Period Besties Podcast

Conquering Breast Cancer: Abby Anderson's Journey - Period Besties Podcast

Welcome to the Period Besties Podcast with Stasha and Katie. In today's episode, they welcome Abby Anderson, sharing her powerful and inspiring journey through a breast cancer diagnosis, treatment, and support. Abby discusses her experience from discovering her cancer, going through surgeries, and the importance of advocacy and support systems.

They highlight valuable resources, like the significance of getting mammograms and additional screenings, and the need for emotional and practical support for those battling cancer. Join Stasha, Katie, and Abby as they bring awareness and education for Breast Cancer Awareness Month and more.

Join us in Nourish & Flourish: Eating Well Through Perimenopause here: https://stasha.kartra.com/page/NourishFlourish

00:00 Welcome to the Period Besties Podcast

01:44 Introducing Today's Guest: Abby Anderson

02:18 Abby's Breast Cancer Journey Begins

04:34 Navigating the Medical System

06:53 Deciding on Surgery Options

10:35 Mental Health and Support Systems

14:46 Advocating for Early Detection

23:11 The Emotional Impact of Illness

28:46 Deep Flap Surgery vs. Implants

30:01 The Reconstruction Journey

31:20 Living with Post-Surgery Challenges

32:09 Mental and Emotional Resilience

34:38 Support Systems and Resources

36:20 Community and Advocacy

37:58 Unexpected Acts of Kindness

46:19 Facing Life After Cancer

47:56 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

50:22 Closing Remarks and Gratitude

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HRT vs MHT Myths Debunked: Menopause Hormone Therapy Options, Vaginal Estrogen, Pellets vs Injections + WHI Updates | Period Coach Summit Panel

Our second panel from the week of Period Besties Podcast Live & Unfiltered!

For more about our speakers head here: https://ThePeriodCoach.com/Live2026

In this Period Besties Podcast Live panel, the host introduces moderator Meredith Canaan and experts Dr. Carrie Jones and menopause coach Maria Claps for a discussion on hormone therapy terminology (HRT, HT, MHT, “HOT”), debunking myths fueled by the 2002 Women’s Health Initiative and media messaging about cancer risk. They outline why timing matters (including early menopause/POI), emphasize long-term health impacts (brain, bone, cardiometabolic health, cancer risk), and review therapy options beyond patches and capsules—pills, gels/creams, troches/RDTs, injections, and pellets—clarifying key differences, adjustability, and FDA/compounding considerations. They explain vaginal estrogen use for GSM/urinary symptoms and correct application to include urethral tissue, discuss testosterone access and safety, address side effects (progesterone sensitivity, dosing/route changes), shortages, and the importance of lifestyle foundations alongside hormones.

00:00 Welcome and Raffle

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Theme music composed, recorded, performed, engineered, mixed and mastered by Ted Wulfers 663 Sound

Join us for Nourish and Flourish Here: https://stasha.kartra.com/page/NourishFlourish

Breast Cancer Awareness, HRT Myths, and Women's Health with Dr. Carrie Jones

Welcome to the Period Besties Podcast with Stasha and Katie! In this episode, we dive deep into breast cancer awareness with the esteemed Dr. Carrie Jones. We discuss the rising rates of breast cancer diagnoses, the myths surrounding hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and the critical role of lifestyle and environment in women's health.

Dr. Jones sheds light on the importance of early screening, understanding genetic predispositions like the BRCA gene, and how proactive lifestyle changes can potentially reduce cancer risks. Tune in for an insightful conversation filled with practical tips, expert advice, and the latest research in women's health.

Get your labs list here: DrCarrieJones.com/labs

00:00 Welcome to the Period Besties Podcast

01:23 Introducing Dr. Carrie Jones

01:36 Breast Cancer Awareness and Hormones

02:41 Environmental Factors and Breast Cancer

04:59 Challenges in Breast Cancer Diagnosis

14:51 The Role of Hormones in Breast Cancer

26:39 Optimizing Medical Treatments with Menstrual Cycles

27:05 Insights from an OB GYN Surgeon

28:31 New Discoveries in Ovarian Research

30:47 The Role of Mitochondria in Ovarian Health

33:24 Importance of Regular Lab Work and Screenings

36:41 Breast Cancer Awareness and Imaging Techniques

41:01 Bone Density and Preventative Measures

48:05 Top Five Tips for Reducing Breast Cancer Risk

51:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Welcome to Period Besties Live & Unfiltered! Our first panel was Thin Doesn't Mean Thrive. 

For more about our speakers head here: https://ThePeriodCoach.com/Live2026

Heroin Chic Is Back: GLP-1s, BMI, Ovulation & What Real Women’s Health Looks Like | Period Besties Panel

In the first live Period Besties panel, hosts Stasha Washburn and Katie Bressack welcome moderator Holly Grigg-Spall and panelists Dr. Mariza Snyder, De'Nicea Hilton Harper, and Lou Lachman to discuss the return of “heroin chic,” the rise of GLP-1 medications, and why thinness is not the same as health. The conversation focuses on thriving through biomarkers, strength, bone density, nutrition, trauma and mental health, and quality of life, with critiques of BMI and how health standards vary across populations. They emphasize the menstrual cycle—especially ovulation—as a key marker of vitality, explore how rapid weight loss can affect periods, bones, muscle, libido, motivation, and reward signals, and share practical approaches for self-trust, safe conversations with kids, and embodied tools to interrupt harmful body-talk.

00:00 Welcome to the Panel

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Navigating Perimenopause: Insights, Challenges, and Triumphs with Christy | Period Besties Podcast

Join hosts Stasha and Katie on the Period Besties Podcast as they delve into a live coaching session with Christy, a 42-year-old navigating the complexities of perimenopause.

With over 20 years of collective experience in period coaching, Stasha and Katie provide practical tips, dismantle taboos, and offer holistic approaches to hormone health.

Christie shares her journey from experiencing irregular cycles and mood swings to advocating for her health through Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). This episode covers essential topics like tracking basal body temperature, managing stress, the impact of diet on hormone regulation, and navigating changes in one's body through perimenopause.

Tune in for an enlightening conversation filled with actionable insights for anyone experiencing or interested in understanding perimenopause. Don't miss out on the wisdom shared by Stasha, Katie, and their insightful guests.

00:00 Welcome to the Period Besties Podcast

01:21 Live Coaching Session with Christy

01:48 Christy's Hormone Journey

03:52 Navigating Perimenopause Symptoms

09:36 Seeking Medical Help and HRT

14:33 Managing Stress and Lifestyle Changes

24:51 Tracking Ovulation and Hormone Levels

29:46 Understanding Estrogen Withdrawal

30:48 Conflicting Information on HRT

31:37 Family History and HRT Benefits

33:10 Monitoring Health Indicators

33:54 Thyroid Health and Self-Advocacy

36:06 Alternative Approaches to Thyroid Issues

37:45 Tracking and Adjusting Health Strategies

42:42 Importance of Protein and Diet

44:27 Improving Sleep and Managing Stress

46:18 Balancing Work and Health

47:36 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

54:05 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Thanks

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Theme music composed, recorded, performed, engineered, mixed and mastered by Ted Wulfers 663 Sound

Live Panel Week Recap | Period Besties Podcast (Self-Sovereignty, Cycle Tracking & Period Coach Support)

Katie and Stasha recap their week of seven live panels, celebrating the high energy, deep audience questions, and supportive community that showed up in the chats with kindness and encouragement. They share relief that all panelists arrived on time, note they’ll announce the giveaway winner after decompressing, and encourage listeners to reach out for further support, including booking sessions, rather than doing it alone. They preview upcoming podcast episodes featuring audio from every panel (or immediate access via a VIP ticket), and tease key takeaways like self-sovereignty, trading the “busy badge” for a “lazy badge,” cultivating an “inner sloth,” comparing yourself cycle to cycle, and reminders about charting versus apps. They emphasize reconnecting with your body, taking what resonates, and leaving the rest without judgment.

VIP: https://stasha.kartra.com/page/Live2026VIP 

00:00 Live Panels Recap

01:00 Community Magic

03:21 Behind the Scenes Stress

05:17 Giveaway and Support

07:03 Best Panel Quotes

08:52 How to Listen

09:50 VIP and Next Steps

11:46 Wrap Up and Sponsors

Todays episode is sponsored by:

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Theme music composed, recorded, performed, engineered, mixed and mastered by Ted Wulfers 663 Sound

Transforming Healthcare with Natural Medicine | Period Besties Podcast

Welcome to the Period Besties Podcast with Stasha and Katie! In today's episode, we dive into a fascinating conversation with Sarah from Upper Health, a revolutionary healthcare system focused on natural and preventative medicine.

Sarah shares her incredible journey from personal training to creating a national hospital system that prioritizes holistic and natural approaches to healthcare. Learn how Upper Health is disrupting traditional medicine, the challenges they face, and their vision for the future.

Whether you're looking to avoid pharmaceuticals or consider becoming a period coach, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips to improve your health and happiness. Tune in now!

Founder and CEO of Upper

www.upper.health

@upper.health

Free 6 Month Membership to Upper: https://ontheupper.com/enrollment/

00:00 Introduction to Period Besties Podcast

01:19 Today's Guest: Sarah from Upper Health

04:35 Sarah's Journey into Natural Medicine

05:58 The Birth of Upper Health

23:35 Challenges and Pushbacks in Healthcare

27:49 Future Vision for Upper Health

28:38 Overcoming Payment and Convenience Barriers

29:34 Expanding Physical Presence and Integration

31:10 Target Audience and Enrollment Process

33:50 Alternative Solutions to Pharmaceutical Drugs

39:10 Personal Health and Wellness Practices

43:40 Lightning Round: Get to Know the Guest

51:12 Closing Remarks and Free Membership Offer

52:09 Sponsor Acknowledgements and Farewell

Todays episode is sponsored by:

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This week only! 

Katie and I have invited some of our favorite experts to our week of live panels and you can join us on the Zoom calls! Get the link here: https://ThePeriodCoach.com/live2026

Unlocking the Mystery of Period Poops | Period Besties Podcast Episode

Welcome to the Period Besties Podcast with Stasha and Katie! Join experienced period coaches as they dive into the world of menstrual coaching, offering practical tips and sharing their knowledge on everything from puberty to menopause.

In this episode, they discuss the phenomenon of 'period poops', answering a common question about the changes in bowel movements around menstruation. Discover the role of prostaglandins, the impact of diet on inflammation, and tips for tracking your body's signals. Tune in for valuable insights on managing your menstrual health and improving your overall well-being.

00:00 Welcome to the Period Besties Podcast

01:20 Diving into Period Poops

02:06 Understanding Prostaglandins and Their Effects

03:44 Personal Experiences and Tips

06:32 Managing Inflammation and Diet

08:06 Magnesium and Hydration Tips

10:42 Traveling and Digestion Challenges

12:26 Engaging with the Audience

13:05 Closing Remarks and Sponsor Shoutouts

Todays episode is sponsored by:

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Mira Hormone Testing Explained: Urine vs Bloodwork, Perimenopause Insights & Better Cycle Tracking | Period Besties

In this episode of the Period Besties Podcast, Stasha and Katie talk with Rose McKenzie, Clinical Manager at Mira, about at-home urine hormone testing and why frequent, cycle-long tracking can reveal patterns that single-point blood draws often miss.

Rose explains benefits of urine testing (ease, cost, daily measurement), why adoption can be slower in traditional medicine, and how Mira differs from other femtechs. They clarify serum hormones vs urinary metabolites, reference ranges, and common timing pitfalls like cycle day 21 and day 3 labs, emphasizing testing relative to ovulation.

The hosts share personal experiences using Mira in perimenopause and progesterone support, discuss clinician education and age-stratified reference ranges, and cover lifestyle “four pillars” (diet, sleep/light, stress tools, key supplements) plus Mira’s upcoming expansion to additional hormone measurement.

Rose is the Clinical Manager at Mira, where she helps healthcare providers integrate at-home hormone monitoring into their clinical workflow. With over 10 years of experience as a fertility-awareness instructor trained in both the Marquette Method and the Sympto-Thermal Method, she has supported women using hormone monitoring across a wide range of situations—including regular and irregular cycles, postpartum amenorrhea, chemo-induced menopause, and perimenopause. Rose equips clinicians and fertility-awareness educators with the knowledge and confidence to interpret hormone patterns and apply them effectively in patient care. Through webinars, case reports, and individualized support, she ensures that providers feel fully guided as they incorporate hormone data into their practice.

miracare.com

https://www.instagram.com/hellomiracare  https://www.facebook.com/mirafertility/ https://www.youtube.com/@hellomiracare  https://www.linkedin.com/company/miracare/  https://www.tiktok.com/@hellomiracare

20% Mira supplies using Katie or Stasha's public discount code: 2KATIEBRESSACK20 

2STASHAWASHBURN20

or click this link https://mira-fertility.pxf.io/qWgVGn

00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro

00:35 Urine vs Blood Testing

02:00 Why Doctors Lag Behind

05:48 Mira Mission and Users

06:58 What Makes Mira Different

10:10 Urine Metabolites Explained

12:31 Clinician Tools and Ranges

15:26 Personal Progesterone Story

18:14 Why Blood Tests Mislead

26:36 Tracking Symptoms and Patterns

28:34 Rose Background and Journey

32:17 Breast Cancer Client Story

32:50 Tracking After Chemo

33:29 Cycle Data Empowerment

35:03 Fixing Hormone Imbalances

36:47 How Hard Is It

39:20 Four Pillars Self Care

42:46 Future of Mira Tech

45:43 Testing Kits Wish List

47:00 How to Buy and Test

52:12 Lightning Round Fun

56:41 Wrap Up and Sponsors

Todays episode is sponsored by:

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Theme music composed, recorded, performed, engineered, mixed and mastered by Ted Wulfers 663 Sound