Couch Talk W/ Dr. Anna Cabeca

Hormonal shifts in perimenopause and menopause can do more than throw off your cycle—they can actually stir up inflammation, spark strange symptoms, and even trigger immune responses that leave you wondering, what is going on with my body? If you've ever felt like your symptoms don’t quite “fit in a box,” this conversation is for you. I sit down with Dr. Tania Dempsey—a brilliant MD and expert in complex, multi-system diseases—to talk about Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), why it’s often missed in women, and how hormones can play a huge role in triggering it. This episode connects the dots between your immune system, your hormones, and all those mystery symptoms no one’s been able to explain. Dr. Tania breaks it down—how mast cells work, what happens when they go rogue, and why midlife women are seeing a rise in things like histamine intolerance, inflammation, and post-viral flare-ups (yes, COVID included). She shares what to look out for, what testing often misses, and how therapies like low-dose naltre

Growing up with a mom struggling with severe mental illness, Karena Dawn learned early what it meant to carry heavy things in silence. That experience shaped so much of her life—including the dark years she rarely talked about. In this episode, she shares her journey from that painful silence to healing, forgiveness, and ultimately, purpose. We talk about how fitness became her lifeline and how she found her voice by telling the truth in her powerful memoir, The Big Silence. You may know Karena as the co-founder of Tone It Up, a wellness community that’s inspired millions of women—but behind the fitness empire is a woman who's walked through deep grief, trauma, and recovery. She shares what it was like to care for her mom after a stroke, how she’s working to break the stigma around mental illness, and why mental wellness is now at the heart of everything she does—including her work with The Big Silence Foundation and the board of NAMI. She opens up about how trauma can sneak into our health—especially during

We’re back for part two of an eye-opening, soul-stirring conversation with Seren Bertrand. We’re talking sacred sexuality, feminine energy, and that beautiful, mystical power that lives in your body, especially in your vulva. Seren shares her own story of reclaiming her sensual energy and reminds us why our bodies are not only wise, but sacred. If you’ve ever felt disconnected or just a little curious about what it means to feel truly alive and sensual in your skin again, you’re in the right place. Seren is the brilliant Author of Womb Awakening and a guiding voice in the feminine awakening space. She has this incredible way of weaving ancient wisdom with real-life, grounded practices that help you reconnect with your body in a way that feels both magical and doable. We talk about how to release old energy that may be lingering in your womb space, how to connect your heart and womb through breath, and why your vulva has always been more sacred than you were ever told. This one’s deeply personal, tender, and e

Menopause can feel like everything’s shifting—your body, your emotions, even your sense of who you are. It’s not just a phase to get through, it’s an invitation to slow down, listen in, and reconnect with the deeper wisdom within. In this conversation with Seren Bertrand, the award-winning Author of Womb Awakening, we talk about what it really means to step into this next chapter as a woman. Seren has walked with thousands of women through their feminine awakening and brings such grounded, mystical wisdom to the table. We talk about the “Dark Goddess” showing up at age 28, the sacred timeline of our womb, and why menopause is so much more than an ending—it’s a beginning. Seren isn’t just an author—she’s been a fashion editor, a cultural storyteller, and a feminine wisdom keeper for over two decades. She shares beautiful, ancient practices that honor the wise woman archetype and shows how this stage of life can be full of magic, not just symptoms. We talk about things like the shift from the birth womb to the

Most women don’t realize just how much menopause messes with their pelvic floor—until they’re leaking when they laugh or feeling like their body just isn’t working the way it used to. These changes can feel confusing, isolating, and even a little embarrassing—but they’re more common (and more fixable) than you think. This week, I sat down with my friend Kim Vopni—aka The Vagina Coach—to talk about what’s really going on with your body during this phase of life. Kim’s a certified personal trainer, menopause support practitioner, CEO of a Global Pelvic Health company, and the powerhouse behind a global pelvic health movement helping women ditch the pads and feel like themselves again. We talk about the stuff your doctor probably didn’t mention—like how hormones impact your pelvic floor, why Kegels aren’t the only answer, and how things like hydration and breathing actually matter more than you’d think. Kim breaks it all down in a way that’s clear, real, and honestly... kind of freeing. We even get into prolap

Most of us don’t think much about our pelvic floor—until we start leaking when we laugh or feel pain we can’t explain. That’s why I had such a powerful conversation with my friend Jana Danielson, who knows this topic inside and out. She shared how her own journey through chronic pelvic pain led her to discover the healing power of breath, movement, and mindset. Jana’s not just a wellness expert—she’s a woman who turned her pain into purpose. From teaching Pilates to creating the world’s first pelvic floor fitness tool (yes, the Cooch Ball is a thing—and it works), she’s helping women wake up to what’s possible when we actually tune in. We talked about why relaxing is just as important as strengthening, why your breath matters more than you think, and how to finally ditch the shame around this part of our body. She even shared a few exercises you can sneak into your day without anyone knowing. Oh—and if this chat sparks something in you, go check out the Pelvic Floor Empowerment Bundle at dranna.com/pelvicfl

You might not realize just how much your oral health is tied to your heart and overall wellness—but it’s a connection worth knowing about. I caught up again with my amazing colleague, Dr. Ellie Campbell, and we got into why regular lab tests sometimes miss the early signs of things like heart disease, stroke, and even dementia. We talked about why your dentist could actually be one of the most important people on your health team, plus some sneaky risks that only advanced testing can catch. Dr. Ellie has been in family medicine for over 25 years, mixing integrative and functional approaches to help people truly understand their health. She shared some eye-opening stuff about how sleep apnea can mess with your blood sugar, why fasting blood sugar numbers matter more than you think, and how your genes could be playing a bigger role than you realize. She also gave some solid advice on how to speak up for yourself in a medical system that doesn’t always connect these dots. If you’re someone who wants to take bett

Can you be 10 to 20 pounds overweight and still be considered healthy? Ben Azadi says yes—but it all depends on where that fat is located. I had such a powerful conversation with Ben, FDN-P—he’s the Founder of Keto Kamp and someone who’s helped thousands (maybe millions!) of people break free from what he calls “metabolic prison.” We talked about the kind of fat that really puts your health at risk, and why looking lean doesn’t always mean you're healthy. This one really made me rethink how we define “healthy”—especially as we get older. Ben shared how he lost 80 pounds and completely turned his life around, and now he’s teaching others how to do the same—without crash diets or gimmicks. His book, Metabolic Freedom, is packed with real strategies to help you feel better, think clearer, and age in a healthier way. We got into the nitty-gritty of insulin resistance (something so many women in midlife are dealing with), how to become a fat burner instead of a sugar burner, and why fasting is more than just ski

As we approach Mother's Day, I want to take a moment to connect with you on a deeply personal level. This holiday can evoke a whirlwind of emotions—joy, gratitude, and love, but also grief and longing. I understand how isolating grief can feel, especially if you've lost your mother or a child. These experiences have shaped my journey, and I want to share my story with you in this week's episode. I’m also sharing how my recent explant surgery became part of that healing process in ways I didn’t expect. I talked about how to make space for all the feelings that come with Mother’s Day—because it’s not all sunshine and roses for everyone, and that’s okay. I’m sharing simple ways to honor the day in your own way, like writing a letter, spending it quietly, or just doing something kind for yourself. There’s also something powerful about reaching out and connecting, especially when it feels like you’re the only one struggling. This episode is a little love note to anyone who needs a soft place to land right now. A

Sometimes the signs of heart trouble in women don’t look like what we expect—they show up as hot flashes, brain fog, or even a racing heart. When I sat down with Dr. Jayne Morgan, an incredible Cardiologist and Women’s Health Advocate, we talked about how these often-overlooked symptoms during menopause can actually be clues about what’s going on with your heart. We’re so used to brushing things off as “just hormones,” but Dr. Jayne explains why now is the time to tune in and take them seriously. Dr. Jayne —who’s not only a top Cardiologist but also Vice President of Medical Affairs at Hello Heart—is passionate about making sure women get the full picture when it comes to heart health. She breaks down how estrogen protects your heart, what happens when those levels drop, and why menopause can be a turning point for understanding your risk. We also talked about what real, thorough heart testing should include (because yes, there’s more to it than just cholesterol). Her approach is practical, empowering, and h

Most of us have no idea how much our mouths are telling us—and not just about our teeth. In this jaw-dropping episode, I sat down with Dr. Ellie Campbell, a powerhouse in functional medicine and the author of The Blood Pressure Blueprint, to uncover how oral health is deeply tied to cardiovascular disease, hormonal imbalance, cognitive decline, and more. You’ll learn why blood pressure readings at your doctor’s office might be misleading, how mouth bacteria can trigger heart attacks and Alzheimer’s, and why mouth taping at night could be the simplest step toward better sleep and brain health. Dr. Campbell also reveals the truth about fluoride, xylitol, and why so many root canals fail—not because of the procedure, but because of the hidden pathogens no one’s testing for. This episode is packed with “aha” moments, from the dangers of undiagnosed sleep apnea to the critical blood and saliva tests that can actually save your life. If you care about your heart, brain, and hormones—and want to take back control of

There’s this deep connection between how we feel, what we think, and what our bodies go through—especially during big transitions like menopause. I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Yasmine Saad, an award-winning NYC Psychologist and TEDx Speaker, who’s doing some seriously powerful work helping people understand their emotions in a whole new way. She talked about how our feelings—like sadness, anger, even loneliness—don’t just pass through quietly; they show up in our bodies. And when we start to really listen to those messages, that’s when the real healing begins. Dr. Yasmine shared her own personal journey and how she blends traditional Chinese medicine with modern psychology in the most grounded, eye-opening way. We got into what loneliness actually means (hint: it’s not about being alone) and how connecting with your purpose can change everything. We also touched on menopause—not just the symptoms, but how it can be a time to reconnect with yourself and feel more powerful than ever. If

Most women don’t realize their DNA might be the reason they’re feeling off—foggy, tired, overwhelmed—and just chalk it up to getting older. But what if your genes were actually holding the answers to what’s going on with your hormones, your energy, even your ability to handle stress? I sat down with Kashif Khan, TEDx speaker, Author of The DNA Way, and Founder of The DNA Company, to talk about exactly that. He breaks down how understanding your unique genetic blueprint can completely shift how you approach your health—especially when hormones start doing their own thing. We also talk about how trauma can leave a mark not just emotionally, but biologically too. Kashif shares how your DNA influences everything from how you metabolize estrogen to how you recover from stress (yes, even cold plunges make an appearance). The best part? He gives practical tips you can actually use—things that help you support your body your way, instead of following a one-size-fits-all plan that was never designed for you. So if

Most people have no idea that something as tiny as algae is one of the most powerful foods for longevity, energy, and hormone balance. But what if just a few tiny tablets a day could support your mitochondria (those little powerhouses in your cells), detoxify your body, and even ease menopause symptoms? Catharine Arnston, algae expert and Founder of ENERGYbits®, breaks down the science behind spirulina and chlorella—two superfoods packed with antioxidants, protein, and essential nutrients for women’s health. We’re talking detoxification, hormone support, and even slowing down aging—yes, really! Catharine breaks it all down in the simplest way, so you’ll walk away knowing exactly why mitochondria are the secret to balancing hormones and feeling your best. We chat about how spirulina protects your cells from stress and damage, why chlorella is a natural detoxifier your body craves, and how both can support estrogen, progesterone, and overall vitality. She even shares super easy ways to add these into your rou

Sometimes, feeling “off” isn’t just about stress or aging—it could be your gut trying to tell you something. Your digestion plays a bigger role than you might think, influencing everything from your energy and hormones to your mood and even your sex life. Steven Wright, Functional Medicine Expert and Founder of The Healthy Gut Company, is back to share why gut health is the key to feeling like yourself again. We get into the hidden culprits behind bloating, brain fog, and even intimacy struggles—because, yes, your gut impacts that too! Turns out, simple changes can make a big difference. Steven breaks down how digestive enzymes can transform your digestion, why butyrate is a game-changer for gut healing, and what all of this has to do with hormone balance. We even tackle a topic most people avoid—how gut health can impact erectile function and what men can do about it. If you’ve been dealing with stubborn symptoms and wondering what’s really going on, you won’t want to miss this one. Taking care of your gu

Have you ever felt like your hormones are running the show? One minute you’re energized, the next you’re dragging—or maybe those hot flashes and mood swings are making life way harder than it needs to be. The thing is, not all hormone therapies work the same, and that’s where compounding comes in. Dr. Sahar Swidan, PHARM.D., ABAAHP, FAARFM, FACA, is back to break down what you need to know about custom-compounded hormones, different formulations, and how to figure out what’s actually best for your body. Dr. Sahar is a powerhouse when it comes to compounding pharmacy and hormone health, and we’re getting into the real talk about hormone therapy—what’s backed by science, what’s just hype, and what actually works. We’re covering everything from the latest research on hormone replacement to the surprising ways your skincare could be messing with your balance. Plus, if you’re curious about longevity, we’re sharing simple, natural ways to keep your body thriving without going overboard. There’s a lot to unpack, a

Did you know ancient Peruvian warriors used Maca for strength and stamina? Turns out, they were onto something—this little root is a powerhouse for energy, mood, and hormone balance. Studies even show it can ease anxiety and depression in postmenopausal women, which is huge! But what really makes Maca so special, and how can it actually help you feel better every day? I first discovered Maca during a rough time—infertility, early menopause, the whole rollercoaster. That journey led me to explore healing superfoods, and Maca completely changed the game for me. In this episode, I’m sharing exactly how it works, why it’s so good for energy, libido, and mood, and how I combined it with 30+ other powerhouse ingredients to create Mighty Maca Plus. Plus, you’ll hear stories from women who’ve seen incredible changes—because when your body gets what it needs, everything shifts. So if you’re tired of feeling off—low energy, mood swings, those annoying hormone fluctuations—I get it. That’s exactly why I created Might

One day, you’re cruising along like usual, and the next… everything feels off. Your mood’s all over the place, sleep is a struggle, and let’s not even talk about the sudden weight changes. Sound familiar? In this episode, my daughter Amira joins me again as we unpack what’s really happening during perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause—when it starts, what to expect, and how to handle the rollercoaster of symptoms. We’re getting real about everything from hormone therapy to natural ways to feel better, plus the surprising links between menopause, bone health, and heart health. And if your sex drive isn’t what it used to be, you’re not alone—we’ll talk about why that happens and what you can do about it. This conversation is all about getting answers to the questions so many of us have but don’t always talk about. If you’ve ever wondered, is this normal?—this episode is for you. Also, if you’re feeling drained, moody, or just off, I have to tell you about Mighty Maca Plus. It’s my go-to for balancing h

It’s wild how something that’s supposed to make you feel more confident can actually be the thing making you sick. Candice Barley learned this the hard way after struggling with years of unexplained symptoms—fatigue, gut issues, even liver problems—before realizing her breast implants were the culprit. Now, as a leading advocate for women with Breast Implant Illness (BII), she’s on a mission to educate and support others through their own healing journeys. She’s here to share what she wishes she knew sooner, from the hidden health risks to the life-changing decision to explant. Candice has helped countless women through the explant process, from finding the right surgeons to navigating the emotional ups and downs. She’s the author of The Explant Book, a step-by-step guide to healing from BII, and the creator of the photo documentary Not As Advertised, which sheds light on the real impact of implants. We talk about the symptoms no one warns you about, why proper explant surgery matters, and how to reclaim yo

Ever looked at today’s dating scene and thought, “Wow, things have really changed?” Dating apps, social media, and modern expectations make it a whole new world compared to back in the day. And since we’re still in February—fresh off Valentine’s Day—love, dating, and intimacy are definitely hot topics. So, I sat down with my daughter, Amira, and thought, this would be the perfect time to swap stories, talk red flags, and figure out what really makes someone a great partner. Confidence, kindness, and a few unexpected surprises—this conversation is full of eye-opening (and hilarious) moments. Amira even spills on a first date that took an unexpected turn—let’s just say, it was memorable. We’re also getting into how dating apps have changed the game, why emotional connection matters more than ever, and how family influences the way we navigate relationships. And because we love a little fun, we threw in a rapid-fire Q&A with some juicy dating questions! Whether you’re single, taken, or just here for the la