479: The Neuroscience of Chronic Pain: Why Your Brain Gets Better at Creating Pain (And How to Teach It to Stop) with Ashleigh Di Lello
What if the chronic pain that's been ruling your life isn't actually about physical damage—but about your brain trying to protect you from threats it perceives based on your entire life history? Ashleigh Di Lello should be dead. At 13, doctors told her she wouldn't survive her teenage years after a mysterious viral infection began shutting down her organs. Twenty years later, after building a successful Broadway career, a failed hip surgery left her unable to walk and in excruciating pain that no treatment could touch…not even powerful opioids. After trying over 200 treatments and being told by specialists it was "downhill from here," Ashleigh made a decision that would revolutionize how we understand chronic pain. In this episode, we dive deep into a topic that’s been both personal and transformative for me: the connection between pain and the brain. For years, I believed that pain was only the result of real, physical injuries. But after my own journey through back surgery and chronic pain, I started to question: what if our brains play a bigger role in how we experience pain than we realize? Discover why Type A personalities are more prone to chronic pain, how your brain actually gets BETTER at creating pain the more you experience it, and why doing everything "right" for your body might not be enough if your nervous system is stuck in survival mode. Ashleigh reveals the critical difference between regulating your nervous system (managing symptoms) versus rewiring it (changing how your brain processes pain entirely), and shares the exact paradigm shift that allowed her to walk again after five years of disability. Whether you're dealing with chronic pain, unexplained symptoms, or simply curious about the incredible power of the brain-body connection, this episode will fundamentally change how you think about healing. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: https://bit.ly/MidlifeConversationsYouTube Learn More About Ashleigh Di Lello: Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/ashleighdilello Website ➜ https://www.ashleydilello.com Thank you to our show sponsors! BIOPTIMIZERS: Get the Enzymes & Probiotics & Gut Support I use daily at https://bioptimizers.com/nataliejill LEELA: Get 10% off your first Leela Quantum order with the code NatalieJill at checkout at https://midlifeconversations.com/leela Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: https://theflatbellyguide.com/ Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: https://ageoptimizer.com Connect with me on social media! Instagram: www.Instagram.com/Nataliejllfit Facebook: www.Facebook.com/Nataliejillfit For advertising inquiries: https://www.category3.ca/ Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast.
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478: The Truth About Hormone Replacement Therapy: Why the Middle Ground Matters Most with Dr. Anna Cabeca
Join us on our FREE hormone education session at http://midlifeconversations.com/magic Could hormone replacement therapy actually cause cancer if your body can't detox properly? This conversation isn't about joining "Team HRT" or going completely “natural” - it's about understanding why your individual biology matters more than blanket recommendations. Triple board-certified gynecologist Dr. Anna Cabeca joins us to shatter the black-and-white thinking around hormone replacement therapy. With over 30 years of experience prescribing HRT, she's witnessed the trends come and go, but more importantly, she's developed an approach that honors what makes YOU unique. Join us as we discuss personalized treatment plans, debunk myths around HRT, and answer questions on testosterone, progesterone, and the importance of vagal tone and mental well-being during menopause. You'll discover why two women with identical menopausal symptoms might leave the doctor's office with completely different treatment plans, and why that's exactly how it should be. Dr. Anna reveals the critical factor most doctors ignore - your body's ability to detoxify hormones - and explains why this could be the difference between thriving on HRT or facing serious health consequences. You'll also learn the surprising truth about cancer risks, why your monthly cycle was doing more than you realized, and the specific hormone levels Dr. Anna recommends for optimal safety and symptom relief. This isn't another episode telling you what to do - it's about empowering you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your own body. Whether you're considering hormone replacement, currently on HRT, or committed to natural approaches, this conversation will change how you think about menopause support forever. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: https://bit.ly/MidlifeConversationsYouTube Learn More About Dr. Anna Cabeca: Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor Website ➜ http://midlifeconversations.com/magic Thank you to our show sponsors! QUALIA: Experience the science of feeling younger—go to http://qualialife.com/nataliejill for up to 50% off your purchase of Qualia Senolytic and use code NATALIEJILL for an additional 15%. Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: https://theflatbellyguide.com/ Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: https://ageoptimizer.com Connect with me on social media! Instagram: www.Instagram.com/Nataliejllfit Facebook: www.Facebook.com/Nataliejillfit For advertising inquiries: https://www.category3.ca/ Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast.
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477: From Hormone Fear to Hormone Pressure: HRT Isn’t Black and White for Midlife Women
Join us on our FREE hormone education session at http://midlifeconversations.com/magic What if everything you've been told about hormone replacement therapy is only HALF the story? In this raw, personal episode, Natalie shares her own hormone replacement journey - from feeling amazing on HRT to discovering 30 fibroids and a dangerously thick uterine lining. She dives deep into why the pendulum has swung from hormone FEAR to hormone PRESSURE, leaving women confused and sometimes shamed for their choices. You'll discover why the infamous Women's Health Initiative study created decades of hormone fear, how your DNA actually determines whether hormones help or harm you, and why your detox pathways matter more than your blood test results. Featuring insights from Dr. Tyna Moore, Dr. Anna Cabecca, and Dr. Betty Murray, and personal stories from Dr. Amie and Jen Delvaux, we examine the various approaches and decisions women face regarding HRT, including the complex truth: there's no one-size-fits-all approach to HRT. Whether you're currently on HRT, considering it, or opting out, this episode aims to open up a thoughtful conversation about finding what's right for you. Because the truth about HRT really isn't black and white. Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: https://theflatbellyguide.com/ Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: https://ageoptimizer.com Connect with me on social media! Instagram: www.Instagram.com/Nataliejllfit Facebook: www.Facebook.com/Nataliejillfit For advertising inquiries: https://www.category3.ca/ Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast.
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476: Hair Loss, Hair Thinning, and Fun Solutions with Ensemble Hair Founder Jessica Hallock
Why is your forehead becoming a "five-head" in midlife and what can you actually do about it? Let’s dive in. In this episode, I revisit one of my audience's favorite topics: hair care, especially as we navigate midlife. If you've been avoiding mirrors, declining social invitations, or wondering why your hair feels like it's literally disappearing, this episode is your wake-up call. Hair expert Jessica Hallock reveals the shocking truth about why women as young as 35 are experiencing dramatic hair loss - and it's not what you think. From the real culprits behind midlife hair thinning to game-changing damage-free extension solutions that don't cost as much as a luxury car, this conversation will completely change how you think about hair loss. Discover how to get fuller, healthier-looking hair with minimal maintenance, why your expensive shampoos might be making things worse, the styling mistakes that are accelerating damage, and revolutionary DIY options that can transform your hair in seconds. Whether you're dealing with a widening part, receding hairline, or all-over thinning, you'll walk away with practical solutions that actually work - plus the confidence to stop hiding from life because of your hair. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: https://bit.ly/MidlifeConversationsYouTube Learn More About Jessica Hallock: Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/ensemblehair Website ➜ https://ensemblehair.com/ Episode Links: Text "HALO" or "TOPPER" to 480-581-8242 to get started with a free consult Try ONEskin at http://www.oneskin.co/nataliejill and get 15% off by using the code 'NATALIEJILL' at check out Thank you to our show sponsors! LEELA: Get 10% off your first Leela Quantum order with the code NatalieJill at checkout at https://midlifeconversations.com/leela FRESH PRESSED OLIVE OIL: Try a bottle of the world’s most delicious artisanal olive oils direct from gold-medal-winning small farms for just $1 and taste the difference yourself https://GetFreshNatalieJill.com Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: https://theflatbellyguide.com/ Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: https://ageoptimizer.com Connect with me on social media! Instagram: www.Instagram.com/Nataliejllfit Facebook: www.Facebook.com/Nataliejillfit For advertising inquiries: https://www.category3.ca/ Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast.
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475: The Biggest Loser Trainer Reveals What Really Happened Behind the Scenes (It's Not What You Think) with Kim Lyons
Did the reality TV show Biggest Loser permanently damage contestants' metabolisms, or is that just another excuse we tell ourselves? In this episode, we dive into the behind-the-scenes world of The Biggest Loser with former trainer Kim Lyons. Kim breaks her silence after years of staying quiet and shares her firsthand experiences from seasons three and four, and reveals what really happened behind the cameras, why the "damaged metabolism" theory makes her blood boil, and the shocking truth about why contestants really gained their weight back. Kim doesn't hold back as she exposes the difference between what made good TV versus what actually worked for weight loss, shares the real calorie numbers contestants were eating (spoiler: they weren't starving), and explains why she's tired of hearing medical experts who know nothing about the behind-the-scenes reality give opinions about the show. From the dangerous challenges that actually concerned her to the environmental factors that determined long-term success, this episode will change everything you think you know about extreme weight loss, metabolism, and what's really possible for transformation. Plus, Kim shares her controversial take on the current GLP-1 craze and why she believes the future of weight loss looks completely different than what we're seeing in Hollywood right now. Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: https://bit.ly/MidlifeConversationsYouTube Learn More About Kim Lyons: Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/trainerkimlyons Website ➜ http://kimlyons.com/ Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: https://theflatbellyguide.com/ Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: https://ageoptimizer.com Connect with me on social media! Instagram: www.Instagram.com/Nataliejllfit Facebook: www.Facebook.com/Nataliejillfit For advertising inquiries: https://www.category3.ca/ Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen. Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast.
Welcome to Midlife Conversations. On this podcast Natalie Jill does what she does best - taking complicated information that is relevant to us (women entering Midlife) NOW, and breaking it down simply with actionable steps you can implement to level up your life in your BEST YEARS to come. I also regularly interview some of the most inspiring people living their best Midlife years. On this show, I cover topics about our shifting hormones, weight struggles, our mood and focus changes, raising teenagers, our relationships, career changes, beauty and more.
If you are new here, Natalie Jill encourage's you to go back and listen from episode one, when this podcast was previously called “Listen UP” for the full transformative experience!
New Zealand