disability. Hypermobility forces your body to burn energy just to maintain basic stability. For Donna Piper, 'flexibility' wasn't a gift—it was a hidden disability that stole her energy and fueled chronic pain. As a movement therapist, Donna believed her hypermobile joints were an advantage, until they triggered fatigue so severe she couldn't drive without bracing herself. In this episode, Donna reveals how Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) forces muscles to work overtime just to hold joints in place, why this drains energy "like running a marathon while holding a Jenga tower," and the surprising link between "bendy" joints and conditions like POTS, MCAS, and lipedema. Join in and learn how to do the side-lying breath reset technique that calms hypermobile joints without overstretching. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 02:47 Living with Hypermobility and EDS 04:15 Connective Tissue Disorders and Their Impact 08:46 Hypermobility and Energy Management 12:34 Side-Lying Breath Reset Technique 15:10 The Importance of Community and Self-Advocacy in Managing Chronic Illness Resources: 🤔Got a question for me? Every month, I do a listener coaching episode—and I’d love to hear from you! Send your questions, stories, or flare-up confessions to , and you just might hear your answer on the show. 🔗Links EDS: EDS/MCAS: Hypermobility: Dr. Melissa Koehl, PT Instagram: Website: X: Your 'double-jointed' party trick? For EDS patients, it's actually their muscles working overtime 24/7. Learn why hypermobility = chronic fatigue in this week’s episode! #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #Hypermobility #EhlersDanlosSyndrome #EDS #ChronicIllness #SpoonieLife #InvisibleIllness #HSD #POTS #MCAS #Lipedema Quotes: 02:51 "What they didn't see, and what I didn't realize, was that flexibility comes with pain and fatigue. The way my body could overwork itself just to hold it together." —Donna Piper 03:43 "I didn't realize that gripping wasn't supposed to be there. I realized that it was creating a lot of symptomology, and I just didn't know how to take care of myself." —Donna Piper 04:53 "Now I understand how much effort it takes to go on a car ride, or just hold myself up from the inside." —Donna Piper 05:01 "The wild part is EDS, HSD, lipedema, POTS, MCAS— they're all connected, and not everyone knows that." —Donna Piper 07:01 "Everything is highly, highly, highly individualized." —Donna Piper 10:46 "All of that extra work that I'm doing to substitute what my body needs for stability takes a lot of energy." —Donna Piper 12:24 "If you call yourself lazy or out of shape, you really are not. You're an Olympic-level competitor, because your body is doing so much more than everyone else." —Donna Piper Meet Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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Chronic Fatigue… Huh, Is That Even Real?
06/28/2025
Chronic Fatigue… Huh, Is That Even Real?
“Rest is medicine, and I even wear a monitor now to track how much energy I'm truly using. Even if I think I'm taking it easy, it shows me that I might be expending too much energy, and I'm able to take rest breaks purposely so I don't feel guilty about resting." —Donna Piper They called it burnout. They called it depression. They were wrong. Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), isn't psychological—it's neurological. This invisible illness poisons your nervous system while leaving lab tests 'normal,' making it medicine's greatest blind spot. When world-renowned specialist Dr. Perrin examined Donna, he found something shocking: her lymphatic system was flowing backward, flooding her brain with toxins. Discover how this structural dysfunction creates the "crash days" of ME/CFS, why "pushing through" makes ME/CFS worse, the 5 physical signs of ME/CFS most doctors ignore, the 'feet up the wall' technique, the test that reveals if your nervous system is in overdrive, and the wearable device that exposes hidden energy expenditure (even during "rest"). Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 01:48 Introduction to ME/CFS 06:22 The Perrin Technique and Why It Matters 08:52 Chronic Fatigue— Beyond Psychological 14:29 Feel Good Flow Time Resources: 🔗Links Dr. Raymond Perrin: The Perrin Technique: How to diagnose and treat CFS/ME and fibromyalgia via the lymphatic drainage of the brain, 2nd Ed: The Concise Perrin Technique: A Handbook for Patients: Through the Looking Glass: Diagnosing and treating long COVID using the Perrin Technique: X: Fatigue isn't 'in your head'—it's in your LYMPH. Tune in as Donna shares the structural cause of ME/CFS plus the 4 foods that worsened Donna’s fatigue (and the weird swap that helped). #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #MECFS #ChronicFatigue #BrainFog #LymphaticHealth #MedicalGaslighting #SpoonieLife Quotes: 01:45 "If you're running on 30% and pretending you're running on 100%, you are not alone here." —Donna Piper 08:52 "Chronic fatigue syndrome isn't psychological. It's structural. So it's not just that you think you're tired, it's actually a physiological thing happening that's not working right." —Donna Piper 09:07 "Blocked or sluggish lymphatic drainage in the brain and the spine causes toxic buildup. This overload stimulates the sympathetic nervous system— your fight or flight mode— which keeps you stuck in the survival and that causes those deep, mysterious crashes." —Donna Piper 11:11 "Rest is a huge part of what is prescription. Do half of what you think you can because the more you push yourself, it takes longer for your body to detox." —Donna Piper 14:07 "Rest is medicine, and I even wear a monitor now to track how much energy I'm truly using. Even if I think I'm taking it easy, it shows me that I might be expending too much energy, and I'm able to take rest breaks purposely so I don't feel guilty about resting." —Donna Piper Meet Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change, helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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What Is MCAS and Why Do I Look 6 Months Pregnant by Lunch?
06/27/2025
What Is MCAS and Why Do I Look 6 Months Pregnant by Lunch?
"If you've ever been told it's all in your head, well, your body is not lying and neither are you." —Donna Piper What if your 'healthy' diet was secretly poisoning you? For decades, Donna ate kale, bone broth, and fermented foods—only to discover these 'superfoods' were flooding her body with histamines and leaving her bloated like a balloon by noon. In this episode, Donna pulls back the curtain on Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)—the invisible illness that turned her immune system against everyday foods. She reveals how doctors misdiagnosed her chronic bloating as "just stress" for 15 years, why high-histamine "health foods" worsened her symptoms, and the shocking link between MCAS, lipedema, and chronic fatigue. Join in to discover the 3 most surprising high-histamine foods (you’re probably eating them daily) and how Donna finally silenced her body’s false alarm system. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 01:55 What is MCAS? 07:28 Symptoms and Triggers of MCAS 14:59 Diagnosis and Treatment 16:01 The Link Between MCAS and Other Conditions 19:36 Practical Tips and Resources for Managing MCAS Resources: 🔗Links SIGHI: Leslyn Keith: Dr. Emily Iker: Histamine Intolerance Food List: X: Ever feel “fine” on the outside but exhausted inside? Discover the truth about MCAS, bloating, and invisible illness as Donna offers practical tips for daily relief and self-advocacy. #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #MCAS #HealthTips #SelfAdvocacy #Bloating #Histamines #ChronicSymptoms Quotes: 00:56 "If you've ever been told it's all in your head, well, your body is not lying and neither are you." —Donna Piper 05:58 "I had definitely no idea that my mast cells were such a part of the immune system, and they were in full revolt." —Donna Piper 07:56 "Not everyone behaves the same way and reacts the same way. You have to trial and error, so I think it's exhausting." —Donna Piper 12:30 "MCAS can make you feel like you're allergic to everything." —Donna Piper 13:34 "The more your food stays out... the more histamines it has." —Donna Piper 16:47 "MCAS is not linear, and unfortunately, it doesn't come with a clear food plan." —Donna Piper 18:27 "I had put my stock in some doctors saying this is what you need to do to feel better, and I kept on feeling worse, and I never got the right diagnosis. So I'm more agitated and irritated that doctors aren't trained to look for this, and that could have saved me, like, 10s of 1000s of dollars and 10s of years of this pain." —Donna Piper 18:56 "It is not fun to have days where you don't feel like doing anything. It does take a toll, even though it's a gradual toll typically, but how you start to live your life is a lot different." —Donna Piper 19:27 "It's hard to explain to someone really what you're going through, unless they either understand you because they've gone through it, or they're a medical provider that has more knowledge about it and sees patients with it." —Donna Piper Meet Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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If I Had Known This at 15... Lipedema
06/26/2025
If I Had Known This at 15... Lipedema
"If at 15, I had known what I know now, I think I would have a huge change in perspective about how I looked at my body in my whole life." —Donna Piper What if your 'normal weight gain' was actually a medical condition everyone missed? At 15, Donna thought she just needed to try harder. Thirty years later, she learned the shocking truth. Donna reveals how lipedema symptoms masqueraded as simple body insecurities—from ballet teachers shaming her thighs to doctors dismissing her pain. With raw honesty, she unpacks the genetic reality of lipedema, the crushing weight of misdiagnosis, and why even her "perfect" healthy lifestyle couldn't stop the progression. Tune in to discover the 3 red flags of lipedema every woman should know—and how to advocate for your body when no one else does. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 01:30 Body Image Struggles 05:17 Lymphedema vs Lipedema vs Obesity 11:43 The Impact of Misdiagnosis 14:53 Dealing with the Grief of Misdiagnosis 21:27 The Feel Good Flow for Lymphatic Support System 23:05 Practical Tips for Lymphatic Support Resources: 🔗Links Lipedema: Big Six: X: “Ballerinas don’t have thighs like that.” At 15, Donna Piper believed her ballet teacher. At 45, she learned the truth: lipedema. Her story will change how you see ‘stubborn weight. Tune in! #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #LipedemaAwareness #ChronicIllness #BodyShaming #WeightGain #BigThighs #GeneticDiseases Quotes: 01:38 "If at 15, I had known what I know now, I think I would have a huge change in perspective about how I looked at my body in my whole life." —Donna Piper 02:05 "Even though I moved every day, I still had thick thighs. And I also ate really clean food... but my legs were always thicker." —Donna Piper 03:26 "One of my ballet teachers came up to me, and she touched my thighs, and she said, ‘ballerinas don't have thighs like that.’ And I know that she was trying to be motivating... but that was not the case at all, and that just reinforced my self-consciousness about my thighs." —Donna Piper 04:18 "If I had known that lipedema was a thing, this is just genetics... It's not laziness, it's not a lack of trying. It's not a certain food. It's just, this might happen to you for whatever reason." —Donna Piper 04:56 "This misunderstanding of my body and thinking that it was more in my control has messed with me for decades, and it still messes with me to this day." —Donna Piper 13:54 "Maybe just knowing this (lipedema) now, you could stop blaming yourself. You could stop thinking that you're not doing enough." —Donna Piper 15:29 "By learning some of this information earlier, I would not have been down all these rabbit holes that I have been. I probably would have been able to find something that actually was going to help me, and it would have definitely saved me years of confusion and shame." —Donna Piper 16:01 "How do you deal with the grief of being misdiagnosed for so long? That was really, really tough, and I'm still in the process of all of the five stages of grief." —Donna Piper 16:33 "It's expensive to have these diagnoses because the specialists that you find want to be paid out of pocket... and the kicker is there's no clear cut diagnosis or a pathway like, do these things and you'll improve." —Donna Piper 17:53 "My kind of wisdom... is to stick with it, take it easy and give yourself the time that you need to actually deal with the anger and the upset feelings and all of the doctors saying it was not a big deal." —Donna Piper 20:44 "The paradox of living with these kinds of illnesses is that I don't always look sick, but I feel horrible, and I'm in a lot of pain, and I can't really function." —Donna Piper 21:07 "You're not alone. It's a real thing to be giving 100% and only running on 30% of fuel." —Donna Piper Meet Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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Dear Body, I’m Listening— The Why Behind the Podcast
06/25/2025
Dear Body, I’m Listening— The Why Behind the Podcast
"You are not broken, you are not lazy, you are not crazy—and your body is doing her best." —Donna Piper What if your body isn’t failing you—it’s trying to save you? Patients with chronic pain or invisible illnesses often face gaslighting from doctors, loved ones, and even themselves. They’re told to push through, fix their diets, or "just rest," while their bodies scream in languages no one understands. Step into the very first episode of “Dear Body, I’m Listening”, where healing isn’t a straight line, and perfection is left at the door. In this raw and unfiltered debut, your host, Donna Piper, opens up about her own journey through decades of mysterious symptoms, misdiagnoses, and the emotional rollercoaster of living with invisible illness. If you’ve ever googled your symptoms in the dark, felt dismissed by doctors, or wondered if anyone else gets it, this podcast is for you. Join Donna as she builds a sisterhood of seekers, shares the tools that actually help, and provides a safe space for anyone who’s felt broken by a system that ignores their pain. Press play to discover why rest isn’t laziness, how to decode your body’s signals, and why healing begins when you stop fighting yourself. Connect with Donna: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Episode Highlights: 01:30 “Dear Body, I’m Listening” — The Mission Unveiled 03:00 Donna’s Story: From Dancer to Diagnosis 05:00 The Turning Point: Pneumonia and the Downward Spiral 07:00 The Search for Answers: Meeting the Specialists 09:00 The Weight of Invisible Illness: Shame, Grief, and Acceptance 11:00 Beyond the Surface: Why “Conservative Treatments” Weren’t Enough 13:00 A Love Letter to Myself: Redefining Healing 15:00 What to Expect: Real Talk, Raw Stories, and Sisterhood Resources: 📖Book X: Your body isn't broken—it's speaking! The first episode of #DearBodyImListening is live—a safe space for women with chronic pain, invisible illness, and anyone who's ever felt dismissed by their own body. Don’t miss your host, Donna Piper’s raw take on chronic illness and more! #DearBodyImListeningPodcast #ChronicIllness #SelfTrust #LipedemaAwareness #MastCellActivation #SomaticHealing Quotes: 01:03 “If you've ever felt like your body's speaking a language no one else understands, you are not crazy and you are not alone.” —Donna Piper 01:29 "Healing isn't linear, and neither are we." —Donna Piper 08:10 "Your body doesn't need to be fixed. You don't need to be fixed. You're not broken." —Donna Piper 09:32 “All of those feelings are valid. It sucks to have these things, especially when no one really understands you." —Donna Piper 11:28 “Look at rest as not because you’re lazy or sick, but because if you want to get better, you need to rest." —Donna Piper 11:56 "My healthy food was poisoning me." —Donna Piper 12:45 "You are not broken, you are not lazy, you are not crazy—and your body is doing her best." —Donna Piper Meet Your Host: Donna Piper is a Relationship Coach, Trauma Expert, and Akashic Records Healer dedicated to empowering successful single women to transform their love lives and attract fulfilling partnerships without sacrificing their professional ambitions. With a holistic approach blending therapeutic coaching, trauma-informed techniques, and Akashic Records wisdom, she guides clients to release limiting beliefs, heal emotional blocks, and cultivate unshakable self-trust. Her work focuses on aligning mind, body, and spirit to create lasting change—helping clients refine communication, deepen self-worth, and build the foundation for healthy, loving relationships. Donna’s sessions are a safe haven for those ready to break cycles, embrace vulnerability, and design a love life that harmonizes with their thriving careers. For women committed to both personal and professional fulfillment, she offers tailored strategies to unlock their full potential and step into the relationship of their dreams.
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