For decades, women have been told that hormone replacement therapy causes breast cancer, but where did that message come from, and is it the full story? In this episode, Mary Alice Haney is joined by former SheMD executive producer and award-winning storyteller, Ami Armstrong, to unpack the Women's Health Initiative, the landmark study that changed the course of menopause care for an entire generation. Together, they explore how one of the largest women's health studies ever conducted became one of the most misunderstood, and why many experts are working to correct the narrative today.

Mary Alice and Ami break down the difference between relative and absolute risk, discuss how media headlines fueled decades of fear around hormone therapy, and explain what today's research says about menopause treatment. They also examine why women have historically been left out of medical research, the importance of personalized healthcare, and how understanding your own risks can empower you to make informed decisions alongside your doctor.

Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PCOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women’s health and well-being.

Sponsors

K'chava: Treat yourself to a childhood favorite. Go to kachava.com and use code SheMD for 15% off your first order.

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What You’ll Learn

• Why the Women's Health Initiative became one of the most influential and controversial studies in women's health.
• The difference between relative risk and absolute risk, and why that distinction matters.
• How media coverage dramatically changed public perception of hormone replacement therapy.
• Why today's menopause hormone therapy differs from what was studied in the original trial.
• How women were historically excluded from clinical research and how that affected medical care.
• What current evidence says about the timing of hormone therapy and menopause treatment.
• Why understanding your personal health risks leads to better conversations with your doctor.

Key Timestamps

00:00 Welcome Ami Armstrong

02:57 Ami's own HRT journey & why she made this series

05:04 The idea behind "It's Not a Purse" (Magritte inspiration)

07:43 "Feminine Forever" and the history of estrogen marketing

09:02 Why Ami dug into the Women's Health Initiative

11:48 Getting women into clinical trials: the 1990s shift

18:43 Placebo, estrogen-only & estrogen+progestin arms

20:15 What hormones were actually used in the WHI

22:04 The timing hypothesis explained

23:14 Inside the July 2002 press conference decision

24:53 Breaking down the breast cancer numbers (absolute vs. relative risk)

27:06 Why the trial was stopped early & the estrogen-only results

32:07 HRT use plummets & what hot flashes really mean

35:42 The researchers who fought back

42:32 Individualized risk & questioning the headlines

Key Takeaways

• The Women's Health Initiative began as an ambitious effort to better understand disease prevention in postmenopausal women but became defined by a controversial 2002 announcement that dramatically changed hormone therapy use.
• Headlines focused on relative risk increases without explaining the much smaller absolute risk, creating lasting public fear around HRT.
• The hormone formulations used in the original study are different from many of today's commonly prescribed bioidentical therapies.
• Experts now recognize that the timing of hormone therapy initiation plays an important role in determining benefits and risks.
• Women have historically been underrepresented in clinical research, leading to gaps in medical knowledge that continue to impact healthcare today.
• Every woman's health decisions should be individualized, based on current evidence, personal risk factors, and informed conversations with qualified healthcare providers, not fear-driven headlines.

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Most of us think we're hydrated because we're drinking plenty of water, but wellness expert Kristen Coffield says that's only part of the story. In this episode of SHE MD, Kristen shares why hydration is the foundation for nearly every aspect of your health, from better sleep and more energy to reduced inflammation, improved metabolism, and healthier aging. After navigating thyroid cancer while caring for both of her aging parents, Kristen rebuilt her health one simple habit at a time and now helps women do the same through her Resilient Wellness approach.

Kristen and Mary Alice dive into practical, science backed strategies you can start today, including how to hydrate properly with electrolytes, why water alone isn't always enough, the foods that support long term wellness, and how to build sustainable habits instead of chasing diets. They also discuss strength training, sleep, inflammation, active aging, and why it's never too late to invest in your health. Whether you're in your 30s, navigating midlife, or planning for healthy aging, this conversation is full of simple, actionable takeaways that can help you feel your best for years to come.

Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PMOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women’s health and well-being.

Sponsors

Prolon: Visit ProlonLife.com/SheMD to claim your 15% discount and your bonus gift.

OLLY: You can find OLLY Precise Probiotics with skin, stress, or metabolism support at a Walmart near you.

Alaya: Visit www.alaynaturals.com/shemd and enter code SheMD at checkout for 20% off your order.

Blueland: If you're looking to make a small change in your routine, you can get fifteen percent off your first order at blueland.com/shemd.

What You’ll Learn

• Why drinking more water doesn't always mean you're hydrated
• How electrolytes help your body absorb water properly
• A simple morning hydration routine that supports energy and focus
• The connection between hydration, inflammation, sleep, and brain fog
• Why small daily habits create lasting health changes
• How to eat for better energy instead of dieting
• The importance of fiber, protein, and healthy fats as you age
• How to build strength and mobility for healthy aging and active grandparenting

Key Timestamps

00:00 Why Water Is The Most Powerful Supplement You're Ignoring

00:55 Meet Kristen Coffield, Wellness Expert And Hydration Advocate

02:04 How A Personal Tsunami Led To A Health Transformation

03:32 Why Hydration Is The Foundation Of Every Wellness Goal

05:31 How To Actually Hydrate The Right Way

07:09 Why You're Drinking Water But Still Feel Thirsty

08:55 The Best Electrolytes And How To Use Them

09:51 The Morning Lemon Water Ritual That Changes Everything

10:23 Why You Should Wait 90 Minutes Before Your First Coffee

11:36 How Much Water You Actually Need Every Day

16:14 How Kristen Coffield Rebuilt Her Health After Thyroid Cancer

21:45 How Hydration Helps You Fight Inflammation

24:00 Why Food Has Changed More In 60 Years Than All Of Human History

27:18 The Easiest Way To Add More Fiber To Your Diet

28:29 Five Simple Things To Do In Your Kitchen For Better Health

33:04 How To Eat For Energy Throughout The Day

34:09 The Sleep Habits And Supplements That Actually Work

37:03 Why Active Grandparenting Will Change How You Age

40:55 The Functional Movements Every Woman Needs To Start Now

48:54 How Hydration And Hormones Are More Connected Than You Think

Key Takeaways

• Hydration is the foundation of nearly every health goal, including better sleep, muscle function, energy, and food choices.
• Water alone isn't always enough. Electrolytes help move water into your cells where it's needed most.
• Consistency matters more than drinking huge amounts of water all at once. Small amounts throughout the day are more effective.
• Chronic stress and inflammation can quietly undermine your health, making simple daily wellness practices even more important.
• Rather than following restrictive diets, focus on eating a wider variety of whole foods rich in fiber, healthy fats, and protein.
• Creating supportive environments, like stocking your kitchen with nutritious foods, makes healthy choices easier.
• Strength training, mobility work, and functional movement become increasingly important beginning in your 30s and help preserve independence as you age.
• Healthy aging starts long before retirement by building sustainable habits one step at a time.

Guest Bio: Kristen Coffield

Kristen Coffield is a wellness expert, former chef, author of How Healthy People Eat, and founder of The Culinary Cure. After navigating thyroid cancer while caring for both of her aging parents, she developed her Resilient Wellness framework to help women rebuild their health through simple, sustainable daily habits. She is also the creator of the Active Grandparenting Movement, inspiring people to build the strength, mobility, and vitality needed to thrive through every stage of life.

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Award winning journalist, Amy Robach, joins SHE MD to share the powerful story behind her breast cancer diagnosis, from discovering her cancer during a routine mammogram on live television to navigating the emotional and physical challenges that followed. Amy opens up about the shock of hearing the words “you have cancer,” the decisions she faced throughout treatment, and how her experience transformed the way she approaches her health and advocacy.

Together, Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi and Mary Alice Haney dive into the importance of understanding your personal breast cancer risk, why family history is only one part of the equation, and how advancements in screening and prevention can help women take a more proactive role in their health. Amy shares why she believes early detection saved her life and why every woman should feel empowered to ask questions, know their body, and advocate for the care they deserve.

In this episode, Amy, Dr. Aliabadi, and Mary Alice discuss breast cancer awareness, mammogram recommendations, genetic risk factors, the emotional journey of diagnosis, and the importance of becoming your own strongest health advocate.

Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PMOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women’s health and well-being.

Sponsors

Novartis: For more information, visit BreastCancerUnscripted.com

What You’ll Learn

• How Amy Robach's live TV mammogram led to an unexpected breast cancer diagnosis
• Why most women diagnosed with breast cancer do not have a family history
• The importance of understanding your personal lifetime breast cancer risk
• How breast density influences screening recommendations
• When women may need screening earlier than age 40
• The role of genetic testing in identifying inherited cancer risk
• How early detection can improve treatment options and outcomes
• The emotional and mental health challenges that continue long after diagnosis

Key Timestamps

00:00 How A Live TV Mammogram Saved Amy Robach's Life

01:45 Amy Robach Opens Up About Her Breast Cancer Diagnosis

02:01 Why Amy Never Thought Cancer Could Happen To Her

03:54 What Robin Roberts Said That Changed Everything

05:47 The Moment Amy Found Out Her Results Were Suspicious

07:44 Why Amy Waited 30 Days To Go Back For More Imaging

08:47 The Lump She Never Felt And The Biopsy That Followed

09:01 Hearing The Words Your Cancer Is Malignant

12:13 The Second Tumor Nobody Expected To Find

15:01 How Breast Cancer Affected Her Plans To Have Children

16:10 Why Early Detection Is The Most Powerful Tool Women Have

17:03 The Biggest Misconceptions Women Have About Breast Cancer

18:06 How A Cancer Diagnosis Changes You Forever

20:37 Why Women Feel Alone After A Breast Cancer Diagnosis

23:06 Understanding Your Oncotype Score And Risk Of Recurrence

25:42 Why Sharing Your Story Can Save Someone Else's Life

28:34 Life After A Double Mastectomy, The New Normal

29:15 How Breast Cancer Made Amy A Stronger Version Of Herself

Key Takeaways

• Breast cancer can affect women with no family history or known genetic mutation.
• Knowing your personal risk is just as important as following age based screening guidelines.
• Dense breast tissue can increase breast cancer risk and may require additional imaging.
• Early detection offers more treatment options and can improve outcomes.
• Genetic testing may be appropriate for women with a family history of breast, ovarian, or pancreatic cancer.
• Sharing personal stories can empower more women to prioritize screening and advocate for their health.

Guest Bio: Amy Robach

Amy Robach is an Emmy Award winning journalist, bestselling author, and longtime television anchor known for her work on Good Morning America, 20/20, and the Today Show. In 2013, while undergoing a mammogram on live television to encourage women to get screened, she was diagnosed with stage II breast cancer. Since then, Amy has become a passionate advocate for breast cancer awareness, early detection, and patient education. Through her storytelling and advocacy, including her work with the Breast Cancer Unscripted campaign, she continues to empower women to understand their risk, prioritize screening, and find strength through community.

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Travel can leave you feeling exhausted, bloated, stiff, and completely out of sync, but it doesn't have to. In this episode of SHE MD, Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi and Mary Alice Haney are joined by nutrition expert Sarah Wragge and Pilates instructor Kadee Sweeney to share their favorite science-backed strategies for preventing jet lag and helping your body recover after a long flight.

From what to eat (and what to avoid) before boarding to hydration, sleep, digestion, movement, and simple exercises you can do on the plane or after you land, this conversation is packed with practical tips you can use on your next trip. Whether you're traveling across the country or around the world, these expert recommendations can help you feel energized, reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and get back to feeling like yourself faster.

Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PMOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women’s health and well-being.

Sponsors

Pure Encapsulations: Digestive Enzymes Ultra

Sera: To learn more you can visit PreTRM.com (new line)Talk with your provider about whether the PreTRM Test might be right for you.

Midi Health: Book your first virtual visit today at joinmidi.com.

Talkiatry: Head to talkiatry.com/shemd to complete the short assessment and get matched with an in-network psychiatrist in just a few minutes.

Gusto: Try Gusto today at gusto.com/shemd and get three months free when you run your first payroll. 

OLLY: You can find OLLY Precise Probiotics with skin, stress, or metabolism support at a Walmart near you.

Figs: Right now, you can get 15% off your first order at wearfigs.com with code FigsRx.

What You’ll Learn

• Why eating and drinking on airplanes can leave you feeling bloated, inflamed, and fatigued
• How hydration, protein, fiber, and nutrition choices can help prevent jet lag
• The best foods to eat before and after a long flight
• How movement, posture, and Pilates-inspired exercises can relieve travel-related back pain
• Why sitting for long periods can impact circulation and increase blood clot risk
• How morning sunlight and movement can help reset your circadian rhythm
• Simple exercises and stretches you can do on a plane or when you arrive at your destination
• Tips for improving digestion, sleep, and recovery while traveling
• How to build healthy travel habits that support your body before, during, and after your trip

Key Timestamps

00:00 The Jet Lag Episode Every Traveler Needs To Watch

00:54 Meet The Experts, Sarah Wragge And Katie Sweeney

01:36 Why What You Eat Before Your Flight Changes Everything

02:53 The Number One Rule For Eating On A Plane

05:46 What To Eat And Drink The Moment You Land

07:04 How To Prevent Blood Clots On Long Flights

08:22 The Best Supplements To Take When You Travel

10:10 The Truth About Fiber Supplements Nobody Tells You

12:00 Sarah Wragge's Top 3 Jet Lag Nutrition Tips

19:29 Why Spinal Alignment Is Everything During Travel

21:04 Why Stretching Your Low Back Can Actually Make It Worse

25:34 Breathing Techniques That Reset Your Body Mid Flight

28:18 The Simple Glute Exercise You Can Do In Your Seat

29:53 The Exact Workout That Cured Jet Lag After Landing

35:02 Vibration Plates Trampolines And Lymphatic Drainage

38:55 The First Thing To Do When You Check Into Your Hotel

40:00 This Will Change How You Travel Forever

Key Takeaways

• Stay hydrated before, during, and after your flight to reduce dehydration, fatigue, and digestive issues.
• Eat a balanced meal before flying and consider skipping airplane meals to help minimize bloating and discomfort.
• Prioritize protein, vegetables, and fiber to support stable energy levels and healthy digestion while traveling.
• Get up and move frequently during long flights to improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and lower the risk of blood clots.
• Maintain good posture and spinal alignment while sitting to help prevent back and hip pain.
• Reset your body after landing with morning sunlight, gentle movement, and mobility exercises to adjust to a new time zone.
• If you're taking hormone replacement therapy, discuss travel timing with your healthcare provider, as adjusting medication timing may help with sleep and recovery.
• Small, consistent habits before, during, and after travel can make a significant difference in how you feel when you arrive.
• Choose movement that restores your body, not just intense exercise, to reduce stress and support long-term wellness.

Guest Bio: Sarah Wragge 

Sarah Wragge is a certified nutrition coach and wellness expert specializing in sustainable nutrition, metabolic health, and lifestyle habits that help women feel their best. Through her coaching programs, she helps clients build realistic, long-term strategies for healthy eating, blood sugar balance, and overall wellness without restrictive dieting. Sarah is passionate about making healthy living practical and approachable, empowering women to improve their energy, digestion, and confidence through simple daily habits.

Guest Bio: Kadee Sweeney

Kadee Sweeney is a Pilates instructor, movement specialist, and founder of Kadee Fit. Known for her restorative approach to fitness, Kadee works with clients ranging from everyday women to high-profile celebrities, helping them build strength, improve posture, increase mobility, and move without pain. Her philosophy centers on aligning the body, supporting the nervous system, and creating workouts that leave people feeling stronger, healthier, and more energized. Through both in-person and online classes, Kadee is dedicated to helping women move with confidence at every stage of life.

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In this episode of SHE MD, Dr. Thais Aliabadi and Mary Alice Haney welcome board-certified pediatrician, parenting educator, and PedsDocTalk founder Dr. Mona Amin for a conversation about the childhood habits that shape lifelong health.

Dr. Mona explains why longevity starts much earlier than most people think, and how sleep, nutrition, movement, emotional regulation, and self-worth can influence a child's future wellbeing. She also shares practical, evidence-based guidance on some of today's biggest parenting questions, including breastfeeding versus formula, sleep training, childhood vaccinations, screen time, fevers, probiotics, childhood obesity, and the role of GLP-1 medications.

Whether you're raising a newborn, toddler, or teenager, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help parents build healthier habits, stronger relationships, and a foundation for lifelong physical and emotional health.

Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PMOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women’s health and well-being.

What You’ll Learn

• Why lifelong health and longevity begin during childhood
• The four foundational pillars every family should prioritize
• Why sleep may be the single most important health habit children develop
• Healthy sleep routines and approaches to sleep training
• The science behind breastfeeding versus formula feeding
• How parental mental health influences child development
• Evidence-based guidance on childhood vaccinations
• What parents should know about measles and vaccine misinformation
• When GLP-1 medications may be appropriate for childhood obesity
• Why connection creates better behavior than punishment
• Common parenting myths Dr. Mona debunks
• Five habits that help children thrive throughout life

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to SheMD

2:27 Meet Pediatrician Dr. Mona Amin

4:14 Why Longevity Starts in Childhood

9:10 The #1 Habit for Lifelong Health: Sleep

12:12 Sleep Training: What Actually Works?

14:18 Common Sleep Mistakes Parents Make

21:37 Breastfeeding vs. Formula: Does It Matter?

26:22 Eating Dirt, Germs & Building Immunity

28:58 Dr. Mona Amin on Childhood Vaccines

35:41 The Truth About Alternative Vaccine Schedules

41:07 Should Children Use GLP-1 Weight Loss Medications?

45:22 Teaching Kids Emotional Regulation

51:53 Fevers: When Should Parents Worry?

54:58 Antibiotics & Probiotics for Kids

57:21 Rapid-Fire Parenting Questions

1:03:33 Where To Find Dr. Mona Amin

Key Takeaways

• Prevention starts long before adulthood.
• Healthy sleep is one of the greatest investments in lifelong health.
• Children learn values by watching their parents.
• Emotional regulation is a skill that must be modeled and practiced.
• Parenting with warmth and clear boundaries produces the healthiest outcomes.
• Formula-fed and breastfed children can both thrive when their caregivers are supported.
• Vaccines remain one of the most effective tools for preventing serious childhood illness.
• GLP-1 medications can be valuable for children with obesity when combined with lifestyle interventions.
• Connection, curiosity, and collaboration are more effective than punishment.

Guest Bio: Dr. Mona

Dr. Mona Amin is a board-certified pediatrician, parenting educator, and the founder of PedsDocTalk, one of the world's leading evidence-based parenting platforms. Through her educational content, podcast, and social media community of more than 1.5 million parents, she helps families navigate childhood development, behavior, nutrition, sleep, illness, and emotional wellbeing with practical, science-backed guidance.

Known for translating complex medical information into approachable advice, Dr. Mona combines her clinical experience with compassionate parenting strategies that empower caregivers to raise healthy, emotionally resilient children. She is also the host of the PedsDocTalk Podcast and a trusted voice on childhood health and development.

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What does it actually mean to age well? In this episode of SHE MD, Mary Alice Haney sits down with former professional volleyball player, entrepreneur, and wellness advocate, Gabby Reece, for an honest conversation about strength, longevity, and redefining what healthy aging looks like. Gabby shares how her perspective on fitness has evolved over the years, why building muscle is one of the most important investments women can make, and how recovery has become just as essential as training itself.

Together, they discuss practical ways to build sustainable habits that support long-term health, from strength training and nutrition to sleep, stress management, hydration, and recovery. Gabby explains why having a meaningful "why" is the foundation of lasting lifestyle change, how to stop chasing perfection, and why focusing on small, consistent improvements often leads to the biggest results.

The conversation also explores menopause, body image, and the societal pressures women face as they age. Gabby opens up about learning to stop comparing herself to younger versions of herself, embracing the different strengths that come with every stage of life, and why she believes aging isn't about becoming invisible.

Whether you're in your 20s, navigating perimenopause, or looking for sustainable ways to feel your best at any age, this conversation offers an empowering perspective on what it truly means to build a healthy, fulfilling life.

Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PMOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women’s health and well-being.

Sponsors

Ka’chava: Go to https://kachava.com and use code SHEMD for 15% off your first order

Midi: Book your first virtual visit today at joinmidi.com

Babbel: Go to Babbel.com/SHEMD for up to 60% off

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Opill: Use code SHEMD for twenty five percent off your first month of Opill at Opill.com

David: Buy 4 cartons and get the 5th free when you go to davidprotein.com/SHEMD

What You’ll Learn

• Why strength training becomes increasingly important as women age
• How to create healthy habits that are sustainable for the long term
• Why recovery is just as important as exercise
• How nutrition changes throughout midlife and menopause
• The role of protein, hydration, and muscle maintenance in healthy aging
• How to develop an "athlete's mindset" for everyday life
• Why having a clear purpose makes healthy habits easier to maintain
• How to stop comparing yourself to your younger self
• The connection between mindset, self-talk, and long-term health
• Why community and accountability improve consistency
• Gabby Reece's daily fitness, recovery, and wellness routine
• How to redefine aging as a period of growth rather than decline

Key Timestamps

00:00 What Does It Actually Mean To Age Well

00:43 Meet Gabby Reece, Athlete, Entrepreneur And Wellness Advocate

03:35 Why Building Muscle Is The Best Investment Women Can Make

07:36 What The Athlete Mindset Really Means

10:47 The First Steps Anyone Can Take To Get Stronger

15:01 What Gabby Reece's Weekly Workout Really Looks Like

16:32 Why Recovery Is More Important Than The Workout

20:59 Cold Plunge Sauna And The Truth About Cold Exposure

27:07 Why Sunlight Is The Most Underrated Health Tool

30:15 How Laird Superfood Started In Their Kitchen

33:05 How Aging Has Changed Her Training And Nutrition

36:05 Why Carbs And Protein Matter More In Midlife

44:44 How Perimenopause Changed Her Recovery

45:36 The Non-Negotiables In Gabby Reece's Daily Routine

48:39 What Every Woman Should Know About Healthy Aging

51:04 Why Feeling Invisible After 50 Is A Myth

53:22 Reframing Aging In A Culture Obsessed With Youth

57:47 Final Words Of Wisdom From Gabby Reece

Key Takeaways

• Building and maintaining muscle supports mobility, metabolic health, and independence as women age.
• Consistency with simple daily habits is more effective than chasing quick fixes.
• Recovery, including sleep, stress management, and rest, is essential for long-term health.
• Healthy aging begins with identifying meaningful personal motivations rather than relying on appearance alone.
• Nutrition should prioritize high-quality protein, hydration, and whole foods while remaining flexible and sustainable.
• Mindset plays a critical role in physical health, resilience, and overall well-being.
• Aging brings new opportunities for purpose, leadership, and confidence, not invisibility.
• Strong relationships, community, and lifelong curiosity contribute to healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Guest Bio: Gabby Reece

Gabby Reece is a former professional beach volleyball player, New York Times bestselling author, entrepreneur, podcast host, and leading voice in health and wellness. After becoming one of the most recognizable athletes of the 1990s, she built a career centered on helping people optimize their health through movement, nutrition, recovery, and sustainable lifestyle habits.

She is the co-founder of Laird Superfood, a company dedicated to clean, functional food products inspired by the nutrition principles she and her husband, legendary big-wave surfer Laird Hamilton, have practiced for decades. Together, they have also championed conversations around longevity, resilience, and performance through their work, speaking engagements, and media appearances.

Gabby hosts The Gabby Reece Show, where she interviews experts, athletes, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders about health, relationships, mindset, and personal growth. She is also the author of several books, including the New York Times bestseller My Foot Is Too Big for the Glass Slipper.

A longtime advocate for strength training and healthy aging, Gabby continues to inspire women to prioritize resilience, confidence, and lifelong wellness. She lives in Hawaii with her husband, Laird Hamilton, and their family.

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For years, Jordana Brewster quietly lived with a life-altering diagnosis that few people knew about. After suffering a seizure at 28, she learned she had a cavernous malformation (CVM), a rare vascular condition in her brain that made carrying a pregnancy dangerously high-risk. While continuing a successful acting career, she privately managed her condition, navigated fertility treatments, and ultimately chose gestational surrogacy to grow her family.

In this candid conversation, Jordana joins Mary Alice Haney to share the emotional realities behind IVF, infertility, surrogacy, and the difficult decisions that come with protecting both your health and your dream of becoming a parent. She also opens up about undergoing awake brain surgery, overcoming the stigma of living with a neurological condition, healing from disordered eating, and how divorce, blended family life, and finding love again gave her the courage to embrace a completely new chapter.

Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PMOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women’s health and well-being.

Sponsors

Prolon: Visit ProlonLife.com/SHEMD to claim your 15% discount and your bonus gift. 

Talkiatry: Head to Talkiatry.com/sheMD to complete the short assessment and get matched with an in‑network psychiatrist in just a few minutes.

Alaya Naturals: Visit www.alayanaturals.com/SheMD and enter code SheMD at checkout for 20% off your order.

Tuckernuck: Visit tnuck.com and use code SHEMD for 15% off your first purchase.

Square: You can get up to $200 off Square hardware at square.com/go/shemd

What You’ll Learn

• What a cavernous malformation (CVM) is and how it can affect pregnancy and neurological health
• How Jordana's first seizure led to a diagnosis that changed the course of her life
• Why doctors advised her against carrying a pregnancy
• The emotional and physical realities of IVF that aren't often discussed
• What the gestational surrogacy process actually looks like, from choosing a surrogate to legal agreements and delivery
• Why infertility evaluations should always include both partners
• Common misconceptions and stigma surrounding surrogacy
• What it's like to undergo awake brain surgery while doctors monitor language and brain function
• How Jordana managed a seizure disorder while building a demanding acting career
• The long-term impact of disordered eating and learning to build a healthier relationship with food and exercise
• How becoming a mother reshaped her perspective on control, trust, and vulnerability
• Navigating divorce, blended families, co-parenting, and finding love again after major life changes
• Why speaking openly about women's health experiences helps break stigma for future generations

Key Timestamps

00:00 Why Surrogacy Is Only Legal In 3 Countries

01:03 Meet Jordana Brewster, Actress, Mom And Survivor

03:39 When Jordana Decided She Wanted To Be A Mom

04:36 The Brain Diagnosis That Changed Everything

06:30 Living With A Seizure Disorder In Hollywood

09:03 The Breakthrough Seizures That Forced A Decision

10:11 What Awake Brain Surgery Actually Feels Like

12:08 Six Years Seizure Free After The Surgery

12:36 Overhauling Her Entire Life In 2020

15:43 The Stigma Around Surrogacy And What People Get Wrong

17:02 Finding The Right Surrogate And Trusting Your Gut

19:36 The IVF Journey And Why It Is Never A Slam Dunk

22:08 The Hardest Part Of Surrogacy Nobody Talks About

24:44 The Birth Story And Being In The Delivery Room

26:29 Why She Didn't Take Maternity Leave And Regrets It

27:37 Stop Ignoring The Man's Role In Fertility

31:43 Finding Love Again And Blending A Family Of Six

34:34 How To Successfully Navigate A Blended Family

46:37 Losing Paul Walker And How She Honors His Legacy

48:19 What She Would Tell Her Younger Self

Key Takeaways

• A cavernous malformation (CVM) is a vascular condition in the brain that can cause seizures and may make pregnancy high-risk for some patients
• IVF and gestational surrogacy are complex medical processes that often require multiple specialists, legal protections, and emotional resilience
• Fertility evaluations should include both partners, as male-factor infertility is a significant contributor to difficulty conceiving
• Awake brain surgery allows surgeons to monitor critical brain functions, such as speech, while safely removing lesions located near essential areas of the brain
• Open conversations about infertility, surrogacy, neurological conditions, and mental health can help reduce stigma and encourage others to seek care

Guest Bio: Jordana Brewster

Jordana Brewster’s beauty and natural screen presence has etched her a permanent place in Hollywood in both film and television. 

Jordana can most recently be seen in the independent feature THE PIRATE KING, which premiered at the 2026 SXSW Film Festival. She will next be seen as ‘Kat' in the upcoming Prime Video series BISHOP. 

Jordana is best known for her work in the FAST & FURIOUS franchise which stands at over $7 billion worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing film series globally. The franchise is celebrating its 25th Anniversary since this original film this year which recently screened at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival and was named a “Cannes Classic.” 

She can also be seen starring in the Sony feature HEART EYES with Devon Sawa and Olivia Holt, which released Feb 7, 2025. Jordana also starred in the thriller CELLAR DOOR with Scott Speedman and Laurence Fishburne, which was released by Lionsgate in November 2024. 

On television, Jordan played the role of ‘Denise Brown’ in Ryan Murphy’s Emmy award winning series “American Crime Story”. She also starred on the FOX series “Lethal Weapon,” TNT’s “Dallas,” and ABC’s ”Secrets and Lies” opposite Juliette Lewis and Michael Ealy.

In between shooting the F&F franchise, Jordana attended and graduated from Yale University. She is fluent in Portuguese.

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What if one of the biggest breakthroughs in skincare didn't rely on damaging your skin to create results? This week on SHE MD, Mary Alice Haney and Dr. Thaïs Aliabadi sit down with Lucy Goff, founder of LYMA, to discuss her incredible journey from surviving a life-threatening case of postpartum sepsis to building one of the most talked-about wellness and beauty brands in the world.

Lucy shares how her health crisis sparked an obsession with longevity science, leading first to LYMA's supplement line and eventually to the development of the LYMA Laser. Together, they unpack the science behind light therapy, collagen production, skin aging, scar healing, and why emerging technologies are changing the way we think about skincare and regeneration. They also discuss the unique challenges women with darker skin tones face when pursuing cosmetic treatments and what advancements may mean for the future of skin health.

Whether you're curious about longevity, interested in the latest skincare innovations, or looking for new ways to support healthy aging, this episode explores the science behind one of beauty's most talked-about technologies.

Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PMOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women’s health and well-being.

Sponsors

LYMA: Use code "SHEMD10" for 10% off the LYMA laser at lyma.life

What You’ll Learn

• How Lucy Goff's postpartum sepsis diagnosis inspired the creation of LYMA
• The connection between longevity science, wellness, and skin health
• The differences between laser technology and LED light therapy
• How collagen production changes as we age
• Why sleep, stress, and inflammation can impact skin health
• The potential role of light-based therapies in scar healing and skin rejuvenation
• Considerations for cosmetic treatments in melanin-rich skin
• What researchers are learning about longevity genes and healthy aging

Key Timestamps

00:00: The Postpartum Infection That Turned Into Sepsis

05:12: How Lucy Goff's Health Crisis Inspired LYMA

09:38: The Discovery That Changed the Beauty Industry

12:35: Laser vs. LED: What's the Difference?

17:09: Why This Could Be a Game-Changer for Darker Skin Tones

21:09: What the LYMA Laser Actually Does

24:17: Scars, C-Sections & Wound Healing

31:19: Can It Replace CO2 Lasers and Other Treatments?

34:06: The Future of Skin Longevity

Key Takeaways

• Lucy's health journey transformed her perspective on wellness, recovery, and aging.
• LYMA was founded on the idea that long-term health and skin quality are deeply connected.
• Skin aging is influenced by multiple factors, including inflammation, stress, sleep quality, and genetics.
• Laser and LED therapies use different technologies and may affect the skin differently.
• New research is exploring how light-based technologies interact with cells and support regenerative processes.
• Scar healing and skin recovery remain important areas of innovation within aesthetic medicine.
• Women with darker skin tones often have fewer treatment options due to pigmentation concerns, making safe alternatives especially valuable.
• The future of skincare is increasingly focused on regeneration, longevity, and supporting the body's natural repair mechanisms.

Guest Bio: Lucy Goff

Lucy Goff is the founder and CEO of LYMA, a wellness and beauty company focused on longevity, skin health, and science-backed innovation. After surviving a life-threatening case of postpartum sepsis, Lucy became deeply interested in the connection between recovery, aging, and human health, leading her to launch LYMA's supplement line and later the LYMA Laser. Under her leadership, LYMA has become one of the most recognized names in luxury wellness and beauty technology, known for its evidence-based approach to healthy aging. Lucy is passionate about translating cutting-edge scientific research into products that help people look, feel, and age better.

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In this episode of SheMD, hosts Mary Alice Haney and Dr. A sit down with Hannah Brown to unpack her long and complex health journey with PMOS, fertility challenges, and a recently discovered uterine septum.

Hannah shares how years of irregular periods, cystic acne, weight fluctuations, and anxiety were repeatedly overlooked before she finally received a clear diagnosis. She opens up about navigating public life while silently struggling with her health, and how getting the right medical support completely changed her trajectory.

Dr. A breaks down the science behind PMOS, insulin resistance, and hormone disruption, explaining how metabolic health impacts ovulation, fertility, and long-term well-being. The conversation also explores uterine anomalies, surgical treatment options, and why early diagnosis is critical for reproductive health.

The episode also highlights Hannah’s mental health journey, including therapy and EMDR, and how addressing trauma and inflammation helped her rebuild both her physical and emotional health.

Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PMOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women’s health and well-being.

Sponsors

Sera: To learn more you can visit PreTRM.com.Talk with your provider about whether the PreTRM Test might be right for you.

Midi: Ready to feel your best and write your second act script? Visit JoinMidi.com today to book your personalized, insurance-covered virtual visit. 

Alaya Naturals: Visit alayanaturals.com/shemd and enter code SheMD at checkout for 20% off your order.

Gusto: Three months of free payroll at Gusto.com/shemd

David Protein: David: Buy 4 cartons of Protein Bars and get the 5th free when you go to davidprotein.com/SHEMD.

Olly: Shop Olly Precise Probiotics with Skin, Stress Response or Metabolism Support at a Walmart near you.

What You’ll Learn

• Why PMOS is often missed or misdiagnosed for years
• How insulin resistance drives hormonal imbalance and symptoms
• The connection between PMOS, inflammation, and fertility challenges
• What a uterine septum is and how it affects pregnancy outcomes
• Treatment options including metformin, GLP-1s, and surgical correction
• Why mental health and trauma can amplify physical symptoms
• How to advocate for proper diagnostic testing and care

Key Timestamps

00:00 Why Most Women With PMOS Are Never Properly Diagnosed

02:24 Hannah Brown Opens Up About Her PMOS Journey

03:48 How It All Started With Her Very First Period

05:01 The Moment A Dermatologist Changed Everything

07:16 Finally Getting Real Answers About PMOS

10:30 What Hannah Did To Start Feeling Better

13:37 What Is PMOS And How Common Is It

14:41 The Brain Ovary Loop Nobody Explains To You

16:19 Why Your Ovaries Stop Releasing Eggs

17:18 The Insulin Resistance Loop Making Everything Worse

19:00 How High Insulin Destroys Your Hormones

20:24 How Metformin And GLP1s Actually Fix The Root Cause

25:37 Why GLP1s Gave Hannah Her Period Back Every 30 Days

27:13 How Hannah Became Her Own Health Advocate

29:06 The Uterine Septum Nobody Warned Her About

31:12 What A Septate Uterus Is And Why It Matters

33:30 The Fertility Risks Of An Untreated Septum

36:28 Hannah's Full Treatment Plan Before Trying To Conceive

41:11 Why You Must Always Get A 3D Ultrasound

43:47 Septate vs Bicornuate Uterus What Every Woman Should Know

47:22 The Surgical Technique That Changes Everything

53:02 Why Hannah Is Sharing Her Story Publicly

55:00 Always Ask For A 3D Ultrasound At Your Appointment

1:00:07 How PMOS Affected Hannah During The Bachelorette And DWTS

1:03:42 Hannah's Experience With EMDR Therapy

1:05:28 How EMDR Actually Works In Simple Terms

1:07:43 The Moment Hannah Knew She Had To Change Everything

1:11:05 How Hannah Completely Transformed Her Health

1:13:18 Hannah's Advice For Every Woman Struggling Right Now

1:15:10 Take The Free PMOS Quiz And Find Your Answers

Key Takeaways

• PMOS is a metabolic and hormonal condition, not just a reproductive one
• Insulin resistance plays a central role in worsening symptoms and fertility issues
• Many women go years without proper diagnosis despite clear symptoms
• Uterine septums can significantly increase miscarriage risk but are often treatable
• Proper diagnosis and intervention can dramatically improve ovulation and fertility outcomes
• Mental health, stress, and trauma can intensify physical inflammation and symptoms
• Self-advocacy and persistence in seeking care can change long-term health outcomes

Guest Bio

Hannah Brown is a television personality, bestselling author, and former lead of The Bachelorette. She first gained national recognition as a contestant on The Bachelor before starring in The Bachelorette, winning Dancing with the Stars, and later competing on Special Forces: World's Toughest Test.

In addition to her television career, Hannah is a New York Times bestselling author. Her books include the memoir God Bless This Mess and the romance novels Mistakes We Never Made, The Four Engagement Rings of Sybil Rain, and Reasons to Be Loved by You.

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What if tinnitus, migraines, vertigo, brain fog, and even digestive symptoms all stem from the same underlying issue? In this episode, Dr. Hamid Djalilian, one of the world's leading experts in tinnitus and sensory disorders, explains the concept of brain sensitivity and how neuroinflammation may be driving symptoms many people have been told they simply have to live with.

Dr. Djalilian breaks down his treatment approach, including the powerful role of sleep, stress management, hydration, nutrition, and lifestyle changes in reducing symptoms. He also shares the latest research on tinnitus treatments, migraine prevention, supplements, medications, and why finding your personal triggers can be the key to lasting relief.

Subscribe to SHE MD Podcast for expert tips on PMOS, endometriosis, fertility, hormonal balance, mental health, and more. Share with friends and visit SHE MD website and Ovii for research-backed resources, holistic health strategies, and expert guidance on women’s health and well-being.

Sponsors

Sera: To learn more you can visit PreTRM.com.Talk with your provider about whether the PreTRM Test might be right for you.

Cotton: Learn more at TheFabricOfOurLives.com, and follow @discovercotton with the hashtag #ShopCotton

Peloton: Let yourself run, lift, sculpt, push and GO. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com

Olly: Shop Olly Precise Probiotics with Skin, Stress Response or Metabolism Support at a Walmart near you.

What You’ll Learn

• Why tinnitus, migraines, vertigo, brain fog, and other symptoms may share a common root cause in brain sensitivity and neuroinflammation
• How stress, illness, hormonal changes, and sensory overload can trigger symptoms
• The three pillars of Dr. Djalilian's protocol: sleep, diet, and stress management
• Why hydration and consistent meal timing may be more important than you think
• Common food and beverage triggers, including alcohol, caffeine, processed foods, and fermented products
• The supplements most commonly used for migraine-related symptoms, including magnesium, riboflavin, and CoQ10
• How cognitive behavioral therapy, meditation, and exercise can help calm an overactive nervous system
• The latest developments in tinnitus research and future treatment options

Key Timestamps

00:00 Why You Should Never Check The Clock At Night

02:01 Meet The Doctor Rethinking Tinnitus Treatment

03:00 The Link Between Anxiety, Tinnitus And Brain Health

04:12 Why Tinnitus, Vertigo And Migraines Are Connected

06:48 Understanding Brain Sensitivity Syndrome

08:45 Why Some Brains React More Strongly Than Others

12:30 Everyday Habits Making Symptoms Worse

16:47 The Biggest Mistake In Chronic Symptom Recovery

20:08 Why Your Brain Can Get Stuck In Survival Mode

23:00 The Brain Sensitivity Protocol Explained

26:04 How Recovery Really Happens

28:30 Sleep Strategies For Calming An Overactive Brain

29:23 Migraines Are More Than Just Headaches

30:19 How Stress, Diet And Sleep Affect Symptoms

34:18 Foods And Triggers You Should Watch For

38:25 The Most Effective Supplements For Relief

47:07 When Medication May Be Necessary

49:58 Finding Your Personal Triggers

58:51 Can Surgery Actually Fix Migraines

1:00:07 Why Surgery Often Just Shifts The Problem

1:01:09 What A Migraine Actually Is

1:02:52 Vertigo, Brain Fog And Hidden Symptoms

1:05:27 How Hormones Trigger Tinnitus And Migraines

1:07:41 Should You Consider Hormone Replacement Therapy

1:10:18 What To Do When A Migraine Hits

Key Takeaways

• Tinnitus is not always an ear problem; it may be a manifestation of a broader brain sensitivity disorder.
• Many conditions, including migraines, vertigo, IBS, fibromyalgia, and tinnitus, may be connected through the same neurological pathways.
• Consistent, uninterrupted sleep is one of the most important tools for reducing symptoms.
• Lifestyle changes work best when combined with a personalized understanding of your triggers.
• Stress management is not optional; it's a critical part of symptom control.
• Small daily habits can have a major impact on brain health, inflammation, and quality of life.

Guest Bio

Dr. Hamid Djalilian is a board-certified otolaryngologist, professor of otolaryngology and biomedical engineering at the University of California, Irvine, and one of the world's leading experts in tinnitus, migraine-related disorders, vertigo, and sensory conditions. He serves as Director of Otology, Neurotology, and Skull Base Surgery at UCI and is President of the Migraine and Otolaryngology Society.

Through decades of clinical practice and research, Dr. Djalilian has pioneered a brain-based approach to understanding tinnitus, dizziness, migraine, and other sensory disorders. His work focuses on the connection between neuroinflammation, central sensitization, and chronic symptoms that are often misunderstood or misdiagnosed.

He also serves as Chief Medical Advisor for the NeuroMed Tinnitus Clinic, where he helps patients around the world manage tinnitus and related conditions through evidence-based treatment protocols that combine lifestyle interventions, behavioral therapies, supplements, and medical management.

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