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Episode 39: Healing After Loss – Mental Health, Fertility & Thyroid Connection with Dr. Marie Dona

In this heartfelt episode of Beyond the Thyroid, Dr. Dana Gibbs sits down with Dr. Marie Dona, a triple board-certified reproductive psychiatrist, to discuss the emotional and physiological impact of recurrent pregnancy loss and infertility. Together, they explore the intricate connection between mental health, thyroid balance, and nutrition — and how each plays a critical role in healing and hope.

Dr. Dona shares her compassionate, whole-person approach to care, highlighting how therapy, mindfulness, and medical support can help women navigate loss and rebuild trust in their bodies. The episode also touches on how thyroid dysfunction and hormonal imbalances can silently affect fertility and mental well-being.

🩺 Learn more about Dr. Marie Dona:
Website: Dona Wellness Clinic
Instagram: @donawellnessclinic
Facebook: Dona Wellness Clinic
Youtube: Dona Wellness Clinic

📑 Join the The Thyroid Clarity Checkup Priority List! 

📲 Follow Dr. Dana Gibbs on the Goodself App!

🩺 Interested in a Discovery Call with Dr. Dana? Click here!

📺 Watch on YouTube

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Episode 39
00:15 Meet Dr. Marie Dona: Reproductive Psychiatrist
04:28 Understanding Reproductive Psychiatry
05:34 Mental Health and Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
10:03 Holistic Approaches to Mental Health
11:21 Diet, Nutrition, and Mental Health
16:26 Managing Psychiatric Medications During Pregnancy
19:16 Supporting Women Through Pregnancy Loss
21:09 Where to Find Dr. Marie Dona
21:58 Final Takeaways and Conclusion

Whether you’re a patient, clinician, or supporter, this conversation offers both understanding and empowerment on the path to recovery.

Let's connect! 🔔
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Instagram - @danagibbsms
LinkedIn - Dana Gibbs MD
Tiktok - @dana.gibbs.md

✉️ Email Dr. Gibbs at [email protected] or visit https://www.danagibbsmd.com/ for more information.


Thank you so much for listening! Tune in on the next episode.


The medical information provided in this episode is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical questions or concerns.

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Beyond the Thyroid – Episode 38: How Thyroid & Hormones Impact Fertility with Dr. Oluyemisi Famuyiwa

In this episode of Beyond the Thyroid, Dr. Dana Gibbs is joined by Dr. Oluyemisi Famuyiwa, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and founder of Montgomery Fertility Center in Rockville, Maryland. Together, they explore how thyroid disorders, hormone imbalances, and reproductive health intersect — from infertility and egg quality to innovative fertility treatments and early family planning.

Dr. Famuyiwa shares her inspiring career journey, the science behind egg donation and preservation, and her work in building an ethnically diverse egg bank. Dr. Gibbs and Dr. Famuyiwa also discuss how hormonal health, including thyroid function, plays a vital role in conception and pregnancy success.

🩺 Learn more about Dr. Oluyemisi Famuyiwa:

• Website: montgomeryfertilitycenter.com
• Instagram: @montgomeryfertility 
• Facebook: Montgomery Fertility Center 
• Podcast: Fertile Talks with Dr. Yemi Famuyiwa
• Youtube: Montgomery Fertility Center 

📑 Join the The Thyroid Clarity Checkup Priority List! 

📲 Follow Dr. Dana Gibbs on the Goodself App!

🩺 Interested in a Discovery Call with Dr. Dana? Click here!

📺 Watch on YouTube

Episode Highlights:

00:09 Meet Dr. Oluyemisi Famuyiwa
02:20 Dr. Yemi's Journey into Reproductive Endocrinology
03:14 The Science and Practice of Fertility
05:56 Building a Fertility Center and Egg Bank
08:41 The Egg Donation Process
11:52 Patient Experiences and Challenges
15:47 Genetic Considerations in Fertility
21:44 Early Education and Planning for Fertility
24:08 Conclusion and Resources

✨ Empower your fertility journey through knowledge, balance, and hormone health. Tune in now!

Let's connect! 🔔
Facebook - Consultants In Metabolism
Instagram - @danagibbsms
LinkedIn - Dana Gibbs MD
Tiktok - @dana.gibbs.md

✉️ Email Dr. Gibbs at [email protected] or visit https://www.danagibbsmd.com/ for more information.


Thank you so much for listening! Tune in on the next episode.


The medical information provided in this episode is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical questions or concerns.

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Beyond the Thyroid – Episode 37: The Hidden Thyroid Link to Infertility and Miscarriage

In this episode of Beyond the Thyroid, Dr. Dana Gibbs uncovers the often-overlooked role of subtle thyroid imbalances in fertility challenges and early pregnancy loss. She explains how even “normal” thyroid labs can miss critical dysfunctions that affect ovulation, implantation, and fetal development.

Dr. Gibbs discusses:

• Why conventional thyroid testing overlooks key markers
• How thyroid autoimmunity and reverse T3 can impair fertility
• The importance of individualized thyroid hormone management before and during pregnancy
• A patient success story: overcoming multiple miscarriages with proper T3 therapy

If you’ve struggled with infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss, this episode offers science-based insights and hope.

📑 Join the The Thyroid Clarity Checkup Priority List! 

📲 Follow Dr. Dana Gibbs on the Goodself App!

🩺 Interested in a Discovery Call with Dr. Dana? Click here!

📺 Watch on YouTube

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Infertility and Thyroid Issues
02:26 Understanding Thyroid Hormones and Fertility
05:23 The Role of Autoimmunity in Thyroid Dysfunction
06:55 The Importance of Reverse T3
12:25 Symptoms and Diagnosis of Thyroid Imbalance
16:17 Case Study: Overcoming Infertility with Thyroid Treatment
20:55 The Benefits of T3 Therapy
25:01 Conclusion and Next Steps

✨ When thyroid function is optimized, fertility can thrive. Tune in now!

Let's connect! 🔔
Facebook - Consultants In Metabolism
Instagram - @danagibbsms
LinkedIn - Dana Gibbs MD
Tiktok - @dana.gibbs.md

✉️ Email Dr. Gibbs at [email protected] or visit https://www.danagibbsmd.com/ for more information.


Thank you so much for listening! Tune in on the next episode.


The medical information provided in this episode is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical questions or concerns.

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Beyond the Thyroid – Episode 36: 3 Mistakes People Make When Trying to Manage Thyroid Problems Naturally

In this episode of Beyond the Thyroid, Dr. Dana Gibbs unpacks three of the most common mistakes people make when attempting to treat thyroid disease “naturally.”

You’ll learn why focusing on antibody levels instead of hormone balance can lead you astray, how chasing an elusive “root cause” can leave correctable issues untreated, and the misconceptions around natural versus synthetic thyroid hormone.

Dr. Gibbs also explains recent FDA actions against natural desiccated thyroid (NDT) products, what that means for patients, and why proactive advocacy is needed. This episode is about cutting through the noise and giving you clear, practical strategies to feel better and protect your thyroid health.

📑 Join the The Thyroid Clarity Checkup Priority List! 

📲 Follow Dr. Dana Gibbs on the Goodself App!

🩺 Interested in a Discovery Call with Dr. Dana? Click here!

📺 Watch on YouTube

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Natural Thyroid Management
01:51 Common Mistakes in Natural Thyroid Management
02:47 Mistake #1: Focusing on Antibody Levels
05:07 Mistake #2: Ignoring Correctable Causes
08:00 Mistake #3: Believing the Hype About Natural Thyroid
14:24 FDA Regulations and Natural Thyroid
18:38 Summary and Final Thoughts
20:09 Conclusion and Call to Action

✨ Avoid the common pitfalls and take the smarter path to thyroid health. Tune in now!

Let's connect! 🔔
Facebook - Consultants In Metabolism
Instagram - @danagibbsms
LinkedIn - Dana Gibbs MD
Tiktok - @dana.gibbs.md

✉️ Email Dr. Gibbs at [email protected] or visit https://www.danagibbsmd.com/ for more information.


Thank you so much for listening! Tune in on the next episode.


The medical information provided in this episode is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical questions or concerns.

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Beyond the Thyroid – Episode 35: Chicken or the Egg? Gut Health and Thyroid Balance with Hannah Aylward

In this episode of Beyond the Thyroid, Dr. Dana Gibbs sits down with gut health specialist Hannah Aylward to explore the powerful connection between digestive health and thyroid balance. Many patients wonder: does a sluggish thyroid cause gut problems, or do gut problems trigger thyroid dysfunction? The answer, as you’ll hear, is both.

Hannah shares her personal journey of overcoming debilitating gut issues, the lessons she’s learned about root-cause healing, and how individualized nutrition and testing can transform health. Together, she and Dr. Gibbs unpack common digestive complaints—bloating, IBS, nutrient deficiencies, bile flow, and more—and how they intersect with thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s. You’ll also learn practical tips for supporting gut function, including diet, probiotics, glucose monitoring, and even how to stay healthy while traveling.

Whether you’ve struggled with stubborn thyroid symptoms or chronic digestive issues, this conversation offers actionable insights to help you take charge of your health.

📑 Join the The Thyroid Clarity Checkup Priority List! 

📲 Follow Dr. Dana Gibbs on the Goodself App!

🩺 Interested in a Discovery Call with Dr. Dana? Click here!

📺 Watch on YouTube

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
02:37 Guest Introduction: Hannah Aylward
04:33 Hannah's Personal Journey with Digestive Issues
07:26 Approach to Gut Health and Nutrition
11:16 Nutritional Deficiencies and Their Impact
15:29 Gallbladder Removal and Bile Support
18:44 Stomach Acid and Digestive Health
22:12 The Role of Diet in Managing Health
23:39 Balancing Blood Sugar: The Basics
24:12 The Role of Glucose Monitors
26:15 Overcoming Sugar Cravings
30:48 Addressing Over-Exercising and Caloric Restriction
35:17 Probiotics vs. Prebiotics
38:30 Healthy Travel Tips
41:53 Podcast and Contact Information
43:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with Hannah Aylward:
🌐 Website: hannahaylward.com
📸 Instagram: @hannahaylwardhhc
📘 Facebook: Hannah Aylward Nutrition
🎙️ Podcast: The Nutrient Dense Podcast

Gut or thyroid—which comes first? Tune in to uncover the truth and learn how to reclaim balance. 

Let's connect! 🔔
Facebook - Consultants In Metabolism
Instagram - @danagibbsms
LinkedIn - Dana Gibbs MD
Tiktok - @dana.gibbs.md

✉️ Email Dr. Gibbs at [email protected] or visit https://www.danagibbsmd.com/ for more information.


Thank you so much for listening! Tune in on the next episode.


The medical information provided in this episode is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical questions or concerns.

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Beyond the Thyroid – Episode 34: I’m on Levothyroxine and My Labs Are Normal – Why Do I Still Feel Terrible?

Are you on Levothyroxine but still feeling exhausted, foggy, or unwell — even though your labs are “normal”? You’re not alone.

In this episode of Beyond the Thyroid, Dr. Dana Gibbs dives into the reasons why standard thyroid care often leaves patients struggling. She explains how issues like poor T4-to-T3 conversion, inconsistent medication timing, adrenal dysfunction, and other coexisting conditions can keep you from feeling your best.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why TSH alone isn’t enough to measure thyroid health
• How to identify and address T4-to-T3 conversion problems
• The importance of consistent medication timing
• Common nutrient deficiencies and conditions that mimic thyroid symptoms
• How advanced testing can uncover hidden imbalances

Dr. Gibbs also shares details about her upcoming Thyroid Clarity Checkup program — designed to give you the insights and action plan you need to finally feel better.

📑 Join the The Thyroid Clarity Checkup Priority List! 

📲 Follow Dr. Dana Gibbs on the Goodself App!

🩺 Interested in a Discovery Call with Dr. Dana? Click here!

📺 Watch on YouTube

Episode Highlights:

00:00 – Introduction to Persisting Thyroid Symptoms
 01:02 – Host Introduction and Personal Journey
 02:13 – Common Issues with Thyroid Medication
 05:39 – Understanding Thyroid Hormone Conversion
 10:53 – Optimizing Thyroid Medication Timing
 14:20 – Additional Factors Affecting Thyroid Health
 20:21 – Upcoming Program and Final Thoughts

✨ Stop settling for “normal” when you still feel terrible. Tune in now!

Let's connect! 🔔
Facebook - Consultants In Metabolism
Instagram - @danagibbsms
LinkedIn - Dana Gibbs MD
Tiktok - @dana.gibbs.md

✉️ Email Dr. Gibbs at [email protected] or visit https://www.danagibbsmd.com/ for more information.


Thank you so much for listening! Tune in on the next episode.


The medical information provided in this episode is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical questions or concerns.

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Beyond the Thyroid – Episode 33:  4 Surprising Symptoms of Thyroid Imbalance Your Doctor May Overlook

In this episode of Beyond the Thyroid, Dr. Dana Gibbs explores four unexpected symptoms—hives, vertigo, frozen shoulder, and anxiety or depression—that may indicate a hidden thyroid imbalance, even when your lab results look “normal.” If you’ve been dismissed by doctors or told your thyroid is “fine” despite ongoing symptoms, this episode is for you.

Dr. Gibbs explains the biological connections between thyroid dysfunction and these surprising signs, highlights what most mainstream labs miss, and shares how advanced testing and the Thyroid Clarity Checkup can uncover the real root cause of your symptoms.

Also in this episode:

• Why “normal TSH” doesn’t always mean normal thyroid function
• The role of immune dysfunction and autoimmunity
• When to suspect deeper thyroid imbalance
• How to join Dr. Gibbs’ next free thyroid program!

📑 Join the The Thyroid Clarity Checkup Priority List! 

📲 Follow Dr. Dana Gibbs on the Goodself App!

🩺 Interested in a Discovery Call with Dr. Dana? Click here!

📺 Watch on YouTube

Episode Highlights:

00:00 – Introduction to Episode 33
00:10 – Overview of the Thyroid Clarity Checkup Program
01:45 – Determining if the Program is Right for You
02:08 – Meet Your Host, Dr. Dana Gibbs
03:21 – Surprising Symptoms of Thyroid Imbalance
04:46 – Symptom 1: Hives and Allergies
06:45 – Symptom 2: Vertigo
08:16 – Symptom 3: Frozen Shoulder
10:22 – Symptom 4: Anxiety and Depression
12:13 – Bonus Symptom: Irregular Periods and Fertility Issues
13:42 – Conclusion and Next Steps
14:35 – Closing Remarks and Podcast Information

Even if your labs are “normal,” your body might be telling you something more. Tune in to find out what it is.

Let's connect! 🔔
Facebook - Consultants In Metabolism
Instagram - @danagibbsms
LinkedIn - Dana Gibbs MD
Tiktok - @dana.gibbs.md

✉️ Email Dr. Gibbs at [email protected] or visit https://www.danagibbsmd.com/ for more information.


Thank you so much for listening! Tune in on the next episode.


The medical information provided in this episode is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical questions or concerns.

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Beyond the Thyroid – Episode 32:  Weight Loss Strategies for Perimenopause and Menopause with Dr. Heather Awad

Struggling with weight gain in midlife? You’re not alone—and you’re not doing anything wrong.

In this episode of Beyond the Thyroid, Dr. Dana Gibbs sits down with Dr. Heather Awad, a family physician turned weight loss coach for professional women in midlife. Together, they explore the real reasons behind weight gain in perimenopause and menopause—and what actually works for sustainable, hormone-friendly weight loss.

You’ll learn:

• Why mindset shifts matter more than you think
• How insulin resistance and hormonal shifts affect metabolism
• The truth about protein, fiber, and supplements in midlife nutrition
• The role of intermittent fasting and strategic meal planning
• How coaching and community support long-term success

Dr. Awad also shares insights from her own journey, highlighting why self-compassion and education can be powerful tools in reclaiming your health and confidence.

🩺 Learn more about Dr. Heather Awad:

• Website: www.vibrant-md.com
• Instagram: @heatherawadmd
• Facebook: Vibrant-MD
• Podcast: Vibrant-MD Podcast 

📑 Join the The Thyroid Clarity Checkup Priority List! 

📲 Follow Dr. Dana Gibbs on the Goodself App!

🩺 Interested in a Discovery Call with Dr. Dana? Click here!

📺 Watch on YouTube

Episode Highlights:
00:00 – Introduction to the Episode
02:18 – Meet Dr. Heather Awad
03:14 – Dr. Heather's Personal Weight Loss Journey
04:53 – Understanding Menopausal Weight Gain
08:53 – The Role of Coaching in Weight Loss
11:38 – The Thought Model Explained
17:50 – Setting and Achieving Weight Loss Goals
21:21 – Science Behind Weight Loss
22:33 – Understanding Insulin Resistance and Eating Habits
23:13 – Intermittent Fasting and Meal Planning
24:52 – The Importance of Protein in Your Diet
26:58 – Navigating Protein Supplements and Smoothies
28:36 – Incorporating Fiber and Seeds into Your Meals
32:09 – The Role of Supplements in Midlife Health
35:08 – Hormone Replacement Therapy: What You Need to Know
38:34 – Connecting with Dr. Heather Awad
39:53 – Exploring New Weight Loss Medications
42:50 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

✨ Start with mindset, support your hormones, and eat with intention. Tune in now!

Let's connect! 🔔
Facebook - Consultants In Metabolism
Instagram - @danagibbsms
LinkedIn - Dana Gibbs MD
Tiktok - @dana.gibbs.md

✉️ Email Dr. Gibbs at [email protected] or visit https://www.danagibbsmd.com/ for more information.


Thank you so much for listening! Tune in on the next episode.


The medical information provided in this episode is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical questions or concerns.

Send us a text

Beyond the Thyroid – Episode 31:  My Doctor Found a Thyroid Nodule – Should I Be Worried?

In this episode of Beyond the Thyroid, Dr. Dana Gibbs takes you inside one of the most common (and often alarming) thyroid-related diagnoses: thyroid nodules. What happens when your doctor finds a nodule, and how do you know if it’s something to worry about?

Dr. Gibbs breaks down:

• The ultrasound features that matter when evaluating a thyroid nodule
• What TI-RADS categories mean and when a biopsy is recommended
• How a fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy is performed
• What the Bethesda Classification tells us about cancer risk
• When surgery is necessary—and when it’s not
• How active surveillance can be a safe option for some thyroid cancers
• What risks and procedures are involved in thyroid surgery

Whether you’ve just been told you need a biopsy or are considering surgery, this episode empowers you to ask the right questions and better understand your options.

Dr. Gibbs also introduces her Thyroid Clarity Checkup program, designed for patients who want deeper answers than the typical TSH blood test provides.

📑 Join the The Thyroid Clarity Checkup Priority List! 

📲 Follow Dr. Dana Gibbs on the Goodself App!

🩺 Interested in a Discovery Call with Dr. Dana? Click here!

📺 Watch on YouTube

🕒 Episode Highlights: 

00:00 – Introduction and Episode Overview
02:34 – Understanding Thyroid Nodules
04:11 – Biopsy and Diagnosis
08:00 – Biopsy Results and Next Steps
11:06 – When Surgery is Necessary
20:06 – Surgical Procedures and Risks
23:08 – Conclusion and Resources

✨ Get clarity, not confusion, when it comes to thyroid nodules. Tune in now!

Let's connect! 🔔
Facebook - Consultants In Metabolism
Instagram - @danagibbsms
LinkedIn - Dana Gibbs MD
Tiktok - @dana.gibbs.md

✉️ Email Dr. Gibbs at [email protected] or visit https://www.danagibbsmd.com/ for more information.


Thank you so much for listening! Tune in on the next episode.


The medical information provided in this episode is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical questions or concerns.

Send us a text

Beyond the Thyroid – Episode 30:  When Autoimmune Diseases Overlap: Thyroid & Rheumatology with Dr. Celine Lee

In this episode of Beyond the Thyroid, Dr. Dana Gibbs welcomes Dr. Celine Lee, a board-certified rheumatologist and founder of Lotus Rheumatology and Wellness Clinic, to explore the powerful intersection of thyroid disease and rheumatologic autoimmune conditions.

Dr. Lee shares her compelling journey from practicing dermatology in South Korea to becoming a rheumatologist in the U.S., and how her unique perspective helps her approach complex, overlapping conditions such as Hashimoto’s, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Together, Dr. Lee and Dr. Gibbs discuss:

• How autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s and lupus are connected
• Why hormonal imbalances often accompany rheumatologic conditions
• The role of inflammation, diet, stress, and sleep in disease management
• How to interpret ANA testing and what it reveals about autoimmunity
• The importance of treating the whole person, not just the labs

You’ll also learn practical strategies for reducing inflammation, managing fatigue and joint pain, and improving your quality of life with chronic illness. 

🩺 Learn more about Dr. Celine Lee:

• Website: lotusrheumatology.com
• Instagram: @drcelineleemd
• Facebook: Lotus Rheumatology 
• Youtube: Lotus Rheumatology

📑 Join the The Thyroid Clarity Checkup Priority List! 

🩺 Interested in a Discovery Call with Dr. Dana? Click here!

📺 Watch on YouTube

Episode Highlights: 

00:00 – Introduction and Guest Introduction
00:20 – Dr. Lee’s Unique Background
01:25 – Diving into Autoimmune Diseases
03:28 – Understanding Rheumatology
05:45 – Dr. Lee’s Journey to Rheumatology
08:25 – Challenges in Traditional Medicine
09:51 – Overlap in Autoimmune Diseases
10:42 – Hashimoto’s Disease and Rheumatology
15:36 – The Importance of ANA Testing
22:33 – Managing Inflammation Through Lifestyle
27:19 – Avoiding Inflammatory Foods
28:15 – The Importance of Sleep
30:32 – Exercise and Joint Health
32:59 – Differentiating Joint Pain Causes
36:31 – Rheumatologic Symptoms and Diagnosis
47:10 – Impact of COVID on Autoimmune Disorders
49:39 – Conclusion and Contact Information

Let's connect! 🔔
Facebook - Consultants In Metabolism
Instagram - @danagibbsms
LinkedIn - Dana Gibbs MD
Tiktok - @dana.gibbs.md

✉️ Email Dr. Gibbs at [email protected] or visit https://www.danagibbsmd.com/ for more information.


Thank you so much for listening! Tune in on the next episode.


The medical information provided in this episode is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical questions or concerns.