Puberty is a milestone every child experiences, but no two journeys look exactly alike. From growth spurts and changing bodies to shifting emotions and new questions, it can be an exciting, and sometimes overwhelming, time for kids and parents alike. 

In this episode of The Wellness Conversation, Marcus Thorpe and Katie Lowe sit down with OhioHealth physician Dr. Natalie Dick to discuss what parents should know about puberty, when it typically begins, how it differs for boys and girls, and why comparing children to their classmates can cause unnecessary worry. They also share practical advice for starting conversations at home, helping children feel confident in their changing bodies, and recognizing when it’s time to talk with a healthcare provider. 

Whether you’re parenting a fourth grader or preparing for the teenage years, this episode offers reassurance, practical guidance and expert insight. 

Gut health affects far more than digestion — especially for women. In this episode of The Wellness Conversation, we sit down with Maddie Bidwell from OhioHealth to explore how the gut influences hormones, mood, immunity, metabolism, and overall well-being. 

From bloating and IBS to the gut-brain connection and hormonal shifts across life stages, Maddie breaks down what’s normal, what’s not, and when to seek care. She also shares practical, evidence-based steps women can take today to support their microbiome,  including nutrition, stress management, sleep, and movement. 

If you’ve ever wondered whether your fatigue, mood swings, or stubborn digestive issues might be connected to your gut, this conversation offers clarity and actionable insight. 

If you’re sleeping but still exhausted, something else is going on. We unpack the hidden causes of fatigue — from hormones, to stress, to inflammation — and how to actually fix it.  

Mid-life is often misunderstood as a period of decline.  But for many women, it’s actually a powerful transition filled with change, clarity, and opportunity. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Elizabeth Koffler to unpack what’s really happening in women’s bodies and lives during mid-life; hormonal shifts and physical changes to evolving priorities, mental health, and identity. Together, we explore how women can better understand their health, advocate for themselves, and embrace this stage with strength, knowledge, and confidence.

This podcast episode of The Wellness Conversation dives into the topic of chronic inflammation, exploring its subtle symptoms, such as fatigue and mood changes, and its links to serious health risks like heart disease and diabetes. Dr. Jennifer Middleton, an OhioHealth family medicine physician, breaks down what you need to know in order to navigate this often overlooked condition, and practical tips for managing it through diet, exercise, and stress reduction.

Sexual health changes over time, but many women aren’t prepared for how or why. In this episode, Dr. Cassandra Gray explores desire, discomfort, hormones, and the factors that influence intimate well-being. Learn how to better understand your body and advocate for your needs. 

In this episode of The Wellness Conversation – an OhioHealth Podcast, hosts Marcus Thorpe and Katie Lowe are joined by Dr. Sarah Froman, an OB/GYN with OhioHealth, to tackle the often-overlooked topic of vaginal health. Together, they break down myths, address common misconceptions, and empower listeners to take charge of their wellness. Dr. Froman discusses why confusion persists around this subject, how vaginal health changes with age, and provides actionable tips for maintaining vaginal health. 

Pelvic floor health affects everything from bladder control to core strength and confidence, but it’s often overlooked or misunderstood. In this episode, Dr. Nicole Book explains what changes as women age and how to recognize early signs of dysfunction. Learn what you can do now to protect your body and improve your quality of life long-term.

What if you could navigate pregnancy with more confidence, connection, and support? In this heartfelt episode of The Wellness Conversation, an OhioHealth podcast, we’re diving into the real-life journey of pregnancy with our new co-host, Katie, who’s expecting her second daughter. Together with host Marcus and special guest Dr. Stephanie McGill, an OB-GYN at OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, we explore the physical, emotional, and mental challenges of pregnancy — and how to prepare for the big day and beyond. 

Sleep is one of the most powerful influences on our overall health, and Dr. Richard Ko joins us to break down how to strengthen it. What drives truly restorative rest, why men and women experience sleep differently, and how lifestyle habits, stress, and environment can quietly undermine sleep quality? The episode highlights common disruptors like apnea, hormonal shifts, nighttime scrolling, and irregular routines. Dr. Ko also explores trending topics such as supplements, wearables, and the impact of mental health on sleep.