Midlife Conversations with Natalie Jill

Welcome to Midlife Conversations. On this podcast Natalie Jill does what she does best - taking complicated information that is relevant to us (women entering Midlife) NOW, and breaking it down simply with actionable steps you can implement to level up your life in your BEST YEARS to come. I also regularly interview some of the most inspiring people living their best Midlife years. On this show, I cover topics about our shifting hormones, weight struggles, our mood and focus changes, raising teenagers, our relationships, career changes, beauty and more. If you are new here, Natalie Jill encourage's you to go back and listen from episode one, when this podcast was previously called “Listen UP” for the full transformative experience!

507: Your Cancer Diagnosis Isn't Your Fault (And Why That Matters): A Stage 4 Cancer Survivor's Truth About Energy and Healing with Maria Kang 02/10/2026

507: Your Cancer Diagnosis Isn't Your Fault (And Why That Matters): A Stage 4 Cancer Survivor's Truth About Energy and Healing with Maria Kang Your CANCER Diagnosis Isn't Your Fault (And Why That Matters): A Stage 4 Cancer Survivor's Truth About Energy and Healing with Maria Kang What if everything you think you know about cancer and healing is actually backwards? Maria Kang has lived a life that defies conventional narratives. She's the "No Excuses Mom" who challenged the fitness industry…and then she got stage 4 cancer while doing everything "right." But instead of following the standard playbook, she made a choice that shocked everyone around her and in that, discovered that cancer wasn't her enemy - it was her greatest teacher. This is not your typical cancer survival story. In this conversation, Maria walks us through her journey from the moment of diagnosis through the stunning realization that cancer, autoimmune disease, and chronic illness emerge from an energetic state of chronic self-betrayal. She shares why she resisted chemotherapy, what happened when the tumor shrank after gratitude practice, why cancer returned, and what truly shifted when she finally surrendered. More importantly, she reveals what this teaches every woman about people-pleasing, boundaries, inner authority, and the cost of abandoning yourself. Whether or not you're facing a cancer diagnosis, this episode will change how you listen to your body. Maria's recent book, Sacred Becoming, documents her full transformation. And what Natalie discovered while reading it is that this isn't just a cancer story, it's a blueprint for remembering who you actually are underneath all the conditioning. Midlife women are in a health crisis not just about food or fitness. It's about chronic disconnection from your own inner knowing. It's about people-pleasing patterns that literally make your body sick. It's about forgotten boundaries and abandoned dreams. Maria's story shows what happens when those patterns escalate to cancer. And more importantly, it shows what becomes possible when you finally listen to your body and remember who you actually are. Episode Links: Maria’s new book: Sacred Becoming Past Episode - 401: The GIFT of Cancer with Maria Kang Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Maria Kang Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Book ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! QUANTUM UPGRADE: Try Quantum Upgrade completely free for 15 days—no credit card required. Use code NATALIEJILL at checkout on TIMELINE: Timeline is offering 20% off your order of Mitopure! Go to https:// Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/39909305

506: Is Red Light Therapy Real or Just Hype? What 6,000 Studies (and Your Circadian Rhythm) Reveal with Ari Whitten 02/03/2026

506: Is Red Light Therapy Real or Just Hype? What 6,000 Studies (and Your Circadian Rhythm) Reveal with Ari Whitten Get Ari Whitten’s Book here: What if the most effective anti-aging tool isn't some skincare in your cabinet but is something that has been scientifically proven for 30 years, studied across 6,000 peer-reviewed research papers, and yet nobody told you about it? What if the reason you haven't heard about it isn't because it doesn't work, but because the science moved faster than the system? In this episode, I'm sitting down with Ari Whitten, one of the world's leading experts in photobiomodulation and red light therapy. Ari and I have known each other for nearly two decades. What he's discovered about light, cellular energy, aging, and mitochondrial health has genuinely transformed how I approach my own health. That's why I'm bringing him back to share this information with you. We're diving deep into topics that matter: Is red light therapy actually scientifically proven, or is it just the latest wellness trend? (Spoiler: 6,000 peer-reviewed studies, 30+ years of research, and now mainstream adoption says it's proven.) How does red light actually work at the cellular level? (Hint: it's not magic, it's mitochondrial biology.) Why are dermatologists still recommending sun avoidance when red light from the sun is protective? (And how do you know which wavelengths actually age you?) Which devices actually work, which ones are a waste of money, and how do you know the difference? (Device selection matters more than most people realize.) How can red light therapy support anti-aging, energy, recovery, sleep, and brain function all at the same time? (It's not separate benefits, it's connected cellular biology.) Why don't doctors talk about this if the science is solid? (The answer reveals a lot about how medicine actually works.) How does diet work synergistically with red light therapy for skin health? (Your vegetables are doing more for sun protection than you realize.) Your body hasn't evolved to live under artificial lights all day and then in bright LED light all night. It's evolved to sync with the sun. But the sun's effects on your health depend on understanding which wavelengths you're getting and what they actually do. Red light therapy isn't a new invention. It's 30 years of proven science finally becoming mainstream. When you align your light exposure with natural cycles, strategically use red light therapy for specific goals, and support your skin with proper nutrition, you're not just optimizing. You're addressing one of the most fundamental inputs to human health that most people completely overlook. The science isn't new…public understanding of it is just catching up. 🔴 My favorite red light panel here (use code NATALIEJILL to save): 🔴 My favorite red light mask here (use code NATALIEJILL to save): Get Ari Whitten’s Book: The Ultimate Guide to Red Light Therapy at Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Ari Whitten Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/39895925

505: Part Two - Why You Need Estrogen Even If You're "Estrogen Dominant" with Dr. Betty Murray 01/27/2026

505: Part Two - Why You Need Estrogen Even If You're "Estrogen Dominant" with Dr. Betty Murray To work with Dr. Betty and her team go here What if the hormone advice you're following is actually making everything worse? In part two of this conversation, Dr. Betty Murray returns to expose the dangerous myths keeping midlife women stuck in hormone chaos. This conversation goes deep into the truth about estrogen dominance versus estrogen deficiency, why your testosterone dose might be creating more problems than it solves, and the critical difference between total and free hormone levels that most doctors completely miss. We're talking about the three stages of the menopause transition and what's actually happening to your hormones during each phase. Dr. Murray explains why that single lab test your doctor ordered probably tells you almost nothing useful, especially if you're in perimenopause when your hormones are doing "the bungee cord" - jumping from 600 one day to 40 the next. You'll discover why cycling progesterone might be making your life unnecessarily complicated and destroying your sleep, how environmental toxins are sitting in your estrogen receptors right now if you're not on adequate hormone replacement, and the real truth about soy that has nothing to do with the wellness industry scare tactics. This episode also tackles the GLP-1 medication controversy head-on. Dr. Murray shares why these drugs are being dangerously misused for rapid weight loss when they could be valuable longevity tools at lower doses, and why the real problem isn't the medication itself but the eating disorder culture we're creating around it. Plus, we dive into peptides: what they actually are, why they're exploding in the longevity space, and why taking them without proper guidance could shut down your body's natural hormone production. If you've been told your hormones are "fine" while feeling anything but fine, or if you're on hormone therapy but still struggling with symptoms, this conversation will change how you understand and advocate for your hormone health. Listen to the full episode to discover exactly what your body needs to thrive in midlife. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Dr. Betty Murray Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/drbettymurray Website ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! BEAM: Level up your health with BEAM Minerals at and use code NATALIEJILL to save! SUNLIGHTEN: Sleep better. Recover faster. Stress less. Get Sunlighten infrared saunas HERE and use code NATALIEJILL to save up to $1,400! Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/39696875

504: Part One - The Real Reason Hormone Replacement Therapy Fails (and How to Fix It) with Dr. Betty Murray 01/20/2026

504: Part One - The Real Reason Hormone Replacement Therapy Fails (and How to Fix It) with Dr. Betty Murray To work with Dr. Betty and her team go here What if the hormone replacement therapy you're taking is recycling in your body and creating the exact problems you're trying to solve? Most doctors test your hormone levels and prescribe accordingly. But here's what they're missing: it's not just about the hormones you make or the hormones you take – it's about how your unique body packages them, processes them, and eliminates them. And when this goes wrong, you can experience fibroids, unexplained weight gain, crushing fatigue, and worsening symptoms even though your blood tests look "normal." Dr. Betty Murray holds a PhD in hormone metabolism research and has spent over 20 years individualizing hormone therapy for women. In this conversation, we dive deep into the science that most practitioners completely miss: the three pathways your body uses to process estrogen, why your DNA matters (but isn't destiny), and how supporting detoxification in the wrong order can actually make things worse. This isn't a basic "should I do HRT" conversation. This is the advanced science that explains why some women thrive on hormone therapy while others struggle and what you can do about it if you're in the second group. We explore the difference between blood tests, urine tests, and Dutch tests (and why your doctor might be dismissing the most important one). Dr. Murray explains why taking supplements like DIM without understanding your complete pathway picture could be sabotaging your results. And she shares the critical downstream steps that must be supported first (sulfation and methylation) before anything else will work. If you've ever felt gaslit by "normal" lab results while feeling anything but normal, this episode is for you. Dr. Murray gives you permission to become your own health detective and shows you exactly where to start looking for answers. Listen now to discover the hormone processing pathways your doctor probably isn't testing, and why that might be the missing piece in your health journey. This is Part One of a two-part series. Part Two coming soon. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Dr. Betty Murray Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/drbettymurray Website ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! BIOPTIMIZERS: Get the digestive enzymes I take with every meal here https://www.bioptimizers.com/nataliejill Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/39657975

503: Why Your Expensive Supplements Aren't Working (The Absorption Crisis in Midlife) with Lindsey Burwell, Founder of The Patch Method 01/16/2026

503: Why Your Expensive Supplements Aren't Working (The Absorption Crisis in Midlife) with Lindsey Burwell, Founder of The Patch Method You're spending hundreds of dollars every month on high-quality supplements…so why do you still feel exhausted, inflamed, and stuck? The problem isn't the supplements you're buying. It's that your body might only be absorbing 10-15% of what you're taking. The rest? Literally flushed down the toilet. In this game-changing conversation with integrative health practitioner Lindsey Burwell, we uncover the absorption crisis affecting midlife women, and why your expensive supplement routine isn't delivering the results you're paying for. After years of bioanalytics testing, Lindsey discovered a shocking pattern: women faithfully taking their vitamins were showing up severely deficient in those exact same nutrients on lab work. We dive into what's really blocking absorption: your stagnant liver and inflamed gut, and why the toxic load of midlife has created a perfect storm where oral supplements simply can't get through. Lindsey explains the "first pass effect," why your liver prioritizes detoxification over vitamin absorption, and how the accumulation of stress, toxins, and hormonal changes has fundamentally changed how your body processes nutrients. But this isn't just a problem - Lindsey introduces a solution that bypasses the entire absorption crisis: transdermal vitamin delivery through patches that go directly into your bloodstream, completely avoiding the liver-gut bottleneck that's blocking your oral supplements. If you're tired of spending money on supplements that aren't working, feeling like you're doing everything right but getting nowhere, and wondering why your body has stopped responding like it used to, this episode will change everything. It's time to understand the absorption crisis in midlife and actually get the nutrients your body desperately needs. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Lindsey Burwell Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/the.patchmethod Website ➜ (use code NATALIEJILL for 20% off) Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/39618555

502: Cardiovascular Disease, Cholesterol And The Not So Popular Opinion On What To Do About It with Dr. Jack Wolfson 01/13/2026

502: Cardiovascular Disease, Cholesterol And The Not So Popular Opinion On What To Do About It with Dr. Jack Wolfson Did you know that taking a statin drug for prevention might only buy you 3 extra DAYS of life - while interfering with your hormones, brain function, and cellular energy? Heart disease kills more midlife women than all cancers combined, yet most of us are getting the same five-minute doctor's appointment, the same statin prescription, and the same confusing advice about cholesterol that's been recycled for 70 years. What if everything we've been taught about protecting our hearts is backwards? This conversation with board-certified cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson will challenge everything you thought you knew about heart health, cholesterol, and what your body actually needs to thrive in midlife. Dr. Wolfson walked away from conventional hospital cardiology after watching his own father die at 63, and discovering that a 29-year-old chiropractor had all the answers his medical training had missed. In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on the pharmaceutical approach to heart disease, exploring why cholesterol isn't the villain it's been made out to be, and discovering what truly protects your heart as you age. We're talking about the role of environmental toxins like mold in heart disease, why your genetics might not be your destiny, and the three pillars of heart health that no one's discussing in your doctor's office. This is not your typical "eat this, not that" conversation. This is about becoming your own health detective and understanding what's really happening in your body so you can make empowered choices that actually protect your heart, your brain, and your future. If you've been told your cholesterol is too high, if you're confused about statins, if you're worried about following in your parents' cardiac footsteps, or if you're simply tired of Band-Aid solutions that don't address root causes—this episode is for you. Listen now to discover why this cardiologist says healthy people don't have heart attacks, what that means for your health journey, and the surprising factors that might be impacting your heart health right now. Your heart health is too important to leave to chance. It's time to become your own health detective. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Dr. Jack Wolfson Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/39612900

501: Overactive Bladder, Prolapse and Leakage…Is Our Vagina Aging Well with The Vagina Coach Kim Vopni 01/06/2026

501: Overactive Bladder, Prolapse and Leakage…Is Our Vagina Aging Well with The Vagina Coach Kim Vopni Did you know that 46% of women completely stop exercising because of pelvic floor problems and most wait nearly 7 years before seeking help? If you've been waking up multiple times every night to pee, crossing your legs when you sneeze, or planning your entire day around bathroom locations, this episode is about to change your life. And no, the answer isn't just "do more Kegels." In this conversation with Kim Vopni, also known as The Vagina Coach, to uncover the shocking truth about what's really happening to your pelvic floor in midlife and why everything your doctor told you might be wrong. Kim reveals why most women are doing Kegels completely incorrectly, making their problems worse instead of better. She explains the real reasons you're waking up at night (hint: it's probably not your bladder), and shares the one appointment every woman should schedule annually that most have never even heard of. You'll discover why bladder leaks aren't just an inconvenience but a cascade effect that's destroying your sleep, your exercise routine, your sex life, and your confidence. Kim breaks down the difference between normal aging and actual pelvic floor dysfunction, revealing that what you've accepted as "just part of getting older" is actually completely reversible in most cases. From the truth about vaginal estrogen and the black box warning that's medically inaccurate, to hypopressives and vaginal red light therapy, this conversation goes deep into solutions that actually work. Kim explains why surgery and medication should never be your first option, shares the retraining technique that stops night waking in as little as one night, and reveals the hidden connection between your nervous system and every single pelvic floor symptom. Whether you're dealing with stress incontinence, urgency, pelvic organ prolapse, or you're just exhausted from getting up six times a night, this episode gives you the roadmap to reclaim your pelvic health (and your life). Because hiding from photos, avoiding social events, and wearing black leggings every day isn't the solution. Ready to stop planning your life around bathrooms? Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Kim Vopni Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/VaginaCoach Website ➜ http://vaginacoach.com/ Thank you to our show sponsors! TIMELINE: Timeline is offering 20% off your order of Mitopure! Go to https:// Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/39121820

500: What Our Intrusive Worries and Thoughts Are Trying To Tell Us with Dr. Yasmine Saad 12/30/2025

500: What Our Intrusive Worries and Thoughts Are Trying To Tell Us with Dr. Yasmine Saad What if the negative thoughts keeping you awake at 3 AM aren't trying to torture you—but are actually messengers with critical information about what you need most? If you've ever felt consumed by worries about money, regrets about parenting, or fears about aging, you're not alone. But according to Dr. Yasmine Saad, one of New York's top three psychologists, everything we've been taught about handling these thoughts is backwards. In this conversation, Dr. Saad reveals why midlife creates the perfect storm for mental overwhelm, how hormonal changes directly affect your thought patterns, and why fighting your negative thoughts might be the worst thing you can do. She introduces a revolutionary five-step method for decoding the messages your mind is desperately trying to send you—and why understanding these messages is the key to transformation. We dive deep into the mind-body connection through traditional Chinese medicine, exploring how physical symptoms like hives, shoulder pain, and digestive issues are directly connected to the emotions you've absorbed and the mental patterns you're running. Dr. Saad explains why meditation and positive thinking often backfire, what your "energy signature" reveals about how you should approach healing, and the critical differences between psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, and coaches. This isn't another conversation about "managing" your mental health. This is about understanding why your mind works the way it does in midlife, what it's trying to tell you, and how to use that information to create the life you actually want. If you're ready to stop fighting yourself and start listening to what your mind and body are trying to communicate, this episode will change everything. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Dr. Yasmine Saad Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/dr.yasminesaad Website ➜ | Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/39235715

499: Anxiety, Depression & Nervous System Regulation for Midlife Women with Dr. Kristine Gravino 12/23/2025

499: Anxiety, Depression & Nervous System Regulation for Midlife Women with Dr. Kristine Gravino If you're lying awake with racing thoughts, feeling constant overwhelm, or wondering if your midlife anxiety is "normal" or something more serious, this conversation will change how you think about mental health. Dr. Kristine Gravino, a psychologist specializing in midlife women, reveals why one out of two women struggle with anxiety and depression during this phase and it's directly connected to your dropping estrogen levels. We're diving deep into the questions you're actually asking: When is Xanax okay? Is that nightly wine helping or hurting? What does "regulating your nervous system" actually mean beyond the trendy Instagram posts? And most importantly, what CAN you do about racing thoughts and constant anxiety without buying more gadgets or taking more pills? Dr. Gravino shares the breathing technique you're probably doing wrong (hint: it's not the inhale that calms you down), why your brain desperately needs carbohydrates even though you've been told to fear them for 30 years, and the bare minimum strategies that actually work when you're feeling completely paralyzed by overwhelm. Plus, I'm opening up about my recent health journey with histamine intolerance and how it completely changed my understanding of the nervous system-cortisol-anxiety connection. This isn't just another conversation about "self-care", rather, it’s about understanding what's actually happening in your body and getting real, science-backed tools to feel better now. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Dr. Kristine Gravino Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/DrKGravinoWellness Website ➜ Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/39266620

498: The Hidden Connection Between Long COVID, Mold, and Mast Cell Activation with Dr. Tania Dempsey 12/16/2025

498: The Hidden Connection Between Long COVID, Mold, and Mast Cell Activation with Dr. Tania Dempsey What if the random symptoms you've been told are "all separate" – the hives, exhaustion, brain fog, and digestive chaos – are actually ALL connected through one dysfunctional system in your body that affects 1 in 5 people? When Dr. Tania Dempsey left traditional medicine after being told she wouldn't get bonuses for patients with cholesterol over 200, she discovered something revolutionary: conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, long COVID, and mysterious autoimmune markers might all trace back to the same source: dysfunctional mast cells. In this conversation, Dr. Dempsey reveals why your mast cells (your body's security guards) might be stuck in overdrive, leaking over 1,200 different inflammatory chemicals throughout your body. She explains why perimenopausal women and adolescents are hit hardest, how hormones trigger these cellular explosions, and why that positive thyroid antibody test might not mean what you think. Most shocking? The conventional medical system's approach of treating symptoms separately might be exactly what's keeping you sick. Dr. Dempsey shares her personalized protocol that's helping patients reclaim their lives, but warns that you can't supplement your way out of this without addressing one crucial system everyone overlooks. If you've been gaslit by doctors, told your labs are "normal" despite feeling terrible, or you're navigating mysterious symptoms that worsen with hormonal changes, this conversation will help everything make sense. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Dr. Tania Dempsey Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! TIMELINE: Timeline is offering 20% off your order of Mitopure! Go to https:// Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/39165710

497: The Weight Loss Industry Has Gone Crazy 12/12/2025

497: The Weight Loss Industry Has Gone Crazy Join Total Body Thrive and use code PODCAST at checkout to save Did you know that many of those "perfect" fitness transformations flooding your social media feed aren't even real people? They're computer-generated robots designed to make you feel inadequate about your body. Why is everyone suddenly afraid of vegetables? Why are influencers celebrating their hair falling out in clumps? And why are we calling starvation "wellness" again? After decades of helping women transform their health, I am breaking my silence on the disturbing "ick" I’m feeling about today's diet culture. From AI-generated fake influencers to the terrifying return of "skinny is back," this episode is exposing the dangerous trends that made me cancel my annual January Total Body Thrive Live Fat Loss Group Launch for the first time ever. What pushed me over the edge? Why am I calling out the carnivore craze, the protein obsession, and the normalization of eating disorders disguised as "discipline"? And what does the revival of nicotine patches for weight loss say about how far we've fallen?! This unfiltered episode will make you question everything you're seeing online and might just explain why you've been feeling so confused and frustrated with conflicting health advice. Join Total Body Thrive and use code PODCAST at checkout to save Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/39321510

496: Reading Glasses, Dry Eyes, and Cataracts – What's Really Happening to Your Eyes with Dr. Rudrani Banik 12/09/2025

496: Reading Glasses, Dry Eyes, and Cataracts – What's Really Happening to Your Eyes with Dr. Rudrani Banik Can you remember the last time you could read a menu without squinting, holding it at arm's length, or borrowing someone's reading glasses? If you're wondering why your vision suddenly betrayed you in midlife (along with everything else changing in your body) this episode delivers answers you won't get at your typical eye exam. Dr. Rudrani Banik, a neuro-ophthalmologist with 20+ years of experience, reveals why our eyes go haywire during perimenopause and menopause, exposing the hormone connection your eye doctor probably never mentioned. Discover why dry eye isn't actually about tear production but about tiny glands with testosterone receptors, why those trendy eyelash extensions might be destroying your eye health, and the truth about whether sunglasses are really "endocrine disruptors" (spoiler: Dr. Banik tested it with a light meter). Learn the three-step eyelid hygiene routine that could save your vision, which eye drops actually work for presbyopia, and why that migraine aura isn't a stroke, even though it feels like one. Plus, get the insider truth about cataract surgery, when vision changes signal diabetes or serious neurological issues, and why you absolutely need a dilated eye exam (not just a glasses check). Dr. Banik shares her personal story of thinking she had a brain tumor at 54, only to discover it was her spine affecting her vision – proving everything really is connected in midlife. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Dr. Rudrani Banik Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! BIOPTIMIZERS: Get the digestive enzymes I take with every meal here https://www. Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/39149635

495: “I Want To Want Him But I Do Not" - Why Your Intimate Life Feels Like It Has Died and What To Do About It with Susan Bratton 12/02/2025

495: “I Want To Want Him But I Do Not" - Why Your Intimate Life Feels Like It Has Died and What To Do About It with Susan Bratton Why does the thought of intimacy make you want to hide under the covers...alone? If you're a midlife woman who's lost that loving feeling, you're not broken (you’re just like the rest of us) and we've been playing by the wrong rules. In this conversation, intimacy expert Susan Bratton exposes the truth about female arousal that nobody taught us (especially not those s3x-ed classes back in the day). We dive deep into why it takes women 20 minutes to achieve what men accomplish in 2 minutes, why "duty booty" is destroying relationships, and how to transform obligation into genuine desire. Susan shares her personal journey from a s3xless marriage at 42 to having the best intimacy of her life at 64. We explore practical solutions like the yon! massage, why scheduling intimacy isn't unromantic, and which tools and supplements actually help. Plus, Susan reveals why everything you've seen about s3x is built for male pleasure and how to flip the script…for good. This conversation will change how you think about your body, your relationships, and your right to pleasure: it's not about not loving your partner or not wanting connection, it's about that disconnect between what you wish you felt and what you actually feel. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Episode Links Learn More About Susan Bratton Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! KION: Visit https://getkion.com/nataliejill for 20% off your order of essential amino acids Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38992100

494: When Someone You Love Is Addicted and Why They Can’t “Just Quit” with Chris Doyle 11/25/2025

494: When Someone You Love Is Addicted and Why They Can’t “Just Quit” with Chris Doyle What if your attempts to help someone with their addiction were actually making things worse? This conversation with addiction intervention specialist Chris Doyle shattered every assumption I had about addiction, from why some people can't stop after their first drink to why taking away privileges might be the worst thing you can do. We explore the complexities of addiction and its impact on families. Chris, sober 18 years himself, reveals the shocking truth that addiction starts at age 12 for most, affects 10-15% of those who experiment, and has nothing to do with bad parenting or weak character. We dive deep into the critical difference between dependency and addiction (hint: it's just two words), why your typical parenting strategies backfire catastrophically, and the "Connected Response Method" that actually works. Chris shares his mother's brilliant response when he came home drunk at 17, explains why addiction is like a shrimp allergy, and reveals the toxic relationship between codependency and addiction. Essential listening for any midlife parent, partner, or person touched by addiction -- which, statistically, is almost all of us. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Chris Doyle Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/39121760

493: She Beat Leukemia By Building Muscle: The Truth About Building Muscle After 50 with Helen Fritsch 11/18/2025

493: She Beat Leukemia By Building Muscle: The Truth About Building Muscle After 50 with Helen Fritsch What happens when a 56-year-old woman who's never lifted weights walks into a gym and decides to compete in bodybuilding, and then were diagnosed with leukemia at 57? Most people would scale back, play it safe, maybe give up entirely. But Helen Fritsch did the opposite – she doubled down on building muscle. Helen never entered a weight room until her late 50s - she thought it was "for boys only." As a flight attendant and certified wine specialist, she spent decades doing cardio and avoiding heavy weights. At 56, she gave herself one month to prep for her first competition (most people take 12-16 weeks!) Two weeks in, her body transformation was so dramatic she couldn't believe it. She placed third. By 60, she'd won her pro card. Then at 57, a routine blood test revealed she had leukemia. Instead of watching and waiting as her oncologist suggested, Helen discovered research showing cancer patients with more muscle mass have significantly better survival rates. She dove into hormone optimization (learning most women get inadequate doses), peptide therapy, and serious weight training. Today at 68, she's stronger than she was at 30 and convinced that building muscle saved her life. This isn't just another fitness story - it's proof that everything you've been told about aging, muscle building after menopause, and "taking it easy" after 50 is wrong. Learn More About Helen Fritsch Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! TIMELINE: Timeline is offering 20% off your order of Mitopure! Go to Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38824200

492: Leaky Gut, Histamine Nightmare, and Your Nervous System: The Hidden Connection Making You Sick with The Gut Genie Laura Frontiero 11/11/2025

492: Leaky Gut, Histamine Nightmare, and Your Nervous System: The Hidden Connection Making You Sick with The Gut Genie Laura Frontiero Join us for our free masterclass Is your gut secretly controlling your brain, sabotaging your weight loss, and destroying your health – all while conventional medicine tells you it's "just stress"? After diving deep into the research on histamine, mast cells, and the gut-brain connection (and texting Laura Frontiero approximately a million questions), I discovered why so many midlife women are struggling with mysterious symptoms that doctors can't explain. Laura reveals the shocking truth about leaky gut that has nothing to do with digestive symptoms, why fermented foods and bone broth might be making you worse, not better, and the dangerous mistake people make when trying to heal their gut. We uncover the instant connection between your brain and gut (proven by stroke research), why perfectionism is sabotaging your healing, and the surprising over-the-counter remedies that actually work for histamine issues. Plus, Laura shares why meditation might be stressing you out more, the unexpected link between gut health and Alzheimer's, and how estrogen dominance persists even after menopause. This conversation completely changed how I think about the stress-gut-brain connection and reveals why doing just 60% of things right is enough to heal. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Laura Frontiero Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! BIOPTIMIZERS: Get the digestive enzymes I take with every meal here https://www. Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38892440

491: Hidden Nail Salon Dangers, Risks of Gel Nails, and What To Do About It with Lanna Dang 11/07/2025

491: Hidden Nail Salon Dangers, Risks of Gel Nails, and What To Do About It with Lanna Dang Did you know that the paraffin wax from your last pedicure might have been peeled off someone else's feet and reused on yours? Gross, and…the health surprises lurking in the nail salon go FAR beyond that. Lanna Dang, owner of Pampr'd Soul in Scottsdale, completely transformed how I think about nail salons. Growing up inside her parents' nail salon, Lanna witnessed practices that would make your skin crawl: from tools that are barely sanitized between clients to name-brand polish bottles being secretly refilled with toxic knockoffs. She reveals why that "healthy" dip powder is actually acrylic in disguise and explains how the chemicals in your regular gel manicure could be disrupting your hormones and contributing to that stubborn weight gain and exhaustion you can't shake. We dive deep into what HEMA, formaldehyde, and toluene are really doing to your body, especially as a midlife woman already dealing with hormonal chaos. She shares the critical questions you need to ask before your next appointment and reveals cleaner alternatives that won't force you to give up your beloved nail routine. It’s time to make informed choices at the nail salon, especially when your toxic load might be the missing piece of your health puzzle. Whether you're a gel devotee or acrylic enthusiast, this conversation will forever change how you approach your nail care routine. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Lanna Dang Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38646775

490: When Your Body Won’t Calm Down: What I Learned About Histamine, Mast Cells, and the Hidden Cause Behind My Mysterious Reactions 11/04/2025

490: When Your Body Won’t Calm Down: What I Learned About Histamine, Mast Cells, and the Hidden Cause Behind My Mysterious Reactions You know how they say "what happens in Bali stays in Bali"? Yeah… not so much. Mine came home with me in the form of hives, food reactions, and what I now call my PhD in histamine. In this episode, I'm sharing the wild story of how a little post-Bali "food poisoning" turned into a full-blown case of histamine intolerance and mast cell activation syndrome. Think: red blotches, racing heart, and me Googling every bite before eating it. I'll walk you through the chaos of misdiagnosis, the "aha!" moment when we figured out it was actually Scombroid poisoning (yes, that's a real thing from bad fish), and how that set off my body's over-zealous histamine fireworks show. But this isn't a doom-and-gloom story. I'll share how I calmed the storm, what I learned about histamine-rich foods (spoiler: your healthy leftovers might be the problem), and the surprising tools that helped me reset my system. Plus, I'm breaking down why this matters for midlife women right now—because those symptoms you're blaming on menopause? The flushing, anxiety after eating, sudden food sensitivities? They might actually be your mast cells stuck in overdrive. And no, you're not crazy for thinking your body suddenly hates everything you eat. If you've ever had mysterious rashes, heart palpitations after chicken (yes, chicken!), or just want to understand what the heck histamine and mast cells actually do, you're going to love this one. It's part detective story, part midlife meltdown, and a whole lot of "what just happened to my body?!" I'm also sharing the exact protocol that finally worked (including why I ended up saying yes to a steroid after swearing I'd go all-natural), which foods to avoid when your histamine bucket is overflowing, and why becoming your own health detective might be the most important skill you develop in midlife. Thank you to our show sponsors! QUALIA: Experience the science of feeling younger—go to for up to 50% off your purchase of Qualia Senolytic and use code NATALIEJILL for an additional 15% Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38797645

489: Histamine Intolerances, Mast Cells, Our Nervous System, and Liver with Dr. Jess Peatross 10/31/2025

489: Histamine Intolerances, Mast Cells, Our Nervous System, and Liver with Dr. Jess Peatross Could your racing thoughts and underlying anxiety be causing your mysterious hives, heart palpitations, and unexplained allergic reactions? After my own shocking hive outbreak following surgery and Bali belly, I dove deep into the world of histamine and mast cells. Dr. Jessica Peatross, the MD who's become known as the "surgeon of figuring out what's really going on," reveals why your nervous system might be the hidden trigger behind your mystery symptoms. She explains why midlife women suddenly develop histamine issues out of nowhere, the shocking connection between anxiety and mast cell activation, and why your body might be pushing toxins out through your skin when it can't eliminate them normally. We dive into game-changing protocols including specific binders that act like sponges for excess histamine, why addressing your gut is non-negotiable, and how a simple dissolving strip might calm your overactive mast cells. Dr. Jess shares her "magic trick" binder protocol, explains which supplements actually work for mast cell stabilization, and reveals why treating the nervous system FIRST is crucial for any healing protocol to work. Whether you're dealing with unexplained hives, chronic inflammation, or mystery symptoms that appeared out of nowhere, this conversation will change everything you thought you knew about histamine and healing. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Episode Links: Tudca, Binder, and ClearAF Use code NATALIEJILL for 10% products or code BINDER25NATALIE for 25% off the BINDER Learn More About Dr. Jess Peatross: Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Use code NATALIEJILL for 10% products or code BINDER25NATALIE for 25% off the BINDER Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38740830

488: How To Fix Your Finances So You Don’t Have To Work Forever with Bret Johnson 10/28/2025

488: How To Fix Your Finances So You Don’t Have To Work Forever with Bret Johnson Is everyone around you planning dream retirements while you're wondering if you'll be working forever? If you're lying awake at night worried about finances, feeling like you're the only one who didn't figure out this money thing, you’re not alone, and this episode is your wake-up call + your action plan rolled into one. I invited my friend, an accomplished investor and financial savvy expert, Bret Johnson to share the exact strategies he used to transform his financial future later in life. From being behind the eight-ball to traveling abundantly and living without money stress, Bret breaks down the no-BS approach to building wealth when you think it's too late. We dive into the uncomfortable truths about why you're behind (spoiler: you were living life while others were investing), the simple 5-15% rule that changes everything, and why index funds might be your secret weapon for catching up fast. He discusses practical strategies for paying off debt, investing wisely, and building wealth, even if you feel you've started late. From addressing common concerns about feeling financially stuck to providing actionable steps you can take today, Bret's advice is invaluable. Plus, he shares his "stocks are on sale" mindset that transformed market crashes from disasters into opportunities. Whether you're starting from zero or trying to accelerate what you've already begun, this conversation delivers the practical steps, mindset shifts, and resources you need to stop worrying and start building the retirement you deserve. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Bret Johnson: Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! TIMELINE: Timeline is offering 20% off your order of Mitopure! Go to Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38606940

487: Zombie Cells: How Cellular Senescence Is Secretly Aging You From Within with Dan Pardi 10/24/2025

487: Zombie Cells: How Cellular Senescence Is Secretly Aging You From Within with Dan Pardi What if the reason you can't lose weight, feel exhausted, and struggle with inflammation has nothing to do with your diet or exercise routine – but with zombie cells lurking in your body? In this game-changing episode, I sit down with Dan Pardi, Chief Health Officer at Qualia Life, to uncover the hidden world of cellular senescence and why these "zombie cells" might be sabotaging your health without you even knowing it. We dive deep into how damaged cells that refuse to die are creating chronic inflammation, accelerating aging, and potentially blocking your body's ability to heal itself. Dan reveals the shocking connection between your circadian rhythm and cellular aging, why your immune system stops clearing these problematic cells as you age, and the breakthrough science of senolytics that's revolutionizing how we approach healthy aging. Plus, I share the incredible story of how addressing zombie cells transformed my friend's decades-long battle with endometriosis – and why this might be the missing piece in your own health puzzle. Episode Link: Experience the science of feeling younger—go to for up to 50% off your purchase of Qualia Senolytic and use code NATALIEJILL for an additional 15%. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Dan Pardi & Qualia: Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38576870

486: Why Breathwork is the Missing Piece in Your Midlife Wellness Journey with Samantha Skelly 10/21/2025

486: Why Breathwork is the Missing Piece in Your Midlife Wellness Journey with Samantha Skelly What if the secret to calming your nervous system, improving your sleep, and even slowing down aging was as simple as changing how you breathe? Today's conversation with breath work expert Samantha Skelly reveals why most of us are only using 30% of our lung capacity and how this impacts everything from our stress levels to our cellular health. Learn the exact technique that can shift your nervous system from fight-or-flight to rest-and-repair in just 3-5 minutes. Samantha shares her personal transformation story and breaks down the science of why breath work works where other practices fail - especially for Type-A personalities and women navigating midlife changes. We explore the connection between chronic stress and physical symptoms, address spiritual concerns about the practice, and Sam provides a simple technique you can start using tomorrow morning. Learn More About Samantha Skelly: Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! QUALIA: Experience the science of feeling younger—go to for up to 50% off your purchase of Qualia Senolytic and use code NATALIEJILL for an additional 15%. LIVON: Save $56 (get a free B Complex) with purchase of the Midlife Bundle at Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38524595

485: Perimenopause vs Menopause: Understanding Your Hormone Changes and What Actually Works with Mariza Snyder 10/14/2025

485: Perimenopause vs Menopause: Understanding Your Hormone Changes and What Actually Works with Mariza Snyder You're exhausted, can't sleep, gaining weight despite doing "all the right things," and your doctor hands you an antidepressant or birth control pills. Sound familiar? In this raw and revealing conversation, integrative doctor and perimenopause expert Dr. Mariza Snyder pulls back the curtain on what's really happening to your hormones during this massive transition—and why the standard medical approach is leaving millions of women struggling unnecessarily. We're breaking down the confusion between perimenopause and menopause, revealing why your progesterone tanks first (and what that means for your sleep and mood), and exploring real solutions beyond the lazy medicine of symptom management. From the power of circadian rhythm optimization to understanding when hormone replacement makes sense (and when it doesn't), this episode gives you the knowledge to advocate for yourself and thrive. Whether you're in the trenches of perimenopause or sitting in that confusing "waiting room" before menopause, this conversation will change how you think about your body, your symptoms, and your options. It's time to stop accepting that suffering is just part of being a woman—you deserve better. Get Dr. Mariza's book "The Perimenopause Revolution" at for exclusive bonuses including symptom trackers, lab ranges, and more. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Dr. Mariza Snyder: Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! QUALIA: Experience the science of feeling younger—go to for up to 50% off your purchase of Qualia Senolytic and use code NATALIEJILL for an additional 15%. BIOPTIMIZERS: Get the digestive enzymes I take with every meal here https://www. Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38423190

484: Bali Broke My Gut (and what I learned) with the Gut Genie Laura Frontiero 10/10/2025

484: Bali Broke My Gut (and what I learned) with the Gut Genie Laura Frontiero I found out the hard way that Bali Belly is no joke. What started as a bucket-list dream vacation turned into a battle with my gut health that I'm still fighting as we record this. And the kicker - I thought I was prepared to dodge it: I had my enzymes, my probiotics, I was careful with food and water. But what I didn't know about environmental exposure through skin contact, contaminated water sources, and the reality of underdeveloped infrastructure cost me my normally great health. In this conversation, I'm joined by functional nurse practitioner Laura Frontiero (aka "The Gut Genie") to break down exactly what happened to my body in Bali, why some people get sick while others don't, and the critical travel supplements I wish I'd packed. We're talking about the antibiotics versus antimicrobials debate, what to do when you have an allergic reaction mid-treatment, why Western medicine dismisses parasites that are epidemic in other countries, and the comprehensive protocol I'm using right now to recover. If you've ever traveled internationally, plan to, or have mysterious symptoms after a trip abroad, this episode could literally save you years of suffering. Laura shares her essential travel toolkit, explains when it's actually okay to stop an antibiotic, reveals why parasites are more common than anyone admits, and gives you the exact steps to protect your gut health when exploring the world. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to safeguarding your gut health while exploring new destinations. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Episode Links: Ozone Air Purifier: Choose the black Triad Air Go https://mytriadaer.funnelpages.com/CA-LAU71172-Laura-Frontiero Shop CellCore: https://shop.laurafrontiero.com/collections/all Saccharomyces Boulardii: https://www.designsforhealth.com/u/laura/products/floramyces#FLM060 Learn More About Laura Frontiero: Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38523925

483: Why Molecular Hydrogen Changes Everything: From Hormone Detox to Nervous System Regulation with Kashif Khan 10/07/2025

483: Why Molecular Hydrogen Changes Everything: From Hormone Detox to Nervous System Regulation with Kashif Khan Join Kash and I live to go deeper on this conversation Could your "bad genetics" for cholesterol actually be a survival advantage you're just using wrong (and actually making everything worse)? In this conversation we're diving deep into the connections between hormone detoxification, cholesterol, anxiety, and why your body might feel like it's working against you - plus the surprising solution that's helping women address all of it simultaneously. Health detective guru Kashif Khan returns to help unravel the mysteries behind stubborn weight, high cholesterol despite clean eating, chronic inflammation, and that constant fight-or-flight feeling that won't turn off no matter what you try. If you've been told you have poor detox pathways and it's made hormone replacement therapy feel scary, this episode provides clarity you won't find anywhere else. We explore why your body produces hormones based on what your ancestors did (not what you actually do), how modern toxins create a perfect storm of hormone disruption, and why the conventional approach to cholesterol might be missing the entire point. You'll discover why nervous system regulation must come first before any other intervention can truly work, and learn about molecular hydrogen therapy - a breakthrough approach that addresses toxic burden, cellular energy, and inflammation all at once. Tune in to learn about the profound impacts of hydrogen on detoxification, cellular energy, and overall wellness, and get answers to pressing health questions you've been asking. Whether you're dealing with weight resistance, sleep issues, anxiety, or just want to optimize your midlife health, this conversation provides the missing pieces. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Kashif Khan: Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! KION: Visit https://getkion.com/nataliejill for 20% off your order of essential amino acids BEAM: Level up your health with BEAM Minerals HERE and use code NATALIEJILL to save! Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38365655

482: The Great Medical Insurance Con: Why Telehealth Can Be Your New BFF with Katy Whalen 10/03/2025

482: The Great Medical Insurance Con: Why Telehealth Can Be Your New BFF with Katy Whalen Get 50% off comprehensive labs + clinician consults Are you being medically gaslighted while your insurance company profits from your pain? This conversation with Katy Whalen, founder of Joi + Blokes telemedicine, pulls back the curtain on why midlife women are systematically failed by traditional healthcare. Katy shares her raw journey from comprehensive fertility support to complete menopause abandonment, sparking her mission to revolutionize women's healthcare through telehealth. In this episode, we discuss the complexities of navigating life during perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause. We get brutally honest about medical gaslighting, why your doctor dismisses your symptoms as "normal," and how insurance companies actively prevent you from getting optimal care. Katy breaks down the truth about HRT that most doctors won't tell you, exposes the dangerous research peptide market flooding social media, and reveals why telehealth is the future of personalized hormone care. We tackle the uncomfortable truths about why only 1 in 5 doctors are trained in menopause, what comprehensive testing actually reveals about your health, and why paying out of pocket might cost less than fighting your insurance company for substandard care. If you've ever been told you're "fine" while feeling absolutely terrible, been denied testing because insurance won't cover it, or wondered why your body stopped responding to everything that used to work, this episode will validate your frustration and give you a clear action plan. She shares exactly what to look for in HRT treatment, how to spot legitimate peptide therapy versus dangerous research compounds, and why telehealth partnerships are changing the game for women who refuse to settle for "normal." Get ready to stop being gaslighted and start demanding the optimal health you deserve. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Katy Whalen and Joi + Blokes: Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! QUALIA: Experience the science of feeling younger—go to for up to 50% off your purchase of Qualia Senolytic and use code NATALIEJILL for an additional 15%. LIVON: Save $56 (get a free B Complex) with purchase of the Midlife Bundle at Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38356305

481: Stop Settling for 'Good Enough': The Vision Method for Making Midlife Your Launchpad, Not Your Limitation with Pinnacle Global Network Founder and My BFF Allison Maslan 09/30/2025

481: Stop Settling for 'Good Enough': The Vision Method for Making Midlife Your Launchpad, Not Your Limitation with Pinnacle Global Network Founder and My BFF Allison Maslan To get a free scale session with Allison’s company Pinnacle Global Network go to What if you are able to craft the exact vision of what you want for your life, despite any obstacles? While most women over 50 are told to slow down and settle for "good enough," Allison Maslan built multiple eight-figure businesses, learned trapeze, and manifested two dream houses, all after turning 50. As the CEO of Pinnacle Global Network, she works with seven and eight-figure entrepreneurs who seem successful on paper but feel completely stuck. In this conversation, Allison reveals the daily 5-minute practice that she credits with transforming not just her business results, but her entire life. This isn't about positive thinking or vision boards—it's a systematic approach to what she calls "deliberate creation" that combines practical strategy with energetic alignment. You'll discover why she tells her accounting team they're "not allowed" to speak about cash flow problems, how she manifested a property in Mexico that was supposedly "not for sale," and the exact morning routine she uses to stay aligned with her biggest vision even when circumstances suggest otherwise. Whether you're building a business, wanting to transform your health, or simply ready to stop playing small in midlife, this conversation will shift how you think about what's possible for your future. To get a free scale session with Allison’s company Pinnacle Global Network go to Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Allison Maslan: Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! LEELA: Get 10% off your first Leela Quantum order with the code NatalieJill at checkout at FRESH PRESSED OLIVE OIL CLUB: Try a bottle of the world’s most delicious artisanal olive oils direct from gold-medal-winning small farms for just $1 and taste the difference yourself Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38277150

480: Why Your Body Keeps the Score: The Biology Behind Chronic Pain and Autoimmune Issues with Dr. Aimie Apigian 09/23/2025

480: Why Your Body Keeps the Score: The Biology Behind Chronic Pain and Autoimmune Issues with Dr. Aimie Apigian Did you know that by the time you reach midlife, your nervous system has been storing trauma responses for decades - even if you can't identify a single "traumatic" event? What if the chronic back pain, autoimmune issues, and stubborn weight gain plaguing so many midlife women aren't just random health problems, but your nervous system's way of expressing stored survival responses from years past? In this insightful conversation, Dr. Aimie Apigian reveals how seemingly normal childhood experiences - from crying yourself to sleep as a baby in the 1970s to being a latchkey kid - can create lasting biological changes that show up as health issues decades later through stored trauma in your nervous system. We dive into the science behind trauma, its long-term biological effects, and the importance of addressing trauma at different levels – mind, body, and biology and how accumulative, often unrecognized trauma can impact our health, aging, emotional regulation, and relationships. Discover why your nervous system might still be stuck in survival mode, keeping you vulnerable to injuries, illnesses, and that constant underlying anxiety. Dr. Aimie explains the science behind why some people seem immune to health issues while others collect diagnoses, and most importantly, what nervous system healing can actually do about stored trauma. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Dr. Aimie Apigian: Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! BIOPTIMIZERS: Get the Enzymes & Probiotics & Gut Support I use daily at https://bioptimizers.com/nataliejill QUALIA: Experience the science of feeling younger—go to for up to 50% off your purchase of Qualia Senolytic and use code NATALIEJILL for an additional 15% Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38202285

479: The Neuroscience of Chronic Pain: Why Your Brain Gets Better at Creating Pain (And How to Teach It to Stop) with Ashleigh Di Lello 09/16/2025

479: The Neuroscience of Chronic Pain: Why Your Brain Gets Better at Creating Pain (And How to Teach It to Stop) with Ashleigh Di Lello What if the chronic pain that's been ruling your life isn't actually about physical damage—but about your brain trying to protect you from threats it perceives based on your entire life history? Ashleigh Di Lello should be dead. At 13, doctors told her she wouldn't survive her teenage years after a mysterious viral infection began shutting down her organs. Twenty years later, after building a successful Broadway career, a failed hip surgery left her unable to walk and in excruciating pain that no treatment could touch…not even powerful opioids. After trying over 200 treatments and being told by specialists it was "downhill from here," Ashleigh made a decision that would revolutionize how we understand chronic pain. In this episode, we dive deep into a topic that’s been both personal and transformative for me: the connection between pain and the brain. For years, I believed that pain was only the result of real, physical injuries. But after my own journey through back surgery and chronic pain, I started to question: what if our brains play a bigger role in how we experience pain than we realize? Discover why Type A personalities are more prone to chronic pain, how your brain actually gets BETTER at creating pain the more you experience it, and why doing everything "right" for your body might not be enough if your nervous system is stuck in survival mode. Ashleigh reveals the critical difference between regulating your nervous system (managing symptoms) versus rewiring it (changing how your brain processes pain entirely), and shares the exact paradigm shift that allowed her to walk again after five years of disability. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, unexplained symptoms, or simply curious about the incredible power of the brain-body connection, this episode will fundamentally change how you think about healing. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Ashleigh Di Lello: Instagram ➜ Website ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! BIOPTIMIZERS: Get the Enzymes & Probiotics & Gut Support I use daily at https://bioptimizers.com/nataliejill LEELA: Get 10% off your first Leela Quantum order with the code NatalieJill at checkout at Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38127030

478: The Truth About Hormone Replacement Therapy: Why the Middle Ground Matters Most with Dr. Anna Cabeca 09/09/2025

478: The Truth About Hormone Replacement Therapy: Why the Middle Ground Matters Most with Dr. Anna Cabeca Join us on our FREE hormone education session at Could hormone replacement therapy actually cause cancer if your body can't detox properly? This conversation isn't about joining "Team HRT" or going completely “natural” - it's about understanding why your individual biology matters more than blanket recommendations. Triple board-certified gynecologist Dr. Anna Cabeca joins us to shatter the black-and-white thinking around hormone replacement therapy. With over 30 years of experience prescribing HRT, she's witnessed the trends come and go, but more importantly, she's developed an approach that honors what makes YOU unique. Join us as we discuss personalized treatment plans, debunk myths around HRT, and answer questions on testosterone, progesterone, and the importance of vagal tone and mental well-being during menopause. You'll discover why two women with identical menopausal symptoms might leave the doctor's office with completely different treatment plans, and why that's exactly how it should be. Dr. Anna reveals the critical factor most doctors ignore - your body's ability to detoxify hormones - and explains why this could be the difference between thriving on HRT or facing serious health consequences. You'll also learn the surprising truth about cancer risks, why your monthly cycle was doing more than you realized, and the specific hormone levels Dr. Anna recommends for optimal safety and symptom relief. This isn't another episode telling you what to do - it's about empowering you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your own body. Whether you're considering hormone replacement, currently on HRT, or committed to natural approaches, this conversation will change how you think about menopause support forever. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: Learn More About Dr. Anna Cabeca: Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor Website ➜ Thank you to our show sponsors! QUALIA: Experience the science of feeling younger—go to http://qualialife.com/nataliejill for up to 50% off your purchase of Qualia Senolytic and use code NATALIEJILL for an additional 15%. Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: Connect with me on social media! Instagram: Facebook: For advertising inquiries: Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast. /episode/index/show/levelingup/id/38059460

Midlife Conversations with Natalie Jill

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