Empowered EDS – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Technical and general information from the podcast's RSS feed.

Empowered EDS

Lauren Prince and Jason Cole

Health & Fitness

Frequency: 1 episode/15d. Total Eps: 11

Empowered EDS: Your Path to Living Well with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Chronic Illness For those of you living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD), and other chronic health conditions or supporting someone who does, you know it's more than just a diagnosis—it's a journey. Hosted by Lauren Prince, MSW, FDN-P, and Jason Cole, DPT, founders of Connective Wellness, Empowered EDS is here to provide compassionate, expert guidance for managing EDS symptoms and the complex realities of living with a connective tissue disorder. Lauren intimately understands the personal challenges of EDS, having spent decades navigating symptoms without answers and struggling to understand her own body. Jason, a specialist in hypermobility and EDS care, brings deep professional expertise and a passion for helping patients better understand how to care for themselves. Together, they blend personal experience with in-depth training and evidence-based insights to offer you a new perspective on living well with EDS! Each episode of Empowered EDS explores holistic, sustainable approaches to chronic illness, from lifestyle medicine and pain management to mental health support and community-building. We'll cover topics like finding the right EDS treatment options, coping with chronic pain and fatigue, understanding the EDS diagnosis process, and creating a personalized path to resilience. Expect to hear from medical experts, community members, and advocates who share tips, strategies, and heartfelt stories for thriving with EDS. Empowered EDS isn't just about managing symptoms—it's about empowering you to take control of your health and connect with others who understand. Join us on this journey toward greater well-being, because no one should have to face EDS alone. Subscribe to Empowered EDS for actionable insights, uplifting stories, and a supportive community dedicated to helping you live your best life with EDS!

Recent rankings

Latest chart positions across Apple Podcasts and Spotify rankings.

Apple Podcasts

🇬🇧 Great Britain - alternativeHealth
24/08/2026
#75
🇩🇪 Germany - alternativeHealth
06/07/2026
#99
🇩🇪 Germany - alternativeHealth
05/07/2026
#65
🇬🇧 Great Britain - alternativeHealth
03/05/2026
#99
🇬🇧 Great Britain - alternativeHealth
24/04/2026
#96
🇩🇪 Germany - alternativeHealth
09/03/2026
#81
🇩🇪 Germany - alternativeHealth
24/12/2025
#94
🇬🇧 Great Britain - alternativeHealth
30/08/2025
#96
🇬🇧 Great Britain - alternativeHealth
23/08/2025
#57
🇬🇧 Great Britain - alternativeHealth
22/08/2025
#87

Spotify

No recent rankings available

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

Links found in episode descriptions and other podcasts that share them.

See all

https://lifestylemedicine.org
1 share
https://www.drjessicafindinglight.com/
1 share
https://www.themonkeybody.com
1 share

RSS feed quality and score

Technical evaluation of the podcast's RSS feed quality and structure.

See all

RSS feed quality

To improve

Score global : 69%

Publication history

Monthly episode publishing history over the past years.

Year

Latest published episodes

Recent episodes with titles, durations, and descriptions.

See all

Healing Through Understanding: Mind-Body Therapy

Season 1 · Episode 9

Wednesday, June 11, 2025 • Duration 51:23

Episode Summary
In this heartfelt episode of The Empowered EDS Podcast, Lauren and Jason sit down with Dr. Jessica Leavell, PhD—a therapist and chronic illness advocate—to explore the complex connection between the mind and body in the context of long-term illness and pain. Dr. Leavell shares her personal journey with chronic illness and how it has deeply influenced her therapeutic approach.

Together, they unpack the psychological toll of chronic conditions, the role of trauma and medical gaslighting, and the power of building a supportive care team. With honesty and empathy, Lauren and Dr. Leavell offer practical tools and perspectives on cultivating self-compassion, emotional resiliency, and a deeper sense of hope along the healing journey.

Key Takeaways

Mind-body therapy can transform how individuals respond to chronic illness.
Understanding the nervous system fosters hope and clarity.
Medical trauma and gaslighting are common but often overlooked.
A strong, supportive care team is essential for long-term healing.
Self-compassion and mindfulness are powerful tools for navigating pain.
Emotional awareness helps break cycles of generational trauma—especially in parenting.
Empathy in healthcare can profoundly impact patient experiences.

Sound Bites

"I think that's huge."
"I believe you."
"It takes practice."

Episode Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Mind-Body Therapy
02:50 – Understanding Chronic Illness and Pain
06:07 – The Journey to Healing: Personal Experiences
09:02 – Building a Supportive Team
11:53 – The Role of Trauma and Fear in Chronic Illness
15:04 – The Importance of Compassion and Self-Care
17:56 – Psychological Challenges in Chronic Illness
20:58 – Parenting and Generational Trauma
24:52 – Understanding Emotional Development in Children
26:56 – The Impact of Parenting Styles on Emotional Health
28:54 – The Emotional Toll of Medical Gaslighting
32:24 – Navigating the Complex Healthcare System
34:52 – The Importance of Empathy in Healthcare
38:51 – Building Empathy in Medical Practice
42:48 – Tools for Emotional Resiliency and Self-Compassion

Connect with Dr. Jessica Leavell, PhD
Website: drjessicafindinglight.com
Email: dr.jessicaleavell@gmail.com

Read moreCollapse

The Power of Social Connections

Season 1 · Episode 8

Thursday, May 15, 2025 • Duration 58:14

Title: The Power of Social Connections

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Empowered EDS, we dive into the powerful role of social connection in supporting resilience and well-being—especially for those living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and other chronic illnesses. From navigating isolation to communicating emotional needs, the hosts explore the highs and lows of building and sustaining relationships when managing a chronic condition.

Together, they unpack how gender may influence social connectivity, how friendships shift over time, and why letting go of toxic dynamics can be a form of self-care. You'll also hear about the healing impact of community and the quiet strength found in online support spaces. This heartfelt conversation wraps with a gentle invitation: reach out and create one new connection today.

Key Takeaways:

Social connection supports both emotional and physical health.
Chronic illness often brings challenges like isolation and misunderstanding.
Women tend to seek social connection more than men, but everyone needs it.
Communicating your needs clearly is essential for sustaining relationships.
Friendships naturally evolve; not all are meant to last forever.
Releasing toxic relationships creates space for nourishing ones.
Online communities can be lifelines of understanding and support.
Even one small act of connection can be deeply meaningful.

Sound Bites:

"We need connection."
"Loneliness is an epidemic."
"You don't look sick."

Chapter Guide:
00:00 – Why Social Connection Matters
03:37 – Chronic Illness and the Experience of Isolation
05:56 – Gender and Social Connectivity
09:33 – Why Quality Matters More Than Quantity in Friendship 15:05 – Community as a Key to Well-being 20:57 – How Social Media Shapes Our Connections 25:32 – What Builds a Genuine Relationship 28:49 – Emotional Needs and Relationship Dynamics 31:12 – Getting Clear on Personal Needs & Boundaries 34:32 – How to Communicate More Openly 37:44 – From Isolation to Connection 40:53 – Releasing Toxic Relationships 44:07 – Finding and Cultivating Supportive Community 47:48 – Taking the First Step to New Connections 54:26 – Self-Discovery Through Authentic Relationships

Sleep & EDS: How to Improve Sleep Quality and Fight Chronic Fatigue Naturally

Season 1 · Episode 7

Tuesday, April 29, 2025 • Duration 26:30

Struggling with sleep while living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)? You're not alone. In this episode of the Empowered EDS Podcast, Dr. Jason Cole and Lauren Prince explore the essential connection between quality sleep and overall health—especially for those navigating chronic fatigue and complex conditions like EDS. From understanding why sleep feels elusive to uncovering practical lifestyle medicine approaches, this episode offers science-backed strategies, tips, and fresh insights (including an introduction to our new sleep specialist!) to help you reclaim restorative rest.

What if better sleep was the missing link in your wellness journey?
In this illuminating episode, Lauren Prince and Dr. Jason Cole take a deep dive into the often-overlooked pillar of health: sleep. Together, they unpack the impact of disrupted sleep on people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), share actionable strategies to improve sleep hygiene, and highlight how fatigue can become a chronic companion without proper rest.

Whether you're tossing and turning every night or wondering how to set up the perfect sleep environment, this conversation offers compassionate, real-life guidance and introduces a new sleep specialist who'll bring fresh expertise to future episodes.

Key Takeaways:

Sleep is foundational to recovery, health, and daily function.
Non-restorative sleep is a common struggle for people with EDS.
Simple sleep hygiene practices (like routine and environment tweaks) can make a big impact.
Your sleep environment—temperature, light, noise—matters more than you think.
Magnesium and other natural supplements may support better sleep.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can offer long-term help for insomnia.
Tracking your sleep can reveal patterns and triggers worth addressing.
Addressing underlying health concerns is vital for sleep quality.
Small, consistent lifestyle changes lead to big improvements over time.

Risky Substances & Total Body Burden in EDS

Season 1 · Episode 6

Wednesday, April 16, 2025 • Duration 33:15

Episode Title: Risky Substances & Total Body Burden in EDS

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Empowered EDS, Lauren Prince explores how everyday exposures—from tobacco and alcohol to household products and environmental toxins—can increase the total body burden for those living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), chronic illness, and invisible conditions.

Through the lens of holistic wellness and functional health, Lauren shares how even small, consistent exposures can lead to inflammation, dysregulation, and symptom flare-ups. She dives into the histamine bucket theory, personalized wellness strategies, and how to tune into your body's unique sensitivities and thresholds.

Whether you're navigating mast cell activation, chronic fatigue, or simply trying to reduce your toxic load, this episode offers empowering, real-life tools to help you move toward balance.

You'll walk away with insight, clarity, and a deeper understanding of how mindful shifts in your daily environment can support your nervous system, lower inflammation, and foster a more resilient body.

Key Takeaways:

Substances like tobacco and alcohol can worsen chronic symptoms and hinder healing.
The total body burden concept explains how cumulative exposures—from air quality to skincare—can affect connective tissue disorders like EDS.
Environmental toxins and histamines often add to invisible health stressors.
Identifying personal triggers is essential for managing chronic inflammation.
A gentle, low-tox lifestyle supports nervous system regulation and long-term wellness.
Small, consistent changes often lead to sustainable progress.

Navigating Stress and Self-Care with EDS

Season 1 · Episode 5

Thursday, April 3, 2025 • Duration 43:14

In this episode of Empowered EDS, Lauren Prince explores the deeply personal and often overlooked connection between stress, chronic illness, and healing. Through the lens of lifestyle medicine and mental health, Lauren dives into the unique stressors faced by those living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and chronic illness.

Together, we unpack how chronic stress impacts the body on a physiological level—fueling pain, inflammation, and emotional fatigue. Lauren shares how cultivating awareness, supportive relationships, and individualized self-care strategies can help shift how we carry and respond to stress.

This conversation is a reminder that resilience isn't about pushing through—it's about honoring what you need. Tune in for compassionate insights on managing stress, reframing resilience, and embracing the full spectrum of your emotional experience.

Key Takeaways:

Stress management is foundational in lifestyle medicine, especially for EDS and chronic conditions.
Individuals with EDS often face invisible and compounding stressors that deserve validation.
Chronic stress isn't just emotional—it creates real physiological responses that can increase pain and inflammation.
Awareness is the first step in transforming your relationship with stress.
Self-care is not one-size-fits-all—your body knows what it needs.
Meaningful, supportive relationships can act as a buffer against daily stress.
Even "positive" stress can take a toll on your body.
You don't need to earn rest or wellness through resilience.
Happiness isn't a choice—it's a journey rooted in compassion, context, and connection.

Sound Bites:

"It's not just in your head."
"We shouldn't just squash it all down."
"It's okay to feel every emotion."

02:56 – The Impact of Chronic Illness on Stress 09:03 – The Complexity of Chronic Pain 14:54 – Building Positive Relationships for Stress Management 20:38 – Navigating Relationships with Chronic Illness 29:37 – The Burden of Resilience 37:43 – Choosing Happiness vs. Reality 42:50 – Introduction to 42:55 – Health and Wellness Insights

The Power of Nutrition in EDS & Chronic Illness

Season 1 · Episode 4

Wednesday, March 19, 2025 • Duration 01:09:33

Empowered EDS Podcast
🎙️ Episode Title: The Power of Nutrition in EDS & Chronic Illness

Episode Summary

In this episode, Lauren Prince, Jason Cole, and Jess Toomey dive into the transformative role of nutrition in managing Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and other chronic conditions. They introduce the Total Gut Reset program, explaining how elimination diets and personalized nutrition can help uncover food triggers and improve gut health.

This conversation highlights the interconnectedness of diet, mental well-being, and lifestyle, reinforcing the importance of listening to your body's cues. The hosts discuss food preparation techniques, the role of collaborative care, and why teaching children about nutrition is key to lifelong health.

The episode wraps up with an inspiring call to prioritize self-care and embrace the ongoing journey of understanding your unique health needs.

Key Takeaways

✅ Nutrition is foundational—it's often the first focus in EDS care.
✅ Elimination diets can reveal food triggers and promote gut health.
✅ The Total Gut Reset program offers tailored nutrition support.
✅ How you prepare food matters—it can impact gut health and symptoms.
✅ Listening to your body is key to managing nutrition effectively.
✅ Rest and recovery are just as vital as diet in overall wellness.
✅ Educating children about nutrition fosters long-term health.
✅ Collaborative care leads to better outcomes in chronic illness management.
✅ Personalized nutrition is essential—what works for one person may not work for another. ✅

Physical Activity for Chronic Illness Management

Season 1 · Episode 3

Tuesday, March 4, 2025 • Duration 32:55

Managing Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and other chronic conditions comes with unique challenges, especially when it comes to staying active while avoiding pain, joint instability, and fatigue. But movement is essential—it strengthens muscles to stabilize joints, improves circulation, and boosts overall well-being.

In this episode of Empowered EDS, Lauren and Jason, break down the role of physical activity in chronic illness management, offering practical, evidence-based strategies for incorporating safe, effective movement into daily life. Whether you're dealing with limited mobility, chronic pain, or fatigue, this episode provides adaptable exercise recommendations that work with your body, not against it.

Show Notes:

Physical activity is an essential part of managing chronic conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), but for many, movement can feel overwhelming due to chronic pain, joint instability, and fatigue. In this episode of Empowered EDS, Lauren and Jason, explore how to incorporate movement in a way that supports, rather than stresses, the body.

The discussion explores the importance of finding pain-free movement, the mental health benefits of staying active, and how to integrate exercise with other lifestyle pillars like nutrition and sleep. We also highlight the role of proprioception in reducing dislocations and improving stability, and share practical strategies for adapting movement to different ability levels.

📌 What You'll Learn in This Episode:
✔️ Why movement matters for chronic illness management
✔️ How to find safe, pain-free movement that supports joint stability
✔️ The mental health benefits of physical activity for EDS ✔️ —what it is and how it helps prevent dislocations ✔️ during flare-ups without losing progress ✔️ —why tailored exercise programs work best ✔️ that fit into daily life

The Six Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine – A Holistic Approach to Managing EDS

Season 1 · Episode 2

Thursday, February 27, 2025 • Duration 46:15

Finding Your Body's True Strength with Drew Ricciardi of The Monkey Body

Season 1 · Episode 10

Saturday, June 28, 2025 • Duration 52:51

Finding Your Body's True Strength with Drew Ricciardi of The Monkey Body

When conventional workouts leave hypermobile bodies feeling weaker, not stronger, Drew Ricciardi's personal journey led him to The Monkey Body Method—a holistic approach that honors the unique needs of EDS bodies.

Who This Episode Is For

You've been told to "just strengthen," but you still feel unstable or hurt.
Traditional gym routines make hypermobility symptoms worse.
You want movement practices that work with your body's flexibility, not against it.
You're curious about how nervous system regulation influences physical stability.
You're seeking hope and tools to help your body feel genuinely strong and supported.

In This Conversation The Monkey Body Method

Drew shares how he built a movement system from scratch, blending therapeutic strategies tailored to hypermobile bodies—no one-size-fits-all exercises here.

Variable Resistance Training

Discover why variable resistance is a game-changer for preventing joint overload and cultivating real, sustainable strength for EDS warriors.

Nervous System + Movement

Explore the often-overlooked link between nervous system regulation and stability, and learn techniques to down-regulate for safer, more effective practice.

Beyond Movement: Holistic Support

Nutrition, environment, and somatic awareness: how each element plays a pivotal role in creating a stable, resilient body.

The Power of Lived Experience

Drew's own hypermobility story fuels every facet of his method—because sometimes the deepest expertise comes from firsthand experience.

Don't Miss These Moments

02:54 – Drew's Story: "I had to figure out what my body actually needed, not what textbooks said."
11:16 – Variable Resistance Breakthrough: Why it shields joints and builds strength where it matters.

Standout Quotes Resources & Next Steps Episode Timeline Timestamp Topic 00:00 Intro to The Monkey Body approach 02:54 Drew's hypermobility journey 05:01 Incremental movement: why it matters 07:11 Safe cardiovascular endurance 11:16 Variable resistance training 17:12 Dynamic vs. rigid stability 21:19 Nervous system's role in stability 28:06 Self-care as healthcare 35:14 Working with hypermobile bodies 38:15 Active body awareness practices 41:53 Integrating somatic approaches 45:32 Creating safety through movement Keywords for EDS Warriors A Note from Your Hosts

Empowered EDS – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Empowered EDS – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

Recent rankings

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Shared links between episodes and podcasts

Other3

Instagram1

RSS feed quality and score

Publication history

Latest published episodes

Similar podcasts and content

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Other3

Instagram1

Related Shows Based on Content Similarities

Youtube1