The Strength in Hormones Podcast

Episode 104: [The LOdown] Why Your Mitochondria are Key to Fatigue, Fertility and the Thyroid

[The LOdown] Why Your Mitochondria are Key to Fatigue, Fertility and the Thyroid
This week’s episode of the Strength in Hormones Podcast uncovers one of the most overlooked root causes of hormone imbalance and fatigue: mitochondrial dysfunction. These tiny powerhouses are responsible for making energy in every cell—and when they slow down, so does everything else.
We explore how sluggish mitochondria contribute to burnout, brain fog, and poor recovery, and why they’re so essential for converting thyroid hormones like T3 into usable energy. You’ll also learn how mitochondrial function impacts fertility, from egg quality and AMH production to ovulation and hormone balance.
If you’ve been feeling tired, stuck, or out of sync with your body—this episode offers a new perspective (and real tools) to support your energy from the root.
 
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
Quick overview of mitochondrial function, what they are and their role in the body
The connection between mitochondrial health and thyroid function, how mitochondrial function influences free T3 conversion and how thyroid function influences mitochondrial health
Why mitochondrial health should be a key target for fertility, especially if >35 years of age
The role of mitochondrial health in ovulation and healthy cycles
How to support mitochondrial health with foods, supplements and lifestyle practices like sauna and red light therapy
 
Important show links 👇👇👇
Listen to mentioned episodes on Glutathione and Heavy Metals.
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Episode 103: [The LOdown] How to Reverse Low Progesterone without HRT

[The LOdown] How to Reverse Low Progesterone without HRT
If you've been dealing with irregular cycles, PMS that feels like it's getting worse, or you're struggling with fertility, low progesterone might be the missing link. In this episode, we're diving deep into how to recognize the symptoms of low progesterone, what labs to request, and how to naturally support healthy hormone production—without jumping straight into hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Learn the root causes, including how stress and inflammation impact your cycle, and what nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplementation strategies can actually move the needle.
Whether you're navigating perimenopause, trying to conceive, or just want better hormone balance, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways.
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
The most common signs and symptoms of low progesterone (and what they mean)
Key labs to request and how to interpret them—including ideal progesterone levels
The truth about “pregnenolone steal” and how stress impacts your hormones
Why cortisol and blood sugar issues sabotage your progesterone production
What nutrients are essential for making progesterone—and how to get them from food
The underrated role of Vitamin C in supporting the luteal phase
Why sleep, circadian rhythm, and inflammation matter more than you think
Real-world strategies to address low progesterone at the root—without relying on HRT
Important show links 👇👇👇
Sign up for Inflammation Hormony - we start on Monday, 4/14!
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Episode 102: Fixing Leaky Gut for Better Hormones: Natural Strategies for Thyroid & PCOS Support with Abby Hueber, RD

Fixing Leaky Gut for Better Hormones: Natural Strategies for Thyroid & PCOS Support with Abby Hueber, RD
In this episode of Strength in Hormones, we dive deep into leaky gut syndrome and its widespread effects on hormones and metabolism. Our guest, Abby, a fellow functional medicine registered dietitian, breaks down what leaky gut is, why it matters, and how you can take steps to heal your gut for better energy, hormones, and overall well-being. If you’ve been struggling with bloating, fatigue, hormonal imbalances, or unexplained weight changes, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help you optimize your gut health and feel your best.
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
What is leaky gut, and how does it develop?
How gut health influences hormones, metabolism, and inflammation
The link between leaky gut and autoimmune conditions
Why active women and athletes are especially prone to gut issues
Signs and symptoms of leaky gut syndrome
The best functional lab tests for identifying gut imbalances
Diet, supplements, and lifestyle changes to heal and support gut integrity
Important show links 👇👇👇
Shop my Leaky Gut formula - Gut Soothe here
Listen to previous episode on Mold and Gut Health with Abby. Follow Abby on IG @abovehealth
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Episode 101: [The LOdown] Blood Sugar & Cortisol Response to Different Types of Workouts

[The LOdown] Blood Sugar & Cortisol Response to Different Types of Workouts
Ever wonder why some workouts leave you energized while others leave you crashing? In this week’s SIH episode, we’re diving into how different types of exercise—like strength training, HIIT, and aerobic cardio—
impact your blood sugar, cortisol levels, and overall recovery. Whether you're working out for body composition, hormone balance, or just better mental wellbeing—understanding your body’s glucose and cortisol response is key for getting the results you want without burnout.

Episode 100! Lo vs. Joe: Rapid-Fire This or That – Nutrition, Labs & Workouts!

100th Episode! Lo vs. Joe: Rapid-Fire This or That – Nutrition, Labs & Workouts!
Get ready for a special 100th episode! In this milestone episode, my husband Joe and I go head-to-head in a fun and informative This or That showdown, tackling the biggest debates in training, hormones, nutrition, and labs.
👉 I grill Joe on his workout philosophy for hormone imbalances—heavy weights or light weights? Sprinting or Zone 2? Squats or deadlifts?👉 Joe asks about hormone and lab testing must-knows—BBT or LH strips? Cortisol testing or full hormone panel? Most overlooked functional lab marker?👉 We dive into nutrition, fueling, and lifestyle preferences—carbs or fats for energy? Big breakfast or big dinner? Fermented foods or fiber for gut health?
🎁 Free Giveaway Alert! 🎁From March 12 - March 19, enter to win:✅ A FREE Workouts for Thyroid Balance Guide✅ A chance to win a Functional Formulas supplement bundle ($195 value)!
How to enter:1️⃣ Leave a rating & review in your podcast app2️⃣ Like & comment “DONE” on our Instagram post about this episode3️⃣ DM us a screenshot of your review!
Don’t miss this fun, fast-paced episode—you’ll walk away with insights on training smarter, optimizing hormones, and fueling for performance.
 
Important show links 👇👇👇 
Enter the Giveaway on Instagram
Listen to previous epsisodes with Joe Hormone Supportive Workouts  & A Peak Inside Strength in Hormones Workouts 
Sign up for a Free 7 Day trial with Strength in Hormones Workouts 
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Episode 99: Cognitive Health & Hormones: How to Naturally Support Your Mind Through Perimenopause with Dr. Cat Brown

Cognitive Health & Hormones: How to Naturally Support Your Mind Through Perimenopause w/ Dr. Cat Brown
In this episode of Strength in Hormones, we’re diving into the powerful connection between hormones and brain health. We’ll explore the critical role of estrogen in cognitive function—how it supports memory, focus, and neuro-protection, and what happens when levels shift in peri-menopause and drop in menopause. Next, we’ll discuss cortisol’s impact on cognitive resilience, why stress feels more overwhelming in midlife, and strategies to support balanced cortisol levels. Then, we’ll unpack the link between glucose, insulin, and brain health—how blood sugar dysregulation contributes to memory decline, focus issues, and even conditions like type 3 diabetes. Finally, we’ll break down how hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can support cognitive health through menopause. Tune in to learn how you can protect your brain health and feel your best.
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
The role of estrogen in cognitive health. What we know estrogen does for the brain and what occurs when estrogen levels change in perimenopause and then drop in menopause.
The connection between cortisol and cognitive health. Why women in perimenopause and menopause experience less stress resiliency and how to manage cortisol.
What we know about glucose and insulin’s role in cognitive function. How blood sugar control impacts memory and focus.
How HRT may help women with cognitive symptoms through menopause
Who is and isn't a good candidate for HRT through menopause
Important show links 👇👇👇
Sign up for my Free 40min Hormone Workshop 
Save 20% on your walking pad at walkingpad.com/functionalfueling
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Episode 98: [The LOdown] Hunger & Satiety Hormones: How Ghrelin and Leptin Control Your Menstrual Cycle and Thyroid

[The LOdown] Hunger & Satiety Hormones: How Ghrelin and Leptin Control Your Menstrual Cycle and Thyroid
In this episode, we’re breaking down ghrelin and leptin—your body’s key hunger and satiety hormones—and how they impact thyroid function, metabolism, and reproductive health. Learn how sleep, stress, fasting, and diet choices can throw these hormones out of balance, leading to reduced thyroid hormone output, leptin resistance, and even fertility struggles. Plus, we’ll cover practical ways to optimize your hunger hormones for better energy, thyroid health, and hormone balance.
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
Where ghrelin and leptin are made and when they are released
What factors increase and lower ghrelin
The role of leptin in thyroid and reproductive function
Leptin resistance, what causes it and how it affects hormones
The link between inflammation and satiety hormones
The lifestyle and nutrition factors that increase leptin (if low) and help improve leptin sensitivity in leptin resistance
Important show links 👇👇👇
Join the Inflammation Hormony program  to learn how to optimize your leptin & ghrelin levels with step-by-step nutrition strategy
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Episode 97: Unveiling the Root Causes of Long COVID Fatigue and Autoimmunity with Dr. Keith Ellis, PhD

Unveiling the Root Causes of Long COVID Fatigue & Autoimmunity w/Dr. Keith Ellis, PhD
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Keith Ellis, a leading Long COVID researcher, to break down the science behind lingering symptoms. We dive into the role of spike protein in Long COVID, its connection to autoimmunity, and why so many experience debilitating fatigue. Dr. Ellis also shares natural solutions he's identified to combat fatigue and improve recovery. Plus, we explore the impact of Long COVID on endothelial function, the role of microclots, and how they may trigger autoimmune responses. If you're looking for answers on Long COVID, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss!
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
Spike protein and its relevance to Long COVID symptoms and autoimmunity
Long COVID's impact on endothelial function and microclot formation
Why Long COVID fatigue occurs
The natural solutions Dr. Ellis has identified in his research and how they work
Important show links 👇👇👇
Long COVID and EBV in Thyroid & Period Problems Podcast Episode
Get your hormones tested with our DUTCH test- learn more about our hormone testing packages 
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Episode 96: [The LOdown] Navigating the Beauty & Challenges of Postpartum

In this episode I share all about my experience postpartum. The beauty, the challenge and everything in between. I also talk about how I’ve adjusted my daily routine, what’s been most helpful for healing (hello, bone broth and red light therapy!), and the hardest parts of this transition—like  redefining productivity.
If you’re in the postpartum phase or preparing for it, tune in for real talk, practical tips, and a few things I wish I had known sooner!
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
My food and hydration that worked for me early postpartum
Baby blues and navigating the postpartum hormonal drop
How I’ve revised my ‘schedule’ with baby
Resuming working out
Do you really need all the baby things?
Things that helped me with healing
The most challenging aspects of postpartum for me
Important show links 👇👇👇
My Labor and Postpartum Experience episode
My Pregnancy Supplement & Lifestyle Must-haves Blog Post
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Episode 95: [The LOdown] My Labor & Postpartum Experience

 [The LOdown] My Labor & Postpartum Experience
In this candid episode, I share the intimate details of my labor and postpartum experience, diving into the challenges I faced along the way. Join me as I discuss the emotional rollercoaster of being overdue and the various natural induction methods I tried, including castor oil, the Foley balloon, membrane sweep, and the Miles Circuit. I recount my transformative homebirth experience, starting from the initial symptoms of contractions to the moments of pushing and the unexpected birth complications. After my labor, I reflect on how I spent those crucial first few weeks—beginning with five days of resting in bed, savoring nourishing foods to aid in recovery. I then share how I gradually transitioned into more activity around the house in the following days before eventually getting back on my feet with some walking and pelvic floor physical therapy after 2.5 to 3 weeks. Whether you're a soon-to-be parent or just interested in the raw realities of childbirth, this episode offers insights and support.
 
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
What I did from Weeks 40 - 42 and my experience being "late"
The natural induction methods I tried to help facilitate labor
My real and raw experience of having a homebirth and my birthstory
What I did immediately after labor
How I spent the first few weeks postpartum (foods I ate, specialists I saw and more!)
Important show links 👇👇👇 
Listen to My Labor & Postbirth Nutrition Plan episode
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