For too many women, endometriosis is dismissed, misdiagnosed, or masked with quick-fix solutions like birth control. But what if there’s a better way to understand and support your body?

In this episode I am sitting down with  Rita Utterback, Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner (FDN-P), Certified Holistic Nutritionist, and founder of Radiate with Rita. Having walked her own long road with endometriosis, Rita now helps women move beyond band-aid approaches to truly reclaim their health.

 In this episode:

• Rita’s personal journey with endometriosis, from years of misdiagnosis to finally finding answers
• Why painful periods aren’t the only symptom, and why gut issues are often an early red flag
• The difference between ablation and excision surgery (and why it matters)
• How endo impacts the immune system, gut health, and even fertility
• The role of minerals, gut healing, and stress management in improving symptoms and energy

Connect with Rita Utterback:

Period Fix Blueprint: https://radiatewithrita.kit.com/72b6c467aa 

Instagram: @radiatewithrita

Website: www.radiatewithrita.com

Interested in delicious, high-protein recipes? Download your 7-day high-protein plan here: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-recipes  

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness

Being told you have “unexplained infertility” can feel devastating, and for many women, it’s a diagnosis that comes with more questions than answers.

In this episode I am joined by Laura Ligos, a registered dietitian nutritionist specializing in fertility optimization, women’s hormone health, and functional nutrition.

As a mom of two who’s personally experienced the emotional and physical challenges of conception, Laura helps women dig deeper when conventional fertility testing comes up short. She partners with clients and their fertility teams to uncover overlooked factors, from nutrient deficiencies and hidden inflammation to male fertility issues, so couples can improve outcomes naturally or with assisted reproduction.

In this episode:

• What “unexplained infertility” really means, and why it’s often a sign of incomplete investigation
• The fertility tests most women aren’t getting, but should be
• How cycle timing and proper hormone testing days can change the picture completely
• Why male factor infertility accounts for 50% of cases (and how sperm health has declined over the decades)
• The impact of nutrient deficiencies (iodine, vitamin D, iron, B12, folate, choline) on egg and sperm quality
• The importance of the 90-day fertility optimization window for both partners before trying to conceive or starting IVF
• How to advocate for yourself with your fertility team so nothing is overlooked

If you’re navigating infertility, preparing for IVF, or simply want to improve your reproductive health, this episode is packed with insights you can take to your provider—and use to feel empowered in your journey.

Connect with Laura: 

Fertility Optimization Checklist: https://the-sassy-dietitian.kit.com/82a8b41d17

Website: http://www.thesassydietitian.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesassydietitian

Interested in delicious, high-protein recipes? Download your 7-day high-protein plan here: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-recipes

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Ever felt like you were left in the dark about your own body? You’re not alone. Welcome to Healthy Buzz, hosted by me, Brandee Hommerding!

On this podcast, you can expect stories about my personal journey from confusion to clarity—from flipping through teen magazines for answers, to a late PCOS diagnosis, and now navigating perimenopause with power and purpose.

I am a Certified Nutrition Therapy Practitioner and self-proclaimed diet culture dropout, created Healthy Buzz to give women what most of us never got: real talk and real answers about our health.

 This podcast is your go-to space for honest conversations about:

• Hormone health and menstrual cycles
• Gut issues and sustainable nutrition
• Debunking wellness myths and toxic health advice

Each episode offers practical tools, expert insights, and empowering reminders that your body is not broken—and you’re not alone.

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG:https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Are you tired of restrictive diets, endless cardio, and chasing a smaller number on the scale—only to feel exhausted and frustrated?

In this empowering episode I am speaking with Hayley from Daily Hayley Coaching, an online fitness and nutrition coach helping women over 30 get strong, confident, and mobile without extreme restrictions.

A former in-person trainer for 10 years, Hayley now works with clients worldwide, focusing on strength through mobility and simple, sustainable nutrition habits that deliver results for life—not just for a season.

In this episode:

• How to break free from diet culture and build a healthy relationship with food
• The difference between mobility and flexibility—and why it’s essential for long-term strength and injury prevention
• Why “strong is the new skinny” is more than a trend
• How to stop the binge/restrict cycle and still enjoy your favorite foods
• The role of strength training in perimenopause and postmenopause for metabolism, independence, and bone health
• Why cardio isn’t the only way to lose weight—and how to use it strategically
• The truth about protein, carbs, and metabolism for sustainable fat loss and muscle gain

If you’re ready to ditch quick fixes, future-proof your body, and feel empowered in your health journey, this conversation will show you how to build strength, improve mobility, and create habits that stick for life.

Interested in delicious, high-protein recipes? Download your 7-day high-protein plan here: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-recipes

Connect with Hayley:

Freebie: www.dailyhayley.com/healthy-hips

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dailyhayleycoaching

Website: www.dailyhayley.com

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness

If you're exhausted, bloated, losing hair, and your period’s gone MIA… you might not be eating enough.

In this spicy episode, I’m joined by Danielle Kepics—aka the unicorn of women’s health—to break down what under-fueling does to your hormones, metabolism, and overall health. We talk about why basic habits (like eating more, sleeping better, and quitting toxic jobs) matter more than biohacks, and how birth control may be masking your body’s real signals.

About Danielle:

Danielle Kepics is an FDN-P, fertility educator, mental health therapist, nutrition coach, and former personal trainer. She’s the founder of Empowered Mind + Body and co-founder of Unconventional Collaborative, helping both clients and practitioners redefine health from the ground up.

We cover:

• Why 1,600 calories isn't enough (even if you're not training hard)
• The real reason your hormones, period, and gut are out of whack
• How chronic stress and toxic jobs sabotage healing
• What a “real” period is—and how birth control masks it
• Why basics beat biohacking every time

Connect with Danielle:

freebie: https://empowered-mind-body.kit.com/hormoneguide

IG connect: @empowered.mind.body and @unconventional.collaborative for the practitioners

Interested in delicious, high-protein recipes? Download your 7-day high-protein plan here: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-recipes

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness

So many of us were taught to be strong, independent, and figure things out alone, but what happens when that mindset sabotages our relationships?

I’m joined by Rachel Elder, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and owner of Connected Couples Counseling, to talk about how therapy can benefit couples at any stage, not just when things are falling apart. We chat about communication, conflict, connection (Rachel’s “3 Cs”), and how being open to being wrong can totally transform your relationship.

Rachel also shares what actually happens in couples counseling, how our past shapes how we show up with our partners, and what to do if only one person wants therapy. If you’re curious about deepening your connection or learning healthier patterns together, this one’s for you.

About Rachel:

Rachel Elder is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and owner of Connected Couples Counseling. She’s passionate about helping couples grow old and grey together and loves getting to the root of what’s really going on. Outside of her work, she’s all about the entrepreneurial journey, iced mochas, and The Office.

In this episode:

Why independence culture can make us resistant to therapy

The three C’s of relationship health: communication, conflict, and connection

What actually happens in a couples counseling session

How your childhood shapes your attachment style

Why both partners need a growth mindset to create lasting change

How to rewire your reactions and stop sabotaging connection

What to do if only one person wants therapy

How to find the right couples therapist for you

 Connect with Rachel:

Grab Rachel’s free Relationship Check-In Guide: https://www.connectedcouplescounseling.com/weekly-relationship-check-in-guide

Rachel's Website: https://www.connectedcouplescounseling.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/connectedcouplescounseling

Blood Sugar Savvy - Do you want to balance your blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health? Learn more here! https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy Podcast listeners save $30 when you use the code BUZZ at checkout!

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter:  https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG:  https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Are carbs the enemy? Is fat making you fat? Should you be eating more protein? In this episode, we’re cutting through the noise and giving you the real, root-cause-based breakdown of what macronutrients actually do for your body—and why you need all three for optimal health.

Host by me, Brandee Hommerding, a Certified Nutrition Therapy Practitioner and diet culture dropout, I am explaining why your body needs carbs, protein, and fat, and how you can create balanced meals without fear, guilt, or food rules. This isn’t about counting macros! It’s about understanding them.

In this episode:

• What macronutrients are (and how they’re different from micronutrients)
• Why carbs are your body’s preferred fuel, not something to fear
• The truth about protein deficiencies and how protein supports hormones, muscles, and metabolism
• How fat fuels satiety, hormone health, and vitamin absorption
• A simple campfire analogy to understand digestion and energy from food
• Why balanced meals = better energy, mood, and hunger regulation

Blood Sugar Savvy - Do you want to balance your blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health? Learn more here! https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy Podcast listeners save $30 when you use the code BUZZ at checkout!

 Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter:  https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG:  https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Feeling exhausted by the hustle and craving more flow in your life? What if your energy dips, your emotional waves, and even your desire to retreat were actually natural—not flaws to fix?

In this episode, I am joined by Krystal Praast, founder of New Moon Mama and creator of the Tides Program. Together, we talk about what it means to live in alignment with your cyclical nature—from your menstrual phases to the lunar calendar to the ever-evolving seasons of womanhood.

Krystal blends her background in corporate leadership and esoteric wisdom to help women reconnect with their inner rhythm, embrace change, and create tools to support their highest selves, no matter the tide.

Whether you’re in a season of burnout, transformation, or deep reflection, this episode will remind you that you’re not broken, you’re just beautifully cyclical.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How syncing with the moon can support your mental and physical well-being
• The four feminine life archetypes: Maiden, Mother, Matriarch, and Crone
• Why honoring your high and low tides can bring more ease and clarity
• How to check in with yourself (in just 30 seconds) and take aligned action
• A breakdown of Krystal's Tides framework for holistic, cycle-based living

Interested in delicious, high-protein recipes? Download your 7-day high-protein plan here: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-recipes

Connect with Krystal:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/new.moon.mama.retreat/

Explore the Tides Program (launching Sept 2025): https://www.newmoonmamaretreat.com/tides-program

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG:  https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Grief is universal, but often deeply isolating. 

In this episode, I sit down with Certified Grief Educator Tamara Kubacki, founder of Listening to Grief, to explore the many layers of loss—and why learning to grieve openly can be one of the most healing things we do.

Tamara shares her personal story of losing both parents and her sister, how that shaped her understanding of grief, and the tools she now uses to support others through one-on-one coaching and communal experiences like her popular grief walks.

Through her work, Tamara provides empathetic, storytelling-based grief coaching and creates events that bring people together to grieve in natural and creative spaces. Her work has been featured in The Seattle Times and West Seattle Blog, and she actively collaborates with artists, yoga instructors, herbalists, and more to destigmatize grief and make it less lonely.

 In this episode:

• Why grief is misunderstood (and why our brains resist loss)
• How grief shows up in everyday tasks and routines
• The difference between grief coaching and therapy
• Helpful tools for regulating your nervous system through grief
• Why platitudes like “everything happens for a reason” can be harmful
• How to truly support a grieving friend (and what not to say)
• Why grief isn’t just about death—and what else can trigger it
• How crying can be healing and how to let it happen without shame

This episode is a beautiful reminder that your grief is valid, whether you’ve lost a person, a pet, a place, or a part of yourself. You don’t have to go through it alone.

Blood Sugar Savvy - Do you want to balance your blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health? Learn more here! https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy Podcast listeners save $30 when you use the code BUZZ at checkout!

Connect with Tamara:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/listeningtogrief

Website: listeningtogrief.com

Tamara's Top 10 Grief Books: listeningtogrief.com/top-ten-books

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter:  https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG:   https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Menopause doesn’t have to mean suffering in silence. In this episode, I sit down with Vanessa Weiland to break down what most doctors don’t tell you about hormone health.

Vanessa Weiland is the founder of Phases Clinic, a holistic menopause and sexual wellness clinic based in Washington State. As a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner, certified clinical hypnotherapist, and board-certified Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of experience, Vanessa is dedicated to providing compassionate care to support individuals through the menopause transition.

If you're navigating perimenopause, thinking about HRT, or just tired of being dismissed—this one's for you.

Interested in delicious, high-protein recipes? Download your 7-dayhigh-protein plan here: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-recipes

In this episode:

• What menopause actually is (spoiler: it's only one day)
• The difference between HRT and bioidentical hormones
• What causes weight gain during menopause
• Common symptoms beyond hot flashes
• Why vaginal estrogen is a game-changer
• The truth about testosterone for women
• What to do if your provider won’t talk HRT
• Which supplements might help—and which to skip

Connect with Vanessa:

Website: phasesclinic.com 

IG: phases.clinic 

phasesacademy.com/guide - A free guide of evidence based supplements for common menopause symptoms

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Welcome to the very first episode of Healthy Buzz, where real talk meets real transformation. In this episode, I am opening up like never before, sharing the deeply personal journey that led me from a small-town upbringing to becoming a Certified Nutrition Therapy Practitioner and advocate for women’s wellness.

From learning about periods through teen magazines to spending 17 years on birth control, my story is similar to many women's stories... filled with confusion, shame, and years of feeling disconnected from her body. But it’s also a story of awakening, empowerment, and radical change.

 Key Episode Insights:

• My first experiences with menstruation and the silence surrounding women’s health growing up
• The impact of long-term hormonal birth control on my body and cycle
• My battle with gut issues, burnout, and undernourishment, despite living what looked like a "healthy" lifestyle
• The surprising diagnosis that changed everything: PCOS at age 38
• How I reclaimed her health and launched Bee Collective Wellness to help other women do the same
• Why I created Healthy Buzz to challenge outdated narratives and offer accessible, functional, and empowering health info

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Think you’d know if you had a parasite? Not always. From mystery bloat and skin flares to anxiety and stubborn weight changes, parasites can hide in biofilms and mimic a dozen other issues. In this episode, we separate fear-based trends from facts—and talk through a safe, bio-individual approach.

I’m joined by Hilary Beckwith, a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner who is also Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition. She offers weight-inclusive and anti-diet nutrition counseling to women and female-bodied individuals with Pain and PCOS symptoms. By digging deeper to pinpoint and address root causes of inflammation and PCOS symptoms, Hilary helps clients reconnect with their body's intuition and fill in the gaps between what their doctor is saying and how their symptoms show up.

In this episode:

• Parasites 101: worms vs. protozoa, where they come from and why modern life doesn’t make you immune.
• Symptoms beyond the gut: skin issues, anxiety, sleep changes, immune “never sick” red flags, hormone imbalance, persistent pain.
• GI signs to watch: diarrhea/constipation, bloat/gas, ulcers, excessive hunger, and nutrient theft (hello, low iron).
• Testing vs. guessing: when a GI-MAP helps, what to do if it’s negative but symptoms scream “something’s off,” and how we prep clients for more meaningful results.
• Who should not cleanse: why “everyone needs a quarterly parasite cleanse” is irresponsible.

Blood Sugar Savvy - Do you want to balance your blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health? Learn more here! https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy Podcast listeners save $30 when you use the code BUZZ at checkout!

Connect with Hilary:

Connect: https://hilarybeckwith.com

Parasite Quiz: https://hilarybeckwith.com/parasite-quiz

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG:  https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Are you one of the many women who never really learned how the menstrual cycle actually works? You’re not alone. Whether you’re a mom, a teen, or well into midlife, this episode will change the way you think about your period.

I’m joined by Mandy LeBlanc, certified nutrition consultant, women’s health coach, and EFT practitioner, who brings over 20 years of holistic wisdom to women at every stage—from puberty to perimenopause. Together, we break down what sex ed leaves out, the four powerful phases of the menstrual cycle, and how to finally feel confident and connected to your body.

Mandy is also the creator of Empowered Girl, a fun, educational menstrual cycle program for moms and tweens, and The Midlife Alchemy Program, designed to help women 35+ thrive through midlife and beyond.

In this episode:

• Why sex education often fails girls and women—and what we should be learning instead
• The four distinct phases of the menstrual cycle and the “superpowers” of each
• How to track ovulation beyond what your app tells you
• The truth about birth control pills and why they don’t actually regulate your period
• How lifestyle and nutrition support healthy, pain-free cycles for teens and women alike
• The importance of opening up conversations around periods to break the stigma for future generations

Interested in delicious, high-protein recipes? Download your 7-day high-protein plan here: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-recipes

Connect with Mandy:

 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mandyleblancwellness

Website: www.mandyleblanc.com 

Freebie: Turn Her Period Into a Superpower - Not a Struggle: https://mandy-leblanc-wellness.kit.com/ec8dabe1b2

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

When you think about your core, you might picture six-pack abs. But the truth is, your pelvic floor is just as essential for strength, stability, and overall well-being. Unfortunately, so many women are told that issues like incontinence, painful sex, prolapse, or constipation are “just part of getting older” or “just what happens after kids.” They’re common... but they are not normal.

In this episode I’m joined by Fawn Coussens, PT, MSPT, owner of Kinetic Physical Therapy here in West Seattle. Fawn has a master’s in physical therapy, a background in dance and movement physiology, and a passion for helping women reclaim their pelvic health. She specializes in pelvic floor rehabilitation, pre- and post-partum care, and supporting women through perimenopause and beyond.

In this episode:

• What the pelvic floor actually is and the many roles it plays in core stability, bladder health, digestion, and sexual function
• Why Kegels are not always the answer (and how they can even make things worse for some women)
• The impact of childbirth, menopause, hysterectomy, and even injuries on pelvic floor health
• How pelvic floor dysfunction shows up in everyday life—from leaking to painful intercourse to constipation
• The connection between pelvic floor health and fertility
• Practical, everyday strategies to support pelvic floor health, including breathing, posture, and even bathroom habits
• Why an evaluation with a pelvic floor physical therapist can be such a powerful part of your healing journey

Connect with Fawn: 

Website: https://www.kinetic-pt.com/contact_us/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/kineticptwestseattle

Blood Sugar Savvy - Do you want to balance your blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health? Learn more here! https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy 

Podcast listeners save $30 when you use the code BUZZ at checkout!

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG:  https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

If you feel like you constantly are self-sabotaging, this episode is for you!

In today’s episode of Healthy Buzz, I’m joined by menopause-informed health coach Renee Bellinger to explore what’s really behind self-sabotage. Not the surface-level explanation of “I have no willpower,” but the deeper habits, beliefs, and physiological changes that shape how we eat, move, cope, and show up for ourselves—especially as we enter perimenopause and menopause.

Renee blends her background in counseling psychology, behavior change, and midlife health to help women understand why their bodies feel different, why their old strategies stop working, and how to build sustainable habits that actually fit this season of life.

In This Episode:  

• What self-sabotage truly is and why it shows up so strongly in midlife
• How perimenopause and menopause change your energy, hunger, cravings, and resilience
• The emotional and behavioral patterns that shape how we cope with food and stress
• The missing pieces most women miss when they’re trying to build habits that actually last
• Renee’s 4 self-sabotage buckets
• How to shift emotional and stress eating without shame
• How to navigate holidays, social pressure, and food comments with confidence
• Why rest is productive—and how to recognize when your body is asking for it
• What long-term success actually looks like: identity shifts, flexibility, and celebrating progress

  Connect with Renee: 

Website: https://www.reneebellingercoaching.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachreneebellinger 

Mindset Mini Course Freebie: https://www.reneebellingercoaching.com/mindset-mini-course 

Do you want to optimize blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health?

Join Brandee’s Blood Sugar Savvy course. Use code BUZZ to save $30 at https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy   

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter:  https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Your weight is the least interesting thing about you, and yet so many of us have been taught it’s the only thing that matters. This conversation flips that script and invites you to build strength, capacity, and confidence in the body you have right now.

In this episode of Healthy Buzz, I sit down with Tara De Leon, award-winning personal trainer, fitness business coach, and co-host of the Wellness: Rebranded podcast, to unpack what weight-neutral fitness really looks like—especially for women in midlife, perimenopause, and beyond.

Together, we explore how to move your body for strength, longevity, and independence instead of chasing an arbitrary number on the scale or an outdated beauty standard. Our goal is that you walk away with powerful mindset shifts, practical strategies, and simple ways to add more movement into your life—no gym obsession or cardio punishment required.

In this episode:

• What weight-neutral fitness actually is and why it matters for women at every age
• How to shift your focus from the scale to strength, longevity, and independence
• Why building muscle in midlife and menopause is essential for bone health, mobility, and confidence
• How to advocate for yourself including when and how to decline getting weighed
• Simple, realistic ways to start moving more: exercise snacks, NEAT, and Tara’s “Bare Ass Minimum” approach
• Functional goals that matter more than aesthetics
• How to stop apologizing for your body and start taking up the space you deserve
• How to decline being weighed at the doctor's office: https://www.instagram.com/p/DLHxnW5uUbM/

 Connect with Tara: 

Website: https://www.taradeleonfitness.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tara_de_leon_fitness/

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wellness-rebranded-intuitive-eating-diet-culture-mental/id1651744916 

Do you want to optimize blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health? Join Brandee’s Blood Sugar Savvy course. Use code BUZZ to save $30 at https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy   

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter:  https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/ 

Heavy periods, clots, back pain, “living around your cycle”? 

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Katashia Partee Kendrick, PharmD, BCACP, IHP to cut through the confusion on fibroids. We talk about what they are, how they’re found (ultrasound/MRI), and real-world options from meds to ablation, UFE, myomectomy, and when/why hysterectomy is considered. 

We also touch on endo, pelvic floor PT, and simple lifestyle shifts (reduce endocrine disruptors, manage stress, move your body) that support symptoms.

You’ll learn:

• Red flags that aren’t “just a heavy period”
• Which imaging clarifies your next step
• Pros/cons of common treatments (incl. fertility notes)
• Why Black women face higher rates—and how to self-advocate

Connect with Dr. Katashia Partee 

Website: https://www.drkatashia.com

Instagram: @drkatashia

Facebook & Linkedin: Dr. Katashia Wellness Kollective 

Related episodes: Endometriosis Deep Dive;

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1QFI67JiEWcnNgbxLczj1l?si=H6Nu5jigSp-hLHawUWCTUg

Pelvic Floor PT 101:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/30f7aHRSd0lXloC9k1QNCi?si=RRMVDyNeRzSwVyWQtt7dxg

Blood Sugar Savvy - Do you want to balance your blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health? Learn more here! https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy

Podcast listeners save $30 when you use the code BUZZ at checkout!

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG:  https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

You’ve heard protein is important, but do you really know why it matters in perimenopause?

In this episode I’m cutting through the noise and breaking down why protein is such a game-changer during perimenopause and postmenopause. Protein isn’t just about building muscle—it’s about supporting your hormones, protecting bone health, managing weight shifts, and even helping with mood and brain fog.

In this episode:

• What’s really happening with estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone during perimenopause
• Why protein is essential for muscle mass, bone strength, and long-term health
• How protein impacts satiety, metabolism, and weight management (without fad diets)
• The connection between amino acids, brain function, and mood
• Practical tips to reach 100g of protein daily without relying on shakes and bars

Interested in delicious, high-protein recipes? Download your 7-day high-protein plan here: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-recipes 

Research articles mentioned in the show:

Dose–response relationship between protein intake and muscle mass increase:https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article/79/1/66/5936522

Protein appetite as an integrator in the obesity system: the protein leverage hypothesis: https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rstb.2022.0212

Evidence for the protein leverage hypothesis in preschool children prone to obesity: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S026156142300314X

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter:  https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

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Are you doing “all the right things” with food and exercise… yet your hormones, energy, or cycle still feel completely off?

In this episode I sit down with integrative nutrition health coach Edie Horstman of Wellness With Edie to unpack a hidden epidemic in women’s health: chronic under-fueling and the relentless pressure of diet culture.

Edie shares her powerful story of going from years of irregular cycles, a late PCOS diagnosis, and fear-based medical advice… to naturally putting her PCOS into remission, conceiving both of her babies without fertility treatment, and rebuilding her metabolism and muscle in her 30s.

Together, we dig into how “clean eating,” over-exercising, and shrinking yourself can silently disrupt hormones, fertility, blood sugar, and long-term health—and what it actually looks like to fuel your body.

In this episode:

How Edie went from no period in her teens to a PCOS diagnosis in her late 20s

Why hormonal birth control can mask symptoms and delay a true PCOS diagnosis

The three main diagnostic criteria for PCOS (and signs you might be missing it)

How under-eating, over-training, and low body fat impact ovulation and hormone production

Why carbohydrates are essential for ovulation, energy, and “hormone balance”

Why strength training is non-negotiable for long-term bone health, metabolism, and independence—especially in perimenopause and beyond

Connect with Edie:

Website: https://wellnesswithedie.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wellnesswithedie/

Substack : https://wellnesswithedie.substack.com/

Do you want to optimize blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health?

Join Brandee’s Blood Sugar Savvy course. Use code BUZZ to save $30 at https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter:  https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

What if the only reason money feels confusing is because no one ever gave you the language, tools, or education to understand it?

In this episode, I’m sitting down with Lisa Eaton, founder of Firm Footing Financial Planning, to explore a part of life most women are left to navigate completely alone: their financial world.

Lisa spent over 20 years as a physical therapist before shifting into financial planning, and now describes what she does as “physical therapy for your money.” With a doctorate in physical therapy and a master’s degree in financial planning, she helps people understand their finances without shame, guilt, jargon, or pressure.

We unpack the stories we inherit about money, why so many women feel uncertain or intimidated by financial conversations, and the simple habits that build clarity and confidence over time.

In this episode: 

• How childhood experiences shape your beliefs and behaviors around money

• Why women often feel behind, excluded, or dismissed in financial conversations

• Red flags to watch for when choosing a financial planner

• The simple core habits that create financial stability

• How to think about emergency funds, credit cards, and savings systems

• The basics of retirement planning

• Financial planning options for employees and the self employed

• When financial therapy might help you move forward

Connect with Lisa: Website: https://www.firmfootingfp.com/

Do you want to optimize blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health?

Join Brandee’s Blood Sugar Savvy course. Use code BUZZ to save $30 at https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy 

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter:  https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup 

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/ 

Have you ever wondered whether creatine is actually worth taking or if it’s even meant for women at all?

Are you curious why so many experts are suddenly talking about creatine as a “must-have” for long-term health?

In this episode, I break down one of the most misunderstood supplements in women’s health: creatine. Not the gym bro stereotype or the bodybuilding myth. This is a deep, accessible, and actionable conversation about how creatine supports women through hormonal shifts, perimenopause, menopause, and beyond.

I discuss the research, physiology, gender gap, dosage, and six critical benefits most women have never been told about. If you’re experiencing changes in sleep, cognition, mood, muscle recovery, or energy as you move through your 30s, 40s, and 50s..this episode is a must listen.

In this episode:

• What creatine really is, and why the stereotypes around it are completely wrong

• Why women naturally start with lower creatine stores than men

• How much creatine women should take daily

• The difference between creatine monohydrate and other forms

• Why creatine is considered one of the most researched and safest supplements available

• How to pair creatine with resistance training for maximum benefits

• When to talk to your doctor before supplementing

Save 20% on my favorite creatine when you create a free account on Fullscript: https://us.fullscript.com/plans/bhommerding-creatine-monohydrate

Research Articles Mentioned:

PubMed ID:

PMID: 40371844

PMID: 39796530

PMID: 39545789 

PMID: 40854087

Interested in delicious, high-protein recipes? Download your 7-day high-protein plan here: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-recipes

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

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Ever wondered how your gut health impacts your hormones?

In this episode, I sit down with Amanda Dejak, a Registered Holistic Nutritionist and Certified Colon Hydrotherapist based in Vancouver, Canada. Amanda has spent over a decade helping clients improve detoxification, digestion, and hormonal balance through natural approaches. With experience supporting clients dealing with cancer, Lyme disease, and chronic gut issues, Amanda brings a wealth of insight into what it really means to support your body’s detox and drainage pathways.

Together, we unpack how gut health and hormones are deeply connected—from estrogen metabolism and the estrobolome, to stress, digestion, and why regular bowel movements matter more than you think.

You’ll learn:

• How your gut microbiome impacts estrogen balance (and what the β-glucuronidase enzyme has to do with it)
• Why detox teas and cleanses miss the mark—and what real detoxification looks like
• How stress and cortisol throw digestion off balance
• The right way to approach colonics, enemas, and lymphatic drainage
• What a healthy poop should look like
• Practical ways to support your gut during each phase of your menstrual cycle

Connect with Amanda:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Keeping_regular

Do you want to optimize blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health?

Join Brandee’s Blood Sugar Savvy course. Use code BUZZ to save $30 at https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter:  https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Trigger warning: This episode discusses eating disorders and body image. If you’re struggling, please reach out for support:

• National Alliance for Eating Disorders: https://www.allianceforeatingdisorders.com
• Crisis Text Line: Text NEDA to 741741

In this episode of Healthy Buzz, I sit down with Dr. Samantha Turetsky, PsyD, a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in eating disorders, perfectionism, and over-control. We break down the difference between disordered eating and eating disorders, how control and perfectionism fuel both, and why healing starts with rebuilding trust in your body.

We also talk about:

• Why you can’t tell who has an eating disorder by looking at them
• How “clean eating” and wellness culture can become harmful
• The role of boundaries and language in recovery
• Shifting from food rules to body trust and flexibility

This is an honest, compassionate conversation about learning to listen to your body and release the guilt around food and control.

Connect with Dr. Turetsky: 

Psychology Today | @DrSamanthaTuretsky: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/samantha-turetsky-seattle-wa/414168

Book referenced in today's show: Fat Talk; Parenting in the Age of Diet Culture by Virginia Sole-Smith https://virginiasolesmith.com/books/fat-talk-parenting-in-the-age-of-diet-culture/

Interested in delicious, high-protein recipes? Download your 7-day high-protein plan here:  https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-recipes  

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter:  https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Can your gut health really impact your skin? Absolutely — and today’s episode breaks down exactly how.

I am joined by Daina Rasutis founder of Table to Crave and certified Nutrition Therapist Master, to explore how acne is often a reflection of what’s happening inside your gut. From her journey as a civil engineer turned holistic nutritionist, Dina shares how science-backed testing and personalized nutrition can reveal the true root causes of stubborn skin issues — beyond creams and prescriptions.

In this episode:

• The gut–skin axis and how gut imbalances like low stomach acid, candida, and parasites can trigger acne.
• Why stress, nervous system dysregulation, and toxins play a hidden role in skin health.
• How foundational healing (like mindful eating, proper digestion, and daily pooping!) sets the stage for clear skin.
• The science behind GI Map and food sensitivity testing — and when they’re actually helpful.
• The emotional side of acne: how to stay patient and supported during your healing journey.
• Practical tips to balance blood sugar, support detox pathways, and nourish radiant skin from within.

Connect with Daina:

Website: https://www.tabletocrave.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tabletocrave/

Looking for the root cause of your Acne? Take the Acne Quiz: https://www.tabletocrave.com/quiz

Tired of energy crashes, cravings, or mood swings?Blood Sugar Savvy helps you balance your blood sugar naturally — so your hormones, energy, and metabolism stay in sync.

🎧 Podcast listeners get $30 off with code BUZZ: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy 

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG:  https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Hormone health doesn’t have to be confusing. In this episode I am joined by Kate Nguy, Women’s Hormone & Wellness Specialist, Certified Women’s Hormone Health Practitioner, Executive Director of the Menopause Mission, and host of Aligned Womb, Aligned You. We talk about about practical cycle syncing and hormone literacy so you can work with your body instead of against it.

We cover how to recognize your inner “seasons,” understand stress and cortisol’s role in midlife shifts, and advocate for yourself with targeted testing and simple daily habits. If you’ve ever been told your symptoms are “just part of being a woman,” this conversation will give you clarity, language, and tools.

 In this episode:

• What cycle syncing looks like across menstruation, follicular, ovulation, and luteal phases—and how to align energy, productivity, relationships, and training with each phase
• Why hormone literacy is essential for navigating perimenopause and postmenopause (and how to spot red flags like debilitating period pain, persistent fatigue, and mood swings)
• The stress–hormone connection: cortisol, DHEA, nervous system regulation, and why midlife can feel different
• How to track your “fifth vital sign” (your cycle) and use data to guide nutrition, boundaries, and recovery
• When hormone testing does matter (and what to do if you’re told it can’t be tested)

Connect with Kate:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thealignedwomb/

Website: https://www.sheerevival.com

Aligned Womb, Aligned You Podcast: https://www.sheerevival.com/podcast

Tired of energy crashes, cravings, or mood swings?

Blood Sugar Savvy helps you balance your blood sugar naturally — so your hormones, energy, and metabolism stay in sync.🎧 Podcast listeners get $30 off with code BUZZ: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy   

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG:  https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

If your breakouts cluster around your chin and jaw, then flare before your period, this episode is your roadmap. We’re unpacking hormonal acne at the root (estrogen dominance, DHT, sluggish detox) and exactly how to support clear skin from the inside out.

I am sitting down with Rachel Kirby, founder of Cocoon, to demystify hormonal acne for adult women. Rachel shares her decade-long journey through prescriptions and topicals before discovering estrogen dominance, and how targeted support (DIM + detox pathways) finally cleared her skin.

We cover how to tell if your acne is hormone-driven, why liver/gut health matter, birth control nuances, PCOS patterns, and the endocrine-disrupting chemicals to ditch first.

What you'll learn:

• Hormonal acne vs. “regular” acne and how adult patterns differ from teen breakouts.
• Root causes to check: xenoestrogens (plastics, fragrance, parabens, phthalates), constipation/slow bile flow, liver load, and beta-glucuronidase on a GI-MAP.
• What birth control actually does (ovulation suppression, androgen changes), who it helps, and why many fixes are short-term bandages.
• Why pairing DIM with glutathione + calcium D-glucarate supports estrogen metabolism and elimination (not just recirculation).
• Skincare that supports hormones: first three EDCs to avoid and an easy way to start safer swaps.

Tired of energy crashes, cravings, or mood swings?

Blood Sugar Savvy helps you balance your blood sugar naturally — so your hormones, energy, and metabolism stay in sync.

🎧 Podcast listeners get $30 off with code BUZZ → https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy

Connect with Rachel:

Hormone Imbalance Quiz: https://cocoonskincare.ca/pages/quiz Website: cocoonskincare.ca

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cocoonskinco

 Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG:  https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

If you've ever felt like you've reached the end of the road with specialists, scans, and "fixes" for your physical pain, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Healthy Buzz, Brandee sits down with Alaura Winning of Alaura Grace Wellness to talk about the reality of chronic pain, explained and unexplained, and how to reclaim your life even when pain is still humming in the background.

Chronic pain doesn't mean you have a broken body. And living with pain doesn't mean putting your life on pause until it goes away. 

In This Episode:

• What chronic pain actually is—and why it can persist 
• The difference between explained vs. unexplained chronic pain
• Why your body isn't betraying you—understanding the nervous system's role in pain perception
• How chronic pain and mental health are intrinsically linked
• The RAIN practice—a powerful tool for working with pain flare-ups
• Why "pushing through" actually makes pain worse—and what to do instead
• Radical acceptance: How to stop fighting your reality and start living your life
• The connection between emotional pain and physical pain receptors
• How to communicate your pain to others without feeling like you're complaining
• Reclaiming your identity beyond pain—practical steps to remember who you are outside of chronic pain

Do you want to optimize blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health?

Join Brandee’s Blood Sugar Savvy course. Use code BUZZ to save $30 at https://beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy

Connect with Alaura: 

Website: https://www.alauragrace.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alauragw

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@alaura_grace

The Whole You Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/07MPy2MB2rMf6xMaCGAH4K?si=51b1689e2e90402a

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/ 

Longevity isn’t built through punishment, restriction, or chasing the next wellness trend.

In this episode of Healthy Buzz, I sit down with registered dietitian Emily Horstman of Healthier Span to unpack what longevity really means — and why healthspan, not hustle, should be the goal. We challenge the biohacking-first narrative and talk about building long-term health through self-respect, joy, and sustainable daily foundations rather than extremes.

This conversation explores why prevention-focused care matters, how to think critically about wellness trends, and what actually supports a healthier, more vibrant life over time. Emily shares a grounded, science-informed perspective that meets women where they are — without fear, shame, or all-or-nothing thinking.

In This Episode:

• The difference between lifespan and healthspan — and why quality of life matters more
• Why longevity shouldn’t feel like discipline, deprivation, or punishment
• How to evaluate biohacking trends without bypassing the basics
• The five foundational pillars that matter most for long-term health
• Simple, low-barrier ways to support nutrition, movement, sleep, stress, and connection
• Why self-respect and joy are essential — not optional — for sustainable wellness
• How to stop outsourcing your intuition and start trusting your body’s feedback

Interested in High-Protein Recipes? Download your 7 day meal plan for free here: https://beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-meal-plan

Connect with Emily: 

Website: https://healthierspan.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agingbetterrd/

Substack: https://eip9549.substack.com?utm_source=navbar&utm_medium=web

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup 

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/ 

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

Healing isn’t just about what you do—it’s about uncovering what’s been buried. Psilocybin can help women access the parts of themselves they’ve long ignored and reclaim their inner power.

In this episode of Healthy Buzz, I sit down with Ericka Day, a psilocybin medicine facilitator and microdosing guide, to explore how this ancient tool is being used today for personal transformation. Ericka breaks down the science behind microdosing and macro dosing, explains how psilocybin supports neuroplasticity, and shares how this medicine can help women break free from ingrained thought patterns, cultural programming, and old narratives around femininity and motherhood.

We dive into Ericka’s personal journey, including how psilocybin helped her reconcile her upbringing, embrace motherhood, and navigate the challenges of postpartum life. This episode is for women curious about plant medicine, personal growth, and conscious self-exploration.

In this episode: 

• The difference between microdosing and macrodosing psilocybin, and how each supports personal growth
• How psilocybin promotes neuroplasticity to help break old thought patterns
• Ericka’s personal journey using psilocybin to reclaim her femininity and navigate motherhood
• The role of facilitators and why guidance is crucial for macro dose experiences
• Why integration—the application of insights—is key to lasting change

Interested in delicious, high-protein recipes? Download your 7-day high-protein plan here: https://beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-meal-plan

Connect with Ericka: 

Website: https://www.erickadayrising.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erickadayrising/

The Kind Teacher Website: https://www.thekindteacher.org/

The Kind Teacher Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.kind.teacher/

Macrodosing Guide For Deep Healing Freebie: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/611174496/

DMT: The Spirit Molecule: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/51654.DMT

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

Cancer prevention isn’t a punishment plan and fear is not a strategy.

In this episode of Healthy Buzz, I sit down with Dr. Meghan Zech of Sana Pacifica, a naturopathic doctor specializing in integrative oncology (FABNO), to talk about cancer prevention, treatment support, and survivorship through a whole-person lens. We move beyond “standard of care” and into the body’s terrain — including inflammation, metabolic health, gut health, environmental exposures, and nervous system regulation — and why these foundations matter for long-term resilience.

This conversation is for women who want science-backed support without restriction, shame, or fear-based wellness noise.

In This Episode: 

• Why integrative oncology supports the whole person, not just the tumor
• The survivorship gap no one prepares you for and what to do when treatment ends
• Factors that influence risk over time: inflammation, hormones, infections, toxins, and metabolism
• The truth about sugar and cancer, plus what matters more than cutting it out
• Why nervous system regulation is a prevention and recovery tool — not a luxury
• Simple rituals, “glimmers,” and practical ways to shift out of chronic stress mode
• Detox without the gimmicks: what your body actually needs to clear waste effectively
• Nutrition strategies that support cellular health, gut function, and long-term resilience
• How to find a qualified integrative oncology provider (including FABNO credentials)

Resources Mentioned: 

Oncology Association of Naturopathic Physicians (OncANP): https://oncologyanp.org

FABNO Certification (Fellow of the American Board of Naturopathic Oncology): https://oncologyanp.org/fabno

CancerChoices: https://cancerchoices.org

Know Integrative Oncology: https://knowintegrativeoncology.org 

Do you want to optimize blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health?

Join Brandee’s Blood Sugar Savvy course. Use code BUZZ to save $30 at https://beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy

Connect with Meghan: 

Website: https://www.sanapacifica.com/

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter:  https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/ 

Most women with PCOS aren’t failing their bodies, they’re surviving a system that keeps them uninformed.

In this episode of Healthy Buzz, I sit down with Agnieszka Fronia, psychologist and PCOS advocate behind Eviva Health, to uncover the invisible layers of PCOS that rarely get addressed. We dive into the emotional toll of delayed diagnosis, why restrictive advice backfires, and how understanding the true nature of PCOS can completely change how women support their bodies and minds.

This conversation is for women with PCOS who are tired of conflicting advice and ready for grounded, sustainable support that actually makes sense.

In This Episode:

• Why PCOS is far more than “cysts on ovaries” and what’s actually happening in the body
• The hidden mental health impact of PCOS
• Why years-long delays in diagnosis are common and how to advocate for yourself
• How insulin resistance fuels cravings, fatigue, and androgen symptoms
• Why “eat less, exercise more” often worsens PCOS outcomes
• What birth control really does for PCOS and what it doesn’t fix
• How restriction leads to disordered eating and metabolic stress
• Simple, realistic nutrition shifts that support hormones without extremes
• The overlooked role of sleep, stress, and nervous system regulation
• How to start managing PCOS with small, sustainable changes instead of burnout

Episode 19 | Understanding Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, and the Myths That Keep Women Stuck with Dr.Samantha Turetsky, PsyD: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3W595Y6JMYSHN8SqVewrJA?si=645f818519934852

Connect with Agnieszka: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agnieszka.fronia

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@agnieszkafronia

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup 

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/ 

Muscle isn’t a “fitness goal”. It’s a survival skill for your hormones, metabolism, and long-term health.

In this episode of Healthy Buzz, I sit down with Allie Jackson of Mainstay Performance to break down why strength training matters so much for women, especially in perimenopause. We talk about how muscle supports metabolic health, hormone stability, and healthy aging—and why “more cardio and less food” often backfires as your body changes.

Allie explains progressive overload in a way that actually makes sense, plus what recovery really has to do with results. We also get into popular trends like cycle syncing and weighted vests—what the data does (and doesn’t) say, and why your body’s feedback matters more than internet rules.

This episode is for you if you’re navigating midlife body changes, feel stuck in chronic dieting or high-intensity workouts, or want a sustainable fitness approach that supports energy, strength, and long-term health.

In this episode:

• Why muscle is “expensive” and how that supports metabolism, hormones, and longevity
• The perimenopause trap: estrogen shifts, cardio overload, and unintended muscle loss
• Why chronic calorie deficits stall progress and drain energy, mood, sleep, and performance
• What is reverse dieting and how to use it effectively 
• Progressive overload for beginners, plus why recovery weeks matter
• Trainer red flags to watch for before you spend your money
• Cycle syncing and weighted vests: Are they worth the hype? 
• Cardio done right: why balance matters and how heart-rate zones fit in
• A simple starting plan to balance weight lifting and cardio

Allie's free week of her Fortify strength program: https://mainstayperformance.com/fortify-freeweek

Connect with Allie:

Website: https://mainstayperformance.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mainstay_performance/

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Weight loss has been oversimplified for far too long, and that narrative is costing women their health, confidence, and trust in their bodies.

In this episode of Healthy Buzz, I sit down with Megan Moore, registered dietitian and founder of My Bariatric Dietitian, to dismantle the myth that weight is just about willpower. Together, we unpack the science behind obesity, bariatric surgery, and GLP-1 medications — and why these tools are not shortcuts, but legitimate medical interventions when used correctly.

This episode is for women who want to understand their bodies, make informed decisions about medical weight-loss tools, and move forward without shame or restriction.

In This Episode:

• Why weight loss is not a willpower issue — and how biology actually drives obesity
• How bariatric surgery and GLP-1 medications work in the body
• The key differences between common bariatric procedures
• The real risks of rapid weight loss, including muscle loss and metabolic slowdown
• Why nutrition, behavior change, and mindset support matter just as much as the tool
• How to create sustainable results without shame, restriction, or rebound weight gain

Do you want to optimize blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health?

Join Brandee’s Blood Sugar Savvy course. Use code BUZZ to save $30 at https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy 

Connect with Megan: Website: https://www.mybariatricdietitian.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mybariatricdietitian/?hl=en 

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/ 

Your hormones, gut, and energy can’t regulate when your nervous system feels under attack.

In this episode, I sit down with Madalyn Baer of Wise Bite Wellness to break down how stress quietly drives fatigue, bloating, anxiety, and hormone chaos. We talk about why pushing harder with workouts and “perfect” nutrition can backfire when your nervous system is overloaded.

Madalyn shares how her own gut and hormone struggles led her to a nervous-system-safe approach to movement and how women can use their energy and rhythms to train smarter, recover better, and feel more at peace in their bodies.

In This Episode:

• Why being “consistent” with workouts can actually keep your body stuck in fatigue, bloating, and hormone imbalance
• How chronic stress silently shuts down digestion, ovulation, and recovery—even when nutrition looks perfect
• The subtle signs your workouts are stressing your nervous system instead of strengthening it
• Why pushing harder often leads to burnout, blood sugar crashes, and worsening gut symptoms
• How to use cycle syncing as a permission-based guide, not a rigid set of rules
• How to use energy cues (and moon phases) when cycles aren’t regular (birth control, peri/post menopause)
• How tuning into energy creates easier consistency and better results
• The mindset shift that helps women stop fighting their bodies and finally feel safe in them
• Why nervous system regulation is the missing link for sustainable healing

Interested in delicious, high-protein recipes? Download your 7-day high-protein plan here: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-recipes

Connect with Madalyn:

Website: https://wisebitewellness.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wisebitewellness/

Free quiz - What's Your Body Stress Type: https://wisebitewellness.com/whats-your-body-stress-type

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Your thyroid can look “normal” on paper and still be driving fatigue, weight changes, constipation, mood shifts, painful periods, and fertility struggles

In this episode of Healthy Buzz, I sit down with Alison Percowycz of Well North Functional Medicine, a board-certified family nurse practitioner and functional medicine provider, to unpack what women are rarely told about thyroid health. Alison shares her path from academic medicine into functional medicine after navigating her own Hashimoto’s diagnosis, postpartum thyroid instability, and a fertility journey that highlighted the gap between normal and optimal care.

In this episode:

• Why “normal” thyroid labs often miss what’s actually driving your symptoms
• The critical difference between TSH and the hormones your body truly uses
• How poor T4 to T3 conversion keeps fatigue, weight gain, and constipation stuck
• The hidden impact of stress, under-fueling, and diet culture on thyroid health
• What thyroid antibodies really mean and why autoimmunity is often overlooked
• Normal vs optimal thyroid labs and symptom patterns
• How stress, under-eating, and gut health affect the thyroid
• Thyroid changes during pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause
• Hashimoto’s, thyroid antibodies, and autoimmune drivers
• Thyroid medication options and individualized care
• What proper follow-up and lab monitoring should look like

Interested in delicious, high-protein recipes? Download your 7-day high-protein plan here: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-recipes

Connect with Alison:

Website: https://wellnorthfunctionalmedicine.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wellnorthfunctionalmed/

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Airway issues are derailing women’s energy, hormones, and sleep—and most never realize the mouth is where the story begins. This episode reveals the overlooked oral factors silently driving fatigue, anxiety, and chronic symptoms.

In this episode of Healthy Buzz, I sit down with dentist and airway specialist Kristen Geist to unpack how breathing mechanics, tongue position, and oral health directly influence women’s hormones, sleep, and overall health. Kristin shares her personal journey with undiagnosed upper airway resistance syndrome, years of exhaustion, anxiety, and lightheadedness, and how her symptoms were repeatedly dismissed as “just stress.” This conversation is for any woman dealing with fatigue, brain fog, jaw tension, acid reflux, or unrefreshing sleep who has been told everything looks “normal” but still doesn’t feel well.

In this episode:

• How Kristen discovered her own upper airway resistance syndrome after years of symptoms being dismissed

• Why airway issues in women are under-diagnosed and often misattributed to stress or anxiety

• The difference between sleep apnea and UARS, and why “mild” apnea isn’t mild

• How mouth breathing impacts hormones, nervous system regulation, oral microbiome, and gut health

• The role of tongue posture and tongue ties in breathing, jaw pain, headaches, and digestion

• What to know before trying mouth taping, and why nasal breathing is essential

• How oral appliances work, when they help, and when CPAP is still needed

• Daily oral health habits that support whole-body health—from tongue scraping to neutralizing acidity

• Why oral inflammation can shift during perimenopause and menopause

Find an airway-focused provider:

• AADSM Directory (American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine): https://www.aadsm.org/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=23097479645&gbraid=0AAAABBOvoLEa3yX_rG1Saika8AXNer5qR&gclid=CjwKCAiA0eTJBhBaEiwA-Pa-hWxggueUrUg8GX8Hrvw2HrMKU8kIbnrsD89SFnKT7KFNRZm86GKm6BoCT6gQAvD_BwE

• The Breathe Institute provider directory: https://thebreatheinstitute.com/

• Airway Circle provider listings: https://www.airwaycircle.com/directory

Interested in delicious, high-protein recipes? Download your 7-day high-protein plan here: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-recipes

Connect with Kristen:

Website: https://stan.store/pranawithdrkristen?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnqgHwMDvalKRSPNQxZSj0jbqRzf0UHEeXxVBTbEY2oVMlus_RTP5yliJn5NI_aem_mwOBw6qFNacvq6wX5ZkRJw

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pranawithdrkristen/

Email: pranasleepandwellness@gmail.com

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

What if the missing piece in your healing journey isn’t another supplement, diet, or protocol… but understanding the actual blueprint of your body?

If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything “right” for your health but still hitting frustrating roadblocks, this episode reveals why. Many women follow the protocols, take the supplements, and clean up their diet, yet something still feels missing.

In this conversation, Brandee sits down with functional practitioner Dr. Kathryn Heidt to explore how functional genetic testing can uncover the missing links in complex health journeys. Dr. Heidt shares her personal experience with severe mold illness and how discovering key detox genetics transformed her recovery.

Together they break down the difference between disease genetics and functional genetics, explain why your genes are not your destiny, and unpack the powerful role of epigenetics — how lifestyle, stress, and environmental exposures influence how your genes actually behave.

They also discuss why many wellness protocols fail, how environmental stressors like chemicals and mold affect our physiology, and why precision medicine is becoming increasingly important in today’s health landscape.

In This Episode:

• The difference between disease genetics and functional genetics

• Why your genes are a blueprint — not a life sentence

• How epigenetics influences whether certain genes turn on or stay quiet

• The role environmental stressors play in modern health challenges

• How genetic insights can help personalize nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle strategies

Connect with Dr.Kathryn:

Website: https://drkathrynheidt.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_heidt/

Email: foundations@drkathrynheidt.com

Do you want to optimize blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health?Join Brandee’s Blood Sugar Savvy course. Use code BUZZ to save $30 at https://beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

PMS is common, but that does not make it "normal".

If you’re dealing with bloating, mood swings, heavy bleeding, exhaustion, or feeling unlike yourself the week before your period, this episode is your reminder that you don’t have to accept it.

I’m joined by Amy Dave, physician assistant and women’s wellness coach, who shares how severe PMS, migraines, and fatigue led her to rethink everything she thought she knew about women’s health. After learning how diet, exercise, sleep, and stress impact hormone balance, she made simple changes — and within months, her symptoms resolved.

We unpack why PMS is often dismissed, how birth control suppresses your natural hormone fluctuations, and why your menstrual cycle is considered the “fifth vital sign.” You’ll learn how cramps, cravings, bloating, and heavy bleeding are signals — not inconveniences — and how to use cycle syncing to adjust your food, workouts, and schedule so you stop pushing through exhaustion and start working with your hormones instead of against them.

This episode is for women who are done with bandaid solutions and ready to understand what their body is actually communicating.

In This Episode:

• Why PMS is common but not normal — and why it’s often dismissed
• How birth control suppresses ovulation and natural hormone fluctuations
• Why your menstrual cycle is considered the “fifth vital sign”
• What cramps, cravings, bloating, migraines, and heavy bleeding may be signaling
• How inflammation, stress, sleep, and nutrition influence symptom severity
• Practical cycle syncing: how to adjust food, workouts, and your schedule across the four phases
• Why tracking your cycle is the first step toward lasting symptom relief

Do you want to optimize blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health?

Join Brandee’s Blood Sugar Savvy course. Use code BUZZ to save $30 at https://beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy

Connect with Amy:

Website: https://thewealthofwellness.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewealthofwellnessllc/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thewealthofwellnessllc

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter:  https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

If you've been told to "just eat more fiber" but every high-fiber meal leaves you bloated, gassy, and unbuttoning your pants by 4 PM, this episode is for you.

In this solo episode of Healthy Buzz, I dive into the fiber maxxing trend taking over social media—and why pushing 50-80 grams of fiber a day can backfire when your digestive system isn't ready for it. Fiber is essential for hormone health, blood sugar, and gut function, but when it causes pain, bloating, and constipation, your body isn't broken—it's sending you signals that something deeper needs attention.

In This Episode:

• Why the fiber maxxing trend isn't right for everyone
• The difference between soluble and insoluble fiber—and what each does in your body
• How fiber acts as a "stress test" for your digestive system
• Why inadequate stomach acid sets you up for fiber intolerance
• The connection between SIBO, bacterial overgrowth, and fiber-induced symptoms
• Why methane-producing bacteria can cause "brick in your stomach" constipation
• How ramping up fiber too quickly overwhelms your microbiome
• The mind-gut connection: Why eating while stressed sabotages digestion
• Why you need better digestion MORE than you need more fiber
• How functional lab testing reveals what's actually happening in your gut

Connect with me: https://beecollectivewellness.com/nutrition-coaching

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup 

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/ 

I spent 17 years on hormonal birth control without fully understanding what it was doing to my body. I almost talked myself out of HRT even when my data was literally showing me I needed it. And alcohol? I had no idea what it was quietly doing to my hormones. If you've ever felt dismissed, confused, or like you're getting half the picture from your doctor — this series is for you.

In this episode:

• Why I stayed on hormonal birth control for 17 years and what I wish someone had told me sooner
• How getting COVID triggered a hormonal shift that changed everything at 44
• The unexpected perimenopause symptoms nobody talks about (brain fog, itchy skin, ringing ears)
• How I almost gaslighted myself out of starting HRT — even with data showing I needed it
• My progesterone sensitivity journey and how I had to advocate for a different protocol
• What alcohol is actually doing to your blood sugar, cortisol, sleep, and hormones
• A preview of all five episodes in the Hormone Disconnect Summer Series

Episodes in this series:

Ep 2: Hormonal birth control with Nicole Jardim

Ep 3: Functional lab testing — why standard labs miss what's actually going on

Ep 4: HRT with Danielle Kepics

Ep 5: Alcohol and your hormones with Dr. Brooke Scheller

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

Something groundbreaking just happened in women's health. The Lancet officially renamed PCOS to PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome)—and if you've ever been dismissed because you don't have cysts on your ovaries, or you've been sitting with a diagnosis that never quite explained how you feel, this episode will make a lot of things click.

I'm breaking down why the old name was harmful, what PMOS actually means, and why a name change alone won't automatically get women better care. Because up to 70% of affected individuals remain undiagnosed—and that needs to change. I'm also sharing my personal journey of being dismissed by three providers over three years before finally getting diagnosed at 38, and what I wish I had known then.

This is a huge win for women's health, but there's still so much work to do. Let's talk about what this means for you and how to advocate for yourself moving forward.

In This Episode:

• What PMOS stands for and why this name change matters (hint: it's not just about cysts)
• The Rotterdam criteria and how PMOS is actually diagnosed
• Why up to 70% of people remain undiagnosed—and the serious health risks that come with that
• My personal story of medical dismissal and why "lean PCOS" needs to stop being a thing
• How to advocate for yourself and what questions to ask your provider right now

Resources Mentioned:

• The Lancet paper on PCOS to PMOS name change
• Rotterdam criteria for PMOS diagnosis

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

Have you ever felt a sharp twinge during a workout and immediately spiraled into "What did I just break?" You're not alone. We've been conditioned to believe our bodies are fragile machines that wear out at the first sign of pain—but what if that pain is actually just your body's alarm system trying to communicate with you?

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Lindsey Doan, a doctorate of physical therapy and strength coach who's challenging everything we've been told about pain and injury. We're diving into why hurt doesn't always equal harm, how fear can actually make pain worse, and why you don't need a perfect diagnosis (or an MRI) to start making meaningful progress.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• Why pain is your body's alarm system, not always a sign of structural damage
• How our beliefs and past experiences turn up the volume on pain even when there's no real harm
• The difference between "hurt" and "harm" and how to navigate training with discomfort
• Why getting a diagnosis can sometimes do more harm than good
• How rehab and training are actually the same thing—just on a spectrum
• The frameworks Lindsey uses to help clients move through pain safely 
• Why DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) happens and how to tell if it's just soreness or something more
• How to spot fear-mongering fitness advice on social media 
• The real reason most injuries happen: too much, too soon, after too little for too long
• What RPE and RIR mean and why intensity-based training beats rigid protocols

Connect with Lindsey:

Website: https://www.adaptmovementandrehab.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dptlindseyd/

Email: lindsey@adaptmovementandrehab.com

Interested in delicious, high-protein recipes? Download your 7-day high-protein plan here:

https://beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-meal-plan

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

If you've ever dealt with chronic dry eyes, stubborn rosacea, or eczema and felt stuck in a cycle of expensive eyedrops and topical creams that never quite fix the problem—today's episode is going to change how you look at your health. Literally.

I'm joined by Dr. Christina Gratkowski Haro of Looking Beyond Health, and we're diving into why your eyes and skin are actually the dashboard to your internal health. We're talking about the role of the microbiome, why conventional band-aid solutions often fall short, and how your body uses these visible symptoms as signals that it's time to take a deeper look.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• The surprising gut-skin-eye connection most doctors overlook
• Why hormones play a bigger role in dry eyes than you think (especially in perimenopause)
• What recurring styes are really trying to tell you
• The truth about stomach acid and why your "acid reflux" might not be what you think
• How everyday habits—like screen time and diet—are impacting your tear quality
• Simple, sustainable ways to support your body from the inside out

Dr. Christina Gratkowski Haro of Looking Beyond Health is an optometrist, functional health practitioner, and coach who helps people uncover the root causes of chronic symptoms affecting their eyes, skin, gut, and overall health. Frustrated by conventional approaches that focused only on symptom management, she pursued advanced training in functional medicine to better understand how inflammation, immune imbalance, and lifestyle factors drive chronic conditions. She is the founder of Looking Beyond Health, where she works with clients to address issues like dry eye, eczema, rosacea, digestive problems, metabolic dysfunction, and autoimmune concerns using a personalized, root-cause approach. Her mission is to help people understand what their symptoms are telling them and how to heal from the inside out.

Connect with Dr. Christina:

Website: www.lookingbeyondhealth.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefunctionaleyedoc

Do you want to optimize blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health?

Join Brandee’s Blood Sugar Savvy course. Use code BUZZ to save $30 at https://beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

If you've spent your life being told you're “too sensitive,” “too emotional,” or “too much,” this episode is going to feel like a deep exhale.

In this episode of Healthy Buzz, Brandee sits down with Amanda Baker of Collaborative Sage to explore the intersection of high sensitivity, ADHD, perfectionism, and burnout. Amanda shares her personal journey from corporate overachiever to complete nervous system collapse — including panic attacks, chronic illness, emergency room visits, and the deep unlearning required to recover.

Together, they unpack what it actually means to be a highly sensitive person, how rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) fuels people-pleasing and perfectionism, and why so many women feel trapped in a cycle of proving themselves. Amanda also opens up about the realities of healing a dysregulated nervous system, learning to honor rest without guilt, and building a life that supports who you actually are instead of who you think you’re supposed to be.

This conversation is for the woman who’s exhausted from constantly pushing harder, carrying everyone else’s emotions, and feeling like she’s one step away from falling apart — even while appearing completely “fine” on the outside.

In This Episode:

• What burnout actually looks like for highly sensitive and neurodivergent women
• How ADHD and high sensitivity can amplify nervous system dysregulation
• The hidden role of rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD) in perfectionism and overachieving
• Why rest is a biological need — not laziness
• How Amanda rebuilt her life and work around her nervous system instead of fighting against it

Connect with Amanda:

Website: https://www.collaborativesage.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collaborativesage

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bakera

Book a free 30-min consultation: https://calendly.com/amanda-collaborativesage/free-consultation

Do you want to optimize blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health?

Join Brandee’s Blood Sugar Savvy course. Use code BUZZ to save $30 at https://beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

Perimenopause isn’t just about hot flashes and missed periods — it’s a full neuroendocrine remodel that can completely change how your brain, body, and nervous system respond to stress.

In this episode of Healthy Buzz, Brandee sits down with certified menopause coach Holly Finn, founder of A Better Pause, to unpack why so many women feel blindsided during peri and post-menopause. Holly shares her own experience navigating debilitating hot flashes, anxiety, burnout, ADHD, and being repeatedly misdiagnosed before finally realizing hormones were at the root of what she was experiencing.

This conversation dives into nervous system regulation, stress, boundaries, cortisol, sleep, food apathy, over-functioning, and the grief many women experience as their bodies and identities change during this transition. Holly also explains why trying to “power through” no longer works — and why this phase may actually be an invitation to rebuild your life in a more sustainable way.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, emotionally raw, exhausted, or frustrated that your body no longer responds the way it used to, this episode is for you.

In This Episode:

• Why perimenopause feels like a mental and emotional “remodel” 
• The connection between hormones, cortisol, and nervous system overwhelm 
• How stress and people-pleasing intensify peri and post-menopause symptoms 
• Why boundaries become essential during this phase of life 
• The small daily habits that can create massive improvements in resilience and wellbeing

Connect with Holly:

Website: https://abetterpause.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abetterpause

Email: holly@abetterpause.com

Do you want to optimize blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health?

Join Brandee’s Blood Sugar Savvy course. Use code BUZZ to save $30 at https://beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

Motherhood is not supposed to feel like chronic exhaustion, rage, and disconnection—but for so many women, it does.

In this episode, Brandee sits down with functional nutritionist Kim Perez of Root & Branch Nutrition to unpack why so many moms feel depleted, overstimulated, and unlike themselves long after postpartum. Kim shares her personal journey from “doing everything right” to hitting a breaking point—and how that led her to uncover the massive gaps in support for mothers. Together, they explore the deeper root causes behind symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, poor sleep, and weight resistance, even when labs come back “normal.”

This conversation dives into the often-overlooked role of mineral depletion, blood sugar instability, and nervous system dysregulation—and why typical wellness advice often fails moms in real life. You’ll also learn simple, realistic strategies to support your energy, stabilize your mood, and start feeling like yourself again—without adding more overwhelm.

Key Takeaways:

• Why “normal labs” don’t mean optimal health—and what’s often being missed
• How mineral depletion and blood sugar dysregulation drive fatigue, mood swings, and poor sleep
• The connection between under-eating, overstimulation, and nervous system burnout
• Simple, realistic habits that actually support moms in the chaos of daily life
• How to shift out of all-or-nothing wellness and into sustainable, personalized care

Connect with Kim:

Website: https://rootandbranchnutrition.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rootandbranchnutrition/

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@rootandbranchnutrition?xmt=AQF0NSRtxvBLZYxXkch1F5aF526tOpfruARxPu5HSzyxsnE

Freebie: https://rootandbranchnutrition.myflodesk.com/5dayrevival

Do you want to optimize blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health?

Join Brandee’s Blood Sugar Savvy course. Use code BUZZ to save $30 at https://beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

If you’ve ever been told your chronic pain, fatigue, or digestive issues are “just part of being hypermobile” and that you’ll have to live with it—this episode is going to challenge everything you’ve been told.

I’m joined by Jen Parkinson of EDS Nutritionist, and we’re diving into the real drivers behind Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) symptoms. This conversation goes far beyond joint pain and flexibility, unpacking why the gut, nervous system, and mineral balance are often the missing pieces. We talk about the frustration of being dismissed in the healthcare system, the problem with treating symptoms in isolation, and why so many women stay stuck in cycles of supplement guessing and restrictive diets.

Jen breaks down how a root-cause, whole-body approach can shift energy, digestion, brain fog, and overall stability—and why foundational habits are non-negotiable if you actually want your body to respond. If you feel like you’ve tried everything and nothing works, this episode will give you a more strategic and sustainable way forward.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• The truth about EDS as a multi-system condition—not just a joint disorder
• Why gut health, minerals, and the nervous system drive most symptoms
• The connection between EDS, MCAS, and POTS (the “trifecta”)
• Why food sensitivity tests and supplement stacking often backfire
• How foundational habits like blood sugar balance and circadian rhythm impact healing
• What functional testing actually reveals—and why context matters

Connect with Jen:

Freebie: EDS lab guide https://edsnutritionist.myflodesk.com/y96s3i9wa1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edsnutritionist/

Website: edsnutritionist.com 

Do you want to optimize blood sugar and achieve optimal hormone health?

Join Brandee’s Blood Sugar Savvy course. Use code BUZZ to save $30 at https://beecollectivewellness.com/blood-sugar-savvy

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

If you’ve been loading up your cart with “hormone-balancing” or “gut-healing” supplements, thinking they’re the missing piece—you need to hear this.

In this solo episode, Brandee exposes the uncomfortable truth about the supplement industry and why what you’re taking may not actually be what’s on the label. From counterfeit products on Amazon to mislabeled ingredients and lack of regulation, this episode breaks down why blindly trusting supplements can cost you your health—and your money.

She also challenges the belief that supplements are the solution, explaining why they’re meant to support a solid foundation—not replace it. Without proper sleep, nutrition, and stress management, no supplement will fix your symptoms. And without data, supplementation becomes nothing more than expensive guesswork.

This episode will completely shift how you think about supplements, where you buy them, and how you decide what’s actually worth taking.

In This Episode:

• Why supplements are not regulated like medications—and what that means for you
• The reality of counterfeit supplements on Amazon and unverified sellers
• What research shows about mislabeled and contaminated products
• Why supplements should support your foundation—not replace it
• The problem with “magic supplement” marketing from social media
• Why random supplementation without testing is expensive guesswork
• How to spot red flags when buying supplements (price, packaging, seals)
• What third-party certifications (NSF, USP, Informed Sport) actually mean
• Why buying from verified sources or professional dispensaries matters
• How to become a smarter, more informed supplement consumer

Fullscript: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/bhommerding

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

If you've ever received an autoimmune diagnosis, you know the first thing you lose isn't just your energy or normal labs—it's your sense of control. Suddenly your body feels like a black box, and medical advice usually stops at a prescription and a list of things you can no longer do.

In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Amy Behimer, an autoimmune health coach who's flipping the script on chronic illness. Amy doesn't just talk about what an autoimmune condition is—she focuses on how to actually live with it, build habits when your energy is unpredictable, and reclaim your agency when you feel like your biology has gone rogue.

What We Discuss:

• How to shift from feeling like your body betrayed you to becoming the architect of your own health
• Why your thoughts and feelings matter just as much as what you eat and how you move
• Amy's 6-spoke Habit Hub framework—the controllables that actually move the needle for autoimmune health
• How to create your own "Feel Good Food Protocol" instead of following another rigid diet that wasn't designed for you
• The truth about fatigue: why it's common but doesn't have to be your normal
• Why you can actually be healthier after an autoimmune diagnosis than before
• Master planning: how to have Plans A through F so you can show up for yourself even on your worst days
• The two non-negotiables for habits that actually stick (hint: willpower isn't one of them)
• How to stop shaming past versions of yourself and make peace with where you are now
• Why redefining health on your own terms is the most radical thing you can do

Take Amy's quiz to get started: www.amybehimercoaching.com/quiz

Connect with Amy:

Website: www.amybehimercoaching.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amybehimercoaching

Podcast: https://podfollow.com/autoimmune-health-secrets/home

Interested in delicious, high-protein recipes? Download your 7-day high-protein plan here:

https://beecollectivewellness.com/high-protein-meal-plan

Connect with me:

Sign up for my newsletter: https://bcw.beecollectivewellness.com/newsletter-signup

Follow me on IG: https://www.instagram.com/beecollectivewellness/

Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com

Clutter isn’t a discipline problem—it’s a nervous system response.

In this episode, Brandee sits down with Megs Crawford to unpack the real reason so many women feel stuck in cycles of overwhelm, especially with ADHD. They explore why traditional organizing advice often backfires, how shame keeps you frozen, and what it actually looks like to work with your brain instead of against it. Megs shares her “whole body organizing” approach, connecting clutter to emotional regulation, decision-making, and nervous system safety.

You’ll learn why ADHD in women often shows up as quiet overwhelm rather than hyperactivity, how “half decisions” keep you stuck, and why micro-moments of action are more powerful than waiting for motivation. This episode is for any woman who feels buried under mental or physical clutter and is ready to shift from self-blame to self-understanding.

What You’ll Walk Away With:

• Why clutter is a nervous system response—not a personal failure
• The difference between “half decisions” and “full decisions” (and why it matters)
• How ADHD shows up in women as overwhelm, time blindness, and emotional intensity
• Practical ways to use 5-minute windows to build momentum without burnout
• How to break the all-or-nothing cycle and create sustainable change

Connect with Megs:

Website: https://www.organizinganadhdbrain.com/

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/organizing-an-adhd-brain/id1728728980

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Produced by Espresso Podcast Production: https://www.espressopodcastproduction.com