Feed Your Gut, Heal Your Body: The Microbiome Fix You’ve Never Tried

#194 - Feed Your Gut, Heal Your Body: The Microbiome Fix You’ve Never Tried   Feed Your Gut, Heal Your Life: How to Rebuild Your Microbiome (and Your Energy) with Anu Simh What if your gut wasn’t just about digestion — but the foundation of your immune system, metabolism, hormones, mood, and energy? In this episode, Lisa sits down with Anu Simh, board-certified functional health coach, microbiome specialist, and author of Flourish From Within: Feed Your Gut for Lifelong Health. She’s also the founder of The Nine Arms of Wellness, where she helps women lose weight, balance inflammation, and rebuild health through a microbiome-first approach. Anu’s story starts with what she calls the “American Dream diet” — late nights, bottomless brunches, and too much stress — and how that led to autoimmune issues, chronic bloating, and inflammation. What she discovered (years before gut health was trendy) completely changed her life — and her clients’. You’ll learn: 🌿 The microbiome mistakes that lead to bloating, fatigue, and immune dysfunction 🍎 Why fiber — not fancy supplements — is the real hero of gut healing 🧬 The difference between prebiotics and probiotics (and how to feed both) 🥑 How to build a plate that supports your gut, immune system, and hormones 🧠 Why your gut-brain connection is more powerful than you think 💡 How stress, mindset, and emotional eating shape your microbiome health 💃 The Nine Arms of Wellness framework — and how to find your weakest link ✨ What “anchor your protein and surround it with fiber” really means If you’ve ever felt frustrated by restrictive diets, gut symptoms that come and go, or conflicting advice on what to eat — this conversation will help you exhale. It’s simple, science-backed, and refreshingly doable.   ⏰ Timestamps 04:30 – The wake-up call: bloating, autoimmunity, and what labs missed 06:00 – How the microbiome became her obsession — before it was mainstream 10:00 – What “anchor your protein and surround it with fiber” actually looks like 12:00 – Why microbiome health isn’t about perfection — it’s about diversity 17:00 – The problem with restrictive diets and why they backfire long-term 19:00 – How stress and cortisol disrupt the gut-brain axis 20:00 – The link between neurotransmitters, constipation, and mental health 22:00 – Skin, hair, and inflammation: how gut healing shows up on your face 24:30 – Weight loss and the microbiome: the real reason yo-yo diets fail 26:30 – The missing ingredients in lasting change 30:00 – How to identify your weakest health link and start there 🔗 Resources & Links  (As an existing Function Health member, this is a paid referral At No Extra Cost To You) Function Health (160+ lab tests chosen by top doctors): https://my.functionhealth.com/signup?code=ESMITH15&_saasquatch=ESMITH15 Where to Find Anu Anu’s Simh’s website: https://www.anusimh.com/   💥 Join the conversation: Share your thoughts with us on social media or in the comments! 🎙 Subscribe, Share & Review: If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people who need these insights. Thanks for tuning in to Pretty Well! See you next week! Where to Find Me Website: www.lisasmithwellness.com  IG: https://www.instagram.com/prettywell_podcast/   Disclaimer:  Nothing in this podcast is to be taken as medical advice, please take informed accountability and speak to your provider before making changes to your health routine. The primary purpose of The Pretty Well Podcast being to educate. This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice nor to take the place of such  advice or treatment from a personal physician. By listening to this content, you agree to consult your own physician or qualified health professional regarding specific health questions. Neither Lisa Smith, The Pretty Well Podcast, nor any guest takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons following the information in this educational content. All listeners of this content, especially those who are pregnant or taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program. The Pretty Well Podcast is for private non-commercial use and our guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or company that they work for. In addition, opinions of interview guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Lisa Smith and/or The Pretty Well Podcast. This content is not guaranteed to be correct, complete, or up to date.

#193 - Your Mouth Might Be Aging You: The Shocking Oral-Body Health Connection with Dr. Sanda Moldovan from Beverly Hills Health & Dental Wellness Mercury, Root Canals, Mold, Fluoride, Fillings, and Fatigue with Dr. Sanda Moldovan What if your gums, teeth, and tongue were quietly dictating everything from your hormones to your brain health? In this mind-bending episode, Lisa sits down with Dr. Sanda Moldovan, double-board-certified periodontist, nutritionist, and founder of Beverly Hills Health & Dental Wellness, to explore how your oral microbiome shapes your entire body. We’re talking mercury toxicity, root canal infections, fluoride myths, and the bacteria in your mouth linked to Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and even autoimmune disease. Dr. Sanda explains what biological dentistry really is, why it’s the future of oral health, and how to start detoxing your mouth for better energy, longevity, and brain clarity. You’ll learn: 🧠 The shocking link between cavity bacteria and neurological diseases 🦷 Why your gums might hold the key to your overall inflammation load 💋 How oral probiotics can reverse bad breath, bleeding gums, and dry mouth 💧 Why fluoride-free toothpaste and water flossing are non-negotiables 🌿 How your dental care can either support or sabotage your detox systems 🪷 What to know about cavitations, root canals, and hidden oral infections ✨ The three-step daily routine for optimal mouth-body wellness If you’ve ever had mercury fillings, gum recession, or mysterious fatigue that no lab test explains — this episode will completely change how you think about oral health.   ⏰ Timestamps 02:00 – Mercury fillings, toxicity, and the wake-up call that changed everything 04:00 – How mouth bacteria travel to the gut, brain, and bloodstream 06:30 – Flossing vs. water flossing: what actually works better 10:00 – How to test your oral microbiome (even at home) 11:00 – What your tongue color says about your internal health 12:00 – Perimenopause, burning mouth syndrome, and oral hormones 14:00 – The truth about fluoride — and why two states just banned it 18:30 – Bad breath root causes: tonsils, gut health, and SIBO connections 23:00 – Reversing gum recession and the new PRF regeneration technique 28:00 – How oral health affects pregnancy, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s 33:00 – Why root canals and cavitations can stall your healing 36:00 – Mold, mycotoxins, and parasites in the jawbone (yes, really) 🔗 Resources & Links  (As an existing Function Health member, this is a paid referral At No Extra Cost To You): https://my.functionhealth.com/signup?code=ESMITH15&_saasquatch=ESMITH15   Dr. Sanda Moldovan’s website: https://www.beverlyhillsdentalhealth.com/ Orasana Website: https://orasana.com/  Orasana products on Amazon: https://amzn.to/47sbN1S  International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology:  https://iaomt.org/    💥 Join the conversation: Share your thoughts with us on social media or in the comments! 🎙 Subscribe, Share & Review: If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people who need these insights. Thanks for tuning in to Pretty Well! See you next week! Contact Lisa: Website: www.lisasmithwellness.com  IG: https://www.instagram.com/prettywell_podcast/   Disclaimer:  Nothing in this podcast is to be taken as medical advice, please take informed accountability and speak to your provider before making changes to your health routine. The primary purpose of The Pretty Well Podcast being to educate. This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice nor to take the place of such  advice or treatment from a personal physician. By listening to this content, you agree to consult your own physician or qualified health professional regarding specific health questions. Neither Lisa Smith, The Pretty Well Podcast, nor any guest takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons following the information in this educational content. All listeners of this content, especially those who are pregnant or taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program. The Pretty Well Podcast is for private non-commercial use and our guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or company that they work for. In addition, opinions of interview guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Lisa Smith and/or The Pretty Well Podcast. This content is not guaranteed to be correct, complete, or up to date.  

#192 - What I’m Carrying Into the New Year — And What I’m Finally Leaving Behind New Year’s Eve has a funny way of making us feel like we should reinvent ourselves by midnight. New rules. New goals. New personality. Preferably someone who loves green juice and wakes up excited at 5 a.m. This episode is… not that. Instead, this is a pause. A breath. A moment to stand in the quiet space between what’s been and what’s coming—and ask a better question than “Who should I be next year?” In this reflective solo episode, I share what this past year taught me the long way around: that growth isn’t about striving harder, fixing more, or optimizing your way into worthiness. The most meaningful shifts often come from removing pressure, listening to your nervous system, and letting go of identities that no longer fit. We talk about discernment over urgency, why discomfort isn’t a problem to solve, how progress actually works (hint: it’s not linear), and what it looks like to move into a new year lighter—not because you did more, but because you carried less. No resolutions. No hustle. No performative “new you.” Just honesty, integration, and intentions that actually make room for real life. If you’ve felt tired of pushing, quietly proud of how much you’ve grown, or like you’re standing on the edge of something new—but slower and steadier than before—this episode is for you. In This Episode, We Explore: Why striving, optimizing, and “doing more” often block real healing The difference between urgency and discernment—and why it matters How listening to your nervous system builds real trust with yourself What to keep, what to release, and what doesn’t need to come with you Why intentions work better than resolutions (and how to choose yours) How progress actually unfolds—even when it feels messy or invisible Time Stamps 00:00 – Why this episode isn’t about goals, resolutions, or reinvention 02:00 – The quiet space between years—and why it matters 04:00 – When striving stops working (and what actually does) 06:30 – Discernment vs. urgency: learning to pause instead of react 10:00 – What I’m intentionally carrying into the new year 12:00 – What I’m finally leaving behind (and why discomfort isn’t failure) 15:00 – Intentions over resolutions—and how to choose yours 18:00 – Moving forward lighter, calmer, and more grounded Where to Find Me You can connect with me, explore programs, and see what I’m up to outside the podcast here: Website: https://lisasmithwellness.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prettywell_podcast 🔗 Resources & Links  (As an existing Function Health member, this is a paid referral At No Extra Cost To You) Function Health (160+ lab tests chosen by top doctors): https://my.functionhealth.com/signup?code=ESMITH15&_saasquatch=ESMITH15   💥 Join the conversation: Share your thoughts with us on social media or in the comments! 🎙 Subscribe, Share & Review: If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people who need these insights. Thanks for tuning in to Pretty Well! See you next week!   Disclaimer:  Nothing in this podcast is to be taken as medical advice, please take informed accountability and speak to your provider before making changes to your health routine. The primary purpose of The Pretty Well Podcast being to educate. This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice nor to take the place of such  advice or treatment from a personal physician. By listening to this content, you agree to consult your own physician or qualified health professional regarding specific health questions. Neither Lisa Smith, The Pretty Well Podcast, nor any guest takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons following the information in this educational content. All listeners of this content, especially those who are pregnant or taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program. The Pretty Well Podcast is for private non-commercial use and our guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or company that they work for. In addition, opinions of interview guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Lisa Smith and/or The Pretty Well Podcast. This content is not guaranteed to be correct, complete, or up to date.

#191 - Home for the Holidays with Dr. Gina Kupchella: The Best Of Functional Medicine, Legacy, and What Actually Heals This episode is a little different — softer, deeper, and honestly one of my favorites. I’m sitting down fireside-style with my dear friend Dr. Gina Kupchella, the physician I passed the baton to at Integrative Wellness Center. It’s the day before Christmas, the coffee is hot, and the conversation goes far beyond protocols and lab markers. We talk about how functional medicine really works when it’s done well, why so many people are frustrated by cookie-cutter care (even in the functional medicine world), and what happens when you finally slow down enough to treat the whole human — not just the diagnosis. This is a conversation about legacy, trust, root-cause healing, and why doing medicine differently isn’t trendy — it’s necessary. We cover gut health, inflammation, anti-aging, hormones, longevity, wearables, sleep, and the quiet magic that happens when a practitioner has time to actually listen. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a cycle of appointments, protocols, and next steps that never quite lead to real change — or if you’re curious what functional medicine looks like when it’s practiced with integrity, evidence, and heart — this one will land. In This Episode, We Talk About: 00:02 — How Gina and I first met (and why the timing still gives us chills) 00:07 — What surprised Gina most about stepping into a functional medicine practice 00:12 — The biggest myths about functional medicine — and why they persist 00:18 — Foundational labs vs. advanced testing: where to actually start 00:25 — Gut health, inflammation, and why diet is the most underrated anti-aging tool 00:33 — Longevity buzzwords vs. what truly works (peptides, hormones, and the basics) 00:40 — Bioidentical hormones, women’s health, and reclaiming quality of life midlife 00:46 — Sleep, wearables, and why your body needs deeper rest than you think 00:52 — Legacy, calling, and why this has to be the future of medicine Why This Conversation Matters This isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing what actually helps. Functional medicine isn’t anti-conventional — it’s completing the picture. It’s asking better questions, spending real time, and understanding that healing isn’t linear, fast, or one-size-fits-all. And maybe most importantly, it’s a reminder that medicine practiced with curiosity, humility, and joy doesn’t just change outcomes — it changes lives. Where to Find Me Instagram: @prettywell_podcast Website: lisasmithwellness.com The Pretty Well Podcast — wherever you listen Where to Find Dr. Gina Kupchella Integrative Wellness Center: https://integrativewc.com/ 🔗 Resources & Links  (As an existing Function Health member, this is a paid referral At No Extra Cost To You) Function Health (160+ lab tests chosen by top doctors): https://my.functionhealth.com/signup?code=ESMITH15&_saasquatch=ESMITH15   ✨Join the conversation: Share your thoughts with us on social media or in the comments!   🎙 Subscribe, Share & Review: If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people who need these insights. Thanks for tuning in to Pretty Well! See you next week!   Disclaimer The content shared on The Pretty Well Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing discussed on this podcast should be considered a substitute for personalized medical care, diagnosis, or treatment from your physician or other qualified healthcare professional. By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that no physician–patient or practitioner–client relationship is established. You agree to take full responsibility for your health decisions and to consult with your own healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplements, medications, lifestyle, or health routine. This is especially important if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications. Neither Lisa Smith, The Pretty Well Podcast, nor any guests assume responsibility or liability for any adverse effects, outcomes, injuries, or consequences that may result from the use, application, or reliance upon the information shared in this content. While reasonable efforts are made to provide accurate, evidence-based information, the content is not guaranteed to be complete, current, error-free, or applicable to every individual. Guest opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Lisa Smith or The Pretty Well Podcast, nor do they represent any organization, company, or agency with which guests may be affiliated. This podcast is intended for private, non-commercial use only.  

✨Hey! This week looks a little different around here — on purpose.   Instead of our usual rhythm, I'm airing five episodes in five days.   Think of it as a mini-series designed especially for you — curated, fun, and binge-worthy. Fewer cliffhangers, more “ohhh… that makes sense.”   Every episode this week features a conversation from a show I've been invited onto as a guest — hosted by smart, generous people you'll genuinely enjoy listening to. Each episode stands on its own. Together, they create momentum. So if you've been listening here and there, this is a great week to lean in.   Start wherever you want — or (best option) listen in order and let the through-line reveal itself.    Either way, I'd love to hear what you think. Happiest and Healthiest Holidays to you and your loved ones. ✨ #190 - The Gut–Hormone Conversation No One Is Actually Having (Yet) Most people think hormone issues start in the ovaries, thyroid, or adrenal glands. They don’t. They start in the gut. In this episode, I’m stepping into the guest seat on Vitality Radio with Jared St. Clair for a deep, practical, wait-why-did-no-one-explain-it-like-this conversation about the gut–hormone axis — and the overlooked role of something called the estrobolome. If you’ve ever dealt with estrogen dominance, stubborn hormone symptoms, thyroid issues that don’t match your labs, or the feeling that your body just isn’t responding to all the “right” things you’re doing… this episode connects the dots. We unpack how gut imbalances quietly recycle hormones that should be leaving your body, why estrogen issues are often gut issues in disguise, and how digestion, detoxification, inflammation, and stress all collide in midlife — especially for women. It’s nerdy in the best way, grounded in physiology (not fear), and refreshingly honest about what actually moves the needle. In This Episode, We Get Into: • What the estrobolome is — and why it matters way more than you’ve been told • How estrogen is supposed to leave your body… and what happens when it doesn’t • Why gut dysbiosis can quietly drive estrogen dominance, PMS, PCOS, and heavy cycles • The surprising connection between gut health and thyroid conversion (T4 → T3) • How leaky gut can increase inflammation and lower testosterone (yes, in women and men) • Why hormone replacement often underperforms when the gut isn’t addressed first • Simple food-based strategies that support hormone clearance — without perfection or extremes Timestamps 00:03 — Why this conversation always comes back to the gut 09:00 — What the estrobolome is (and why it explains so much) 13:00 — Estrogen recycling, beta-glucuronidase, and the “garbage truck” analogy you won’t forget 21:00 — Fiber, inflammation, and why small changes matter more than perfect ones 28:00 — Gut health and thyroid conversion (when labs look fine but you feel awful) 34:00 — Leaky gut, testosterone, and why hormones don’t operate in isolation 41:00 — Where to actually start if this feels overwhelming The Big Takeaway Hormones don’t malfunction in isolation. They respond to the environment inside your body — especially in the gut. Great news, it's fixable. When digestion, detoxification, and inflammation are off, hormones get louder… not because they’re broken, but because they’re stuck in the wrong feedback loop. This episode is about stepping out of symptom-chasing mode and into physiology-first thinking — where the goal isn’t control, restriction, or another protocol… but restoring systems that already know what to do. Where To Find Me 🌿 Website: LisaSmithWellness.com 🎧 Podcast: The Pretty Well Podcast 📸 Instagram: @prettywell_podcast Where To Find Jared 🌿 Website: Vitality Nutrition.com 🎧 Podcast: Vitality Radio 📸 Instagram: @vitalityradio   Disclaimer The content shared on The Pretty Well Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing discussed on this podcast should be considered a substitute for personalized medical care from your physician or other qualified healthcare professional. By listening to this podcast, you agree to take personal responsibility for your health decisions and to consult with your own healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplements, medications, lifestyle, or health routine. This is especially important if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications. Neither Lisa Smith, The Pretty Well Podcast, nor any guests assume responsibility for any adverse effects or consequences that may result from the use or application of the information shared in this content. While we aim to provide accurate, evidence-based information, the content is not guaranteed to be complete, current, or applicable to every individual. Guest opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Lisa Smith or The Pretty Well Podcast, nor do they represent any organization, company, or agency with which guests may be affiliated. This podcast is intended for private, non-commercial use only.

✨Hey! This week looks a little different around here — on purpose.   Instead of our usual rhythm, I'm airing five episodes in five days.   Think of it as a mini-series designed especially for you — curated, fun, and binge-worthy. Fewer cliffhangers, more “ohhh… that makes sense.”   Every episode this week features a conversation from a show I've been invited onto as a guest — hosted by smart, generous people you'll genuinely enjoy listening to. Each episode stands on its own. Together, they create momentum. So if you've been listening here and there, this is a great week to lean in.   Start wherever you want — or (best option) listen in order and let the through-line reveal itself.    Either way, I'd love to hear what you think. Happiest and Healthiest Holidays to you and your loved ones. ✨   #189 - Your Gut Is Running the Whole Shebang (Whether You Realize It or Not) Why leaky gut, low stomach acid, and chronic stress quietly shape your energy, mood, and ability to slow aging There’s a reason gut health keeps coming back into the conversation - the body has a way of forcing the conversation when it’s been ignored long enough. In this episode of Wellness Your Way Podcast, Megan Lyons and I skip the wellness buzzwords and get into the uncomfortable truth: a lot of people aren’t “mysteriously” inflamed, exhausted, anxious, or reactive — their gut has been under chronic stress for years, and it’s finally showing up in symptoms they can’t muscle through anymore. We talk about what leaky gut actually means (and why it’s not a fringe diagnosis), how food sensitivities are often created by stress and inflammation, not something you’re doomed with forever, and why digestion is one of the first systems to shut down when the body feels under pressure. This isn’t a perfect-diet episode. It’s a physiology-first conversation about digestion, immunity, hormones, and why the body stops whispering and starts shouting when no one’s listening. In This Episode, We Cover: 00:02 – Why the gut is more than digestion (hello serotonin, immunity, and your “second brain”) 06:00 – Leaky gut explained without the fear-mongering (and why most people misunderstand it) 11:00 – Food sensitivities: why everything you love suddenly feels reactive 15:30 – The 3 R’s of gut healing: remove, replace, restore 19:45 – Autoimmunity, Hashimoto’s, and the gut connection no one warned you about 24:00 – Low stomach acid: when reflux isn’t what you think it is 28:30 – Candida, sugar cravings, and the symptoms people never connect to the gut 33:30 – What to add in for a healthier microbiome (without chasing perfection) 36:30 – Fecal transplants, postbiotics, and where gut research is actually headed 39:30 – My real-life self-care routine (the non-glamorous version) The Bigger Takeaway Gut health isn’t about obsessing over every bite or eliminating everything you enjoy. It’s about creating an internal environment where digestion works, inflammation calms down, and the nervous system isn’t constantly bracing for impact. When the gut is compromised, the body doesn’t whisper — it compensates… until it can’t. This episode is an invitation to stop treating symptoms in isolation and start looking at the system underneath them. Where To Find Me 🎧 The Pretty Well Podcast — weekly conversations on gut health, hormones, energy, anti-aging, and healing at the root 🌿 LisaSmithWellness.com — articles, resources, and ways to work together ✨ Instagram: @prettywell_podcast Where To Find Megan 🎧 The Wellness Your Way Podcast  🌿 The Lyons Share.org ✨ Instagram: @thelyonsshare   Disclaimer Nothing in this podcast is intended to be medical advice. This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your personal physician or qualified healthcare provider. Always consult your physician or another qualified health professional before making changes to your nutrition, supplements, medications, or lifestyle. Neither Lisa Smith, The Pretty Well Podcast, nor any guests assume responsibility for possible health consequences of any person following the information discussed in this content. Listeners who are pregnant, nursing, taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, or managing a medical condition should consult their healthcare provider before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program. The Pretty Well Podcast is intended for private, non-commercial use. Guest opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Lisa Smith or The Pretty Well Podcast. This content is not guaranteed to be complete, accurate, or up to date.

✨Hey! This week looks a little different around here — on purpose.   Instead of our usual rhythm, I'm airing five episodes in five days.   Think of it as a mini-series designed especially for you — curated, fun, and binge-worthy. Fewer cliffhangers, more “ohhh… that makes sense.”   Every episode this week features a conversation from a show I've been invited onto as a guest — hosted by smart, generous people you'll genuinely enjoy listening to. Each episode stands on its own. Together, they create momentum. So if you've been listening here and there, this is a great week to lean in.   Start wherever you want — or (best option) listen in order and let the through-line reveal itself.    Either way, I'd love to hear what you think. Happiest and Healthiest Holidays to you and your loved ones. ✨   #188 - Another Wellness Product? Why The Health Industry May Be Making You Sicker It’s a subtle shift, but at some point, health stops being a goal — and becomes something you start chasing. There’s a moment when wellness stops being something you pursue with curiosity and becomes something you’re striving for — constantly, urgently, and never quite catching. More tracking. More fixing. More rules. More pressure to get-it-right... all under the promise that this will finally be the thing that makes you feel better. Except instead of feeling better, you feel more tired, more inflamed, and more frustrated with your body than ever. In this episode, I join Tiffany Sauder on the Life of And Podcast for a provocative conversation — one that questions the very foundation of modern wellness culture. We talk about how constant protocols, tracking, optimizing, and “fixing” can quietly dysregulate the nervous system, why women are especially vulnerable to this cycle, and how healing often requires less input, not more. We don't need to consume more information from experts or influencers.  This episode is not about stacking habits. It’s about interrupting the stress loop that keeps people cycling through plans, practitioners, and promises — without ever feeling truly well. And it gives you the conditions your body's waiting for in order to truly heal. What We Cover (with Timestamps) [00:02] — The moment that changed everything How a childhood conversation about cancer prevention sparked my path into functional medicine — and why prevention is always the quieter power move. [00:08] — Where to start when functional medicine feels overwhelming Why you don’t need every test, every protocol, or every supplement — and how decision fatigue keeps people stuck. [00:12] — The 2–3 labs that actually give you clarity Gut testing, metabolic markers, and why running all the tests at once is often a waste of money (and energy). [00:16] — Why people fall off “healthy habits” (and it’s not laziness) The identity traps, self-talk patterns, and nervous system overload that quietly sabotage consistency. [00:19] — Food freedom without the spiral Why perfection is a myth, how to stop self-shaming after one off-plan meal, and the mindset shift that creates long-term health. [00:22] — Real-life swaps that actually work From almond-flour cookies to club soda in a wine glass — how small shifts keep you socially connected and feeling good in your body. [00:30] — How to fuel a tired body on a demanding day Protein-anchored mornings, blood sugar stability, simple movement breaks, and a nervous-system reset you can do in under two minutes. The Real Conversation We’re Having This episode is not asking you to believe in a new system. It’s asking you to question the one you’ve been swimming in. If your health journey feels like a constant state of monitoring, correcting, restricting, or upgrading — your body may not be confused. It may be overstimulated. Healing doesn’t happen when the body feels watched, rushed, or perpetually unfinished. It happens when the nervous system finally gets the message that it’s safe to stand down. This conversation is an invitation to stop chasing the next protocol and start creating the conditions where healing can actually occur. No pressure. No perfection. Just physiology, honesty, and a much calmer way forward.   Where to Find Me 🎧 The Pretty Well Podcast — weekly conversations on gut health, hormones, energy, anti-aging, and healing at the root 🌿 LisaSmithWellness.com — articles, resources, and ways to work together ✨ Instagram: @prettywell_podcast   Where to Find Tiffany 🎧 The Life of And Podcast 🌿 TiffanySauder.com ✨Instagram: lifeof_and   Disclaimer The content shared on The Pretty Well Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing discussed on this podcast should be considered a substitute for personalized medical care from your physician or other qualified healthcare professional. By listening to this podcast, you agree to take personal responsibility for your health decisions and to consult with your own healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplements, medications, lifestyle, or health routine. This is especially important if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications. Neither Lisa Smith, The Pretty Well Podcast, nor any guests assume responsibility for any adverse effects or consequences that may result from the use or application of the information shared in this content. While we aim to provide accurate, evidence-based information, the content is not guaranteed to be complete, current, or applicable to every individual. Guest opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Lisa Smith or The Pretty Well Podcast, nor do they represent any organization, company, or agency with which guests may be affiliated. This podcast is intended for private, non-commercial use only.

✨Hey! This week looks a little different around here — on purpose.   Instead of our usual rhythm, I'm airing five episodes in five days.   Think of it as a mini-series designed especially for you — curated, fun, and binge-worthy. Fewer cliffhangers, more “ohhh… that makes sense.”   Every episode this week features a conversation from a show I've been invited onto as a guest — hosted by smart, generous people you'll genuinely enjoy listening to. Each episode stands on its own. Together, they create momentum. So if you've been listening here and there, this is a great week to lean in.   Start wherever you want — or (best option) listen in order and let the through-line reveal itself.    Either way, I'd love to hear what you think. Happiest and Healthiest Holidays to you and your loved ones. ✨   #187 - Stop Trying So Hard: “Doing Everything Right” Is Keeping You Stuck Your body can’t heal in survival mode — no matter how clean your diet is. What if the reason you don’t feel amazing is NOT because you’re inconsistent, unmotivated, or doing it wrong? If you’ve tried “all the right things” and your health still feels off—tired, achy, foggy, or like you're aging too fast—this episode is for you. What if it’s because wellness culture keeps handing you high-effort solutions to your health complaints — and your nervous system is quietly waving a white flag?  In this conversation on Charis Chats, I join Charis Santillie for a refreshingly sane take on health: why feeling better doesn’t require a total life overhaul, why tiny habits outperform dramatic protocols, and how stress, blood sugar, gut health, hormones, and mindset are far more intertwined than most advice admits. This episode is for you if you want to feel clearer, more grounded, and more energized — without turning your life into a full-time self-improvement project. If you’ve done the dietary shifts, supplements, yoga classes and still feel off… this one will stop you mid-scroll. Long exhale. What We Cover (with Timestamps) [00:02] — Why most people fail at wellness before they even start Not because they lack discipline — but because they’re trying to change everything at once. We talk about why your nervous system hates that plan. [00:08] — My unconventional path into functional medicine The childhood moment that shaped my obsession with prevention — and why waiting for a diagnosis is a terrible health strategy. [00:12] — The easiest health upgrades almost everyone can tolerate Why adding beats restricting, how morning habits set your physiology for the day, and where people overcomplicate this fast. [00:15] — MCT oil, brain fuel, and using it without wrecking your gut What it actually does, who benefits most, and why more is not better (your digestive system agrees). [00:22] — Beets, blood flow, and why circulation matters more than you think Nitric oxide, brain health, aging, and the simple daily support most people overlook. [00:26] — Habit stacking: the science-backed shortcut to consistency Why motivation is unreliable, how your brain actually forms habits, and how tiny wins build momentum without burnout. [00:31] — Your body is always listening (this part isn’t woo) How thoughts, identity, and repetition shape physiology — and why your subconscious is far more literal than you think. [00:40] — Gluten, inflammation, and the ‘small’ symptoms people ignore Skin issues, fatigue, bloating, brain fog — why these aren’t random, and what your body may be asking for. [00:55] — The mindset shift that creates lasting health Why consistency quietly beats intensity every time — and how small daily choices compound into real change. The Big Takeaway You don’t need a stricter routine. You don’t need more supplements. And you definitely don’t need to be harder on yourself. You need simpler inputs, smarter habits, and a nervous system that feels safe enough to heal. This episode is your reminder that sustainable health is built quietly — through small, repeatable choices that actually fit your life. Press play. Your future self will thank you.   Where to Find Me 🎧 The Pretty Well Podcast — weekly conversations on gut health, hormones, energy, anti-aging, and healing at the root 🌿 LisaSmithWellness.com — articles, resources, and ways to work together ✨ Instagram: @prettywell_podcast   Where to Find Charis 🎧 Charis Chats Podcast 🌿Charis Your Life.com ✨ Instagram: @charisyourlife   Disclaimer The content shared on The Pretty Well Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing discussed on this podcast should be considered a substitute for personalized medical care from your physician or other qualified healthcare professional. By listening to this podcast, you agree to take personal responsibility for your health decisions and to consult with your own healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplements, medications, lifestyle, or health routine. This is especially important if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications. Neither Lisa Smith, The Pretty Well Podcast, nor any guests assume responsibility for any adverse effects or consequences that may result from the use or application of the information shared in this content. While we aim to provide accurate, evidence-based information, the content is not guaranteed to be complete, current, or applicable to every individual. Guest opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Lisa Smith or The Pretty Well Podcast, nor do they represent any organization, company, or agency with which guests may be affiliated. This podcast is intended for private, non-commercial use only.

✨Hey! This week looks a little different around here — on purpose.   Instead of our usual rhythm, I'm airing five episodes in five days.   Think of it as a mini-series designed especially for you — curated, fun, and binge-worthy. Fewer cliffhangers, more “ohhh… that makes sense.”   Every episode this week features a conversation from a show I've been invited onto as a guest — hosted by smart, generous people you'll genuinely enjoy listening to. Each episode stands on its own. Together, they create momentum. So if you've been listening here and there, this is a great week to lean in.   Start wherever you want — or (best option) listen in order and let the through-line reveal itself.    Either way, I'd love to hear what you think. Happiest and Healthiest Holidays to you and your loved ones. ✨   #186 - This Episode Will Rewire How You Think About Your Gut, Hormones, and Anti-Aging What if your symptoms aren’t random—and your body isn’t failing you at all? Healing doesn’t fail. Strategies do. What if exhaustion, gut issues, hormone chaos, and skin flares are actually intelligent signals you’ve been taught to ignore? In this episode, I’m stepping into the guest seat on Well Done with Kat Vong—and we go deep. Not surface-level wellness tips. Not another “eat clean and sleep more” conversation. We’re talking about what actually drives chronic symptoms like gut issues, hormone chaos, exhaustion, skin flares, and that quiet sense that your body just isn’t cooperating anymore. We unpack why stress is often the root driver, how gut health quietly controls your hormones, why perimenopause deserves way more proactive attention, and the wildly underrated role your identity and subconscious play in healing. If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing “all the right things” and still not getting better—this one will stop you mid-scroll. What We Cover (with Timestamps) [00:02:00] — Why stress isn’t just a factor… it’s often the driver Chronic stress doesn’t just make you tired—it literally creates inflammation, raises cortisol, and pokes holes in your gut lining. This is where a lot of healing conversations need to start. [00:03:30] — My personal health journey (and why it changed everything) From growing up inspired by a surgeon grandfather to developing Hashimoto’s myself—why lived experience matters as much as credentials. [00:06:30] — The real root cause of autoimmune conditions We break down the “three-legged stool” of autoimmunity: genetics, leaky gut, and a trigger—and why stress often pulls the trigger. [00:10:30] — Why conventional medicine often stops short The problem with “a pill for an ill,” and what happens when we treat symptoms without asking why the body adapted that way in the first place. [00:16:30] — Gut symptoms you should never ignore Bloating, migraines, fatigue that sleep doesn’t fix, brain fog, bowel changes—what’s normal vs. what’s a check-engine light. [00:19:30] — How stress physically damages the gut This is where everything connects: cortisol, inflammation, leaky gut, blood sugar, hormones—and why I’ve completely changed how I prioritize stress in healing. [00:22:30] — Deep stress vs. trauma (and how the body stores both) Why you don’t have to feel stressed for your body to still be carrying it—and how emotions live in tissues. [00:25:30] — How we actually heal leaky gut (the practical framework) Lifestyle + nutrition + targeted supplements—and why no single supplement will fix what lifestyle is still breaking. [00:27:30] — The key nutrients that rebuild the gut lining Collagen, glutamine, zinc, soothing herbs—and how food and supplements work together. [00:28:30] — Perimenopause signs most women are taught to ignore Mood changes, cycle shifts, irritability, fatigue, heavy periods—why these aren’t “just aging” and what to look at now, not later. [00:31:00] — Bioidentical hormone replacement explained (without the fear-mongering) What it is, why it’s different, and how balanced hormones protect your brain, bones, and heart. [00:34:30] — The gut–hormone connection no one talks about Meet the estrobolome: how gut bacteria regulate estrogen—and why dysbiosis fuels estrogen dominance. [00:37:00] — Simple gut upgrades that support hormone balance Probiotics, prebiotics, food sensitivities, and why whole foods matter more than perfection. [00:41:30] — Identity, subconscious programming, and healing Why healing stalls when we identify as our diagnosis—and how shifting identity changes biology. [00:44:30] — Visualization + emotion: the missing link Why mindset isn’t about positive thinking—it’s about retraining the subconscious during the most programmable moments of the day. [00:50:30] — Letting go of the ‘how’ and ‘when’ Why detachment accelerates healing and obsession slows it down. [00:54:30] — My top daily lifestyle priorities for better health Stress awareness, gut cleanup, whole foods, reducing ultra-processed foods, and tuning into your body’s signals. [00:58:30] — Artificial sweeteners, gut damage, and smarter swaps What to avoid, what’s okay, and why your sneezing, bloating, or fatigue after meals isn’t random. Big Takeaways You’ll Still Be Thinking About Tomorrow • Stress is not a side character—it’s often the lead villain • Healing the gut often unlocks hormone balance • Perimenopause is a window for prevention, not something to suffer through • The subconscious doesn’t argue—it executes • What you repeatedly tell your body, it believes Where to Find Me 🎧 The Pretty Well Podcast — weekly conversations on gut health, hormones, energy, anti-aging, and healing at the root 🌿 LisaSmithWellness.com — articles, resources, and ways to work together ✨ Instagram: @prettywell_podcast   Where to Find Kat 🎧 The Well Done Podcast ✨ Instagram: @thewelldonepod   If this episode made something click for you, send it to a friend who’s “doing everything right” and still not feeling well. Healing doesn’t require perfection—it requires alignment. Your body isn’t broken. It’s responding.   Disclaimer The content shared on The Pretty Well Podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Nothing discussed on this podcast should be considered a substitute for personalized medical care from your physician or other qualified healthcare professional. By listening to this podcast, you agree to take personal responsibility for your health decisions and to consult with your own healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, supplements, medications, lifestyle, or health routine. This is especially important if you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are taking prescription or over-the-counter medications. Neither Lisa Smith, The Pretty Well Podcast, nor any guests assume responsibility for any adverse effects or consequences that may result from the use or application of the information shared in this content. While we aim to provide accurate, evidence-based information, the content is not guaranteed to be complete, current, or applicable to every individual. Guest opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Lisa Smith or The Pretty Well Podcast, nor do they represent any organization, company, or agency with which guests may be affiliated. This podcast is intended for private, non-commercial use only.

#185 - Why Your Diet Keeps Failing (and What Actually Works Instead) with Adi Wyshogrod, RD Stop Dieting, Start Healing: Rewiring Your Relationship with Food with Adi Wyshogrod, RD What if your “food problem” isn’t actually about food at all? In this episode, I sit down with Adi Wyshogrod, registered dietitian and co-founder of Everlong, a national telehealth nutrition counseling company that’s completely rewriting how people experience nutrition care. Instead of handing out another meal plan or macro chart, Adi and her team help people uncover why they eat the way they do — and how to finally build habits that stick through every season of life. We talk about how behavioral nutrition is changing the game — blending psychology, emotional intelligence, and evidence-based dietetics — so people can stop “starting over” every Monday and start creating real, lasting change. You’ll learn: 🍽️ Why most people’s struggles with food began long before their first diet 🧠 How early experiences shape our beliefs around eating, willpower, and self-worth ❤️ The difference between nutritional counseling and behavioral nutrition (and why it matters) 📆 Why sustainable change takes 6–12 months — and why that’s actually the best news ever 💡 How to rebuild self-trust around food after decades of guilt or yo-yo dieting 💰 How Everlong makes it easier than ever — virtual sessions, often 100% covered by insurance ✨ The single reframe that can break years of “good vs. bad” food thinking If you’ve ever felt like you “know what to do” but can’t seem to make it stick — this episode will hit home. It’s part science, part soul work… and 100 percent doable.  ⏰ Timestamps 01:00 – Adi’s personal story: teenage weight loss, psychology, and why food isn’t the problem 03:00 – From diet culture to behavior change — the birth of Everlong 04:30 – Why understanding emotion is the missing link in nutrition counseling 06:00 – Unlearning shame: how to rewire beliefs about food and body 10:00 – How Everlong trains dietitians to go beyond macros and meal plans 13:30 – Navigating life’s messy seasons without losing your progress 16:00 – Breaking guilt cycles: why it’s never too late to start again 17:30 – Top limiting beliefs that keep people stuck (and how to reframe them) 19:00 – The self-care mindset shift that changes everything 20:00 – How insurance-covered virtual care removes financial barriers 23:00 – Macros, mindset, and what calorie counting gets wrong 26:30 – Why “I was bad this week” thinking keeps you stuck 28:00 – The future of nutrition: behavioral health meets dietetics   🔗 Resources & Links  (As An Amazon Associate I Earn A Small Commission From Qualifying Purchases At No Extra Cost To You): Everlong website: https://geteverlong.com/ 💥 Join the conversation: Share your thoughts with us on social media or in the comments! 🎙 Subscribe, Share & Review: If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people who need these insights. Thanks for tuning in to Pretty Well! See you next week! Contact Lisa: Website: www.lisasmithwellness.com  IG: https://www.instagram.com/prettywell_podcast/ Disclaimer:  Nothing in this podcast is to be taken as medical advice, please take informed accountability and speak to your provider before making changes to your health routine. The primary purpose of The Pretty Well Podcast being to educate. This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice nor to take the place of such  advice or treatment from a personal physician. By listening to this content, you agree to consult your own physician or qualified health professional regarding specific health questions. Neither Lisa Smith, The Pretty Well Podcast, nor any guest takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons following the information in this educational content. All listeners of this content, especially those who are pregnant or taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program. The Pretty Well Podcast is for private non-commercial use and our guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or company that they work for. In addition, opinions of interview guests do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Lisa Smith and/or The Pretty Well Podcast. This content is not guaranteed to be correct, complete, or up to date.