Confessions of a Freebird - Midlife, Divorce, Heal, and Date Differently with Somatic Experiencing, Empty Nest, Well-Being, Happiness

Have you ever wondered, “Why isn’t anyone fixing this problem?” Maybe it’s something in your community, your workplace, your government, or in your own life. You see a problem, but there’s no solution. When that happens what do you do? 

Assume someone smarter and more experienced is already solving the problem. Or maybe your fear steps in and says, “Who am I to solve this problem?”

But what if you are?

In this episode, I have the pleasure to chat with Marie Newman, a former Congresswoman, activist, and author, who has built solutions from scratch time and time again. Whether it was advocating for bullying prevention, fighting for LGBTQ+ rights, or stepping into a midlife career change, Marie has never waited for someone else to create the change—she’s built it from scratch! 

If you’ve ever wanted to make a difference, start a movement, or even go through a personal transformation, this episode is for you.

Your takeaways from this episode:

• Why it’s important to connect with the little voice inside that says, “Yes, this or no not that.”
• How to start a social movement when no one else is taking action.
• Overcoming imposter syndrome and how to take your first step.
• Why waiting for the “perfect” time to make a change might be holding you back.
• How Marie built a comprehensive bullying prevention program when no solutions existed.
• How the power of storytelling in advocacy can create real change NOW! 
• How to embrace self-discovery and trust yourself when stepping into something new.
• Why fighting for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion is more important than ever.
• How to take action in politics and activism, no matter what side of the aisle you are on.

Marie’s journey is proof that you don’t need permission to build something that matters. Listen now and get ready to build something amazing!

Much love,

Laurie

Free Guides

Click here for my FREE “Beginner’s Guide to Somatic Healing”

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Marie Newman 

https://www.marienewmanstudio.com/ 

Marie’s Upcoming Book: A Life Made from Scratch: Lessons from a Controversial Congresswoman, Mom, Philanthropist, and Activist (Releasing March 18, 2025)

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL, MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED THERAPIST IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WITH RESPECT TO ANY MEDICAL ISSUE OR PROBLEM.

If you've been feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed lately, you're not alone. I don’t know about you, but it feels like I've lived through three years' worth of challenges in just the first two months of this year. Even with ten years of energy work, coaching, therapy and somatic healing, overwhelm can still creep in. 

The good news is that I've developed a strong relationship with my body; I can recognize when I'm feeling off-kilter, and use the tools in my regulation toolbox to keep my nervous system in check.

In today’s solo episode, I explore somatic healing and its connection to nervous system regulation. Understanding this relationship will help you manage feelings of overwhelm, allowing you to reconnect with your sense of self and experience more freedom within your body. I also share practical tools to calm your mind, release tension, and strengthen the mind-body connection, making your nervous system more flexible.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• The science of overwhelm and it affects your nervous system.
• How to identify the physical, emotional, and mental signs of stress before burnout occurs.
• Somatic healing techniques to gently release tension and reconnect with your body, especially in response to the sensations that accompany overwhelm and stress.
• A simple mindset shift to prevent anxious thoughts from spiraling.
• The role of trauma healing methods and their relationship to nervous system regulation.
• How to build your own regulating toolbox for daily nervous system support.
• Seven powerful tips to enhance your mind-body connection and bring more peace into your life.

If you’ve been wondering how to alleviate feelings of overwhelm, pop in those earbuds and listen to the practical tips that will help you regulate your nervous system so you can navigate life with more ease and confidence.

Cheers to finding more freedom in your mind, body, and spirit!

Laurie

Free Guides

Click here for my FREE “Beginner’s Guide to Somatic Healing”

Click here for my FREE Core Values Exercise

Click here to schedule a FREE inquiry call with me.

Click here to purchase my book: Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting Go

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Referenced podcast: “We Can Do Hard Things” 

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL, MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED THERAPIST IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WITH RESPECT TO ANY MEDICAL ISSUE OR PROBLEM.

Navigating the complexities of divorce can take a toll on our well-being, but it also presents an opportunity for growth and self-discovery.

In this episode, Karen McMahon and I delve into these themes. Karen is a high-conflict divorce coach and strategist who shares her personal and raw divorce story, along with the powerful mindset shifts she has learned over the past 15 years. We discuss how to move through pain, heal from the past, and continue to refine your character to create a future you love.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to navigate the emotional rollercoaster of divorce and change your interactions with your ex
• Three neutral statements that will help you communicate more effectively with your difficult ex without giving in to them.  
• The importance of self-compassion and how to avoid judging yourself for your choices.
• Why boundaries are essential in a high-conflict divorce and how to set them effectively.
• Strategies for co-parenting with a difficult ex without becoming emotionally drained.
• Tips for healing your triggers to avoid repeating toxic patterns in future relationships.
• How to use her 3 A’s an opportunity to create a life that aligns with your true self

If you’re struggling with divorce, co-parenting, or healing from a toxic relationship, this conversation will provide you the tools and confidence to start moving forward.

Cheers to finding more freedom and joy! 

Laurie

Free Guides

Click here for my FREE “Beginner’s Guide to Somatic Healing”

Click here to sign up for Somatic Experiencing for Coaches and Healers.

Click here for my FREE Core Values Exercise

Click here to purchase my book: Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting Go

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Website

Connect with Karen:

Website

Free 1 Hour Rapid Relief Call

Instagram

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL, MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED THERAPIST IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WITH RESPECT TO ANY MEDICAL ISSUE OR PROBLEM.

Floating down a river serves as a beautiful metaphor for life. There are times when you need to be 'wild' and playful, willing to paddle when necessary, and wise when the river is calm, taking the time to listen to the messages that come your way. 

So, how do you learn to go with the flow of life when it feels uncertain and scary?

In this episode, I’m joined by a beloved-guide Heather Ash, best-selling author. We talk about her new book, Wild, Willing, and Wise: An Interactive Guide for When to Paddle, When to Rest, and When to Jump Naked into the River of Life. We have an insightful and heartfelt conversation about how to find balance in an often chaotic world and reconnect with your true self.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

• How to reframe failure, so it doesn’t keep you stuck. 
• How to cultivate more self-compassion on your journey.
• What HeatherAsh learned on her three week river trip down the Grand Canyon.
• Why 90% of people are deficient in ‘Wild’.
• How connecting to your wild, willing, and wise energy can help you tap into your inner wisdom.
• How to tune into your intuition and wise self.
• The importance of finding balance with your wild, willing, and wise. 

Stay with me until the end to hear Heather’s confession about how she navigates between her wild, willing, and wise self, which has given her the freedom to be true to herself!

Love,

Laurie

Free Guides

Click here for my FREE “Beginner’s Guide to Somatic Healing”

Click here to sign up for Somatic Experiencing for Coaches and Healers.

Click here for my FREE Core Values Exercise

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Click here to purchase my book: Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting Go

Sign up for my newsletter here to stay current on my upcoming offerings and podcast interviews!

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL, MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED THERAPIST IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WITH RESPECT TO ANY MEDICAL ISSUE OR PROBLEM.

Can I be real with you for a second? Healing isn’t always pretty. 

It’s messy, confusing, and sometimes it feels like you’re completely lost. I’ve been there, sobbing on my guest bed, wondering if I would ever find myself again after my marriage ended. And then you take one small step forward, then another. Sometimes you take two steps backward before you can take another step forward. 

This episode is all about healing, growth, and discovering who you really are so you can reclaim yourself one step at a time. One of those important steps is to stop abandoning yourself for others. 

My conversation with fellow adoptee, coach, therapist, Julie Brumley is rich and heartfelt. She shares her personal journey of overcoming trauma, healing from a painful divorce, and learning to truly belong to herself.

What you’ll learn:

• How paying attention to your body can help you stop abandoning yourself and feel more connected.
• The signs of self-abandonment and how to connect them with the sensations in your body. 
• The difference between ego and intuition, and how to trust your inner voice.
• How big life changes, like divorce, can open the door to new purpose and freedom.
• The importance of slowing down and how to feel more grounded. 

If you’re looking for inspiration or practical ways to heal and grow in the new year, this episode is for you. 

Tune in and let’s grow together! 

Love,

Laurie

Free Guides

Click here for my FREE “Beginner’s Guide to Somatic Healing”

Click here for my FREE Core Values Exercise

Click here to give podcast feedback

Click here to purchase my book: Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting Go

Sign up for my newsletter here to stay current on my upcoming offerings and podcast interviews!

Website

Connect with Julie Brumley:
https://cominghometoself.co/
https://www.instagram.com/juliebrumley
https://www.facebook.com/julierasbrum

LA Fire Resources
Ways to help through Donations:
American Red Cross
California Fire Foundation
Center for Disaster Philanthropy Wildfires Recovery Fund

Ways to help through Volunteering
In person volunteer google doc

A Resource Guide if you’ve been displaced by the fires. 

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL, MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED THERAPIST IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WITH RESPECT TO ANY MEDICAL ISSUE OR PROBLEM.

Welcome to the first episode of 2025, Freebirds! 

This episode is a MUST-listen for every woman! 

I’m joined by Ali Brady, a Functional Nutritionist and the founder of Project Menopause. Together, we dive deep into what it means to thrive during perimenopause and the menopause transition. Our candid conversation is a game-changer, designed to educate and empower you as you navigate this important stage of life.

You’ll learn:

• The surprising connection between menopause and your rising cholesterol levels.  
• How functional lab testing can be a better predictor of your overall health.
• The truth about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and menopause replacement therapy (MRT).
• The gaslighting in women's health and why a one-size-fits-all solution doesn’t work.
• Why every woman over 50 MUST get a cardiovascular work-up at 50.
• The sneaky symptoms of menopause that you might be missing.
• Common misconceptions about perimenopause and menopause.
• The protective role estrogen plays in our bodies.
• Essential dietary changes to boost your energy, support your muscles, and manage stubborn weight as we age.
• The role progesterone plays in our mental health.

Join me to empower yourself, take charge of your health, and start the year off right!

Love,

Laurie

These guides will help you take the next step in life. 

Click here to sign up for my “Tune Into Your 2025 Vision” on January 18th.

Click here for my FREE “Somatic Healing for Beginners Guide”

Click here for my FREE Core Values Exercise

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Click here to purchase my book: Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting Go

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Connect with Ali Brady:

Website

Instagram

Facebook

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL, MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED THERAPIST IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WITH RESPECT TO ANY MEDICAL ISSUE OR PROBLEM.

This time of year, the media feeds us the message that we should be relaxed, feel connected to others, and experience joy, but our relationships are complex. Trying to “do it all,” that can leave us feeling exhausted, angry, and resentful. When we take on the roles of planning, shopping, hosting, and managing everyone’s emotions, it’s so easy to put yourself last. I’ve experienced this many times, and it’s not always pretty. 

In this episode, I’ll share a recent “aha” moment that reminded me why taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential. 

You’ll learn:

• A simple mindset shift that can change how you show up for yourself and others.
• The sneaky ways stress may manifest in your body (and how to recognize it before it overwhelms you).
• A 4-step process to manage those overwhelming emotions so you can acknowledge them—without letting them take control.

If you’ve been feeling the pressure of holiday overwhelm, this short episode invites you to slow down, even if it’s just for five minutes to turn inward and process what you might be experiencing in order to manage the holidays and find a little joy in them. 

I’m keeping it real, and simple, and sharing practical somatic tools you can use right now. Trust me Freebirds-taking care of yourself is the best gift you can give to the people you love.

Love,

Laurie

These guides will help you take the next step in life. 

Click here to sign up for my “Tune Into Your 2025 Vision” on January 18th.

Click here to learn about my December’s “Somatic Healing” class - RECOVER

Click here for my FREE “Somatic Healing for Beginners Guide”

Click here for my FREE Core Values Exercise

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Click here to purchase my book: Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting Go

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL, MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED THERAPIST IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WITH RESPECT TO ANY MEDICAL ISSUE OR PROBLEM.

I recently celebrated my big 60th and have been reflecting on the past decade. I've experienced significant growth in the last ten years, made a few big life transitions and I've learned a few life lessons along the way that I’ll share with you. My 50s were filled with raising four teenagers, caring for my elderly parents, navigating a divorce, writing a book, becoming a certified coach and somatic healer, and starting this podcast. I experienced so much personal growth and transformation that I never imagined was possible when I turned 50.

Today, I want to share three powerful lessons that helped me grow, embrace authenticity, and find more joy, freedom in life and I think they can help you too.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• How to stop compromising who you are to fit in, so you can start living a more authentic life.
• How to tend and regulate your nervous system daily in today's fast-paced, overstimulating world.
• Why yoga, meditation, and breathwork are the gateway practices to somatic practices and more embodiment.
• Three somatic practices that you can incorporate into your daily life to regulate your nervous system. 
• How not giving my loved ones unsolicited advice has changed my relationship with them and what an alternative suggestion is instead.

I’ll also touch on the importance of nurturing creativity, finding joy in the little things, and letting go of what’s out of your control. No matter where you are in life this episode is full of practical tips and inspiration to help you grow and thrive.

Cheers to finding more freedom and joy, 

Laurie

These guides will help you take the next step in life. 

Click here to sign up for my “Tune Into Your 2025 Vision” on January 18th.

Click here to learn about my December’s “Somatic Healing” class - RECOVER

Click here for my FREE “Somatic Healing for Beginners Guide”

Click here for my FREE Core Values Exercise

Click here to give podcast feedback

Click here to purchase my book: Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting Go

Sign up for my newsletter here to stay current on my upcoming offerings and podcast interviews!

Website

Please leave me feedback. I cannot respond so if you'd like me to respond, please leave your email

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL, MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED THERAPIST IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WITH RESPECT TO ANY MEDICAL ISSUE OR PROBLEM.

Navigating life’s twists and turns can be challenging, but one constant remains: our internal guidance or intuition. That inner voice nudges us during quiet moments and has the power to transform our lives if we are willing to listen.

In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Julie Reisler, master coach, intuitive guide, and founder of the Intuitive Life Designer Coach Academy. Julie is one of my mentors and has played a significant role in helping me become the coach I am today.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• How to distinguish the difference between intuition and fear (and how to know the difference.)  
• Practical tools for connecting with your inner guidance, such as pendulums and body awareness.
• What spiritual bypassing is and how to identify when you are engaging in it.
• How to change your level of consciousness and develop a different way of being. 
• Ways to cultivate more loving kindness towards ourselves when we start comparing ourselves to others.
• Strategies for managing uncertainty and not questioning what’s next when everything feels unclear. 
• A tip to help you navigate the holidays with more love and less stress.

If you are ready to tune into your spiritual messages so you can embrace your next chapter or simply feel more connected to yourself, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice.

And don’t forget to wait for Julie’s confession at the end - It brings us full circle!

With love,

Laurie

These guides will help you take the next step in life. 

Click here to sign-up for my local in-person vision board workshop. 

Click here to fill out my podcast feedback form

Click here for my FREE “Somatic Healing for Beginners Guide”

Click here for my FREE Core Values Exercise

Click here to purchase my book: Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting Go

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About Julie:

Julie’s website

Julie’s upcoming Intuitive Life Designer Coach Academy Certification

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL, MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED THERAPIST IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WITH RESPECT TO ANY MEDICAL ISSUE OR PROBLEM.

This week, I want to take a moment to share a little holiday gratitude, life reflection, and yes—a touch of bad humor to brighten your day. As we dive into the season of giving, I’ve got a simple yet powerful challenge for you that will shift your perspective and bring more joy to your holidays. 

Additionally, I’m sharing updates on recent episodes you won’t want to miss and I’m eager to hear your thoughts as I plan for the upcoming year. Whether you’re dealing with holiday stress, processing grief, or just seeking a moment to turn inward, this short episode is here to inspire and uplift you. 

So tune in, reflect, and perhaps even use my bad jokes at dinner!

Happy Thanksgiving,

Laurie

These guides will help you take the next step in life. 

Click here to take my podcast survey

Click here for my FREE “Somatic Healing for Beginners Guide”

Click here for my FREE Core Values Exercise

Click here to purchase my book: Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting Go

Sign up for my newsletter here to stay current on my upcoming offerings and podcast interviews!

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Please leave me feedback. I cannot respond so if you'd like me to respond, please leave your email

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DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL, MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED THERAPIST IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WITH RESPECT TO ANY MEDICAL ISSUE OR PROBLEM.