The Girlfriend Doctor w/ Dr. Anna Cabeca

Odcinki

• Your "normal" labs are making you sick | Dr. Shamita Trivedi 18.06.2026 56min

  Have you ever been told your labs are "normal"—but you still feel exhausted, gain weight despite doing everything right, struggle with brain fog, poor sleep, low motivation, or simply don't feel like yourself? In this eye-opening episode of The Girlfriend Doctor Show, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with endocrinologist and women's health expert Dr. Shamita Trivedi to uncover why "normal" lab results don't always mean optimal health. With nearly 20 years of experience in endocrinology and hormone health, Dr. Trivedi shares how she blends evidence-based medicine with a personalized, integrative approach to help women navigate thyroid dysfunction, perimenopause, menopause, insulin resistance, metabolic health, and hormone optimization. Together, Dr. Anna and Dr. Trivedi discuss the growing epidemic of weight gain, fatigue, and metabolic dysfunction in midlife women—and why traditional medicine often misses the bigger picture. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why "normal" thyroid labs may still leave you feeling exhausted • The difference between normal ranges and optimal hormone levels • How perimenopause creates a state of neuroendocrine vulnerability • The truth about GLP-1 medications and when they're appropriate • Why hormone replacement should never be one-size-fits-all • The hidden connection between thyroid health, metabolism, and weight gain • How gut health, inflammation, and lifestyle impact every hormone system • What women with premature ovarian insufficiency need to know If you've ever felt dismissed, unheard, or told everything is fine when you know something isn't right, this conversation will empower you to advocate for your health and understand your body on a deeper level. Listen now and discover why optimal health starts beyond "normal."   Key Timestamps 00:00 – Why endocrinology plays a critical role in women's health and hormone optimization. 03:20 – Premature ovarian insufficiency: why early menopause can be devastating and what can be done. 09:15 – Birth control pills versus physiologic hormone replacement in young women. 16:00 – Perimenopause as a period of neuroendocrine and immunologic vulnerability. 22:45 – Why hormone therapy should always be individualized. 28:30 – Weight gain, cardiometabolic changes, and why women "catch up" to men in heart disease risk after menopause. 32:50 – The role of GLP-1 medications: benefits, risks, and common misconceptions. 40:40 – Gut health, inflammation, endocrine disruptors, and the root causes of metabolic dysfunction. 52:10 – Microdosing vs. standard dosing approaches for GLP-1 medications. 58:20 – Can you safely come off GLP-1 medications without regaining weight? 1:08:45 – The thyroid conversation: why so many women are told their labs are normal when they don't feel normal. 1:16:30 – T3, T4, thyroid antibodies, and finding the optimal thyroid range. 1:24:00 – A real patient case study: how hormone and thyroid optimization gave a woman her life back.   Memorable Quotes "I don't look at isolated symptoms. I look for the thread that's tying everything together." — Dr. Shamita Trivedi "This is not your body failing you. This is a normal transition that everybody goes through." — Dr. Shamita Trivedi "Menopause is normal and mandatory. Suffering is optional." — Dr. Anna Cabeca "Your body will tell us what it needs. Our job is to listen." — Dr. Shamita Trivedi "Normal lab values are not always optimal values." — Dr. Shamita Trivedi "We have to treat the woman in front of us—not the lab report." — Dr. Anna Cabeca   Connect With Dr. Shamita Trivedi Website: https://drshamitatrivedi.com Casad Health & Wellness: https://casadhealth.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drtrivedi_hormonedoc   Connect With Dr. Anna Website: https://dranna.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor
• The Truth About Progesterone | Dr. Felice Gersh 11.06.2026 1godz 3min

  Is progesterone the most misunderstood hormone in women's health? For decades, women have been told that progesterone is only necessary to protect the uterus. But what if that's only a small part of the story? In this fascinating and thought-provoking episode of The Girlfriend Doctor Show, Dr. Anna Cabeca welcomes renowned OB-GYN and integrative medicine pioneer Dr. Felice Gersh for a deep dive into the science, controversy, and clinical nuances of progesterone therapy in menopause. Drawing on more than 45 years of clinical experience, Dr. Gersh explains why she believes progesterone is far more than a hormone for pregnancy and uterine protection. Together, she and Dr. Anna explore progesterone's role in brain health, inflammation, metabolism, cardiovascular wellness, sleep, cognition, and healthy aging. They discuss why hormone therapy should never be one-size-fits-all, the differences between progesterone and synthetic progestins, the growing evidence supporting cyclic hormone therapy, and how delivery methods—including oral, vaginal, transdermal, and rectal progesterone—can produce dramatically different effects in the body. The conversation also tackles one of the most controversial topics in women's health: hormone therapy after breast cancer. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why progesterone is a "life hormone," not just a reproductive hormone • The surprising neuroprotective effects of progesterone • How oral progesterone differs from vaginal and transdermal delivery • Why cyclic hormone therapy may more closely mimic natural physiology • The role of allopregnanolone in sleep, mood, cognition, and brain health • How inflammation influences breast cancer risk more than many women realize • Why individualized hormone therapy remains essential for optimal aging If you've ever wondered whether you're using progesterone correctly—or if you've been told you don't need it after menopause—this episode may completely change how you think about hormone health.   Key Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to Dr. Felice Gersh and why progesterone remains one of the most misunderstood hormones in medicine. 04:30 – Why menopause is a metabolic transition, not simply the end of fertility. 08:45 – Dr. Gersh explains why progesterone should not be viewed solely as uterine protection. 14:20 – The concept of progesterone as a "life hormone" and its effects throughout the body. 21:30 – Cyclic versus continuous hormone therapy and what nature can teach us about hormone rhythms. 28:15 – Neuroprotection, traumatic brain injury research, cognition, and progesterone's impact on brain health. 36:40 – Progesterone versus synthetic progestins: why the distinction matters. 43:55 – Oral progesterone, allopregnanolone, and the surprising effects on sleep, mood, and cognition. 58:10 – The science behind vaginal, transdermal, and rectal progesterone delivery. 1:09:20 – Postmenopausal bleeding, endometrial protection, and important clinical considerations. 1:18:45 – Progesterone, breast cancer, inflammation, and informed consent. 1:31:00 – Final thoughts on individualized hormone therapy and empowering women through education.   Memorable Quotes "I don't call them sex hormones. I call them life hormones." — Dr. Felice Gersh "Progesterone has receptors throughout the body and affects virtually every organ system." — Dr. Felice Gersh "We are not smarter than nature." — Dr. Felice Gersh "Hormone therapy is never one-size-fits-all." — Dr. Anna Cabeca "The underlying issue that caused the cancer wasn't reproductive hormones." — Dr. Anna Cabeca "Most women don't need less information—they need better information." — Dr. Felice Gersh   Connect With Guest Website: https://integrativemgi.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FeliceGershMD Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.felicegersh/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/felicegershmd/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/felicegershmd/   Connect With Dr. Anna Website: https://dranna.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor   💧 BIG NEWS: Dr. Anna's own intimate lubricant, Velvé, is launching soon! Be the first to know: www.shopvelve.com 
• What You're Eating Is Making Menopause Worse | Andrea Donsky 04.06.2026 48min

  What if the brain fog, exhaustion, anxiety, bloating, hot flashes, sleep struggles, and weight gain you're experiencing in perimenopause aren't "just aging"… but signs your body is asking for a completely different kind of nourishment? In this empowering episode of The Girlfriend Doctor Show, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with nutritionist, menopause educator, and 7X published menopause researcher Andrea Donsky for a deeply validating conversation about the real science behind menopause symptoms—and what women can actually do to feel better. Andrea shares how her groundbreaking menopause research uncovered more than 103 symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause, with many of the most common symptoms linked to brain health, cognition, anxiety, mood, and sleep. Together, Dr. Anna and Andrea unpack why so many women feel dismissed by healthcare providers and how nutrition, digestion, blood sugar balance, sleep, stress reduction, and targeted supplementation can dramatically improve quality of life. Andrea also introduces her BALANCE Blueprint from her new book Nourishing Menopause, a practical framework for supporting hormones, metabolism, gut health, and energy through midlife and beyond. In this episode, you'll learn: Why blood sugar balance is critical during perimenopause and menopause The surprising connection between gut health, hormones, mood, and brain fog How digestion changes in menopause—and why constipation, bloating, and inflammation increase Which foods and habits may worsen hot flashes, night sweats, and poor sleep The foundational supplements Andrea recommends for midlife women Why menopause symptoms are often misunderstood or dismissed by doctors How mindset, self-compassion, and education can transform the menopause experience If you've ever felt like "something is wrong" in your body but couldn't explain it, this conversation will help you feel seen, informed, and empowered with practical tools to support your Second Spring.   Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Why more women are finally talking openly about perimenopause Dr. Anna introduces the conversation around optimizing health during menopause and beyond. 01:52 – Andrea discovers there are over 100 menopause symptoms Andrea shares how her menopause research journey began and what surprised her most. 02:54 – The shocking link between menopause and mental health symptoms Discussion about anxiety, cognitive health, depression, and why women often feel "crazy" during hormonal shifts. 05:47 – What Andrea's doctor visit survey revealed The heartbreaking reality of women being dismissed, unheard, and misdiagnosed during perimenopause. 10:56 – What women are still not being told about menopause Andrea explains why "just exercise more and lose weight" is not enough. 13:40 – The BALANCE Blueprint for nourishing menopause Andrea breaks down her nutrition framework for supporting metabolism, hormones, gut health, and energy. 16:02 – Why blood sugar balance becomes essential in menopause Discussion on insulin resistance, PCOS, metabolism, and protein needs during midlife. 20:47 – How menopause changes digestion and gut health Andrea explains bloating, constipation, food sensitivities, inflammation, and the gut-brain connection. 26:58 – Nutrition strategies for better sleep and fewer hot flashes Why late-night eating, alcohol, chocolate, and blood sugar spikes may worsen symptoms. 32:56 – Andrea's foundational menopause supplements Magnesium, omega-3s, fiber, vitamin D, and why supplementation matters during hormonal shifts. 37:47 – Rapid-fire menopause wisdom and mindset shifts Andrea shares the habits, mindset changes, and self-care practices that transformed her own menopause journey. 42:27 – Where to find Andrea's book, resources, and menopause research Final thoughts on empowerment, pelvic health, and changing the menopause conversation together.   Memorable Quotes: "We found there are actually more than 103 symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause." — Andrea Donsky "Nine out of the top ten menopause symptoms are brain health, cognitive health, and mental health related." — Andrea Donsky "You are the CEO of your body." — Anna Cabeca "We cannot do what we did before. We have to relearn how to nourish ourselves in this phase of life." — Andrea Donsky "You can't heal a body you hate." — Anna Cabeca "Menopause is a time of recalibration, not failure." — Andrea Donsky   Connect With Guest: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andreadonsky TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@andreadonsky LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreadonsky/ Website: https://wearemorphus.com Book: https://nourishingmenopausebook.com Podcast: Menopause Reimagined   Connect With Dr. Anna: Website: https://dranna.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor 💧 BIG NEWS: Dr. Anna's own intimate lubricant, Velvé, is launching soon!Be the first to know: www.shopvelve.com 
• The Ancient Secret to Fighting Inflammation | Dr. Shivani 28.05.2026 48min

  What if the key to reducing inflammation, balancing hormones, improving digestion, and restoring your energy wasn't another restrictive diet—but ancient wisdom backed by modern science? In this powerful episode of The Girlfriend Doctor Show, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with Ayurvedic practitioner, turmeric researcher, and inflammation expert Dr. Shivani Gupta to explore how chronic inflammation silently impacts everything from brain fog and belly fat to hormone imbalance, sleep struggles, and burnout in midlife women. With a Master's in Ayurvedic Sciences and a PhD focused on turmeric, Dr. Shivani bridges the gap between ancient Ayurvedic practices and functional medicine in a refreshingly practical way. Together, Dr. Anna and Dr. Shivani dive into the daily rituals, spice-based habits, and nervous system practices that can help women feel vibrant again—without perfection or deprivation. In this episode, you'll learn: Why inflammation is often the hidden root cause behind hormone chaos and fatigue The surprising connection between gut health, the estrobolome, and menopause symptoms How turmeric works beyond supplements—and why quality matters What "Mental Inflammation™" is and how stress fuels physical symptoms Simple Ayurvedic micro-habits that help regulate energy, digestion, mood, and sleep How women can personalize wellness through Elemental Design™ instead of one-size-fits-all health advice Dr. Shivani also shares insights from her upcoming book, The Inflammation Code (Hay House, February 2026), and explains why sustainable healing starts with small daily shifts that actually fit real life. If you've been feeling inflamed, exhausted, or disconnected from your body, this episode will leave you feeling empowered, hopeful, and equipped with practical tools to start healing today.   Key Timestamps: 01:09 – Introduction to inflammation and the "devil's pitchfork" Dr. Anna explains the connection between inflammation, adrenal dysfunction, and hormone imbalance. 01:10 – Dr. Shivani's personal health journey Growing up between Houston and India, Dr. Shivani shares how antibiotics, chronic illness, and Ayurvedic remedies shaped her path. 01:14 – What Ayurveda actually is Dr. Shivani breaks down Ayurveda as a 5,000-year-old system of prevention, healing, circadian living, and gut health. 01:18 – Understanding your Ayurvedic "Elemental Design" Learn the three doshas/body types: Vata (air), Pitta (fire), and Kapha (earth/water). 01:25 – Daily detox rituals that lower inflammation Tongue scraping, oil pulling, gut-healing foods, and Ayurvedic self-care practices explained. 01:35 – Why menopause is a "Vata transition" Dr. Shivani explains how dryness, insomnia, anxiety, brain fog, and hormonal shifts align with Vata imbalance. 01:39 – Protein, healthy fats, and women's metabolism in midlife Discussion around vegan diets, insulin resistance, muscle loss, and supporting hormones through nourishment. 01:46 – The science-backed power of turmeric Dr. Shivani shares her PhD research on turmeric's anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, gut-healing, and neuroprotective effects. 01:48 – How to actually absorb turmeric properly Why black pepper and healthy fats matter for turmeric absorption and effectiveness. 01:53 – Turmeric for brain health and Alzheimer's prevention The conversation dives into amyloid plaques, neuroinflammation, and women's increased Alzheimer's risk. 01:54 – Dr. Shivani's book, supplements, and inflammation protocols Final takeaways on The Inflammation Code, Ayurvedic healing tools, and practical daily anti-inflammatory habits.     Memorable Quotes: "Inflammation is the fire underneath so many of the symptoms women are struggling with today." — Shivani Gupta "Healing doesn't have to be extreme to be effective." — Shivani Gupta "Your body is constantly communicating with you through symptoms." — Anna Cabeca "Small daily rituals done consistently are more powerful than perfection." — Shivani Gupta "Women heal best when they feel safe, supported, and connected back to themselves." — Anna Cabeca     Connect With Guest: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.shivanigupta Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/@TheShivaniGupta YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.shivanigupta/videos Website: https://www.shivanigupta.comThe Inflammation Code Book: https://www.theinflammationcode.com Fusionary Formulas: Dr. Shivani's recommended supplement line Use code DRANNA at checkout for 15% off your first order! 🔗https://fusionaryformulas.com?sca_ref=11351585.JGtAbG1l5Q06 🎙️ Listen to Dr. Anna on Dr. Shivani's podcast, The Inflammation Code: Why Your Brain Feels Foggy and Your Mood Is Off     Connect With Dr. Anna: Website: https://dranna.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor 💧 BIG NEWS: Dr. Anna's own intimate lubricant, Velvé, is launching soon!Be the first to know: www.shopvelve.com 
• The Gut-Thyroid Link Your Doctor Isn't Testing For with Dr. Izabella Wentz 21.05.2026 47min

  What if your "normal" thyroid labs aren't telling the full story? In this eye-opening episode of The Girlfriend Doctor Show, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with renowned integrative pharmacist and thyroid expert Dr. Izabella Wentz to uncover the powerful connection between gut health, IBS, autoimmune disease, and thyroid dysfunction — especially Hashimoto's. Dr. Wentz shares her deeply personal journey from debilitating IBS, anxiety, fatigue, and Hashimoto's thyroiditis to healing through root-cause medicine. Together, Dr. Anna and Dr. Wentz explore why so many women are told their thyroid labs are "normal" while they continue struggling with weight gain, brain fog, bloating, constipation, inflammation, hormonal shifts, and exhaustion. You'll learn why gut permeability ("leaky gut"), chronic stress, infections, food sensitivities, and microbiome imbalances may be silently driving autoimmune thyroid disease — and the practical steps you can take to begin healing. In this episode, you'll discover: Why thyroid antibodies matter — even when TSH appears "normal" The hidden connection between IBS and Hashimoto's How stress hormones disrupt the gut barrier and immune system Common root causes including parasites, H. pylori, SIBO, mold, and food sensitivities The truth about bloating, constipation, diarrhea, edema, and inflammation Functional medicine testing that may uncover what conventional medicine misses Nutrition, supplements, and gut-healing strategies that can support thyroid recovery If you've ever been told "everything looks fine" while your body says otherwise, this conversation is for you. Listen now and share this episode with someone who needs answers, healing, and hope.   Key Timestamps 00:00 — Why thyroid symptoms are often missed in women 04:30 — Dr. Wentz's personal journey with IBS and Hashimoto's 11:15 — The gut-autoimmune-thyroid connection explained 18:40 — Post-COVID rise in autoimmune conditions and chronic fatigue 24:50 — Functional medicine testing for IBS and thyroid symptoms 33:10 — Stress, cortisol, and "leaky gut" 41:20 — How intestinal permeability triggers autoimmune disease 49:45 — Food sensitivities, bloating, edema, and inflammation 58:30 — Gut-healing protocols and favorite supplements 01:06:20 — Why women are more prone to IBS and Hashimoto's 01:14:00 — The importance of self-advocacy and listening to your body   Memorable Quotes "You may have been told your thyroid is normal, but there's something else going on — and the biggest culprit can be in the gut." — Dr. Anna Cabeca "Don't let people tell you it's all in your head." — Dr. Izabella Wentz "There will often be a disruption of the gut barrier years before an autoimmune diagnosis appears." — Dr. Izabella Wentz "To heal the human, we have to address the gut." — Dr. Anna Cabeca "Stress hormones can unlock the door to intestinal permeability and chronic inflammation." — Dr. Anna Cabeca   Connect With Guest Check out Dr. Izabella's new book: IBS: Finding and Treating the Root Cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/izabellawentzpharmd/ YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@ThyroidPharmacist  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThyroidLifestyle/ Website: https://thyroidpharmacist.com/   Connect With Dr. Anna Website: Dranna.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor   💧 BIG NEWS: Dr. Anna's own intimate lubricant, Velvé, is launching soon!Be the first to know: www.shopvelve.com 
• Why You're Still Tired, Fat & Losing Hair (It's Your Thyroid) | Dr. Amie Hornaman 14.05.2026 46min

  Are you doing "all the right things" but still gaining weight, losing hair, feeling exhausted, foggy, anxious, or stuck in your body? Your thyroid may be the missing piece. In this powerful episode of The Girlfriend Doctor Podcast, Dr. Anna Cabeca welcomes Dr. Amie Hornaman—also known as "The Thyroid Fixer," founder of the Advanced Thyroid and Hormone Clinic, host of The Thyroid Fixer podcast, and author of The Thyroid Fix: The No Nonsense Guide to Fix Fatigue, Fogginess and Fat That Won't Budge. Together, Dr. Anna and Dr. Amie unpack why thyroid dysfunction is so often missed in perimenopause and menopause—and why a "normal" TSH may not tell the whole story. They discuss Hashimoto's, weight-loss resistance, hair loss, fatigue, iodine, T2, reverse T3, thyroid antibodies, hormone shifts, stress, environmental toxins, and why women must advocate for a complete thyroid panel. In this episode, you'll learn: Why fatigue, hair loss, depression, constipation, cold intolerance, and stubborn belly fat may point to thyroid dysfunction The full thyroid panel Dr. Amie recommends beyond TSH How perimenopause and menopause can trigger or worsen Hashimoto's Why T4-only medication may not work for every woman The role of iodine, selenium, magnesium, vitamin D, black cumin seed oil, and T2 Why thyroid optimization is a longevity strategy—not just a weight-loss conversation Dr. Amie also shares her personal journey of misdiagnosis, thyroid recovery, PCOS, and navigating endometrial cancer with courage, honesty, and functional medicine wisdom. Listen now and remember: you are your best health advocate—and there is always one next right step. Key Timestamps 00:00 — Why thyroid symptoms often show up in menopause 04:20 — The top symptoms of thyroid dysfunction 08:30 — Hashimoto's, autoimmunity, and hormone shifts 16:40 — The full thyroid panel every woman should know 27:00 — Iodine, thyroid antibodies, and detox reactions 36:30 — Dr. Amie's personal thyroid misdiagnosis story 46:00 — Thyroid dysfunction and weight-loss resistance 55:00 — Optimizing thyroid hormones at every age 1:04:00 — PCOS, progesterone, and endometrial cancer 1:14:00 — T2, metabolism, and mitochondrial support Memorable Quotes "From head to toe, the thyroid runs the show." — Dr. Amie Hornaman "Women are being dismissed when it really is a thyroid problem that can be treated." — Dr. Amie Hornaman "We don't want normal. We want optimal." — Dr. Anna Cabeca "The thyroid is a longevity optimizer, not just an aesthetics conversation." — Dr. Amie Hornaman "You are your best advocate for your health." — Dr. Anna Cabeca Connect With Dr. Amie Hornaman Book: The Thyroid Fix: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Thyroid-Fix/Dr-Amie-Hornaman/9781668225424 Website: https://dramie.com Supplements: https://betterlifedoctor.com/annacabeca Use code: DRANNA for 10% off Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dramiehornaman/ YouTube: youtube.com/@DrAmieHornaman Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmieHornaman Connect With Dr. Anna Cabeca Website: https://dranna.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor 💧 BIG NEWS: Dr. Anna's own intimate lubricant, Velvé, is launching soon! Be the first to know: www.shopvelve.com 
• Dave Asprey: I Take Nicotine Every Day — Here's Why | The Girlfriend Doctor Show Ep. 272 07.05.2026 47min

  What if everything you've been told about nicotine… is incomplete? In this bold, thought-provoking episode, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with biohacking pioneer Dave Asprey to unpack the science, controversy, and real-world application of nicotine for brain health, longevity, and performance—and why dosage, context, and awareness matter more than ever. Dave Asprey is a 4x New York Times bestselling author, longevity expert, founder of Bulletproof Coffee, and widely recognized as the creator of the biohacking movement. After losing over 100 pounds and transforming his own health, he's spent decades optimizing human performance and building tools that have shaped a multi-billion-dollar wellness industry. Together, Dr. Anna and Dave go deep—covering everything from microdosing nicotine and mitochondrial health to trauma healing, intuition, and the future of consciousness. In this episode, you'll learn: The truth about nicotine vs. smoking—and why they are NOT the same How low-dose nicotine (1–5 mg) may support brain clarity, focus, and neuroprotection The risks of addiction, tolerance, and overuse (and how to avoid them) A powerful "brain rescue stack" for cognitive decline (creatine, electrolytes, ketones + more) Why women are at higher risk for Alzheimer's—and what you can do now The role of mitochondria, trauma, and forgiveness in healing and longevity Dave's "5 F's framework" (fear, food, fertility, friend, forgiveness) and how it drives behavior How biohacking is evolving into consciousness and emotional resilience work ⏱️ Key Timestamps: 03:12 – Nicotine for cognitive performance: myth vs. science 10:45 – Addiction, dosing, and Dr. Anna's personal experience 18:20 – Brain fog, menopause, and neuroprotection strategies 26:10 – The "brain stack" for dementia and cognitive decline 38:05 – Mitochondria, trauma, and the root of emotional triggers 52:30 – Forgiveness as a biological reset  1:02:15 – The future of biohacking: consciousness + longevity  💬 Memorable Quotes: "Smoking is bad for you. Nicotine is a different conversation." – Dave Asprey "Low dose, it's a tool. High dose, it becomes a problem." – Dave Asprey "We can't ignore brain health—especially as women, where risk is higher." – Dr. Anna Cabeca "Forgiveness isn't a thought—it's a biological reset." – Dave Asprey "We don't want to be normal—we want to be optimal." – Dr. Anna Cabeca  🔗 Connect with Dave Asprey: Website: https://daveasprey.com/ Book: Heavily Meditated: The Fast Path to Remove Your Triggers, Dissolve Stress, and Activate Inner Peace TikTok: daveaspreyofficial Facebook: daveaspreyofficial YouTube: DaveaspreyBPR LinkedIn: asprey X: daveasprey Instagram: dave.asprey Check out Dave's products using Dr. Anna's links below: 🕶️ TrueDark (blue light blocking glasses) — truedark.com?ref=dranna ☕ Danger Coffee (mineral-rich performance coffee) — dangercoffee.com/dranna  💜 Connect with Dr. Anna: Website: https://dranna.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor 💧 BIG NEWS: Dr. Anna's own intimate lubricant is launching soon! Be the first to know: www.shopvelve.com Be sure to check out Dr Anna's new book, MenuPause. Get your sneak peek: dranna.com/gfd-sneak Order your book today: dranna.com/gfd-book Take Dr Anna's quiz and get matched with your ideal menu: dranna.com/gfd-quiz Get your Weight Loss Checklist as well: dranna.com/gfd-checklist Try her Keto-Green Recipes for Menopause at dranna.com/gfd-recipe Sign up for her FREE masterclass today: dranna.com/gfd-diabetes -ABOUT DR. ANNA- Dr. Anna Cabeca is an Emory University trained and board certified Gynecologist and Obstetrician. In addition, she is board certified in Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine and an expert in Functional Medicine and Women's Health. She specializes in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and natural alternatives, successful menopause and age management medicine. Dr. Anna is the best-selling author of Hormone Fix, Keto-Green 16, and MenuPause.  *Always seek the advice of your own physician or qualified health professional before starting any treatment or plans. Information found here and results are provided for informational purposes only and are not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional and are not intended as medical advice. *
• The hormone behind grief, joy, and healing | Dr. Anna Cabeca 30.04.2026 22min

  What if the same hormone that helps you bond, love, and feel deep joy is also the one that carries you through grief and healing? In this powerful solo episode, Dr. Anna Cabeca—triple board-certified OB-GYN, integrative medicine expert, and bestselling author of The Hormone Fix, Keto-Green 16, and MenuPause—dives into the profound role of oxytocin, often called the "love hormone," and why it may be the most overlooked key to emotional and physical resilience. With decades of clinical experience and a deeply personal approach, Dr. Anna shares how oxytocin influences everything from your mood and relationships to inflammation, hormone balance, and even intimacy. She also connects the dots between declining hormones in midlife and changes in vaginal health, comfort, and confidence—areas often ignored but deeply tied to connection and wellbeing. In this episode, you'll discover: How oxytocin supports both joy and grief processing The hidden impact of stress and cortisol on connection and healing Why midlife hormone shifts can affect intimacy, dryness, and discomfort Simple, daily practices to naturally boost oxytocin How supporting your body locally and systemically can restore confidence and connection This episode is your reminder that healing doesn't happen in isolation—it happens in connection. And your body is beautifully designed for it. Ready to feel more connected, supported, and like yourself again? Start with one small step today. Share this episode with a friend, prioritize meaningful connection, and explore supportive tools for hormone and vaginal health—like Julva®—at DrAnna.com.   Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Why oxytocin is the hormone we're not talking about enough 05:30 – The biology of connection: oxytocin vs. cortisol 12:10 – How grief and joy share the same hormonal pathway 18:45 – Midlife hormone changes and emotional + physical disconnection 24:20 – Practical ways to increase oxytocin daily 30:00 – Healing through community and intentional connection   Memorable Quotes: "Oxytocin is not just the hormone of love—it's the hormone of healing." "We don't heal in isolation. We heal in connection." "The same pathway that allows you to feel deep joy is the one that carries you through grief." "Cortisol will protect you, but oxytocin will restore you." "Connection is medicine—and your body is designed for it."   Connect With Dr. Anna: Website: Dranna.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor
• Why You Can't Ignore Gut Health in Menopause | Cynthia Thurlow 23.04.2026 42min

  What if your brain fog, stubborn weight gain, mood swings, and fatigue in menopause aren't just "hormones"… but your gut asking for help? In this powerful episode, I sit down with Cynthia Thurlow, NP—a globally recognized expert in women's health, intermittent fasting, and host of the Everyday Wellness Podcast—to unpack the critical connection between your gut and your hormones. And just in time, Cynthia is releasing her brand-new book, The Menopause Gut, a must-read guide to understanding how your microbiome shapes everything from metabolism to mood. Because here's the truth: you cannot heal your hormones without healing your gut. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Cynthia brings both science and strategy to this conversation—helping you understand what's really happening in your body and how to take your power back.     What You'll Learn in This Episode Why your gut microbiome acts as your body's estrogen control center (the "estrobolome") How inflammation and poor gut health drive weight gain, brain fog, and hormone imbalance The connection between leaky gut, autoimmunity, and menopause symptoms Why your metabolism shifts in midlife—and what actually works to reset it How chronic stress and past trauma (ACES) rewire your gut and hormones The truth about fiber, protein, and lifestyle strategies for gut repair Why hormone therapy alone isn't enough without addressing the gut     Key Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to The Girlfriend Doctor Podcast 02:30 – Why gut health is the foundation of hormone balance 06:45 – The estrobolome: your gut's role in estrogen detox 12:10 – Leaky gut, inflammation, and menopause symptoms 18:20 – Why weight gain happens (even when nothing changes) 24:50 – Stress, cortisol, and the gut-hormone connection 31:15 – FSH, inflammation, and what your labs are really telling you 38:40 – Trauma, ACES, and long-term hormone disruption 45:10 – Practical strategies to heal your gut in midlife 52:00 – Cynthia's top daily habits for hormone and gut health
• The power of intermittent fasting | Jason Fung 16.04.2026 51min

  What if the key to reversing stubborn weight gain, balancing hormones, and even preventing chronic disease isn't more food… but strategically less? In this powerful episode, I sit down with Jason Fung to unpack the science—and the simplicity—behind intermittent fasting. Dr. Fung is a world-renowned nephrologist, New York Times bestselling author of The Obesity Code, and a pioneer in using fasting as a therapeutic tool to reverse type 2 diabetes and metabolic disease. After witnessing firsthand how conventional treatments often worsened his patients' health, he developed a groundbreaking approach focused on lowering insulin and restoring metabolic balance. Together, we explore how intermittent fasting works with your body—not against it—and why it's especially powerful for women navigating hormonal shifts. In this episode, you'll discover: Why insulin—not calories—is the key driver of weight gain and metabolic dysfunction How intermittent fasting supports fat burning, hormone balance, and cellular repair The biggest myths about fasting (especially for women!)—and what actually works How fasting impacts menopause, cravings, and energy levels Simple, sustainable ways to begin fasting safely and effectively This conversation is both empowering and practical—giving you tools to take control of your metabolism, your hormones, and your long-term health. Ready to reset your metabolism and feel like yourself again? Listen now and share this episode with a girlfriend who needs to hear it.   Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Why "eat less, move more" is failing women today 02:15 – Meet Jason Fung: From kidney disease to metabolic breakthrough 05:40 – The real root of weight gain: understanding insulin resistance 09:10 – Why calorie counting doesn't work (and what does) 13:25 – Intermittent fasting explained: how and why it works 18:50 – Fasting and hormones: what women must know 24:15 – Menopause, metabolism, and stubborn weight gain 29:40 – The truth about hunger: it's hormonal, not willpower 34:05 – How fasting resets your body's natural fat-burning ability 39:20 – Common fasting mistakes (and how to avoid them) 44:10 – How to safely start intermittent fasting today 48:30 – Final thoughts: reclaiming metabolic health for life Memorable Quotes: "Fasting isn't about deprivation—it's about giving your body the time it needs to heal." — Jason Fung "When you lower insulin, your body finally gets access to its fat stores. That's when real change happens." — Jason Fung "Hunger is not a failure of willpower—it's a hormonal signal. And we can work with it." — Jason Fung "You don't need to eat less. You need to eat less often." — Jason Fung "For many women, especially in menopause, fasting can be the missing piece to restoring metabolic flexibility." — Dr. Anna Cabeca "Your body is designed to burn fat—it just needs the right hormonal environment to do it." — Jason Fung Connect With Guest: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJasonFung https://www.doctorjasonfung.com/ https://www.instagram.com/drjasonfung/ https://www.facebook.com/jason.fung.313   Connect With Dr. Anna: Website: Dranna.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor P.S. Healing doesn't happen in isolation—it happens in connection. If this episode resonated, come join our community and take your next step with support, science, and sisterhood 💜
• Can Menopause Cause UTIs? | Dr. Anna Cabeca 09.04.2026 35min

  If you've ever wondered why UTIs, vaginal infections, or bladder issues seem to suddenly appear in midlife—you are not alone… and you are not imagining it. In this powerful solo episode, Dr. Anna Cabeca breaks down the real root causes behind recurrent UTIs and vaginal health issues during perimenopause and menopause—and why conventional approaches often miss the mark. As a triple board-certified OB-GYN and integrative medicine expert, Dr. Anna brings both clinical insight and heartfelt guidance to a topic many women are too embarrassed to talk about—but desperately need to understand. Drawing from decades of experience and emerging microbiome science, she reveals how hormonal shifts, vaginal pH changes, and microbiome imbalances create the perfect storm for recurring infections—and what you can do about it. In this episode, you'll discover: • Why declining estrogen, progesterone, and DHEA directly impact bladder and vaginal health • The critical role of the vaginal microbiome (and why diversity is not always a good thing here) • How pH shifts make you more vulnerable to UTIs, BV, and yeast infections • The surprising link between UTIs and cognitive symptoms like brain fog • Why antibiotics alone may be making the problem worse • The foundational steps to restore balance, resilience, and intimacy This episode is both a wake-up call and a roadmap—because your body was designed to thrive at every age. Your next step: If this resonates, don't ignore it. Share this episode with a friend, subscribe to The Girlfriend Doctor Podcast, and start implementing one small change today to support your vaginal and urinary health.   Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome & why this topic matters now 01:01 – The hidden impact of UTIs and infections on aging and cognition 03:00 – Hormonal decline and structural changes in the vaginal/urethral tissue 07:00 – The vaginal microbiome explained simply 11:00 – Why pH balance is your first line of defense 15:00 – The antibiotic trap + root cause approach 20:00 – Practical solutions: hormones, probiotics, and lifestyle     Memorable Quotes: • "The vagina is essential for life—and we have to start treating it that way." • "An imbalanced microbiome is often the root cause—not just the infection." • "If it hurts every time, why would you want to? Healing restores desire." • "Your body should be inhospitable to disease—and that starts at the cellular level." Connect With Dr. Anna: Website: https://dranna.com/vb https://drannacabeca.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor
• The truth about cancer tests | Jeffrey Gladden 02.04.2026 44min

  What if aging isn't inevitable… but optional? What if you could feel 30 at 100—with energy, clarity, purpose, and vitality? In this powerful and expansive conversation, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with world-renowned cardiologist and longevity pioneer Dr. Jeffrey Gladden to challenge everything we've been told about aging. From his own health collapse in his 50s to reversing biological decline and redefining what's possible, Dr. Gladden reveals how we can stop managing disease—and start optimizing life. Dr. Gladden brings decades of cutting-edge experience to share a bold new framework: aging is exponential—and requires exponential solutions. Together, we explore the intersection of science, spirituality, cellular health, and human potential, uncovering what it truly means to "play the symphony of longevity." In this episode, you'll discover: Why traditional medicine misses the root cause of aging The powerful role of hormones, mitochondria, and detoxification in longevity How your nervous system (stress vs. healing) determines your health outcomes The surprising connection between meditation, oxytocin, and regeneration The 7 essential pillars of true rejuvenation (before ANY advanced therapy) Why mindset, purpose, and "asking better questions" may be your greatest longevity tools This conversation will stretch your thinking, inspire your future, and empower your next step. Your takeaway: You don't need to do everything—but you do need to start somewhere. CTA: ✨ What is ONE step you can take today to optimize your health and longevity? Share this episode with a friend, revisit it, and begin designing your future—on your terms.     Key Timestamps: 00:01:00 – Dr. Anna's longevity reflection & framing the conversation 00:03:00 – Dr. Gladden's personal health crisis & turning point 00:08:30 – "How good can I be?" – the question that changed everything 00:11:00 – Meditation, nervous system, and true healing 00:18:00 – The 7 keys to regeneration explained 00:25:00 – Detox, inflammation, and preparing the body for healing 00:29:00 – Mitochondria, peptides, and advanced therapies 00:33:00 – Inside Gladden Longevity clinic (tour + technologies) 00:40:00 – Autoimmunity, precision medicine, and real patient results 00:42:00 – Final takeaways: define your longevity vision     Memorable Quotes: Dr. Gladden: "You only get the answers to the questions you're asking." Dr. Gladden: "When I'm 100, I want a 30-year-old body and a 300-year-old mind." Dr. Anna: "We don't want to treat disease—we want to prevent it." Dr. Gladden: "Healing happens when the nervous system is calm—everything else builds on that." Dr. Anna: "There is always one next great step you can take for your health."     Connect With Guest: Book: 100 is the New 30 (Available on Amazon & Audible) Podcast: Gladden Longevity Podcast Website: https://gladdenlongevity.com/ Instagram Handle: https://www.instagram.com/gladdenlongevity/ Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Gladdenlongevity Connect With Dr. Anna: Website: Dranna.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor
• The Natural GLP-1 Secret | Ashley Koff 26.03.2026 40min

  GLP-1 medications like Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and tirzepatide are dominating headlines—but what if the real breakthrough isn't just the shot, but understanding the body's own weight-health hormones? In this powerful conversation, Dr. Anna Cabeca—triple board-certified OB-GYN and The Girlfriend Doctor—sits down with renowned dietitian and personalized nutrition pioneer Ashley Koff, RD, to unpack the science behind GLP-1, the deeper root causes of metabolic dysfunction, and how we can activate the body's natural appetite-regulating hormones. Together they explore why weight health is about far more than calories or willpower. Ashley shares her personal journey into functional nutrition, the hidden hormonal ecosystem behind appetite and metabolism, and how digestion, gut health, and lifestyle choices influence the hormones that regulate cravings, satiety, inflammation, and metabolic balance. Ashley also introduces the framework from her new book Your Best Shot: The Personalized System for Optimal Weight Health—GLP-1 Shot or Not, revealing why sustainable health comes from personalized strategies—not quick fixes. If you've wondered whether GLP-1 medications are right for you—or how to support your metabolism naturally—this conversation is packed with practical, empowering insights. Ashley Koff, RD is the founder of The Better Nutrition Program, Nutrition Course Director for the UC Irvine Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute's Integrative and Functional Medicine Fellowship, and faculty at the Integrative and Functional Nutrition Academy. A practitioner for more than 25 years, she is recognized as one of CNN's Top 100 Health Makers and has been called "Hollywood's Leading Dietitian" by InStyle.   In This Episode, You'll Learn: • What GLP-1, GIP, PYY, and CCK actually do in the body • Why weight health is an ecosystem—not just calories in vs. calories out • The hidden role of gut health and digestion in appetite hormones • The "Pizza Framework" for building metabolic health foundations • How lifestyle, timing of meals, and microbiome health influence metabolism • When GLP-1 medications may help—and when foundational health must come first • Practical strategies to quiet "food noise" and improve satiety naturally   Key Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to The Girlfriend Doctor Show 01:00 – Why GLP-1 medications are changing the conversation about metabolism 03:00 – Ashley's personal story and turning point in nutrition science 09:30 – The gut, trauma, and the origins of metabolic dysfunction 13:00 – What GLP-1 and other weight-health hormones actually do in the body 20:00 – Why digestion and gut health drive hormone balance 23:40 – The "Pizza Framework" for metabolic health foundations 28:00 – How meal timing affects hormones and metabolism 32:00 – Supplements and microbiome strategies that support GLP-1 naturally 36:00 – Ashley's book Your Best Shot and how to personalize your approach   Memorable Quotes 1. Ashley Koff: "Weight health isn't about willpower—it's about physiology. When the body has what it needs, the system works the way it was designed to." 2. Ashley Koff: "There is no one ingredient in the recipe that makes metabolic health work. It's about finding the right recipe for your body." 3. Dr. Anna Cabeca: "We don't just want weight loss—we want weight health: strong, confident, vibrant women living in bodies that feel good." 4. Ashley Koff: "Your digestion is the crust of the pizza. If the crust isn't right, nothing you put on top will work the way it should." 5. Dr. Anna Cabeca: "Willpower is physiologic. When you support your body's metabolism and hormones, your ability to make healthy choices comes back."   Connect With Guest Ashley Koff Instagram: @AshleyKoffApprovedWebsite: https://thebetternutritionprogram.com/about/ Book: Your Best Shot: The Personalized System for Optimal Weight Health – GLP-1 Shot or Not: https://thebetternutritionprogram.com/your-best-shot/ Connect With Dr. Anna Website: https://dranna.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor
• How Accurate Are DEXA Scans? | Dr. Susan Brown 19.03.2026 1godz 22min

  Are DEXA scans really the gold standard for measuring bone health—or could they be misleading you? In this eye-opening episode of The Girlfriend Doctor Podcast, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with medical anthropologist and certified clinical nutritionist Dr. Susan Brown to unpack the truth about bone density testing, osteoporosis fear, and what truly supports lifelong bone strength. Many women are told their bones are deteriorating based on a single scan—but according to Dr. Brown, the story is often much more complex. Together, Dr. Anna and Dr. Brown explore the limitations of DEXA scans, why results can vary widely depending on calibration and technique, and how women can take a more comprehensive, natural approach to protecting their bones. Dr. Brown shares insights from decades of research on alkaline nutrition, mineral balance, movement, and whole-body health, revealing why bone health is about far more than calcium alone. In This Episode, You'll Learn: • Why DEXA scans can have significant margins of error and how calibration affects results • The biggest misconceptions about osteoporosis and bone density testing • How pH balance and an alkaline-supportive diet influence bone health  • The critical role of muscle mass, movement, and weight-bearing exercise in building stronger bones • Why 20 essential nutrients—not just calcium—are required for optimal bone strength • Practical ways to support bone regeneration naturally during perimenopause and menopause Dr. Brown's pioneering work has helped thousands of women move beyond fear-based bone diagnoses and take a proactive, science-based approach to building stronger bones for life. If you've ever been confused—or worried—about your bone density results, this conversation will empower you with a deeper understanding of what your bones truly need. 
• The link between epigenetics and disease | Fab Mancini 12.03.2026 43min

  What if your diagnosis wasn't your destiny? What if your genes weren't your fate—but your choices were? In this powerful and eye-opening episode, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with world-renowned holistic health expert Dr. Fab Mancini to explore the science and hope behind epigenetics, self-healing, and reversing chronic disease. After nearly four decades in natural health, Dr. Fab shares why less than 10% of disease is genetic—and how your daily habits, stress, environment, and mindset determine whether disease-promoting genes are activated or silenced. Dr. Fab Mancini is an internationally recognized Doctor of Chiropractic, bestselling author of The Power of Self-Healing and Self Health, and former President of Parker University. He has appeared on Dr. Phil, CNN, FOX News, and Univision, and has inspired millions worldwide to reclaim their health and unlock their full potential. In this conversation, you'll discover: Why your body is designed to heal—and what blocks it The truth about epigenetics and activating or reversing disease How stress, toxins, and lifestyle choices influence your genes Why your diagnosis is not a life sentence The #1 mindset shift to reclaim your health and vitality How small daily choices can reverse chronic disease pathways Dr. Fab reminds us that healing doesn't begin with prescriptions—it begins with awareness, empowerment, and action. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to take ownership of their health and discover the profound power within their body to heal. Share this episode with someone who needs hope—and take your next step toward self-healing.     Key Timestamps 00:01 – Why managing symptoms doesn't create true healing 03:20 – The biggest myth in modern healthcare 04:47 – The body's innate intelligence and ability to heal 08:11 – Hidden toxins affecting your health today 10:36 – Stress, mental health, and disease activation 12:55 – Dr. Fab's near-death experience that shaped his mission 15:45 – Regenerating your body, mind, and vitality at any age 25:04 – Why health must become your top priority 29:13 – Epigenetics explained: why genes are not your destiny 31:39 – How simple choices can reverse chronic disease 33:14 – Why your diagnosis is not a life sentence 36:53 – Free tools and resources to support your healing     Memorable Quotes Dr. Fab Mancini: "Managing our symptoms has never truly helped the body heal. What really heals us is identifying and addressing the root cause." "Less than 10% of chronic disease is genetic. The rest is driven by epigenetics—our lifestyle choices activate or deactivate those genes." "Your diagnosis is not a life sentence. No one determines your destiny except you." "You can either live in survival, thinking only about your needs—or live in service, supporting others. That's where the true magic happens." "One better choice today can begin moving you away from chronic disease and toward self-healing."     Dr. Anna Cabeca: "We are the CEO of our body. Our choices are ours to make." "One next right step at a time—every day we get to choose again." "We have within us our innate ability to heal and to thrive."     Connect With Guest: Dr. Fab Mancini Website: https://drfabmancini.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfabmancini Podcast: The Fab Life     Connect With Dr. Anna Cabeca: Website: https://dranna.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor
• How to fortify your body against environmental toxins | Ali Miller 05.03.2026 51min

  Are environmental toxins silently disrupting your hormones, mood, and metabolism? In this powerful conversation, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with functional medicine dietitian Ali Miller to reveal how everyday exposures—from microplastics to processed foods—may be driving anxiety, hormonal imbalance, and chronic disease. More importantly, they share how to fight back using targeted nutrition and practical lifestyle strategies. Ali Miller, RD, CDE, brings over a decade of clinical experience using food-as-medicine protocols to restore neurotransmitter balance, support detox pathways, and optimize metabolic and mental health. Together, she and Dr. Anna explore the profound connection between protein intake, gut health, neurotransmitters, and resilience in today's toxic world. As Ali explains, "Going backwards to whole real foods is one of the most powerful ways to support detoxification and resilience in our industrialized world." You'll walk away with simple, empowering tools to protect your body, nourish your brain, and reclaim your metabolic and emotional strength.     You Will Learn: How environmental toxins like microplastics disrupt hormones and increase inflammation Why protein is essential for neurotransmitter production, mood stability, and anxiety prevention The powerful role of probiotics and phytonutrients in detoxification and cellular protection Specific foods that naturally increase dopamine, serotonin, and calm your nervous system Why glycine-rich foods like bone broth help reduce stress and support gut repair Practical swaps to reduce toxin exposure in your kitchen, clothing, and daily routines How breathwork, vagus nerve activation, and nutrition work together to reduce anxiety     Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Post-pandemic health changes and rising anxiety 05:00 – Protein's role in neurotransmitters and mental health 15:00 – Microplastics and endocrine disruption explained 22:00 – Natural tools to calm anxiety and support detox 26:30 – Best foods for dopamine, serotonin, and nervous system balance 34:00 – Family meals, rituals, and stress resilience 43:00 – Fermented foods and gut healing strategies 46:00 – Top supplements for anxiety and toxin protection     Memorable Quotes: "Protein provides the amino acid building blocks for neurotransmitters that regulate mood, cravings, and mental health." "Microplastics can disrupt hormone pathways and increase inflammation—but nutrition can help offset that damage." "Going backwards is often the answer—returning to whole real foods is how we build resilience."     Connect With Guest: Website: https://www.alimillerRD.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/alimillerRD Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alimillerRD Podcast: Naturally Nourished Podcast YouTube: Naturally Nourished Channel     Connect With Dr. Anna: Website: https://dranna.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor     Listener Call-to-Action: If this episode inspired you, share it with a friend who needs support in navigating toxins, anxiety, or hormone health. Subscribe to The Girlfriend Doctor Podcast and tag @thegirlfrienddoctor to share your biggest takeaway. Remember: your body was designed to heal when you give it the right tools.  
• What men are really thinking after intimacy | Mat Boggs 26.02.2026 56min

  Love isn't just chemistry—it's communication, polarity, self-worth, and the courage to show up authentically. In this deeply insightful and empowering conversation, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with world-renowned dating and relationship expert Mat Boggs, bestselling author of Project Everlasting and his newest book, Cracking the Man Code, to uncover the real dynamics behind attraction, commitment, and lasting intimacy. Together, they explore what truly makes a man fall in love—and what makes love last. Whether you're navigating midlife dating, healing after heartbreak, or rekindling passion in a long-term relationship, this episode will transform how you understand masculine and feminine energy, emotional connection, and your own magnetic power. Dr. Anna brings her expertise in hormones, oxytocin, and female physiology to the conversation—revealing how our biology, nervous system, and self-worth shape our relationships more than we realize. You'll learn how to communicate your needs without losing your independence, stop over-functioning in masculine energy, and step into your feminine strength in a way that inspires devotion, partnership, and emotional safety. This is a must-listen episode for any woman ready to attract—or reignite—a passionate, deeply connected relationship. What You'll Learn in This Episode ● Why masculine and feminine polarity drives attraction—and how to use it consciously ● How over-functioning in masculine energy can unintentionally repel the partner you desire ● The surprising hormonal and emotional effects of intimacy before commitment ● How oxytocin, dopamine, and bonding hormones shape attachment ● The difference between chasing and inviting pursuit ● Why friendship and shared adventure are essential for lifelong passion ● How to communicate your needs in a way that deepens connection instead of creating conflict ● The foundational role of self-love in becoming magnetic ● Daily practices to increase self-worth, confidence, and relational success Why This Matters—Especially in Midlife As women step into midlife, many have spent decades leading—in careers, families, and businesses. But this leadership strength can sometimes make it difficult to shift into receptive feminine energy in relationships. Dr. Anna and Mat explore how to create balance without sacrificing independence—and how understanding your biology, nervous system, and emotional patterns can help you attract the love you truly deserve. Because thriving relationships aren't about losing power. They're about aligning with your authentic energy. Memorable Quotes "Femininity is not passive, submissive, or weak. It is proactive, powerful, and magnetic." — Mat Boggs "Half of manifesting your partner faster is getting rid of the wrong partners sooner." — Mat Boggs "Partnership doesn't start outside of you. It starts with loving yourself first." — Dr. Anna Cabeca Key Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction. [00:03:09] Lifelong love and relationships. [00:06:00] Ego and love in relationships. [00:08:42] Communicating needs in relationships. [00:12:57] Compromise in relationships. [00:14:51] Masculine and feminine energy dynamics. [00:19:02] Masculine vs. feminine energy in dating. [00:21:34] Masculine vs. feminine attributes. [00:29:13] Attraction and pursuit dynamics. [00:32:29] Commitment and sexual interaction. [00:36:18] Friendship and adventure in relationships. [00:40:16] Self-worth in relationships. [00:44:08] The journey to self-love. [00:46:16] Daily practices on self-love. [00:51:06] Partnership starts from within. Connect with Mat Boggs Website: https://www.bravethinkinginstitute.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mathewboggs/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/matboggs Pre-order his new book: Cracking the Man Code Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca Website: https://drannacabeca.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor Call to Action If this episode spoke to you, share it with a girlfriend, daughter, or partner who needs to hear it. Because the most powerful relationships don't happen by accident. They happen when you understand yourself first.
• Are Mammograms Safe? | Dr. Jenn Simmons 19.02.2026 1godz 8min

  Are mammograms truly protecting women — or is it time to rethink how we approach breast health? In this powerful and deeply nuanced conversation, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with former fellowship-trained breast surgeon turned integrative oncologist Dr. Jenn Simmons to unpack one of the most important questions in women's health today: Are mammograms safe — and are they enough? Together, they explore how conventional breast cancer screening became the standard, what the research actually says about radiation exposure and screening frequency, and why early detection is not the same as prevention. Dr. Simmons shares her personal turning point — from 17 years at the forefront of breast oncology to leaving conventional medicine and founding Real Health MD after her own health crisis. What she discovered changed everything: inflammation, toxicity, hormone disruption, and metabolic dysfunction matter far more than women are being told. This episode goes beyond mammograms. It dives into: • Radiation risks and over-screening • Alternative imaging options including thermography, ultrasound, and emerging technologies • Hormones and breast cancer — clearing the misinformation • Why anti-estrogen messaging can be harmful and incomplete • Bioidentical progesterone and protective mechanisms • Birth control pills and breast development risk • The power of metabolic health, fasting windows, detoxification, and terrain theory Most importantly, this conversation restores agency. You are not powerless when it comes to breast health. Knowledge is evolving. Screening is evolving. Hormone science is evolving. And you deserve the full picture. –––––––––––––––––– KEY TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Reimagining breast health and questioning the narrative 01:23 Introducing Dr. Jenn Simmons and her paradigm shift 09:47 From breast surgeon to integrative oncologist: her turning point 12:28 Functional medicine approach: "What caused the cancer?" 27:19 Mammography myths and reviewing the research 33:01 Radiation exposure: known carcinogen discussion 35:31 Biopsy concerns and imaging alternatives 42:07 Medical board pressures and guideline rigidity 53:04 "Anti-estrogen talk is misogynistic" 01:04:10 Birth control pills, teens, and breast cancer risk –––––––––––––––––– MEMORABLE QUOTES Dr. Jenn Simmons: "Radiation is a known carcinogen." "Any anti-estrogen talk is misogynistic." Dr. Anna Cabeca: "What caused your cancer to begin with?" "It takes more than hormones to fix our hormones." "There's always one next right step we can take to advocate for our health." –––––––––––––––––– CONNECT WITH DR. JENN SIMMONS Website: www.realhealthmd.comInstagram: @drjennsimmons YouTube: @dr.jennsimmons Book: The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer –––––––––––––––––– CONNECT WITH DR. ANNA CABECA Website: www.dranna.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor YouTube: www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor –––––––––––––––––– If this episode spoke to you, share it with a girlfriend, your daughters, your mother — every woman deserves this conversation. You are seen. You are informed. You are empowered. 🌹
• Unbelievable Benefits of Broccoli Sprouts | Dr. Jed Fahey 13.02.2026 56min

  What if one of the most powerful tools for detoxification, brain health, hormone balance, and healthy aging was something you could grow in your kitchen? In this science-packed episode of The Girlfriend Doctor Podcast, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with renowned nutritional biochemist Dr. Jed W. Fahey — the pioneering researcher behind the discovery of the extraordinary chemoprotective power of broccoli sprouts. After 27 years at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, where he directed the Cullman Chemoprotection Center, Dr. Fahey explains why sulforaphane — derived from glucoraphanin found abundantly in broccoli sprouts — activates your body's own protective systems at the cellular level. Dr. Anna shares her personal clinical experiences using sulforaphane-rich compounds to support detoxification pathways, immune resilience, abnormal Pap smears, skin health, neurocognitive protection, and hormone balance — especially in midlife women. In this episode, you'll learn: What sulforaphane actually is (and why it matters) How it activates phase II detoxification pathways Why broccoli sprouts are more potent than mature broccoli Neuroprotective and brain benefits Research around skin and melanoma protection Dosage guidance for sprouts vs. supplements How to safely incorporate them into your daily routine This isn't about trendy superfoods. It's about turning on your body's built-in defense systems. Small daily choices. Powerful cellular protection.   Key Timestamps 00:01 – Welcome & why broccoli sprouts matter 03:14 – Broccoli sprouts vs. mature broccoli: what's the difference? 06:21 – What exactly is sulforaphane? 09:24 – Phase II detoxification explained simply 15:23 – Dr. Anna's powerful clinical case using sulforaphane 17:31 – Brain health & neurocognitive benefits 24:43 – How much should you take daily? 31:24 – Skin health & melanoma research 33:35 – Food vs. supplement: dosage considerations 42:13 – One big takeaway for healthy aging   Memorable Quotes "This isn't about complicated science. It's about small daily choices that protect your cells." "Sulforaphane switches on your body's own protective systems." "Broccoli sprouts are foundational — not optional — for longevity." "We want to help and do no harm." "You were made for vitality."   Connect With Our Guest Dr. Jed W. Fahey 🌱 Website: https://www.jedfahey.com/ Dr. Fahey serves as scientific advisor to several companies utilizing glucoraphanin, sulforaphane, and broccoli sprouts: Brassica Protection Products LLC https://brassica.com/company-info/ Food Nerd https://www.foodnerdinc.com/ The Sprouting Company https://www.thesproutingcompany.com/ PhytoSmart https://phytosmart.com/   Connect With Dr. Anna Website: Dranna.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor   ✨ Stay nourished. Stay connected. And remember — you were made for vitality.
• Don't Let Atrophy "Down There" Steal Your Right to Pleasure | Dr. Maria Sophocles 06.02.2026 1godz 1min

  In this empowering episode, Dr. Anna Cabeca, The Girlfriend Doctor, sits down with internationally respected gynecologist and menopause expert Dr. Maria Sophocles to break the silence around vaginal and vulvar atrophy, hormonal shifts, and declining intimacy in midlife. They explore why pain, dryness, and loss of desire are often normalized—and how this fuels what Dr. Sophocles calls "The Bedroom Gap." You'll learn how hormones, anatomy, stress, and communication impact pleasure, plus evidence-based strategies to restore comfort, confidence, and connection at any age. Menopause is natural. Suffering is optional—and pleasure is your birthright.   ⏱️ Key Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to The Girlfriend Doctor Show 01:45 – Why sexual medicine is missing from OB-GYN training 04:20 – What The Bedroom Gap really means 07:15 – Why women's sexual pain is often normalized 10:00 – The ABCs of sexual health: Acceptance, Being present, Communication 19:25 – Hormones, dryness, pain & loss of desire in midlife 23:10 – Vulvar anatomy & early signs women shouldn't ignore 28:15 – DHEA, estrogen & testosterone for tissue health 42:30 – Practical strategies to close the bedroom gap 58:00 – Reclaiming intimacy, confidence & pleasure at any age   💬 Memorable Quotes "You cannot heal a body you hate." "Menopause is natural. Suffering is optional." "If it hurts every time you do something, why would your body want it?" "Normalizing the problem is what keeps women stuck." "Intimacy isn't just physical—it's communication, confidence, and connection."   🔗 Connect With Dr. Maria Sophocles Website: https://www.mariasophoclesmd.com Virtual Practice: The Thinking Woman Book: The Bedroom Gap (available on Amazon & major booksellers) TED Talk & media features including Oprah Daily Founder, Women's Healthcare of Princeton   🔗 Connect With Dr. Anna Website: https://dranna.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegirlfrienddoctor