Ask Lively

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From your first period to post-menopause, Ask Lively brings you clear, science-backed conversations with leading experts on hormones, fertility, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, mental health, nutrition, and more.

Each episode is designed to give you the knowledge and confidence to understand your body and thrive. Created by Lively app, trusted by millions of women to live in sync with their bodies.

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Sunday · 27 min
The Holistic Pregnancy Guide: Supplements, Science, and What Actually Works
The Holistic Pregnancy Guide: Supplements, Science, and What Actually Works Staring at dozens of prenatal bottles and trying to figure out what your body actually needs? Between viral TikTok advice and labels promising miracles, the supplement aisle feels like a total minefield. In this episode of Ask Lively, Nathalia sits down with Dr. Mary Ella Wood, Medical Director at Northwestern Medicine’s Osher Center, to separate real reproductive science from clever marketing. We are stripping away the guesswork so you can nourish your pregnancy with complete clarity. In this episode, we cover: 5 non-negotiables to look for on any prenatal label Folic acid vs. methylfolate: what the evidence actually says How to spot heavy metals and verify third-party testing Extra supplements worth your money (and the ones to skip) Clinical remedies for nausea, heartburn, fatigue, and insomnia Smart ways to blend holistic care with your regular doctor visits Meet Dr. Mary Ella Wood Dr. Mary Ella Wood is a triple board certified integrative medicine physician and Medical Director of the Osher Center for Integrative Health at Northwestern Medicine. With extensive training in general surgery, family medicine, osteopathic manipulative medicine, and integrative care, she seamlessly bridges the gap between conventional medicine and evidence-based holistic health. Her clinical practice focuses on whole-person care across every stage of a woman's life, specializing in fertility, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, hormone balance, gut health, and stress physiology. She is also the host of The Trip Lab, a podcast exploring integrative health, psychedelic science, and the future of medicine. Find Dr. Mary Ella Wood 🌐 Website: drmaryellawood.com 🎙️ Podcast — The Trip Lab: The Trip Lab 📱 Instagram: @drmaryella A note from Lively Pregnancy is not the time to chase every wellness trend. Focus on the core fundamentals first: a nutrient-rich diet, a reliable prenatal, and continuous guidance from your doctor. Remember that more is not always better. Labeling a product "natural" does not automatically mean it is safe during pregnancy, and supplements should always be tailored to your unique body, lab results, and medical history. If this episode gave you clarity, share it with a friend who is pregnant or trying to conceive. Make sure to hit Follow on Spotify or Apple Podcasts so you never miss a new conversation on Ask Lively. Ready to navigate your body and pregnancy with confidence? Download the Lively app and start tracking today.
August 9 · 44 min
The Truth About Breast Implant Illness No One Is Talking About
The Truth About Breast Implant Illness No One Is Talking About w/ Dr. Robert Whitfield Millions of women have breast implants, yet many have never been told about the growing conversations surrounding breast implant illness (BII). For some, symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, autoimmune issues, and chronic inflammation can appear years after surgery, leaving them searching for answers while being told that everything looks "normal." Join host Nathalia Levterova as she sits down with Dr. Robert Whitfield, board-certified plastic surgeon and one of the leading experts in breast implant illness and explant surgery, to unpack the latest research, common misconceptions, and what women should know if they suspect their implants may be affecting their health. Together, they explore why BII is often overlooked, what emerging evidence is revealing, and how a comprehensive approach can support healing before and after explant surgery. In this episode, you will discover: What breast implant illness is and why its symptoms are often misunderstood or dismissed. What recent research has uncovered about bacterial contamination in implant capsules and why it matters. Why healing involves more than simply removing implants, and the importance of preparing the body before and after explant surgery. Practical first steps to take if you suspect your breast implants may be contributing to your symptoms. Remember: you know your body better than anyone. If something doesn't feel right, you deserve to ask questions, seek evidence-based care, and find healthcare providers who take your concerns seriously. Try the Lively App for Free:https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lively-period-tracker-cycle/id6447674634 Lively Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/livelycycle Learn more about Lively:https://livelycycle.com/ Connect with Dr. Robert Whitfield: Website: https://breastimplantillnessexpert.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drrobertwhitfield/ Learn more about the SHARP Method: https://breastimplantillnessexpert.com/sharp-method/ Stay connected with Ask Lively: Subscribe, follow, and leave us a review so we can continue bringing you thoughtful conversations that empower you to better understand your body, advocate for your health, and make informed decisions about your care. 💛 Resources & Links
July 27 · 52 min
Trusting Yourself Through Labor: A Doula’s Guide to Birth Prep
Trusting Yourself Through Labor: A Doula’s Guide to Birth Prep Birth rarely goes exactly as planned, but that doesn't mean you can't prepare for it. The most empowering birth plans aren't about controlling every outcome; they're about understanding your options, communicating your preferences, and feeling confident enough to adapt when the unexpected happens. Join host Nathalia Levterova as she sits down with birth doula, nutritionist, and birth educator Victoria Wagner of Soully Nourished to break down what every expecting parent should know before labor begins. From creating a birth plan to preparing your body, mind, and support team, this conversation is packed with practical guidance to help you approach birth with confidence instead of fear. In this episode, you will discover: Why a birth plan is about preparation, not perfection or control. The key decisions and conversations to have before labor, including induction, cervical checks, pain management, and delayed cord clamping. How partners can become confident advocates throughout pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Practical ways to prepare physically, mentally, and emotionally for a positive birth experience, regardless of how your birth unfolds. Remember: there is no "perfect" birth. An empowered birth comes from understanding your choices, building a supportive team, and trusting yourself to make informed decisions every step of the way. Resources & Links: Try the Lively App for Free:https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lively-period-tracker-cycle/id6447674634 Lively Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/livelycycle Learn more about Lively:https://livelycycle.com/ Connect with Victoria Wagner (Soully Nourished): Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/soullynourished/ Learn more about Soully Nourished:https://soullynourished.com/ Stay connected with Ask Lively: Subscribe, follow, and leave us a review so we can keep bringing empowering conversations that help you better understand your body, prepare for every season of womanhood, and make informed decisions with confidence. 💛
July 14 · 1 hr 5 min
The Missing Piece in Your Hormone Health — Your Nervous System with Ashleigh DiLello
What if your hormones aren't actually the problem? What if they're simply responding to a nervous system that's been stuck in survival mode for far too long? When we think about hormone health, we usually focus on nutrition, supplements, or lifestyle habits. But one of the most important pieces of the puzzle is often overlooked: your nervous system. In this episode, Nathalia Levterova sits down with Bio Emotional Healing® practitioner, brain coach, and speaker Ashleigh DiLello to explore how chronic stress, unresolved emotional patterns, and the way your brain processes experiences can influence your hormones, energy, mood, and overall health. After overcoming two life changing health crises of her own, Ashleigh turned to neuroscience to understand how the brain and nervous system affect the body. Today, she helps people around the world create lasting change by working with the brain instead of constantly fighting against it. In this episode, you'll learn: How chronic stress and a dysregulated nervous system can impact your hormones and overall health. Why simply calming your nervous system isn't the same as creating lasting change. How your thoughts, beliefs, and emotional patterns can shape your body's physical response. Practical tools to help you retrain your brain, regulate your nervous system, and support long term healing. If you've been doing everything "right" but still don't feel like yourself, this conversation might help you understand why. Sometimes the missing piece isn't another supplement or another protocol. It's learning how to help your nervous system feel safe again. Resources & Links Try the Lively App for Free: apps.apple.com/us/app/lively-period-tracker-cycle/id6447674634 Follow Lively on Instagram: instagram.com/livelycycle Learn more about Lively: livelycycle.com Connect with Ashleigh DiLello: Website: ashleighdilello.com Instagram: instagram.com/ashleigh_dilello Learn more about Bio Emotional Healing®: bioemotionalhealing.com If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, follow the show, and leave us a review. Your support helps us continue bringing you conversations that empower you to better understand your hormones, your body, and your health. 💛
S1 · E20
June 28 · 55 min
Is Your Gut Wrecking Your Hormones? What Every Woman Needs to Know with Dane Johnson
Could your gut be the missing piece behind your hormone symptoms? Many women struggle with bloating, painful periods, acne, fatigue, brain fog, or mood changes without realizing these issues may have more to do with their gut than their hormones. Your digestive system plays a key role in inflammation, nutrient absorption, hormone metabolism, and overall hormonal health. In this episode, host Nathalia Levterova sits down with Dane Johnson, Board Certified Nutritionist and Founder of Crohn's Colitis Lifestyle. After reversing his own severe Crohn's disease through nutrition and lifestyle changes, Dane has spent years helping people uncover the root causes of chronic gut issues and build lasting health. Together, they explore the powerful connection between gut health and women's hormones, along with practical steps you can start taking today. In this episode, you'll learn: - Why gut health has such a big impact on your hormones, menstrual cycle, skin, mood, and energy. - The five key imbalances that often sit at the root of chronic digestive issues. - How pathogens, nutrition, and targeted supplements may support gut healing. - Simple changes that can help improve both your gut health and your hormones over time. If you've been treating the symptoms without finding real answers, this conversation offers a different perspective. Supporting your gut may be one of the most important things you can do for your hormones and your long term health. Resources & Links Try the Lively App for Free: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lively-period-tracker-cycle/id6447674634 Follow Lively on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livelycycle Learn more about Lively: https://livelycycle.com/ Learn more about Crohn's Colitis Lifestyle: https://crohnscolitislifestyle.com/ Connect with Dane Johnson: Instagram: @crohns_colitis_lifestyle YouTube: Crohn's Colitis Lifestyle If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, follow the show, and leave us a review. It helps us bring more conversations that empower women to better understand their bodies, hormones, and health.
S1 · E19
June 14 · 47 min
Is painful sex normal? What a pelvic floor therapist actually sees w/ Dr. Sara Reardon
Painful sex is far more common than most women realize, yet it’s still something many suffer through in silence. Whether it shows up during certain phases of your cycle, after childbirth, or during perimenopause and menopause, pain is never something you should simply accept as part of being a woman. In this episode of Ask Lively, Nathalia sits down with Dr. Sara Reardon, board certified pelvic floor physical therapist, author, and founder of The V-Hive, to explore one of the most misunderstood topics in women’s health. Together, they unpack the real reasons sex can become painful, how hormones and pelvic floor health are connected, and why so many women struggle to find answers. You’ll learn how to recognize the signs of pelvic floor dysfunction, what pelvic floor therapy actually involves, and the practical steps you can take to support your body, improve intimacy, and feel more comfortable in your own skin. In this episode, we cover: • The most common causes of painful sex • How pelvic floor dysfunction can impact intimacy and everyday life • The role hormones play throughout your cycle, postpartum, perimenopause, and menopause• What to expect from pelvic floor physical therapy • Simple ways to support pelvic floor health at home If you've ever wondered whether painful sex is normal, this conversation is for you. Because while pain may be common, it should never be ignored, and there are solutions that can help. Resources & Links • Try the Lively App for free:https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lively-period-tracker-cycle/id6447674634 • Follow Lively on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/livelycycle • Learn more about Lively:https://livelycycle.com/ • Connect with Dr. Sara Reardon (@the.vagina.whisperer): Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.vagina.whisperer TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thevagwhisperer • Explore The V-Hive:https://thevhive.com • Dr. Sara Reardon's book: FLOORED: A Woman's Guide to Pelvic Floor Health at Every Age and Stage Enjoyed this episode? Follow Ask Lively, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this conversation. Every woman deserves access to honest, evidence based conversations about her body and health.
S1 · E18
May 31 · 49 min
Your Liver & Your Hormones: The Connection No One Talks About w/ Dr. Tabitha Lowry
What if the key to better hormone health has less to do with your hormones and more to do with your liver?When we think about PMS, painful periods, acne, bloating, or breast tenderness, most of us immediately focus on hormones. But according to Dr. Tabitha Lowry, one of the most important pieces of the puzzle is often overlooked. Your liver plays a critical role in how hormones are processed and cleared from the body, and when that process isn't working optimally, it can affect far more than you might think.In this episode of Ask Lively, Nathalia sits down with licensed Naturopathic Doctor and women's hormone health expert Dr. Tabitha Lowry to explore the surprising connection between liver health and hormone balance. Together, they break down why estrogen metabolism matters, how modern lifestyles can put extra pressure on the liver, and what simple changes can help support both your hormones and overall wellbeing.In this episode, you'll discover:- Why the liver is one of the most important organs for hormone balance- The connection between estrogen metabolism, PMS, acne, heavy periods, and breast tenderness- Everyday habits that may be putting extra stress on your liver- Practical ways to support your body's natural detoxification processes- Simple lifestyle changes that can make a difference throughout your cycleThis conversation sheds light on a part of hormone health that rarely gets the attention it deserves and offers practical insights you can start applying right away.Resources & LinksTry the Lively App for Free:https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lively-period-tracker-cycle/id6447674634Lively Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/livelycycleLearn more about Lively:https://livelycycle.com/Connect with Dr. Tabitha Lowry:Instagram: @drtabithalowryEnjoyed the episode? Follow Ask Lively, subscribe, and leave a review to help us continue bringing you expert conversations on women's health, hormones, and healing.
S1 · E17
May 17 · 36 min
Blood sugar: The Cycle Saboteur w/ Dr. Nirali Jain
What if the real reason behind your hormonal struggles isn’t your hormones at all, but your blood sugar? From irregular cycles and PMS to low energy and fertility challenges, unstable glucose levels can quietly throw your body off balance. And the surprising part is that most women were never taught to look at blood sugar as a key piece of the puzzle. So what can you actually do about it in real life? In this episode, Nathalia sits down with Dr. Nirali Jain, board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist, to unpack how blood sugar influences your cycle, hormones, and fertility. Together, they break it down into clear, practical steps you can start applying right away. In this episode, you’ll learn: how insulin functions as a powerful reproductive hormone and affects ovulation why blood sugar spikes matter even if you don’t have PCOS or diabetes what role glucose plays in egg quality, implantation, and fertility simple, realistic ways to stabilize your blood sugar and support your cycle Your body isn’t working against you. It’s responding to what you give it every day. And when you start supporting your blood sugar, everything else can begin to fall into place. Resources & Links Try the Lively App for free: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lively-period-tracker-cycle/id6447674634 Follow Lively on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livelycycle Learn more about Lively: https://livelycycle.com/ Connect with Dr. Nirali Jain on Instagram:@eggspert_md Stay connected with Ask Lively. Follow the podcast, subscribe, and leave a review to help us keep bringing you clear, honest conversations about your body and your health.
S1 · E16
April 26 · 38 min
A Gut-First Approach to Women’s Health w/ Savannah Regensburger
What if your hormones aren’t the root of the problem, but simply the signal? From bloating and acne to painful periods and irregular cycles, many of the symptoms we tend to blame on hormones actually begin much deeper, in the gut. When digestion isn’t working as it should, when inflammation builds up or the microbiome is out of balance, your hormones often respond accordingly. So where do you actually start if you want to support your cycle in a sustainable way? In this episode, Nathalia sits down with clinical nutritionist Savannah Regensburger to explore the connection between gut health and hormones in a way that feels clear, realistic, and applicable to everyday life. No extremes, no overwhelm, just practical insights you can actually use. In this episode, you’ll learn: how your gut and hormones communicate and why this connection affects everything from PMS to acne which common foods may be quietly contributing to inflammation and hormonal imbalance the key nutrients and habits that support natural detox and hormone regulation simple, realistic shifts in your diet and lifestyle that can make a real difference over time Your body isn’t working against you. It’s constantly communicating. And when you start supporting your gut, you’re also supporting your hormones, your cycle, and your overall wellbeing in a way that lasts. Resources & Links Try the Lively App for free: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lively-period-tracker-cycle/id6447674634 Follow Lively on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livelycycle Learn more about Lively: https://livelycycle.com/ Recommended by Savannah: “This Is Your Brain on Food” https://www.amazon.com/dp/0316536822 “The Gut Immune Connection” https://www.amazon.com/dp/0063014785 ---
S1 · E15
April 12 · 46 min
From Fertility to Birth: How to Prepare Your Body for a Healthy Pregnancy and Confident Childbirth w/ Dr. Betsey Caldwell
What if the way you prepare before pregnancy could shape your entire birth experience? Most women are taught to focus on getting pregnant, but very little attention is given to what comes after. How you support your body, your pelvic floor, your habits and your mindset can have a huge impact on how you experience pregnancy, birth and recovery. In this episode of the Ask Lively Podcast, Nathalia sits down with Dr. Betsey Caldwell, Doctor of Physical Therapy, childbirth educator and postpartum recovery coach, to talk about what real preparation actually looks like. Together, they break down the essentials of pelvic health, everyday habits that make a difference, and how to approach this phase with more confidence and less fear. In this episode, you’ll learn: What’s really happening in your body in early pregnancy and how to support it from the very beginning Common myths around pelvic floor health and what actually matters Simple, evidence-based habits that can lead to a smoother labor and easier recovery How to shift your mindset from “getting pregnant” to truly preparing for motherhood Practical ways to feel more confident and informed in your first trimester Your body is capable of incredible things. But how you prepare can shape the entire experience. With the right knowledge and support, pregnancy and birth can feel less overwhelming and much more empowering. Resources & Links Try the Lively app for free: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lively-period-tracker-cycle/id6447674634 Follow Lively on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livelycycle Learn more about Lively: https://livelycycle.com/ Explore Dr. Betsey’s programs (use code LIVELY for 25% off): The Push Lab https://www.drbetseypt.com/thepushlab Floor & Core Lab https://drbetseypt.com/floorcorelab Free guide: How to prepare “down there” for childbirth https://drbetseypt.com/howtopreparedownthere-page Stay connected with Ask Lively. Subscribe, follow and leave a review to support the podcast and help us keep bringing you conversations that matter. 💛
S1 · E14
March 29 · 44 min
Movement as Medicine: Regulating Your Cycle Through the Nervous System w/ Zsofia & Marta
What if regulating your cycle isn’t about doing more, but about finally feeling safe in your own body? So many women find themselves stuck in a loop of pushing harder. More workouts, stricter routines, more effort. And yet instead of feeling better, they feel more disconnected, more exhausted, and further out of sync. What if the missing piece isn’t discipline, but understanding? In this episode of the Ask Lively Podcast, Nathalia sits down with Zsofia and Marta, founders of The Fertility Class™, to explore a different approach. One that starts with the nervous system. Together, they talk about how movement can become a form of medicine. Not another task on your to-do list, but a way to support your body, regulate your hormones, and reconnect with yourself in a deeper, more sustainable way. This conversation is especially for anyone who feels like they’ve tried everything and nothing has worked. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why the “push harder” approach to fitness can actually disrupt your cycle How your nervous system impacts hormones, fertility, and overall balance What fertility-focused movement really means and how it differs from typical workouts Why feeling safe in your body changes everything Simple ways to use movement to feel more grounded, regulated, and in sync Your body isn’t broken. It’s responding.When you stop forcing and start supporting, things begin to shift. Movement stops being something you have to do and becomes something that brings you back to yourself.Resources & Links: Try the Lively App for free: ⁠https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lively-period-tracker-cycle/id6447674634⁠ Lively Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livelycycle Learn more about Lively: https://livelycycle.com/Explore The Fertility Class™Website: https://thefertilityclass.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefertilityclass/ Program Access: https://myclass.thefertilityclass.com/offers/52uFzu3e/checkout Stay connected with Ask Lively. Subscribe, follow, and leave a review so we can keep bringing you conversations that help you feel more in tune with your body. 💛
S1 · E13
March 15 · 32 min
Let’s Talk Poop: Gut Health, Pelvic Floor & Hormones with The Vagina Whisperer
Let’s talk about poop.It might feel like an awkward topic, but your bowel movements are actually one of the most honest signals your body gives you about what’s happening inside. Your gut, hormones, and pelvic floor are deeply connected, and things like period poops, PMS bloating, or constipation can reveal a lot about your overall health. In this episode of the Ask Lively Podcast, host Nathalia sits down with Dr. Sara Reardon, a board certified pelvic floor physical therapist, founder of The V Hive, and widely known online as The Vagina Whisperer. Together they explore the powerful connection between gut health, hormones, and the pelvic floor. Dr. Reardon shares what your digestion can tell you about your menstrual cycle, why bathroom habits matter more than most people realize, and how small daily changes can support better gut, pelvic, and hormone health. If you have ever wondered whether your digestion is normal, why your body feels different around your period, or how your pelvic floor affects everything from bloating to constipation, this conversation will give you answers you probably never learned before. In this episode, you’ll learn:• Why bowel movements are often considered an important “vital sign” of overall health• What’s actually happening in your body during period poops and PMS related bloating• How pelvic floor dysfunction can influence digestion, constipation, and bathroom habits• Simple everyday habits that can support healthier digestion and pelvic floor function• When digestive changes are completely normal and when it might be time to talk to a healthcare provider Your body is constantly communicating with you. Even something as ordinary as digestion can offer powerful insight into your hormones, your cycle, and your long term health. The more you understand these signals, the more confident you can feel in your own body. Resources & LinksTry the Lively App for freehttps://apps.apple.com/us/app/lively-period-tracker-cycle/id6447674634 Lively Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/livelycycle Learn more about Livelyhttps://livelycycle.com/ Connect with Dr. Sara Reardon Websitehttp://www.thevagwhisperer.com/ Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/the.vagina.whisperer/ TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@thevagwhisperer Stay connected with Ask LivelySubscribe, follow, and leave us a review so we can keep bringing you honest and empowering conversations about women’s health.
S1 · E12
March 1 · 49 min
Is This Perimenopause? Decoding the Signs and Symptoms w/ Dr. Aleksandra Gajer
If your periods are changing, your moods feel unpredictable, and you’ve been told “your labs look normal,” you’re not imagining things. Perimenopause can feel like waking up in a body you don’t recognize, with brain fog, night sweats, anxiety, weight changes, and sleep that suddenly disappears. The good news? There is a biological explanation for what’s happening, and once you understand it, everything starts to make more sense.Join host Nathalia as she sits down with Dr. Aleksandra Gajer, a physician and founder of The Gajer Practice, to break down what’s really happening in your brain, hormones, and metabolism during your 30s and 40s. Together, they unpack the science of perimenopause in a way that feels clear, empowering, and actionable, so you can stop questioning yourself and start getting the support you deserve.In this episode, you will discover:- What’s happening with estrogen, progesterone, insulin, cortisol, thyroid hormones, and testosterone during perimenopause, and how they impact mood, weight, sleep, and energy- How to tell whether symptoms like anxiety, fatigue, and insomnia may be hormone-related- The role of metabolic health, inflammation, and mitochondrial function in this phase of life- What peptides are (in simple terms) and how they may support energy, recovery, and body composition when used appropriately- The foundational lifestyle shifts, nutrition, movement, stress management, and sleep, that must be in place for lasting hormonal balanceRemember: Perimenopause isn’t the beginning of the end, it’s the beginning of a new conversation with your body. When you understand what’s shifting and advocate for deeper care, you move from confusion to clarity, and from surviving to truly thriving.Resources & Links- Try the Lively App for Free:- Lively Instagram- Learn more about Lively: - Connect with Dr. Aleksandra Gajer: Website: https://thegajerpractice.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegajerpractice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegajerpractice YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheGajerPractice/videos Free Introductory Call: https://thegajerpractice.as.me/free-intro-call Stay connected with Ask Lively: Subscribe, follow, and leave us a review so we can keep bringing empowering, evidence-based conversations about women’s health your way!
S1 · E11
February 15 · 35 min
Pelvic Floor 101: Everything You Weren't Taught (But Need to Know)
You probably don’t think twice about your pelvic floor until it starts demanding your attention. Whether it’s a leak when you laugh, discomfort during sex, or a strange pressure you can’t quite explain, pelvic floor issues are incredibly common yet wildly misunderstood. The truth? This muscle group does so much more than we’re ever taught. Understanding it is the key to changing how you move, heal, and feel in your own skin. In this episode of the Ask Lively Podcast, our host Nathalia breaks down Pelvic Floor 101. We’re diving into what it actually is, how it functions, and why every woman needs to prioritize it at every stage of life. Whether you are navigating postpartum recovery, shifting through hormonal changes, or just want to feel more connected to your body, this conversation demystifies pelvic health with confidence and compassion. Inside the Episode, You’ll Discover: The Anatomy of Power: What the pelvic floor actually is and its essential role in core strength, bladder control, and sexual health. The Red Flags: Common signs your pelvic floor needs support and why we need to stop normalizing them The Lifestyle Connection: How stress, hormones, workouts, and daily habits impact your function The Kegel Myth: Why squeezing isn't always the answer and when it can actually make things worse. Practical Tools: Simple ways to support your pelvic floor through breath, movement and body awareness. Remember: Pelvic health isn't niche, it's foundational. When you understand this part of your body, you gain agency and a deeper connection to yourself. This is the education every woman deserves, not just when something goes wrong, but as part of lifelong self-care. Resources & Links: Take Control of Your Cycle: Try the Lively App for Free: [Download on the App Store] Follow Lively on Instagram: @livelycycle Explore More: livelycycle.com Work with Dr. Sophia: Book Your Free Discovery Call: Schedule Here Visit the Website: empowerptpilates.com If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, follow, and leave us a review. Your support helps us continue empowering women with the health education we should’ve had all along.
S1 · E10
February 1 · 50 min
Why do some cycles hurt more than others? w/ Savannah Regensburger
Most of us have spent years brushing off period pain as just part of the deal. We double up on painkillers, cancel plans, and wait for it to pass, often wondering if this level of discomfort is actually normal. The truth is, while period pain is common, it’s usually your body’s way of sending a message that something deeper needs attention.Is it just inflammation? Is it my hormones? Or is there something like endometriosis or autoimmunity beneath the surface?In this episode of the Ask Lively Podcast, Nathalia sits down with clinical nutritionist Savannah Regensburger to cut through the confusion. Savannah has navigated her own journey with endometriosis and autoimmunity, and now she helps women decode their symptoms from the inside out. No more just pushing through. We are bringing you real insights into why your body is reacting this way.In this episode, we’re diving into:- The Normalization Trap: Why we’ve been taught to accept pain and how to recognize when it’s actually a sign of an imbalance.- The Root Causes: What your cramps might be revealing about your gut health, inflammation, and estrogen levels.- The Stress Connection: How your nervous system and lifestyle habits directly impact the intensity of your period.- Your Relief Plan: Practical nutrition and daily shifts that support a more comfortable and balanced cycle.- Self-Advocacy: How to use your own cycle data to get better answers and care from your healthcare providers.Remember: Your cycle is a vital sign, not an inconvenience. When you stop guessing and start listening to what your period is trying to tell you, you move from feeling frustrated to feeling empowered in your own skin.Resources and LinksTry the Lively App for Free: Download on the App StoreStay Connected:Lively Instagram: @livelycycleLearn more about Lively: http://livelycycle.comConnect with Savannah Regensburger:Instagram: @savannahregensburgerSav’s Substack: Subscribe here https://savannahregensburger.substack.com/?utm_source=hoobe&utm_medium=socialLove the show? Subscribe, follow, and leave us a review so we can keep bringing these honest conversations about women’s health your way!
S1 · E9
January 18 · 46 min
Fertility Explained: The Connection Between PCOS and Diminishing Ovarian Reserve w/ Dr. Tabitha Lowry
We’ve all felt the pressure of the "biological clock," but the truth is, fertility is so much more than just a countdown. For many of us, the real questions don’t start until we’re actually trying to conceive. If you’re navigating PCOS at the same time, it can feel like a total information overload. Why is my ovarian reserve changing? Does PCOS make it worse? Am I running out of time? In this episode of the Ask Lively Podcast, Nathalia sits down with Dr. Tabitha A. Lowry, a Naturopathic Doctor and professor of anatomy, to cut through the noise. We’re breaking down the complex science of PCOS and diminished ovarian reserve into clear and empowering steps you can take right now. No fear mongering, just real insights. In this episode, we’re diving into:The PCOS Connection: What "diminished ovarian reserve" actually means for you and how it overlaps with PCOS. The Truth About AMH: How PCOS impacts your egg quality and what your hormone markers are actually telling you. Aging and Fertility: Do women with PCOS experience changes differently as they get older? Your Action Plan: Simple lifestyle shifts and treatment strategies to support your reproductive health long term. The Good News: New research and hopeful advances for women navigating PCOS today. Remember: Fertility knowledge isn’t meant to scare you. It’s meant to empower you. When you understand your body, you can advocate for yourself and plan your future with confidence instead of panic. Resources and LinksTry the Lively App for Free: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lively-period-tracker-cycle/id6447674634Lively Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livelycycleLearn more about Lively: https://livelycycle.com/ Connect with Dr. Tabitha Lowry: Website: https://www.adornnaturopathic.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/adornnaturopathic?igsh=MWMzMGtiMmVjZHZscw== Stay connected with Ask Lively: Subscribe, follow, and leave us a review so we can keep bringing empowering conversations about women’s health your way!
S1 · E8
January 5 · 41 min
Why Stress and Sleep Are Ruining Your Hormonal Health and Cycle w/ Dr. Muskaan
If your cycle feels heavier, your moods feel sharper, or your energy crashes harder than usual, it might not be “just hormones.” Stress and sleep are two of the most powerful, and often overlooked — factors shaping your hormonal health. When they’re out of balance, your cycle is usually the first to feel it. In this episode of the Ask Lively Podcast, host Nathalia sits down with Dr. Muskaan, a resident physician and women’s health advocate. Together, they unpack how chronic stress and poor sleep disrupt your hormones in real life. You’ll learn practical, realistic ways to restore balance without overhauling your entire routine. In this episode, you will discover: How chronic stress raises cortisol, and why that directly impacts your menstrual cycle The role sleep plays in hormone regulation, recovery, and cycle stability Why stress and sleep create a feedback loop that can worsen cramps, mood swings, and fatigue Common signs your cycle is reacting to stress and sleep deprivation Practical, realistic ways to improve sleep and reduce stress to support hormonal health Why small lifestyle shifts can make a big difference in how your cycle feels month to month Remember that your body isn’t failing you, it’s responding to the environment it’s in. When you start supporting your nervous system and prioritizing rest, your hormones often follow. You don’t need perfection. You need awareness, data, and gentler support. Resources & Links Try the Lively App for Free Lively Instagram Learn more about Lively Connect with Dr. Muskaan; Instagram Stay connected with Ask Lively, subscribe, follow, and leave a review so we can keep bringing you honest, empowering conversations about hormones, health, and living in sync with your body.
S1 · E7
Dec 21, 2025 · 31 min
How to Live, Eat, and Move for Each Cycle Phase w/ Dr. Shah
Your cycle isn't unpredictable, it's your body’s brilliant, secret language! When you stop fighting your natural rhythm and start flowing with your body's four distinct phases, everything changes. You unlock new levels of energy, boost your mood, and maximize your workouts. But let's get practical: How do you actually live, eat, and move in true synchronization with your cycle? Join host Nathalia Levterova as she sits down with Dr. Sweta Shah, a board-certified family and functional medicine physician, to break down the ultimate, gentle guide to cycle syncing. In this episode, you will discover: What is happening hormonally in each of the four phases, and how to harness that unique energy. The best nutritional choices to fuel your body, whether you are ovulating or in the deep luteal phase. How to adjust your workouts to maximize energy and strength (and avoid burnout). Simple lifestyle shifts that make every phase feel easier, more intentional, and truly balanced. Remember: Your body is innately wise. Once you learn its rhythm, all the pieces start to click into place. Let's learn to listen together! Resources & Links Try the Lively App for Free:https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lively-period-tracker-cycle/id6447674634 Lively Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/livelycycle Learn more about Livelyhttps://livelycycle.com/ Connect with Dr. Sweta Shah: Instagram: @thefunctionalchic Stay connected with Ask Lively: Subscribe, follow, and leave us a review so we can keep bringing empowering episodes your way!
S1 · E6
Dec 7, 2025 · 51 min
Healing Your Cycle After Birth Control
Millions of women feel blindsided when they stop hormonal birth control, dealing with everything from irregular cycles and breakouts to mood swings and fatigue. But what is truly happening inside your body during this transition? And how can you support your hormones as they find their natural rhythm again?Join host Nathalia Levterova as she sits down with Fertility Awareness Educator Michelle Agudelo to break down the post-pill experience. We cover how contraceptives impact your system, what you should expect, and the essential, practical tools like nutrition, detox support, stress management, and cycle tracking that restore your natural balance.Remember: You are not broken. Your body is just remembering how to work on its own again.Resources & Links: Try Lively App for free: https://livelycycle.onelink.me/6xCE/a...Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/livelycycleLearn more about Lively: https://livelycycle.com/Links to Learn More from Michelle Agudelo:- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hausofflow/- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michelle.marie.a/- Website: https://www.haus-of-flow.com/Stay connected with Ask Lively: Subscribe, follow, and leave us a review so we can keep more episodes coming your way!
S1 · E5
Nov 23, 2025 · 53 min
PMS Symptoms Explained—And How to Feel Better
What Is PMS and How Can You Fix It? If you’ve ever felt like your mood, motivation, or energy completely changes before your period, you’re not imagining it. Nearly 90% of women experience PMS, yet most of us are told it’s just “part of being a woman.” The truth? PMS is not random, and it’s not in your head, it’s your hormones and your brain working together in ways we were never taught. In this episode, we’re unpacking what’s really going on in the luteal phase, why some of us experience intense symptoms while others don’t, and the science behind how your hormones impact your brain, emotions, and even your relationships. Guest Spotlight: Dr. Sarah E. Hill is an award-winning research psychologist with over 100 scientific publications and two books to her name, including her newest release, The Period Brain. Her groundbreaking research has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Scientific American, and The Economist, and she’s been a guest on Good Morning America, The Today Show, and Diary of a CEO. Dr. Hill is one of the leading voices in women’s hormone research, translating the science of our biology into practical tools for living, leading, and thriving. She currently runs her research lab in the Department of Psychology at TCU and serves on the scientific advisory boards for companies like 28 Wellness and Flo Health. Resources & Links: Try Lively App for free: https://livelycycle.onelink.me/6xCE/asklivelyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/livelycycleLearn more about Lively: https://livelycycle.com/ Links to Get More from Dr. Sarah HillGo to her website to see her books and learn more about her research: https://www.sarahehill.com/books/your-brain-on-birth-control/ Order her new book, The Period Brain: The New Science of Why We PMS and How to Fix It, by Sarah E. Hill Ph.D. from amazon or a bookstore near you.Follow her on instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahehillphd/ If this episode made you rethink what PMS really means, make sure to Follow Ask Lively on Spotify or Apple Podcasts — and leave us a quick review! It helps more women find the show and take back control of their cycle health. Because when you understand your hormones, you understand yourself. 💛

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