In this episode of the Fiat Health Podcast, Caroline and Ashlynn dive into the often-overlooked realities of postpartum recovery and nutrition. Drawing from both clinical and personal experience, they discuss the dramatic hormonal shifts that happen right after birth, share specific nutrition strategies to support healing, and how bloodwork can truly personalize your postpartum care. Whether you are a new mom, expecting your fifth baby, or would simply like to know how to help a mom in need, this episode provides practical tips and recommendations to help you feel less alone in the postpartum season.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment.

Key Takeaways:

1. Postpartum Recovery is Long - And That's Normal! - Healing physically, emotionally, and hormonally after birth takes many months and it's normal to feel "off" well beyond your six-week checkup. Remember to be gentle with yourself.
2. Hormonal Shifts Explain So Much of How You Feel - The sudden drop in estrogen and progesterone after delivery, combined with high prolactin during breastfeeding, can affect mood, sleep, libido, and emotional stability. Your postpartum symptoms have a real biological basis and are not "just in your head".
3. Protein-first Nutrition - During your postpartum season, your body has increased metabolic demands, especially when breastfeeding. Fueling your body with protein will help with blood sugar stability, mood, energy, and milk supply. We recommend protein-rich breakfasts, bone broth, and high-protein snacks.

Resources Mentioned:

Remedy Bone Broth

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

03:28 What Happens in the Body Postpartum

10:05 Postpartum Nutrition

18:31 Replacing Lost Minerals

24:05 Vitamins

To learn more visit fiathealth.org

Don't be a stranger! Reach out, ask a question, or suggest a topic for a future episode by emailing us at [email protected]

In this episode of the Fiat Health Podcast, Meg and Shawn dive into the deeply practical topic of the discernment of spirits! Based on St. Ignatius of Loyola's writings, they not only share how to recognize the voice of the Holy Spirit versus the voice of the enemy but also how experiences of consolation and desolation can help guide us within the discernment process. Using real-life examples and Scripture, Meg and Shawn explain why major decisions should be made in times of spiritual consolation—not desolation—and how to respond when we feel far away from God. This episode offers practical guidance for anyone longing to hear God more clearly and make decisions rooted in faith and freedom.

Do you have a prayer intention? Email us at [email protected]. We would love to pray for you!

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Two Spirits - St. Ignatius teaches that only two spirits are at work within us: the Holy Spirit and the enemy. Learning to recognize their distinct patterns, helps us understand which voice is leading our thoughts, emotions, and decisions.
2. Consolation vs Desolation - Spiritual consolation draws us closer to GOd through peace, hope, love, and clarity. Spiritual desolation pulls us away through darkness, agitation, and discouragement, making it essential to name what we are experiencing before acting.
3. Cultivating Receptivity - A life of prayer forms our hearts to recognize God's voice and respond with trust and obedience.

Resources Mentioned:

• Setting Captives Free by Fr. Timothy Gallegar
• Discerning Hearts Podcast

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

03:18 The Two Spirits: The Holy Spirit vs the Enemy

07:43 Non Spiritual Consolation and Desolation

10:00 Spiritual Consolation Defined

13:04 Spiritual Desolation and the Enemy's Tactics

16:41 When Should We Make Decisions?

21:04 Prayer, Scripture, and Hearing God's Voice

29:03 What does it Look like to Listen to God?

To learn more visit fiathealth.org

Don't be a stranger! Reach out, ask a question, or suggest a topic for a future episode by emailing us at [email protected]

In this episode of the Fiat Health Podcast, Ashlynn and Dr. Ed discuss the truth behind GLP-1 medications—one of the most talked-about topics in modern healthcare. Together they explore what GLP-1s are, how they work in the body, why they were originally developed, and if they can ever be used as a tool within integrative healthcare. Ashlynn and Dr. Ed also address common misconceptions, cultural debates, and why GLP-1s are not an all purpose quick fix for weight loss.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment.

Key Takeaways:

1. What are GLP-1 Medications? - GLP-1s are hormone-based medications originally developed for type 2 diabetes that help regulate blood sugar, insulin release, and digestion. They also slow gastric emptying and reduce "food noise" by calming reward pathways in the brain, which helps explain their impact on appetite, cravings, and weight loss.
2. GLP-1s are for More than just Weight Loss - Beyond weight loss, studies show GLP-1s can reduce all-cause mortality and major cardiovascular events, even in patients without diabetes. Emerging evidence also points to benefits for conditions like PCOS, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and certain addictive behaviors due to improved insulin sensitivity and effects on dopamine signaling.
3. GLP-1s as a Tool Within A Holistic Health Model - At Fiat Health, GLP-1s are viewed as a supportive tool, not a standalone solution or shortcut. Long-term success depends on pairing medication with lifestyle changes such as nutrition, movement, sleep, gut health support, and addressing root causes, all while honoring the body as a whole—mind, body, and soul.
4. Risks, Side Effects, and the Importance of Proper Use - Common side effects include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, constipation, or diarrhea, especially when dosing is increased too quickly. More serious but rare concerns—like pancreatitis, gallbladder disease, or muscle loss—highlight why these medications should be prescribed and monitored by experienced providers using slow, individualized dosing strategies.

To learn more visit fiathealth.org

Don't be a stranger! Reach out, ask a question, or suggest a topic for a future episode by emailing us at [email protected]

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

03:28 The Origin Story of GLP-1s

05:03 How GLP-1s Work in the Body

08:15 Medical Uses of GLP-1s

13:49 Emerging Uses

17:34 Risks, Side Effects, and Fiat's Integrative Approach

In this episode of the Fiat Health Podcast, Caroline welcomes Dr. Ed Glynn, Fiat's new Medical Director, and explores the journey that led him back to direct patient care! Dr. Ed shares his unique vocational path, from years in seminary to executive medical leadership, and his growing conviction that modern medicine has lost something essential: relationship, unity, and the ability to truly heal. Together, they reflect on how corporate, checklist-driven healthcare has contributed to patient and provider burnout, and why many are now seeking a more personalized, integrative approach. Dr. Ed explains his vision for healthcare that treats the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—through partnership rather than prescriptions or surgeries. Together, they offer a helpful glimpse into Fiat's healthcare model that's rooted in relationship, faith, and root-cause healing.

Dr. Ed is now accepting new adult patients! Give us a call at (629) 252-7880 to learn more.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment.

Key Takeaways:

1. Returning to the Heart of Healing - Modern healthcare has largely shifted from relationship-based care to checklist-driven systems that prioritize efficiency over connection. Dr. Ed shares how this shift pulled medicine away from its original vocation: walking with patients as whole persons. True healing requires time, presence, and partnership—not just protocols.
2. Integrative, Whole-Person Care Matters - Health cannot be reduced to lab values or prescriptions alone. Dr. Ed emphasizes the importance of addressing biological, psychological, social, and spiritual dimensions together. Integrative medicine invites personalized care that honors each person's unique story, relationships, and goals for health.
3. Partnership is the Future - Today's patients are more informed and desire collaboration rather than top-down directives. Dr. Ed highlights a growing hunger—for both patients and providers—to engage in meaningful dialogue and shared decision-making. This shift toward partnership, supported thoughtfully by technology, signals a hopeful transformation in the future of healthcare.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

02:58 From the Seminary to Medicine: Dr. Ed's Journey

06:53 Why Modern Healthcare is Failing Patients and Providers

14:31 Patients and Providers are Seeking Integrative Care for a Reason

22:17 Dr. Ed's Vision for the Future

To learn more visit fiathealth.org

Don't be a stranger! Reach out, ask a question, or suggest a topic for a future episode by emailing us at [email protected]

In this New Year's Eve episode of the Fiat Health Podcast, mental health counselors Lucy and Travis discuss the importance of reflecting on the past year, setting goals for the new year, all while learning to embrace the struggles and hopes that come with growth. Through metaphors, personal stories, and practical advice, they encourage you to approach the new year with realistic expectations, self-compassion for unmet goals of the past, and openness to God's presence.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment.

Key Takeaways:

1. Intentional Reflection: Lucy and Travis emphasize setting aside dedicated time for reflection, especially around the new year, to look back on the past year's events—both successes and difficulties—and to recognize areas of growth, blessings, and places where God was present.
2. Goal-Setting and Hope: Instead of strict resolutions, Lucy and Traivs encourage setting hopes, intentions, or areas of attention for the new year. They discuss the value of giving oneself permission to hope and to fail without shame, viewing growth as a gradual process.
3. Having Self-Compassion: Lucy and Travis discuss the importance of approaching reflection and intention-setting with gentleness and curiosity rather than urgency or perfectionism. They acknowledge the fear of failure and encourage listeners to accept their own journeys, recognizing the incremental nature of real change and the value of persistence.

Reflection Questions for 2025:

1. Where has the Lord walked with me this past year?
2. Where did I try to walk without the Lord?
3. How has my prayer life changed?
4. How has my trust in His plan changed?
5. What are three good things He brought into my life this past year?
6. How has He pursued my heart this past year?

Questions to Ponder for 2026:

1. What hopes do I have to share with the Lord?
2. How do I want to seek Him more fully?
3. How can I become more bold in my prayer?
4. Are there ways I want to put more effort into my prayer life?
5. Are there virtues I know I need to focus on pursuing?
6. How can I seek His mercy and love out more?

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

02:34 Practical Tips for Reflecting on the Past Year

07:06 Why Reflection Matters

14:18 Healthy vs Unhealthy Expectations for Change

16:03 A Balanced Approach to Making Resolutions

19:59 Dealing with the Fear of Failure

23:12 The Meaning of Hope and Responding to God's Love

To learn more visit fiathealth.org

Don't be a stranger! Reach out, ask a question, or suggest a topic for a future episode by emailing us at [email protected]

In this episode of the Fiat Health Podcast, Caroline and Ashlynn discuss the difference between inner and outer ear infections. They break down the different symptoms of each infection, what to expect when you come in for an appointment, and why they prefer to try alternative treatments before prescribing antibiotics. If you or your kids are experiencing recurrent ear infections, Caroline and Ashlynn also equip you with practical ways to prevent future infections and hopefully save yourself another trip to the clinic.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment.

Key Takeaways:

1. Types of Ear Infections – Not all ear infections are the same. Caroline and Ashlynn talk about infections of the outer ear (otitis externa or "swimmer's ear") and infections of the middle ear (otitis media). Outer ear infections are typically caused by bacteria from water entering and staying within the ear canal. Middle ear infections are a result of fluid pooling behind the eardrum, often after or during a viral illness.
2. Preventing Ear Infections – Supportive care such as nasal saline rinses, xylitol nasal spray, garlic mullein tincture (if no ruptured eardrum), lavender oil massages, red light therapy, and dietary changes (limiting dairy/gluten) can help reduce inflammation and aid drainage. These remedies aim to prevent progression to full ear infections and reduce antibiotic use.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

02:02 Outer vs Inner Ear Infections

08:03 Viral Illness or Bacterial Infection?

13:15 Ear Tubes and Ruptured Eardrums

16:20 Preventing Infections

22:37 Reducing Antibiotic Use

To learn more visit fiathealth.org

Don't be a stranger! Reach out, ask a question, or suggest a topic for a future episode by emailing us at [email protected]

Fiat Integrative Health recently hosted an Infertility and Infant Loss retreat and we wanted to share with you one of those talks. In this episode of the Fiat Health Podcast, Amanda and Madeline, family nurse practitioners and women's health specialists, have an in-depth discussion on integrative approaches to women's reproductive health. They explore some of the most common root causes of infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss, share practical steps you can take to prepare your body for conception, and answer questions submitted by the retreat attendees.

Amanda is accepting clients at the Fiat Health Clinic and Madeline is accepting new telehealth patients (in select states). If you'd like to schedule an appointment or find out more information, give us a call at 629-252-7880. We would love to journey with you.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment.

Key Takeaways:

1. Advances and Updates in Fertility Evaluation and Treatment: Amanda and Madeline share recent updates in their clinical practice, including the importance of monitoring Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), utilizing medications like low-dose naltrexone for autoimmunity and endometriosis, regular hormone level tracking during early pregnancy, and exploring the uterine microbiome as part of infertility and miscarriage workups.
2. Lifestyle, Diet, and Supplementation: Diet, supplements, and lifestyle modifications play an important role in supporting fertility and managing conditions like hypothalamic amenorrhea, low AMH, and endometriosis. Recommendations include anti-inflammatory diets (generally gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and low in sugar), moderate exercise routines, vitamin and DHEA supplementation, and sleep hygiene for both partners.
3. Comprehensive Diagnostic Approaches: Thorough diagnostics, including advanced cycle tracking, hormone monitoring, clotting and immune system evaluations, sperm DNA fragmentation testing, and specialist referrals (like reproductive immunologists and restorative reproductive surgeons) we can uncover and address underlying causes of infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

02:42 Hypothalamic Amenorrhea

06:22 Low AMH

11:29 PCOS

13:22 Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: Causes & Evaluation

17:33 Chronic Endometritis & Microbiome Testing

20:29 Ovulatory vs Anovulatory Cycles

23:19 Infertility Workups

26:54 Blocked Fallopian Tubes

31:25 Diet and Supplement Recommendations

35:01 NAPRO Technology

37:43 Thyroid Issues and Fertility

To learn more visit fiathealth.org

Don't be a stranger! Reach out, ask a question, or suggest a topic for a future episode by emailing us at [email protected]

In this episode of the Fiat Health Podcast, Caroline and Maddie discuss Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)—a medication originally for addiction that is now used for autoimmune, inflammatory, mental health, pain, and fertility conditions. They dive into the science behind how LDN modulates the immune system and how a low dose of this medication affects the body differently than high doses. Caroline and Maddie also share the benefits, possible side effects, and why they believe LDN can be part of a holistic approach to women's health.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment.

Key Takeaways:

1. Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) - Naltrexone is a medication originally developed for addiction treatment at high doses, but at low doses (usually below 4.5mg), it acts differently in the body—modulating the immune system, reducing inflammation, and increasing endorphin production without suppressing immunity.
2. LDN Uses - LDN is being increasingly used for a wide variety of conditions, particularly autoimmune and inflammatory disorders (such as Hashimoto's, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, psoriasis, Crohn's, ulcerative colitis), chronic pain (fibromyalgia, migraines), and women's health and fertility issues (PMS, endometriosis, PCOS, painful periods), as well as some mood and neurological conditions.
3. Side Effects - LDN is generally well tolerated, but common side effects can include sleep disturbances (difficulty sleeping, vivid dreams), mild GI upset, or headaches. Dosing is ramped up gradually and can be tailored based on individual response and tolerance to minimize potential side effects.

Resources:

LDN Research Trust

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

03:08 What is Low Dose Naltrexone? (LDN)

06:26 The Science Behind LDN

09:23 What Can LDN Treat

14:53 Dosing and Side Effects

19:22 Other Considerations

To learn more visit fiathealth.org

Don't be a stranger! Reach out, ask a question, or suggest a topic for a future episode by emailing us at [email protected]

In this episode of the Fiat Health Podcast, Caroline is joined by Suzanne, Fiat's office manager and her mother! Together they reflect on the challenges, joys, and leaps of faith needed to found Fiat Integrative Health. Caroline and Suzanne also talk about what they learned as the clinic continued to grow: the importance of cultivating a supportive staff culture, learning to match people's passions with different jobs, and the need to notice small details.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment.

Key Takeaways:

1. Starting Fiat Was a Family Effort: The clinic began after Caroline lost her job, and with the support of her parents—especially her mom, Suzanne—they built the practice from the ground up together. Their military family background played a big role in their resilience and teamwork.
2. A Unique Office and Patient Culture: Fiat Integrative Health was intentionally created to feel different from typical medical offices, prioritizing a warm, welcoming environment where patients and staff feel seen, heard, and valued.
3. The Importance of Working Geniuses and Complementary Strengths: Caroline and Suzanne paid close attention to individual strengths using the "Working Genius" model, which helped place staff in roles that align with their skills and energy. Caroline and Suzanne's complementary strengths (Caroline as the visionary and Suzanne in enablement and discernment) have been a key reason why they work well together, preventing conflict and promoting respect.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

01:15 The Origins of Fiat Integrative Health

08:54 Learning to Rely on Other's Complementary Strengths

11:21 Navigating A Mother-Daughter Work Relationship

17:13 The Evolution of Fiat's Office Culture

24:33 Having Support in A Leadership Position

To learn more visit fiathealth.org

Don't be a stranger! Reach out, ask a question, or suggest a topic for a future episode by emailing us at [email protected]

In this episode of the Fiat Health Podcast, Caroline welcomes Emily Thompson, a nurse midwife, to the Fiat team! Emily shares why she is passionate about women's health, her experience working for a pregnancy resource clinic, and how her faith has shaped her approach to medicine. They also discuss the limitations of conventional healthcare, how Fiat is different, and why a holistic and individualized approach to fertility is so important.

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Journey to Becoming a Nurse Midwife: Emily shared her education and career path that led her to being a Nurse Midwife at Fiat. She opened about how she discerned the right healthcare career for her through the lens of her faith.
2. Women's Unique Design: God intentionally designed women's bodies and souls. His blueprint can and should inspire our work in healthcare and pursuit of wholeness.
3. A Holistic Approach to Women's Health: Fiat's approach to women's health moves beyond symptom management (e.g., simply prescribing birth control) and strives to find the root-cause of an issue.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

03:47 Emily's Story: Becoming a Nurse Midwife

10:58 Respecting Human Dignity in Healthcare

14:54 Women's Health: Conventional vs Integrative

22:00 Cycle Charting and Education

To learn more visit fiathealth.org

Don't be a stranger! Reach out, ask a question, or suggest a topic for a future episode by emailing us at [email protected]