Explore every episode of the podcast On Health for Women
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microplastics and Nanoplastics: How Alarmed Should We Be? | 21 juin 2025 | 00:24:14 | |
Have you ever had a moment where someone doubted your instincts—only for science to prove you right years later? When I was applying to my medical residency, a doctor scoffed at my concern for BPA and endocrine disruptors. “You don’t believe in that BPA crap, do you?” he said. Well, here we are, decades later, with research linking BPA to miscarriage and endocrine disruption—even from something as simple as touching receipts or airline tickets. And now, the new frontier: microplastics and nanoplastics. A recent Nature Medicine study revealed that human brains contain a spoonful of nanoplastics. Yes, you read that right. Our brains. Our babies’ placentas. Even our breast milk. But before we spiral—let’s take a deep breath together. This episode isn’t here to terrify you. It’s here to inform, empower, and help you take meaningful, practical action. In this episode, we’ll explore:
If you’ve ever wondered...
… then this episode is for you. You’ll leave feeling informed—not overwhelmed—and reminded that caring for your health is an act of love. For yourself, for your kids, and for the planet we all share. Because plastic may be forever—but so is our power to make change. Tune in now wherever you listen to podcasts. And if this episode opens your eyes—please share it with a friend. Awareness is the first step toward healing—our bodies and our world. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| The High Cost of 'I'm Fine': The Truth About High-Functioning Anxiety and Invisible Depression | 04 juin 2025 | 01:01:44 | |
Most women don’t look like they’re falling apart—even when they’re struggling to stay afloat. We keep it all going: raising kids, showing up for work, taking care of everyone else—while silently carrying stress, grief, trauma, and anxiety. And all that holding it together? It comes at a cost. In this heart-opening episode of On Health, Aviva sits down with UK-based psychotherapist and author Helen Marie to explore: 🔹 Why high-functioning anxiety, burnout, and people-pleasing often go unseen 🔹 How supresseds stress lives in the body—and what our nervous systems are trying to tell us 🔹 The basics of Polyvagal Theory and how to map your nervous system 🔹 What it means to “meet your nervous system where it’s at” 🔹 Somatic practices like tapping and cupping to gently bring your body back to safety 🔹 The quiet power of journaling, boundaries, and emotional truth 🔹 How to take one small step toward choosing you—without guilt or shame This episode is for anyone who’s ever whispered “I’m fine” while quietly falling apart—and is ready to begin reclaiming calm, connection, and self-worth, one kind breath at a time. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Reclaiming Postpartum: A New (Old) Model of Mama + Baby Care | 21 mai 2025 | 01:00:10 | |
What if the way we care for new mothers is all wrong? Not just lacking. Not just outdated. But built on a model that misses the heart and soul of what postpartum truly is — and what it could be. When I was a home birth midwife, postpartum care was the care. I'd visit mamas and babies at home five or six times in the first few weeks. We’d talk about everything — from latch to lochia, sleep deprivation to soul shifts. It wasn’t "extra." It was essential. It’s part of why I went into medicine, because as a midwife I saw too often, how in this precious, vulnerable, formative window for mothers and babies - care just disappeared for the mother after the baby was born. A first visit may have been 6 or 8 weeks after the birth, by which time mothers were struggling alone with overwhelm, breastfeeding challenges, or worse, anxiety, depression, isolation, and sometimes they’d given up breastfeeding because they had no support. And when they did get care, all too often they had to sit in waiting rooms, a baby and toddler often in tow, waiting for an appointment only to get 15 minutes with a doctor whose had no idea to support mothers postpartum. This week on On Health, I’m joined by my long-time colleague and kindred spirit Dr. Eva Zasloff — a fellow family physician, artist, mother, and fellow revolutionary in postpartum care — to talk about the radical simplicity and profound necessity of caring for mothers in their homes, in their own rhythm, and on their own terms. Inside the Episode We Talk About:
What Eva is doing with Tova Health, and what I’m doing with The Mama Pathway, are not just beautiful experiences for mothers— they’re necessary for maternal health. It’s a return to wisdom we’ve always known. And it’s a model I dream of seeing in communities everywhere. If you’re a doula, a midwife, a family doc, or a mama (or someone who loves one), this episode will touch you deeply — and perhaps inspire you to bring this care into your own community or at least raise your awareness about the importance of listening to, being with, and supporting new mothers. Loved this episode?Share it with a friend, sister, or doula. Leave a review. Join us on Instagram @DrAvivaRomm and let us know what postpartum care has meant for you. And if you’re dreaming of a better way — whether you’re a practitioner or a mama — I see you. And this episode is for you. The Mama Pathway is not your average childbirth education program. It's a powerful virtual membership community and online education experience where traditional midwifery wisdom and modern medicine meet to support you on your most empowered path through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Go to avivaromm.com/mama-pathway to learn more Mentioned in this episode: The Mama Pathway is not your average childbirth education program. It's a powerful virtual membership community and online education experience where traditional midwifery wisdom and modern medicine meet to support you on your most empowered path through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Go to https://avivaromm.com/mama-pathway to learn more | |||
| [Replay] The Hidden Motherhood Struggle with Catherine Birndorf and Paige Bellenbaum | 07 mai 2025 | 01:07:13 | |
In recognition of Maternal Mental Health Month I am re-sharing this 2023 conversation with the founders of The Motherhood Center in NYC. With Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADS) being the #1 complication associated with birth in the US and the #2 cause of maternal mortality, this remains a critical conversation. It’s not just you. You're not crazy. You're not a bad mom. You're not alone. These are words and deep beliefs that resonate through and form the backbone of today’s guests, Catherine Birndorf, MD, and Paige Bellenbaum, LMSW. Catherine and Paige are dedicated to changing the perinatal mental health terrain, and they do it through The Motherhood Center, a place of radical acceptance, nurturance, and individual and group support. On today’s episode, we pull back the curtain on motherhood and redefine what is considered "normal" and "typical". With PMADs (perinatal mood and anxiety disorders) being the #1 complication associated with birth and the #2 cause of maternal mortality, this is a critical conversation. On today’s episode, we unpack why it’s so important that we talk more about these conditions, how to do your best to prevent PMADs, and what to do if you or someone you love has symptoms. Aviva, Paige, and Catherine discuss:
For more information or to reach out visit themotherhoodcenter.com or call (212) 335-0034. Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. | |||
| Normalize It: From Miscarriage to Midlife—Owning Our Stories Without Shame with Jessica Zucker | 23 avr. 2025 | 01:02:31 | |
There are the stories we tell out loud, and then there are the ones we keep tucked away—the ones that ache the most, because we’ve carried them in silence. On this episode of On Health, we’re breaking the silence—and the stigma—around some of the most vulnerable, hidden experiences women carry: miscarriage, illness, identity loss, perfectionism, aging, and the loneliness so many of us feel but rarely name. I’m joined by the phenomenal Dr. Jessica Zucker, clinical psychologist and author of the groundbreaking memoir I Had a Miscarriage, and her latest book, Normalize It, which is just what we need: an invitation to stop apologizing for what we’re going through—and start talking about it. Together, we explore:
This one’s for all the women tired of pretending they’re fine. Who are aching to be seen. Who are ready to stop carrying the weight alone. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Breastfeeding Challenges, Tongue Tie, & Trusting Your Instincts | 09 avr. 2025 | 01:14:23 | |
What if you already have what it takes to breastfeed your baby—and just need the right support to unlock it? This question is at the heart of my conversation with Lisa Paladino, Certified Nurse Midwife, IBCLC, and a fierce advocate for women and babies. Lisa has decades of experience helping families navigate the powerful, joyous, and sometimes confusing, emotional, and occasionally challenging terrain of breastfeeding. Not just a brilliant clinician, but a graduate of both my Women’s Integrative and Functional Medicine and Herbal Medicine for Women training programs… and now, a lifelong friend. Lisa is the passionate founder of Tongue Tie Experts. She’s spent decades supporting parents through the intense, sacred, and often confusing path of breastfeeding—especially when things don’t go as planned. Lisa’s journey from hospital-based nurse and midwife to fierce advocate for women’s rights and breastfeeding education is one you won’t forget. And what we unpack in this conversation might change how you see everything from nipple pain to infant sleep—and even adult airway health. In this episode, we dive into:
Because we’ve all been there—or know someone who has. 💬 Favorite Quotes:“Breastfeeding is a vital sign of the infant-maternal dyad. If it’s not working, we need to ask why.” — Lisa Paladino “We’re grown-ass women. Nobody should be telling us what we’re ‘allowed’ to do in birth or postpartum.” — Aviva Romm In this episode, we dive into:
Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements The Mama Pathway is not your average childbirth education program. It's a powerful virtual membership community and online education experience where traditional midwifery wisdom and modern medicine meet to support you on your most empowered path through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Go to avivaromm.com/mama-pathway to learn more Mentioned in this episode: The Mama Pathway is not your average childbirth education program. It's a powerful virtual membership community and online education experience where traditional midwifery wisdom and modern medicine meet to support you on your most empowered path through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Go to https://avivaromm.com/mama-pathway to learn more Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here:... | |||
| Have You Been Medically Hexed? The Power of Words to Heal and to Harm | 26 mars 2025 | 00:45:29 | |
Have you ever left a doctor’s appointment feeling more defeated than when you arrived? Perhaps a diagnosis felt like a life sentence, or a well-meaning comment planted a seed of fear that lingered for months. This isn’t just bad bedside manner; it’s a phenomenon I call “medical hexing.” It’s the subtle, and sometimes not-so-subtle, way that language in medical settings can disempower us, shaping our beliefs and even our health outcomes. Today, we’re diving deep into the power of words in medicine – how they can both heal and profoundly harm. In this episode I give you the down-low on:
For a deeper dive into advocating for yourself within the medical system, be sure to read my book, "Hormone Intelligence." It includes a full chapter dedicated to empowering you to get the supportive, respectful healthcare you deserve. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Holding On and Letting Go: Modern Friendship in Women’s Lives with Anna Goldfarb | 12 mars 2025 | 01:22:29 | |
What if friendships were just as vital to our health as sleep, nutrition, and exercise? Research suggests they might be. But in our fast-paced, modern world, nurturing deep and lasting friendships can feel overwhelming. In this episode, I sit down with journalist and author Anna Goldfarb to explore the evolving landscape of friendship—why it can be so challenging to maintain meaningful connections as we move through different life phases, and what we can do to strengthen the relationships that nourish us the most. Anna’s book, Modern Friendship: How to Nurture Our Most Valued Connections, gave me so many “aha” moments about why friendships shift, how we can show up for each other in a more intentional way, and how to release the guilt we sometimes feel when friendships change. Join us as we unpack:
If you’ve ever felt lonely, longed for deeper relationships, or struggled to navigate the shifting nature of connection as life evolves—this conversation is for you. The way we connect in our modern lives is changing, but meaningful relationships are still the key to a healthy, fulfilling life. Have a listen to learn how to nourish the connections that truly matter. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Moving Beyond Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome to Find Happiness with Emma Seppälä | 25 févr. 2025 | 01:13:15 | |
Have you ever felt torn between dreaming big and staying realistic? Between trusting your instincts and wondering if fear is holding you back? In today’s conversation, we’re diving deep into what it truly means to reclaim your personal sovereignty—the ability to stand fully in your own power, free from self-doubt, external expectations, and the weight of comparison. My guest today, Dr. Emma Seppälä, is a psychologist, researcher, and bestselling author dedicated to helping people cultivate happiness, resilience, and self-leadership. As a Yale lecturer and the Science Director at Stanford’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research, she’s spent years studying what actually helps us thrive—not just succeed. Together, we explore:
This conversation is full of powerful takeaways, practical tools, and a deeply personal look into how we all wrestle with self-doubt—even those of us who have spent decades doing this work. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re enough, struggled with self-judgment, or wanted to free yourself from limiting beliefs, this episode is for you. If this episode resonates with you, share it with a friend who might need a reminder of their own power. And if you love it, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it helps other women find this show! Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Why You Can’t Spoil Your Baby: The Science of Nurture and The Truth About Sleep Training with Greer Kirshenbaum | 12 févr. 2025 | 01:17:27 | |
“You’re holding your baby too much.” “Just let them cry it out.” “You’ll spoil them if you respond every time they cry.” If you’ve ever heard these words—or wondered yourself whether nurturing your baby too much could backfire—you’re not alone. But the science is clear: responding to and connecting with our babies doesn’t spoil them; it builds their brains for lifelong emotional resilience and mental health. In this episode of On Health, I’m joined by neuroscientist, doula, and infant sleep specialist Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum, author of The Nurture Revolution: Grow Your Baby’s Brain and Transform Their Mental Health. We’re diving into:
And because so many parents today are raising children without the village we deserve, we’ll also talk about what it means to nurture our babies—and ourselves—sustainably. If you’ve ever felt torn between instinct and conventional parenting advice, this episode will give you clarity, confidence, and science-backed reassurance. Tune in now. Links and Resources
Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements The Mama Pathway is not your average childbirth education program. It's a powerful virtual membership community and online education experience where traditional midwifery wisdom and modern medicine meet to support you on your most empowered path through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Go to avivaromm.com/mama-pathway to learn more Mentioned in this episode: The Mama Pathway is not your average childbirth education program. It's a powerful virtual membership community and online education experience where traditional midwifery wisdom and modern medicine meet to support you on your most empowered path through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Go to https://avivaromm.com/mama-pathway to learn more Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Ancestral Wisdom: Food, Herbs, and Healing Across Women’s Lifecycles with Felicia Cocotzin Ruiz | 29 janv. 2025 | 01:13:09 | |
In this episode Felicia Cocotzin Ruiz, known as the Kitchen Curandera, and I explore the profound role of ancestral wisdom in women’s health. Felicia shares her journey of carrying forward her great-grandmother’s curanderismo practices and how food, plants, and rituals can transform the way we heal and care for ourselves across life’s stages. From pregnancy to postpartum to the wisdom years of menopause, this episode is filled with insights on using food and herbs as medicine, as well as creating nourishing rituals that reconnect us to our roots. Whether you're on a hormone healing journey, a new mama, or navigating perimenopausal or menopausal changes, or simply curious about ancestral healing, this episode offers practical wisdom to guide you. What You'll Learn
Links and Resources
Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Pelvic Floor Secrets Every Woman Should Know From Pregnancy to Menopause with Sara Reardon, The Vagina Whisperer | 15 janv. 2025 | 01:14:44 | |
Imagine living with the constant fear of leaking when you sneeze, jump, or can’t find a bathroom in time. Now add in the struggles of constipation, painful sex, or uterine, bladder, or rectal prolapse. These aren’t just occasional annoyances—they’re signs of pelvic floor dysfunction, which affects millions of women every year. This episode of On Health is for every woman—whether you’re preparing for pregnancy, recovering postpartum, navigating menopause, or striving to age safely and independently. Pelvic health isn’t just about avoiding discomfort; it’s about living with freedom, dignity, and resilience. I’m joined by Sara Reardon, aka The Vagina Whisperer, a trailblazing pelvic floor physical therapist who’s breaking the silence around this essential but often ignored topic. We dish on:
As Sara says, "You could live 30 to 50 years postmenopausal, and what you do now can make all the difference in how you live those years—whether you’re traveling, hiking, and socializing, or staying home because of discomfort or embarrassment." Small, proactive steps like pelvic floor exercises, proper bathroom habits, and therapy can transform your health—not just today, but for decades to come. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements The Mama Pathway is not your average childbirth education program. It's a powerful virtual membership community and online education experience where traditional midwifery wisdom and modern medicine meet to support you on your most empowered path through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Go to avivaromm.com/mama-pathway to learn more Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements The Mama Pathway is not your average childbirth education program. It's a powerful virtual membership community and online education experience where traditional midwifery wisdom and modern medicine meet to support you on your most empowered path through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Go to https://avivaromm.com/mama-pathway to learn more | |||
| When Good Things Happen, Why Do We Brace for the Bad? | 08 janv. 2025 | 00:36:07 | |
I used to believe that for every good thing that happened to me, something bad had to happen as well to even it out, like a universal balancing system. Every time something good was going to happen, I always thought to myself, “What will the payback be?” In my years of experience working with and talking to women, I have learned that lots of women live with this fear, often for a long time. Listen in as I talk about why we have this fear, acknowledge that you’re not crazy for having it, and how to shift out of this kind of thinking so you can live your life with freedom instead of fear. In this episode I discuss:
Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Are We Chasing the Wrong Kind of Success? The High Cost of Toxic Achievement Culture with Jennifer Wallace | 11 déc. 2024 | 01:04:20 | |
Why does it feel like no matter how much we do, it’s never enough—Including—and especially—in our mothering? It’s no wonder we feel this way! Societal changes have created a culture that ties worth to performance, often at the expense of our health and happiness, while macroeconomic trends that have shifted the way we think about work, education, and success, making it entirely focussed on external standards of achievement. In this thought-provoking episode, I sit down with Jennifer Wallace, journalist and author of Never Enough, to dive into the toxic achievement culture that’s shaping our lives—and the lives of our kids. Together, we explore how this relentless pursuit of external success is leaving us exhausted, disconnected, and questioning our self-worth. We also dig into what really matters—connection, purpose, and a sense of belonging—and how we can reclaim these values for ourselves and our families. Join us as we go deep into our own personal journeys as women and moms, and along the way talk about:
If you’re ready to let go of the pressure to achieve and embrace a more meaningful, connected life, this episode is for you. Share it with a friend who might need the reminder that they’re already enough, and let’s start a movement toward true fulfillment—together. This episode is a compassionate call to reevaluate what really matters. The relentless push for more isn’t the path to happiness, for ourselves, or for our kiddos. Instead, it’s connection, purpose, and a sense of belonging that truly nourish us. 📖 Never Enough by Jennifer Wallace offers even more insights and is a must-read for parents and caregivers. 💬 Let’s continue this conversation on Instagram: @DrAvivaRomm. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Becoming a Cycle Breaker: Healing Intergenerational Trauma with Compassion and Resilience (Replay) | 27 nov. 2024 | 00:57:41 | |
Intergenerational trauma refers to the transmission of unresolved trauma and its psychological, emotional, or even physical effects from one generation to another. This phenomenon can manifest in various ways, impacting individuals' mental health, coping mechanisms, and relational patterns. The cycle of intergenerational trauma underscores the importance of acknowledging, understanding, and actively addressing inherited wounds to break free from its influence on future generations. On today’s On Health episode, I’m joined by the incredible Mariel Buque, PhD, author of Break the Cycle: who wants us all to learn to unravel the threads of family trauma, and becoming cycle breakers so we can heal the burdens of suffering carried forward by so many families across generations. In this powerful episode, we explore:
Resources for those seeking guidance, including Mariel's book, "Break the Cycle: A Guide to Healing Intergenerational Trauma." Join us in this episode's transformative conversation on health, healing, and well-being, as we become architects of a future unburdened by the weight of generational pain. Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow me on Instagram @dr.avivaromm to join the conversation. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Do You Have a Hostile Uterus? The Hidden Harms of Medical Language on Women’s Health | 13 nov. 2024 | 01:04:02 | |
Imagine being told you had a “hostile uterus” and sent home, only to discover later you were on the brink of a life-threatening pregnancy complication. This isn’t fiction. Terms like “hostile uterus” and “irritable uterus” are still in use, and they’re dangerous. In conventional medicine, language like this often subtly blames women’s bodies for medical events, creating a culture where women who advocate for themselves are frequently dismissed—or even labeled “difficult.” Disturbingly, some women, particularly Black mothers, have faced extreme consequences like social services or even police intervention for simply speaking up during labor. The stakes are high. Medical and obstetric trauma are a reality for far too many, and symptoms of PTSD are often brushed off as “just part of the experience” instead of being acknowledged as trauma caused by medical mistreatment. This climate of dismissal causes many women to skip important screenings and healthcare visits, increasing their health risks. In this episode, I sit down with Leah Hazard, a midwife, activist, and author who, like me, has seen firsthand the impact of misleading language and inconsistent protocols on women’s health. We discuss the urgent need for self-advocacy in healthcare, why it often feels like an uphill battle, and the unsettling inconsistencies in obstetrics. Leah explains how synthetic oxytocin (Pitocin)—a drug widely used to induce or speed up labor—is administered with inconsistent protocols across hospitals, affecting labor experiences, breastfeeding success, and postpartum mental health. Episode Highlights:
If this episode resonated with you, consider taking action by sharing it with a friend or leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform. Don’t miss out on future episodes! Make sure to subscribe to On Health for more conversations like this one, bringing you expert insights and empowering you to take control of your health and well-being. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements The Mama Pathway is not your average childbirth education program. It's a powerful virtual membership community and online education experience where traditional midwifery wisdom and modern medicine meet to support you on your most empowered path through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Go to | |||
| Loving Better Every Day with Dr. Alexandra Solomon | 29 oct. 2024 | 00:50:30 | |
Could your love relationship use a bit of boost? Some calm in the storm? Or are you looking for love that’s been hard to find? In this On Health for Women episode I’m joined by Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a wonderful couples therapist, professor, author of Love Every Day and the host of the Reimagining Love podcast. Together we explore the real meaning of love and how it can be cultivated through daily practices of self-awareness, self-compassion, and intentional connection. Whether single, in a relationship, or simply seeking a better relationship with yourself, this conversation offers powerful tools to foster a deeper, more resilient connection to yourself and others. Dr. Solomon sheds light on using Relational Self-Awareness (RSA) to build fulfilling partnerships, understand our Family-of-Origin influences, and tackle relationship conflicts as a team. Join us as we unpack the complexities of intimacy and share practical guidance on nurturing love in ways that are both transformative and healing. In this episode we explore:
If this episode resonated with you, consider taking action by sharing it with a friend or leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform. Don’t miss out on future episodes! Make sure to subscribe to On Health for more conversations like this one, bringing you expert insights and empowering you to take control of your health and well-being. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Must-Have Natural Remedies for Cold & Flu Season | 16 oct. 2024 | 01:13:59 | |
Feeling the first tickle of a sore throat? Or maybe you’re dealing with a full-blown cold or flu? In this episode, I’m sharing my top natural remedies to help you get through cold and flu season. From immune-boosting herbs to soothing teas, these are the must-haves I trust to keep my family healthy. I’ll walk you through how to use each one, with practical tips on safety, including what’s safe for kids, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. You’ll learn simple recipes you can make at home, like ginger tea, garlic lemonade, and thyme-honey tea, and I’ll share why these remedies have been trusted for generations to help ease symptoms and shorten the length of your illness. Episode Highlights:
Key Takeaways:
Tune in and get your natural medicine cabinet ready for this cold & flu season! Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| How Toxic Fashion is Making Women Sick & What We Can Do About It with Alden Wicker | 02 oct. 2024 | 00:56:19 | |
Many of us are aware of the ethical minefield of fast fashion—from the labor issues to the environmental damage. But did you know that the clothes in your closet could be making you sick? In this episode, I’m joined by award-winning investigative journalist Alden Wicker, author of To Die For: How Toxic Fashion is Making Us Sick and How We Can Fight Back. Alden’s deep dive into the world of fashion goes beyond the well-known stories of sweatshops and waste to uncover the hidden impact of unregulated toxic chemicals in our clothing on our personal health. From flame retardants and PFAS to endocrine disruptors, Alden and I explore the unseen dangers lurking in everyday garments and how these chemicals are connected to a myriad of health problems, from skin issues to autoimmune diseases, fertility challenges, and even cancer. We’ll talk about why these chemicals are allowed in the first place, what the fashion industry isn’t telling you, and how you can protect yourself and your family—without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for practical tips to detox your wardrobe or want to learn more about the systemic changes needed in the fashion industry, this episode will empower you to make safer, more informed choices when it comes to your clothes. Episode Highlights:
Resources & Links:
If this episode resonated with you, consider taking action by sharing it with a friend or leaving a review on your favorite podcast platform. Don’t miss out on future episodes! Make sure to subscribe to On Health for more conversations like this one, bringing you expert insights and empowering you to take control of your health and well-being. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Real Food for Gestational Diabetes with Aviva Romm and Lily Nichols | 18 sept. 2024 | 00:55:39 | |
I remember when I first started practicing as a midwife—way back in the '80s—there was barely a whisper about how nutrition could impact pregnancy. I taught my first prenatal nutrition class in 1990, and the hunger for information was almost palpable. It’s amazing to me that, fast forward to today, we’re still facing a gap in understanding just how much food and lifestyle choices affect both mom and baby. But here’s the thing—there’s so much hope and possibility when we’re armed with the right information, and today’s guest has dedicated her life to providing just that. I’m beyond excited to introduce you to Lily Nichols. Lily is a registered dietitian, nutritionist, and certified diabetes educator who is passionate about making pregnancy health both understandable and achievable. Her journey into this work is rooted in a deeply personal mission: she saw firsthand how powerful nutrition could be in preventing complications like gestational diabetes, and she wanted to share that knowledge with as many women as possible. Her books, Real Food for Gestational Diabetes and Real Food for Pregnancy, have helped countless women take control of their health during such an important time. In today’s episode, Lily and I dive deep into some powerful truths about gestational diabetes—how it’s on the rise but, more importantly, how it can be prevented and even reversed with simple, mindful changes. We’ll talk about why so many women still aren’t given this information, how the right nutrition can truly change the trajectory of your pregnancy, and practical steps anyone can take. We’ll even touch on how blood sugar testing is done differently around the world—and why those differences matter. Whether you’re pregnant, planning to be, or just curious about how your body responds to food, there’s so much to take away from this conversation. It’s about more than just numbers on a blood test; it’s about learning to listen to your body, trust yourself, and make small changes that have a lasting impact on your health—and the health of your baby. So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let’s get into this empowering and eye-opening conversation with Lily Nichols. I think you’re going to walk away feeling hopeful, informed, and ready to take charge of your health in a whole new way. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements The Mama Pathway is not your average childbirth education program. It's a powerful virtual membership community and online education experience where traditional midwifery wisdom and modern medicine meet to support you on your most empowered path through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Go to avivaromm.com/mama-pathway to learn more Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| This is So Awkward: Supporting Teens through the ‘New Puberty’ | 31 août 2024 | 01:10:30 | |
Of all the stages in life, most women tell me they’d least want to revisit—it's puberty. If you're reading this, you survived it too. And while you likely have some fond memories, you also remember the awkward body changes, the anxiety of getting your mom to buy pads or tampons to avoid the dreaded checkout counter, the stress around your emerging—or non-emerging—breasts, acne, and the confusing wave of new feelings that came with your growing sexual awareness. Our teens today are facing a different kind of puberty—a reality that’s markedly different from what we experienced. While they have more access to information and resources than we did, puberty itself has changed in significant ways. There are new gaps between what we as parents—and even many doctors—know and what our kids are going through. From earlier onset of puberty, which now often starts as young as eight, to prolonged puberty stages and earlier exposure to explicit content online, it’s a whole new world for our children. Understanding these shifts is crucial for guiding your child through this delicate time. In the latest episode of On Health, I’m joined by two incredible experts who are deeply immersed in these changes. Vanessa Kroll Bennett, a puberty expert, writer, and entrepreneur, and Dr. Cara Natterson, a pediatrician and the mind behind the New York Times bestselling series The Care and Keeping of You, bring their expertise and warmth to our conversation. Both are moms of teens themselves and co-hosts of The Puberty Podcast. Their new book, This is So Awkward, is a phenomenal guide to understanding the landscape of modern puberty so you can better support your child through this vulnerable and often tumultuous time. In our discussion, we explore key aspects of modern puberty and how you can support your tween or teen:
These insights are more than just tips—they’re lifelines for helping your child navigate this critical stage of development with confidence and resilience. I invite you to listen to this episode—click here to tune in. Let’s make sure we’re raising the next generation with the information and support they need. And if you find this conversation valuable, please share it with a friend, leave a review, and join the conversation online using #OnHealth. Your stories, your questions, and your experiences make our community stronger. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| At Least You Have a Healthy Baby: The Hidden Epidemic of Birth Trauma in the US | 21 août 2024 | 00:30:34 | |
Despite advancements in medical technology and a growing awareness of maternal health, the emotional and psychological experiences of birthing mothers in the US often go unnoticed. In this eye-opening episode, Aviva Romm, an experienced midwife and MD, delves into a topic that is often overlooked and misunderstood—birth trauma. Aviva shares her personal birth story, other birth stories, and draws from decades of experience to explore the hidden epidemic of birth trauma that is affecting an alarming number of women. In this episode Dr. Aviva discusses:
Why This Episode Matters: Birth is one of the most significant events in a woman’s life, yet the emotional and psychological well-being of mothers often takes a back seat to physical outcomes. By bringing this issue to the forefront, Dr. Romm aims to empower women, educate healthcare professionals, and spark a much-needed conversation about the importance of “matrifocal: maternal health care. Tune in to the full episode to understand the true impact of birth trauma and what we can do to support the emotional and psychological well-being of mothers. Share Your Story: Have you or someone you know experienced birth trauma? Please join the conversation on Dr. Aviva’s Instagram @dr.avivaromm and use #HealingBirthTrauma. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Unplugging from the Attention Economy and Reclaiming Your Time with Jenny Odell | 07 août 2024 | 01:12:15 | |
If you find yourself feeling chronically overwhelmed, with a to-do list you can’t ever get to the bottom of, and a nagging feeling that you’re never quite doing enough, this episode is for you. Joining me is Jenny Odell, the acclaimed author of zthe books How to Do Nothing: Resisting the Attention Economy and Saving Time: Discovering a Life Beyond Productivity Culture. An artist and educator based in Oakland, California, Jenny’s work shines a light on how we can reclaim our attention in an increasingly digital world, while escaping from the clutches of productivity culture. I also share my personal story of how a recent vacation followed by COVID has caused me to rethink my own attention economy - and how this has been shifting my nervous system - and perspectives - on ‘what’s enough.” Join us as we explore insights on the importance of rest, reflection, and mindful living as part of taking back our lives, power, and mental well-being including:
Resources Mentioned: More from Jenny Odell:
The Adrenal Thyroid Revolution : Dr. Aviva’s book on taking back your health - while nourishing your adrenals and supporting your thyroid Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here:... | |||
| On Alcohol and Women's Health: From Fertility thru Menopause | 11 juil. 2024 | 01:03:39 | |
Welcome to the second half of our alcohol miniseries! In part one, I focused on how alcohol metabolizes differently in women than men and how this increases women's alcohol-related health risks. I also talked about how alcohol can effect puberty, our hormones, and menstrual cycles. If you haven’t already listened, it's a perfect prequel to today's episode, where I talk about how alcohol may impact fertility, PCOS, endometriosis, menopause, and breast cancer, giving you food for thought on whether and if so how much drinking is okay for YOU, and also tools for smarter alcohol intake. You’ll walk away from series feeling empowered and equipped with the tools and information necessary to approach alcohol in a way that best matches your lifestyle. In this episode, I dish on:
Whether you're trying to conceive, are currently pregnant, going through menopause, struggling with PCOS or endometriosis, or simply want to learn more about the potential long-term effects of alcohol on your health, - even just light drinking - this series as a must-refer-back-to one for various cycles of your life. So listen, save and share it! Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| On Women, Alcohol, Our Hormones and Menstrual Cycles | 03 juil. 2024 | 01:02:44 | |
Alcohol. It's the kind of frenemy that many women have a love-hate relationship with. It may make us feel good in the moment—relaxed, more social, less anxious—but many women find that after a drink or several, they’re moody, irritable, don’t sleep as well, and feel overall kind of not-so-great. Are there reasons for this that are unique to women? And can alcohol have hidden effects on our estrogen? Progesterone? Menstrual cycles? What about your gut? Circadian rhythm? Thyroid? That’s exactly what we’ll explore together in this two part series on women, alcohol, and our hormones. Whether you’re having a dry July 4th or just hitting the brakes a little now, what better time of year is there to do a little self-check-in on this anyway? It can be a perfect time to revaluate your relationship with alcohol altogether. We’ll be diving straight into the research and discussing the direct impact alcohol has on women’s hormonal and long-term health, so you can make the most informed decisions when it comes to alcohol consumption that best fit your lifestyle. In the first of this two part series on women, alcohol, and our hormones, we'll deep dive into...
This episode will give you food for thought and some important information to consider as you intentionally reflect on whether and how much to include alcohol in your lifestyle with zero judgment. Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Rediscovering Intimacy and Pleasure with Emily Nagoski | 25 juin 2024 | 01:10:55 | |
I’m so excited to share an encore interview with the brilliant, hilarious, and incredibly insightful Emily Nagoski, author of Come As You Are, Come Together, and Burnout (co-written with her sister). Emily is a renowned sex educator who brings a blend of scientific rigor and relatable storytelling to the conversation about women's sexual health and pleasure. Get ready for a foxy (you’ll have to listen to hear why this is literally true!)conversation full of laughter, wisdom, and relatable experiences. Today we talk about her latest book: Come Together (she does come up the most perfect titles!). Note we talk about SEX and get real. So perhaps not an episode with littles in the car unless you want to do a lot of explaining while you listen. In this episode we dive deep into:
We hope this episode helps you feel seen, heard, and empowered. If you enjoy it - and On Health in general - please share this with a friend and leave a rating and review on your favorite podcast platform. Don’t forget to follow the podcast to be notified of new episodes on the regular. Resources Mentioned:
Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in... | |||
| Seeing Life Through an Herbalist’s Lens with Olivia Amitrano | 19 juin 2024 | 01:02:50 | |
In this fresh and delightful episode I sit down with Olivia Amitrano, herbalist, host of the popular What’s the Juice podcast and founder of Organic Olivia, a successful botanical medicines company. Olivia opens up about her transformative journey through herbalism, personal growth, and the essential practice of honest self-reflection on the relationships in our lives and our relationship to ourselves. We dive deep into Olivia’s:
Olivia and I share insights about:
Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Breaking the Taboo Around Pregnancy Loss with Chelsea Leyland | 05 juin 2024 | 01:00:14 | |
Trigger Warning: This episode contains sensitive topics related to pregnancy loss and fertility challenges. Listener discretion is advised. In this deeply personal and powerful episode of "On Health," I sit down with Chelsea Leyland, a globetrotting DJ, mother, epilepsy and endometriosis activist, documentary filmmaker, and menstrual health entrepreneur. Chelsea shares her journey through endometriosis, pregnancy loss, and becoming a mother and the importance of breaking the silence around these common issues so we can get the support we need - and so we can support each other with compassion and understanding. We dive deep into Chelsea’s…
Thank you for tuning into On Health for Women. Remember, you are not alone on your journey, and a supportive community is here for you. Please connect with me on social media. Your stories matter and can provide comfort and support to others, too.And don't miss an episode! Subscribe to "On Health" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. Follow Dr. Aviva on Instagram. Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Ending Obstetric Fistula: A Journey of Hope and Resilience with Bonnie Ruder | 22 mai 2024 | 00:47:55 | |
"I think one of the most important things about fistula is that it is completely preventable and treatable. So this is a solvable problem. We used to have this problem here in the US and now we don't." – Bonnie Ruder Obstetric fistula affects around 2 million women globally, with 50,000 to 100,000 new cases each year. This devastating, yet entirely preventable condition profoundly impacts women's lives, causing chronic infections, incontinence, and severe social ostracism and isolation. In this powerful new episode, I’m joined by Bonnie Ruder, midwife, medical anthropologist, and co-founder of Terrewode Women's Fund. Together, we explore the:
Tune into this heart-wrenching yet inspiring episode to learn more about the impact of obstetric fistula and the incredible work being done to confront it. Terrewode Women’s Fund's mission to end obstetric fistula in Uganda are truly inspiring. 🌍 To learn more and support the work of Terrewode: 🔗 Website: terrewodewomensfund.org 📸 Instagram: @terrewodewomensfund Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| [Replay] The Hidden Motherhood Struggle with Catherine Birndorf and Paige Bellenbaum | 08 mai 2024 | 01:08:31 | |
In recognition of Maternal Mental Health Month I am re-sharing this 2023 conversation with the founders of The Motherhood Center in NYC. With Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADS) being the #1 complication associated with birth in the US and the #2 cause of maternal mortality, this remains a critical conversation. It’s not just you. You're not crazy. You're not a bad mom. You're not alone. These are words and deep beliefs that resonate through and form the backbone of today’s guests, Catherine Birndorf, MD, and Paige Bellenbaum, LMSW. Catherine and Paige are dedicated to changing the perinatal mental health terrain, and they do it through The Motherhood Center, a place of radical acceptance, nurturance, and individual and group support. On today’s episode, we pull back the curtain on motherhood and redefine what is considered "normal" and "typical". With PMADs (perinatal mood and anxiety disorders) being the #1 complication associated with birth and the #2 cause of maternal mortality, this is a critical conversation. On today’s episode, we unpack why it’s so important that we talk more about these conditions, how to do your best to prevent PMADs, and what to do if you or someone you love has symptoms. Aviva, Paige, and Catherine discuss:
For more information or to reach out visit themotherhoodcenter.com or call (212) 335-0034. Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| [Replay] Adaptogens & Burnout | 24 avr. 2024 | 00:52:57 | |
I've been wanting to share this episode with you for awhile, so I finally dusted off the archives and here it is. The sound quality is not as sharp as our more recent episodes - our production values have definitely improved - but I'm certain you'll find it timely and useful. Despite increased attention on the dangers of burnout, recent surveys report that a majority of the population across many countries report feeling burned out. This epidemic of overwhelm has a profound impact, especially on women. In this episode, we dive into the world of adaptogens, remarkable herbs that help prevent and reverse the effects of stress and burnout. Discover how they work and which ones are best suited if you’re feeling overwhelmed. What you will learn:
Adaptogens offer a powerful way to manage stress and recover from burnout, but they should be part of an integrative approach to health that includes proper self-care, nutrition, and rest. Tune in to learn how to harness the healing power of adaptogens to refill your energy reserves and enhance your life. For the accompanying article go to https://avivaromm.com/adaptogens-burnout/ If you'd like to receive a copy of my free ebook, Adaptogens: Herbs for 21st Century Stress, go here. Mentioned in this episode: The Mama Pathway is not your average childbirth education program. It's a powerful virtual membership community and online education experience where traditional midwifery wisdom and modern medicine meet to support you on your most empowered path through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Go to https://avivaromm.com/mama-pathway to learn more Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Demystifying Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in Menopause with Sharon Malone | 10 avr. 2024 | 01:12:26 | |
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Should you use it for your perimenopause or menopause symptoms? Does it prevent dementia? Heart disease? Is it safe? Who should and who shou;dn’t take it? Join me for this powerful conversation with Dr. Sharon Malone, an OB-GYN with 30 years of clinical experience - and an advocate for menopause awareness, and I explore these questions. In this episode we unpack:
Dr. Malone offers invaluable advice on navigating the symptoms of menopause with grace, while empowering you with the knowledge and confidence to make the best health decisions for during the menopause transition. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| The Wisdom of the Menopause Brain with Lisa Mosconi | 29 mars 2024 | 01:09:36 | |
In this must-listen episode I'm thrilled to welcome Dr. Lisa Mosconi, a leading neuroscientist and author of The Menopause Brain, and my friend, back to On Health to demystify the profound impact of menopause on the female brain. Dr. Mosconi offers invaluable insights into how menopause is more than a hormonal shift - it's a significant neuroendocrine change, and a potentially very important and powerful time in our lives. We dive deep into:
Knowledge is power. Understanding menopause's impact on the brain allows us to make informed choices, turning a phase often approached with dread into an opportunity for empowerment and well-being. Join us to transform how you think about menopause and prioritize your brain health through this pivotal time - whatever age you are - because it’s never too early to start protecting your beautiful brain! Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| The Emotional Lives of Teenagers with Lisa Damour | 13 mars 2024 | 01:07:00 | |
The teen years are a trope and a meme in our culture. We’re inevitably warned the minute we have a baby and admire her cute little face at a family gathering, in a restaurant, waiting in the checkout at the grocery: Just wait until she’s - or he’s - a teen. And it’s no wonder - the teen years - which we all remember too - are fraught with big changes: big hormonal shifts, changes in our neurobiology, changes in how we see our place in the world, changes in how we see our parents. It’s complicated. And it’s become more complicated - for both teens and their parents- in recent years. If you read the news, and certainly if you’re a parent, you can’t have missed the many headlines that have come out in recent years, from the impact of social media on our daughters, the impact of lockdown during COVID on our teen's mental health, and complicated issues around gender and identity. My guest, Dr. Lisa Damour, is here to help us unpack the mystery of teenagers and to support parents of teens. This is a must listen even if you still just have a babe in arms, or if you’re a grandparent, auntie, or healthcare provider. Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements The Mama Pathway is not your average childbirth education program. It's a powerful virtual membership community and online education experience where traditional midwifery wisdom and modern medicine meet to support you on your most empowered path through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Go to https://avivaromm.com/mama-pathway to learn more | |||
| Stress in Pregnancy: How Much Should You Stress About It | 28 févr. 2024 | 00:53:23 | |
Welcome to On Health where today I talk about understanding stress during pregnancy, bust myths, and share real tips to take care of yourself before and when the stress hits the fan. In this episode I explore:
Thank you for listening to the On Health Podcast. And please remember to treat yourself with kindness and love through your pregnancy journey - and beyond, and share this with a mama who you think would appreciate hearing this today. Mentioned in this episode: The Mama Pathway is not your average childbirth education program. It's a powerful virtual membership community and online education experience where traditional midwifery wisdom and modern medicine meet to support you on your most empowered path through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Go to https://avivaromm.com/mama-pathway to learn more Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Beyond Gaslighting and Narcissism: Finding Yourself to Find Love with Jillian Turecki | 14 févr. 2024 | 01:03:06 | |
Jillian Turecki, my guest for this On Health episode, is a beacon of light and a font of love and wisdom. A certified relationship coach, teacher, and writer with over 20 years of experience, she's fueled by an insatiable curiosity about what makes a relationship thrive, and she's helped thousands through her teaching and writing revolutionize their relationship with themselves so they can transform their relationships with others. In this episode Jillian and I get real about what it takes to have a thriving relationship, how this starts with loving ourselves, and also how important is that we normalize being single.- because that's a path many women are on, at least at some point in their live and love journey. We dive deep into so many areas of our love lives including:
Wherever you are on your self-love and love relationship journey, I know you'll find gems of wisdom and practical information to connect more profoundly with yourself and your partner. And you'll find more tools for practicing self-worth. Make sure to follow me on Instagram @dr.avivaromm to join the conversation. You can follow Jillian on Instagram and visit her at jillianturecki.com
Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Why Women Have More Autoimmune Diseases Than Men | 31 janv. 2024 | 00:34:53 | |
Fatigue, achy muscles, painful joints, brain fog, strange skin rashes… Could it be the flu? It’s possible. In fact, that’s what women are sometimes told! But these can be symptoms of an autoimmune condition. Autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, and Hashimoto’s, to name just a few, have a definite gender bias. Women account for an astonishing 80% of all those who suffer from an autoimmune disease. Yet these are some of the most commonly dismissed, overlooked, and misdiagnosed symptoms and conditions, leaving far too many women to struggle to find answers, for sometimes years. So what is autoimmune disease and why do women experience them so much more often than men? That’s exactly what we’ll explore together in today’s episode. Join me as I tell you all about:
Listen and learn so you know how to protect your health from these conditions and so that you know how to get the tests, answers, and respect you need from your healthcare provider. Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow me on Instagram @dr.avivaromm to join the conversation. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| The Power of Growing Older and the Problem with Ageism | 17 janv. 2024 | 01:07:51 | |
I’m not going to lie. I was much more prepared for puberty, pregnancy, motherhood, and even menopause than I was for aging. And you all know that’s a big deal to say because we’re largely unprepared for all the other phases of our lives, too. But the reality is, we’re aging from the day we’re born, and much of what we’ve internalized about aging - the fears, judgments, stereotypes - and even ‘symptoms’ if you will - have much more to do with the culture of ageism we’re steeped in from the time we’re little - whether that’s the ‘old hag witch’ in the woods who eats children in fairy tales and movies, to the anti-aging creams that women are already now using in their 20s (and younger) thanks to an industry that instills in us that aging is ugly. My guest, Karen Walrond, is the author of Radiant Rebellion: Reclaim Aging, Practice Joy & Raise a Little Hell, an investigation in how we can resist ageism and live a light-filled life along the way. And - I don’t say this often or lightly - this book has blown my mind. It was exactly the dose of vitality and fire I needed right now - a mind-shift on my own journey - of aging proudly and powerfully while I also navigate all that means in our culture, and in work that puts me front and center on video, in media. I truly believe every women over 20 in our culture should read this book, gift it, share it, talk about it, and then read it again. In this episode Karen and I discuss:
Let’s listen to the interview. And then, as my guest says, raise a little hell. Or as I’m saying, raise a lot of it! You’ll see what I mean. Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow me on Instagram @dr.avivaromm to join the conversation. You can follow Karen on Instagram and visit her at chookooloonks.com Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Why Creating & Setting Boundaries is Essential for Our Health | 03 janv. 2024 | 01:09:08 | |
At some point, too many of us internalized the belief that being a woman means complete self-sacrifice, not setting healthy boundaries for our well-being, and not taking care of our fundamental needs – even for sleep, quality food, and relaxation. Further, as moms, we often take on the lioness's share of the household. As partners, we plan the dates and stay in touch with old friends. At work, we pick up the slack of others without so much as a peep of protest. But here's the thing- often, others don't even notice that we are doing all of this extra work because we haven't set healthy boundaries - with ourselves or with them. We've been taught to be the "good girl" (definitely listen to last week's podcast episode ALL about this topic if you haven't yet) and with this, we also believe that boundaries are rude or selfish. So we give and give and give - at the expense of our well-being and sometimes at the expense of our own passions and fulfillment. Time for a reframe! Not only is having boundaries not selfish - but we are better givers when we practice conscious boundaries. And that's exactly what I'm talking about in this latest On Health episode. Tune in as I dish out my top tips to get you on your way to a boundary-setting queen! And learn all about why it's truly so important, just in time for the new year ahead and beyond. In this episode I share:
I KNOW that many of you will have at least a few "aha" moments and maybe even have some tears of understanding. Listen and become your own boundaries badass! Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Becoming a Cycle Breaker: Healing Intergenerational Trauma with Compassion and Resilience | 20 déc. 2023 | 00:55:48 | |
Intergenerational trauma refers to the transmission of unresolved trauma and its psychological, emotional, or even physical effects from one generation to another. This phenomenon can manifest in various ways, impacting individuals' mental health, coping mechanisms, and relational patterns. The cycle of intergenerational trauma underscores the importance of acknowledging, understanding, and actively addressing inherited wounds to break free from its influence on future generations. On today’s On Health episode, I’m joined by the incredible Mariel Buque, PhD, author of Break the Cycle: who wants us all to learn to unravel the threads of family trauma, and becoming cycle breakers so we can heal the burdens of suffering carried forward by so many families across generations. In this powerful episode, we explore:
Resources for those seeking guidance, including Mariel's book, "Break the Cycle: A Guide to Healing Intergenerational Trauma." Join us in this episode's transformative conversation on health, healing, and well-being, as we become architects of a future unburdened by the weight of generational pain. Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow me on Instagram @dr.avivaromm to join the conversation. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Beyond Crystals and Bubble Baths: Talking About Real Self-Care | 06 déc. 2023 | 01:01:54 | |
Self-care - it’s both a profoundly important concept for our physical and mental well-being - a radical step in a culture that demands ever more of us, and it’s a phenomenon that has been trivialized by the wellness world - and any number of influencers and companies that suggest a bubble bath and a candle is enough for what stresses us. But real self care is so much more - it’s an inside job, as my guest Pooja Lakshmin, MD, shares with us. A-psychiatrist, author, and the founder of Gemma Pooja shares her journey from disillusionment in mainstream medicine to a unique commune experience, leading to her mission of redefining self-care in her new book, "Real Self-Care.” In today’s episode we discuss:
Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow me on Instagram @dr.avivaromm to join the conversation. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Parent Wounds: Healing Our Hearts Even in Crisis | 22 nov. 2023 | 00:29:25 | |
In the midst of the chaos that seems to be almost a constant in the world, it's easy to forget that individual lives and losses are still happening every day and can be deeply affecting us or those around us, as can family mental health issues. Sometimes those bigger global issues give us perspective, take us out of our own worries, and that can feel actually broadening and helpful and can put our lives into a perspective that brings some ease or inner peace even. Not that we're taking comfort in someone else's misery or suffering, but that there's a reminder that suffering is bigger than us and we're not alone, and that there are also major trials happening that sometimes may be even scarier in the moment than our own. But often it's a compounding weight, and then we might also feel embarrassed for having our own feelings when there are these very big things happening. So much so that we turn inward, ashamed to share our more personal troubles for fear of seeming small or selfish, and that can create cognitive dissonance or a retreat into self that can be part of depression or create social anxiety. In this episode I explore, through my own recent loss, a specific kind of despair and trauma that affects the lives of so many: the loss of a parent through one or another form of abandonment due to our parents going through a difficult and permanently dividing divorce, though illness, including mental health challenges, or for other reasons. I explore:
Please join me for a very personal journey today, that may have specific meaning for you as we enter the holiday season. I do talk about loss, grief, and trauma, so I invite you to listen when you have the space to feel anything that might come up for you. And thank you for honoring my vulnerability in what I share. It’s a gift to have you on this journey with me. Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow me on Instagram @dr.avivaromm to join the conversation. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Unpacking the Invisible Load of Motherhood with Erica Djossa | 08 nov. 2023 | 00:57:38 | |
Like so many moms, Erica Djossa, a registered psychotherapist specializing in maternal mental health, entered motherhood assuming her “maternal instinct” would guide her through any challenges she faced. Yet, like so many mothers she'd counseled, she too, found herself struggling with identity loss, the mental load of motherhood, and the pressure to be perfect. Eventually, she had a breakdown that turned out to be a breakthrough – a moment where she realized that she was suffering from postpartum depression. When she sought help, she was dismissed by doctors who assured her that she just needed more rest. Frustrated, Erica pushed to be taken seriously, and finally got the care she needed. Through that experience, Erica realized that moms deserved more. Realizing how difficult it is to find mental health services, the now mother of 3 founded Happy as a Mother, which has evolved into Momwell, to provide mom-centered virtual therapy services and mental health literacy for moms at every stage of their motherhood journey. She has also taken to social media to make a difference. Her graphics have been shared by celebrities like Snoop Dogg, Ashley Graham, Nia Long, Hilaria Baldwin, Christy Turlington and Adrienne Bosh. Erica is passionate about maternal mental healthcare and putting moms back on the priority list. In this episode we dive deep into:
Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow me on Instagram @dr.avivaromm to join the conversation. You can follow Erica and Momwell on Instagram @momwell and visit momwell.com. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| A Silent Fire: Understanding Hidden Inflammation with Shilpa Ravella, MD | 25 oct. 2023 | 00:55:32 | |
Here's a little secret: hidden inflammation, not genetics, is the most common underlying cause of chronic illness. Hidden inflammation is a root cause of:
The problem is most doctors are not aware of hidden inflammation let alone how to identify or address it. Western medicine leads us to believe that we have no control over our health destiny. It’s just assumed that chronic disease is an inevitable fact of life. But it’s not. So how can we get ahead of chronic inflammation? In this week's episode of the On Health podcast, I sat down with Shilpa Ravella, MD, the author of A Silent Fire: The Story of Inflammation, Diet and Disease. gastroenterologist and Assistant Professor at Columbia University Medical Center. Tune in as we discuss:
Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow me on Instagram @dr.avivaromm to join the conversation. Follow Shilpa on Instagram @shilpa.ravella and visit her website at www.shilparavella.com. Please share this important topic by sending the link to the show to someone you love. Plus get your copy of my book Hormone Intelligence which offers up a full plan on reducing inflammation! | |||
| Medical Gaslighting: What It Is, Why It’s So Dangerous, and What You Can Do to Advocate for Yourself | 11 oct. 2023 | 00:51:52 | |
In recent years, the term "medical gaslighting" has come to represent the phenomenon and disproportionate impact of medical dismissal of women and other marginalized groups. All too often, women leave the doctor’s office questioning themselves and their symptoms and are too often pressed into silently endure their suffering, sometimes until it's tragically too late. How can we identify when medical gaslighting is happening and protect ourselves or those we love? Join me on today's episode of On Health as I explore the roots of medical gaslighting, how to recognize it, the power of self-advocacy, and the critical need for systemic reform.
Tune in as I get into:
My hope is that you walk away from this episode with greater awareness of the very real issues with gaslighting in medical care and greater confidence in speaking up for yourself and your ability to demand the respect you deserve when it comes to your healthcare. Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation.
Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements
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| Moving Through Grief and Its Big Messy Feelings with Kris Carr | 27 sept. 2023 | 00:56:30 | |
Grief and loss touch us all in ways both small and big throughout our lives, yet our culture often struggles to embrace the messy emotions that grief brings. On today’s On Health episode, I'm joined by author and cancer thriver Kris Carr to discuss her latest book, "I'm Not a Mourning Person,” which dives deep into the complexities of grief and healing. We explore how life's ruptures turn our world upside down and reshape us, the importance of acknowledging grief, and the difference between 'getting over it' and 'getting through it'. We also explore the importance of radical self-compassion along the way. Kris and I get into:
Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Follow Kris @crazysexykris and grab a copy of her new book “I’m Not a Mourning Person” at www.kriscarr.com
Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements
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| Should I Freeze My Eggs? Let’s Chat About That! | 20 sept. 2023 | 00:27:59 | |
Considering whether to embark on the journey of freezing your eggs? Naturally, this comes with a myriad of questions and considerations. If you're pondering this path and wondering if it's the right move for you, you're not alone. Join me in today's "Let's Chat About That," where I address a vulnerable question from a listener who's navigating the idea of freezing her eggs and unpack some of the myths and mysteries of this fertility option. Tune in as I explain the ins and outs of egg freezing, tackling common questions like how effective it actually is, the role of age, costs, possible health considerations including PCOS and endometriosis, and more! In this episode, we’ll explore:
I hope this episode empowers you to make an informed decision on your own unique fertility journey, wherever you may be and whatever that looks like for you! Want to be part of the next “Let’s Chat About That”? Do it! Just ring me at (413) 889- 4549 and leave a voicemail for a chance to have your question featured in the next one!
Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation.
To learn more about the Women's Integrative Medicine Training Program go to avivaromm.com/wimi
To register for the free webinar The Optimal PCOS Diet: The Science Behind the Nutrition Connection go to https://avivaromm.com/courses/pcos-nutrition-webinar-optin/
Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements
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| Hot Flashes Gone Public with Tamsen Fadal | 13 sept. 2023 | 00:34:09 | |
Menopause is a transition that is so hushed, misunderstood, and often considered "taboo” in our culture. But what many fail to notice is that menopause is a beautiful new chapter in life that deserves respect, recognition, and reverence. I'm on a mission to change the conversation around menopause to one of profound power and wisdom - because at this stage in life, we have ARRIVED! Also on this mission is my guest on today's episode of On Health, the multi-Emmy Award-winning midlife enthusiast and champion of women's stories, Tamsen Fadal. Tamsen is openly sharing her personal menopause journey, confronting a pervasive lack of knowledge about it, and challenging stigmas about getting older through her substantial following, her "Coming Up Next" podcast, and a forthcoming book and documentary on menopause and the power of midlife. In this episode, Tamsen and I discuss the world of menopause and pro-aging, exploring topics including:
Join us as we change the narrative about menopause and celebrate our wise selves! Whether you are transitioning through perimenopause, in menopause, or aren't even close, this episode is packed with wisdom that all women need to hear. Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Follow Tamsen @tamsenfadal and visit her website at www.tamsenfadal.com
To learn more about the Women's Integrative Medicine Training Program go to avivaromm.com/wimi Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||
| Perfectionism: Healing the Shadow Side | 06 sept. 2023 | 00:57:10 | |
As we transition into autumn, with to-do lists piling up and the pressure of getting back "on track," it's an important time to revisit an age-old and perenially resonant topic: Perfectionism. It's part of how we end up overwhelmed, doing it all, and never feel like we're doing enough. i know that feeling, too! Perfectionism, that relentless inner sense of 'not-enoughness; that far too many women know far too well, is a form of what's known as high-functioning anxiety, it's a sign that you might be stuck in the adrenal-stress response - survival mode, and it's also something that can have downstream impacts on your sleep, hormones, focus, immune system, digestion, mood, weight, cardiovascular health, and more. In this episode, I invite you to reframe perfectionism, along with being a "Good Girl" and other signs of survival mode that can be causing you more stress than you even realize, and welcome you to join me in taking a deep breath as we move into a new season together, with a deeper understanding of how we can calm and quiet Perfectionism by cultivating a quieter inner life, and how you can learn to recognize the difference between the Superpowers you have and when - and why - their Shadow Sides are showing you up and driving you too hard. Join me as I share:
Also listen in for a special announcement about my Women's Integrative Medicine Training Program and a new Autumn podcast schedule! To learn more about the Women's Integrative Medicine Training Program go to avivaromm.com/wimi To register for the free webinar The Optimal PCOS Diet: The Science Behind the Nutrition Connection go to https://avivaromm.com/courses/pcos-nutrition-webinar-optin/ Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements
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| Centering Mothers with Support, Community, and Wisdom (with Chanel Porchia-Albert, Ancient Song) | 30 août 2023 | 00:50:50 | |
The US, known for medical progress, is facing higher maternal mortality rates than almost any western country, and too many women don’t get the birth experience they hoped for. Enter my guest, the amazing Chanel Porchia-Albert, founder of Ancient Song Doula Services, who is here to chat with us about breaking barriers and bringing doula care to everyone. Get ready to learn about doulas' impact on birth, bridging gaps in healthcare, and making sure all birthing people have the support they deserve. In this episode, Chanel opens up about how becoming a mother boosted her confidence as a birth activist, motivating her to empower others. She shares some fun details about her meeting with the VEEP, and we talk all about:
Thank you for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow along on Instagram @dr.avivaromm to join the conversation. Follow Chanel @chanel_porchia and check out her work at www.ancientsongdoulaservices.com Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements | |||