Your Guide to Egg Quality & Egg Freezing: How to Prepare and Support Your Body for Fertility In this episode of the Strength in Hormones Podcast, Lauren discusses the critical aspects of egg freezing and egg quality. She emphasizes the importance of hormonal balance, nutrition, and lifestyle choices in supporting egg quality as women age or prepare for egg freezing. The conversation covers the impact of the egg freezing process on hormones, the significance of liver health, the role of antio...
Jul 02, 2025•34 min•Ep. 58
Case Study: How She Healed From Mold, Recovered Her Thyroid & Progesterone Levels In this powerful case study, I’m walking you through this client's transformation — from severe bloating, brain fog, and fatigue to finally achieving regular, ovulatory cycles and reclaiming her energy. After years of loose stools, hair loss, sinus inflammation, and dependence on caffeine just to function, she discovered that her body was battling deep-rooted mold toxicity, adrenal burnout, and hormone disrupti...
Jun 25, 2025•29 min•Ep. 57
[The LOdown] The Hormonal Link to High Cholesterol What if your high cholesterol isn’t just about your diet—but about your hormones? In this episode, we explore the surprising hormonal connections behind elevated cholesterol levels. You’ll learn why your liver—not your lunch—is responsible for the majority of your cholesterol, and how thyroid, estrogen, cortisol, insulin, and progesterone all influence cholesterol production, clearance, and conversion in profound ways. In this episode we cover: ...
Jun 18, 2025•23 min•Ep. 56
[The LOdown] Your Guide to Electrolytes (for the Adrenals, Thyroid, Pregnancy & Breastfeeding) In this episode, Lauren dives into the essential—but often overlooked—role of electrolytes in hormone health and daily function. From stress to sweat to pregnancy, your body’s need for key minerals like sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium shifts constantly. Lauren breaks down how hormones such as cortisol and thyroid hormones affect your electrolyte balance—and why women, especially during pr...
Jun 04, 2025•49 min•Ep. 55
[The LOdown] Cycle Syncing with Imbalanced Hormones In this episode of the Strength in Hormones podcast, Lauren discusses the complexities of cycle syncing for women with hormonal imbalances. She emphasizes the importance of understanding individual cycles, particularly for those who do not have a regular 28-day cycle. The conversation covers various aspects of hormonal health, including ovulation, stress management, thyroid support, and dietary adjustments to alleviate symptoms like PMS and his...
May 28, 2025•29 min•Ep. 54
As women move through perimenopause and menopause, the hormonal landscape shifts dramatically—and so does the way the body holds onto muscle and bone. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Cecily Havert of Northern Virginia Family Practice, to break down what happens to muscle mass, metabolism, and body composition in midlife, and why resistance training is your best ally. A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇 The average rate of muscle loss per year and per decade as we age How hormona...
May 21, 2025•45 min•Ep. 53
[The LOdown] Postpartum Thyroiditis Postpartum thyroiditis is one of the most overlooked conditions affecting new moms—and it can leave you feeling anxious, exhausted, and completely out of sync with your body. In this episode, we unpack what postpartum thyroiditis is, why it often goes undiagnosed, and how it differs from other thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s. You'll learn about the immune system shifts during and after pregnancy, the phases of thyroid dysfunction, and the labs, nutrients, ...
May 07, 2025•31 min•Ep. 52
From PCOS to Motherhood with Aurora Culpo In this episode of Strength in Hormones, host Lauren Papanos sits down with Aurora Colpo to explore her deeply personal journey through PCOS, fertility struggles, miscarriages, and perinatal anxiety. Aurora opens up about the emotional and physical toll of hormone imbalances and the natural methods that have helped her reclaim her health—like acupuncture, cycle syncing, and targeted nutrition. Together, Lauren and Aurora discuss the multifaceted nature o...
Apr 30, 2025•47 min•Ep. 51
[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...
Apr 23, 2025•28 min•Ep. 50
[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 stres...
Apr 09, 2025•28 min•Ep. 48
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, fatig...
Apr 02, 2025•46 min•Ep. 47
[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 ...
Mar 26, 2025•27 min•Ep. 46
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—...
Mar 12, 2025•35 min•Ep. 49
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 ...
Mar 05, 2025•47 min•Ep. 45
[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 ...
Feb 26, 2025•31 min•Ep. 44
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 o...
Feb 12, 2025•50 min•Ep. 43
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 ...
Feb 05, 2025•40 min•Ep. 42
[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 mom...
Jan 29, 2025•32 min•Ep. 41
Your Guide to Indoor Mold Testing with Jason Earle of Got Mold? A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇 The prevalence of mold in homes and why it's on the rise Why having a new build doesn't decrease your chances of mold Signs to look for that may indicate mold growth in your home The problems with mold testing and what to know before you hire an inspector or remediation company How to handle mold on porous vs. non-porous surfaces How to understand home mold testing results When remed...
Jan 15, 2025•42 min•Ep. 40
[The LOdown] The Link Between Oxalates & Inflammation A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇 What are oxalates and what foods contain them? The role of oxalates in kidney stones, Hashimoto's thyroiditis and chronic inflammation What is oxalate sensitivity and oxalate dumping? How oxalates impact mineral balance Minerals that can help bind up oxalates Important show links 👇👇👇 Join Inflammation Hormony Today! Follow me on Instagram Rate the show! Please give us a 5 star rating in...
Jan 08, 2025•16 min•Ep. 39
[The LOdown] PMDD vs. PMS A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇 What is PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) and how does it compare to PMS? The role of progesterone metabolism in PMDD Why "optimal" progesterone levels may not be optimal for women with PMDD Testing for PMDD Common PMS symptoms and why they occur The hormonal and inflammation-related causes of PMS Natural treatment recommendations for PMS Important show links 👇👇👇 Order Mineral Magic supplement Get your hormones t...
Jan 01, 2025•29 min•Ep. 37
Anti-Aging and Acne Mistakes with Esthetician & Acne Expert Danielle Gronich A few things we chat about 👇👇👇 The top 3 skincare mistakes people make that are experiencing cystic and fungal acne What is fungal acne and how does it compare to acne vulgaris? The key differences and similarities in products and treatment recommendations between acne vulgaris and fungal acne? The ingredients in most acne products that can cause your skin to age faster The common "clean" products people are usin...
Dec 18, 2024•46 min•Ep. 38
[The LOdown] Protein & Lean Muscle Building A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇 How protein supports lean muscle building Determining how much protein to eat, how to time it and how carbohydrate intake influences this number Why you should focus less on total daily protein intake and more on sources and amount per meal How soon after exercise you should consume protein The benefits of leucine and creatine monohydrate and where to find them in food sources Important show links �...
Dec 11, 2024•29 min•Ep. 36
[The LOdown] AMA: Hypothalamic Amenorrhea, Appetite and Hunger Hormones, and Inflammation A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇 Supporting healthy progesterone while trying to conceive How to stimulate appetite and support digestion with REDS (relative energy deficiency in sport) or low energy availability Blood markers for Insulin Resistance How to know if you're eating too healthy or too much fiber for HA (hypothalamic amenorrhea) recovery Can anxiety and bad sleep be a sign of HA ...
Dec 04, 2024•44 min•Ep. 35
Holiday Survival Tips with Ro In this episode I chat with my right hand gal, Romana Brennan. Romana is our other functional medicine registered dietitian here at Functional Fueling. In this episode we provide our best holiday survival tips, sharing with you how we navigate the holiday season, and what to do and what not to do to make this your healthiest year yet. You can find all of the practical strategies we discuss in this episode in this year's Holiday Guide here. A few things we chat about...
Nov 20, 2024•52 min•Ep. 34
Understanding and Navigating Secondary Infertility with Functional Medicine with Dr. Kalea Wattles Secondary infertility is when mothers experience difficulties conceiving or carrying their second baby to term. In this episode I interview naturopathic doctor and fertility expert, Dr. Kalea Wattles of Functional Fertility to share why secondary infertility occurs and how functional medicine is helping thousands of women overcome secondary infertility. Whether you are experiencing secondary infert...
Nov 13, 2024•52 min•Ep. 32
[The LOdown] The Role of Bile and the Gallbladder in Hashimotos and Hypothyroidism Bile is a digestive fluid that plays a profound role in thyroid health. Bile is made and released from the liver but stored in the gallbladder. In this episode we explore the connection between both the gallbladder and bile with the thyroid. I share about why many women are prone to hypothyroidism and estrogen dominance after a cholecystectomy or gallbladder removal surgery and how thyroid hormones also play a rol...
Nov 06, 2024•27 min•Ep. 33
[The LOdown] My Labor & Post Birth Nutrition Plan In this episode I share the exact foods, hydration solutions and herbs I put together for both labor and the first forty days after birth. I explain the rationale behind these and the exact meals and snacks I made. If you're currently pregnant, trying to conceive or even just curious about what the nutritional needs are during labor and in the fourth trimester, tune in to learn more! A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇 the fuel ...
Oct 30, 2024•46 min•Ep. 31
Can Stem Cell Therapy Help with Hashimoto's and Hypothyroidism? Stem cell therapy is becoming a more common regenerative medicine treatment. It targets promoting repair and healing of damaged or diseased cells and tissues to restore normal function. In this week's podcast episode I interview Dr. Jeff Gross, an esteemed neurosurgeon and the founder of Recellebrate to tell us all about stem cell therapy. We discuss the potential benefits, how stem cell therapy works, and complimentary treatments t...
Oct 16, 2024•36 min•Ep. 28
[The LOdown] How Mold Disrupts Reproductive & Thyroid Hormones In my functional medicine training I spent time learning about mold and environmental toxins and their impact on the endocrine system. I even did additional training in this subject because I found it truly fascinating. At that point I had already been working in the space of hormones for several years but was never *looking* for mold or heavy metals as a root cause. I knew they mattered and what to do if they were ever an issue ...
Oct 09, 2024•27 min•Ep. 30
