

Hormones, Metabolism & You!
Cassie Smith
Your hormones control everything—from energy levels to weight, mood, and overall health. But understanding them shouldn’t feel like decoding a medical textbook. Welcome to Hormones, Metabolism & You!, the podcast where board-certified endocrinologist Dr. Cassie Smith breaks down the science behind your body’s most powerful regulators.Each week, Dr. Smith tackles the real questions about metabolism, weight management, thyroid health, menopause, PCOS, insulin resistance, and more—giving you clear, actionable insights to take charge of your health. Whether you’re struggling with stubborn weight, feeling fatigued, or just want to optimize your well-being, this podcast is your go-to resource for evidence-based advice, practical tips, and expert interviews.It’s time to understand your hormones, master your metabolism, and feel your best—because when your body is in balance, you thrive!🎧 Subscribe now and start your journey to better health!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 14, 2025 • 54min
76: Why We Left Conventional Medicine – The Untold Truth About Healing Hormones & Gut Health with Dustin & Lacy
>>Join our FREE monthly Gut Health Webinar, so you can begin your Healing Journey. https://modernendocrinewellness.com/join-gut-health<<
In this episode of Hormones, Metabolism, and You, Dr. Cassie Smith welcomes two new Modern Endocrine providers, Dustin Pollard and Lacy Long, for a heartwarming and insightful conversation about their journey into functional medicine.
Dustin and Lacy open up about their diverse medical backgrounds—from pediatric and cardiovascular intensive care to women’s health and community nursing—and how their desire for deeper patient relationships led them to the root-cause approach practiced at Modern Endocrine. You’ll hear about their personal health philosophies, how they balance busy family lives with clinical work, and what excites them most about personalized hormone and gut health care.
Whether you're curious about how functional medicine providers think or simply want to get to know the people behind your care team, this episode offers an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at the compassionate, collaborative spirit of Modern Endocrine.
👤 About the Guests:
Dustin Pollard, APRN, FNP-C
Dustin is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner. His clinical journey began in a Cardiovascular Surgical ICU, followed by several years in general pediatrics. Today, he’s passionate about helping people move beyond symptom-based treatment toward whole-body healing. Dustin takes a personalized and thoughtful approach to care, integrating lifestyle factors and root-cause analysis into every treatment plan.
When he’s not working, Dustin enjoys reading, staying active, chasing his two boys, and cheering for the OSU Cowboys and OKC Thunder.
Lacy Long, DNP, APRN, FNP-C
Lacy is a functional medicine nurse practitioner, mom of three, and a champion of holistic family health. With a background in women’s health and community-based care, she brings a warm, relatable energy to every patient interaction. Lacy’s superpower is breaking down complex health issues—like hormone balance and gut health—into practical steps that families can actually follow.
Outside the clinic, you’ll find her lifting weights, exploring the outdoors, or creating helpful, real-life wellness content for social media.
🔑 Key Topics Covered:
✅ Dustin and Lacy’s transition from traditional to functional medicine
✅ Why Modern Endocrine's team-based, root-cause model resonated with them
✅ Their thoughts on gut health as a foundational piece of hormone balance
✅ The emotional and clinical benefits of longer, more personalized patient visits
✅ Juggling healthcare careers with raising young children (real talk!)
✅ Their take on Dutch testing, nutrition, and integrative care strategies
✅ Advice for patients new to functional or hormone-focused care
✅ How Modern Endocrine supports both team collaboration and patient empowerment
📲 Follow the Host & Modern Endocrine:
💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en 📰 Newsletter Signup: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine

Sep 7, 2025 • 1h 16min
75: From ER to Root-Cause Medicine – How Functional Care Transforms Patients’ Lives with Sommer Hood
>>Join our FREE monthly Gut Health Webinar, so you can begin your Healing Journey. https://modernendocrinewellness.com/join-gut-health<<
🎙️ Episode Summary
In this insightful episode of Hormones, Metabolism, and You, Dr. Cassie Smith is joined by nurse practitioner Sommer Hood, APRN, ENP-C, FNP-C, to give listeners an inside look at Modern Endocrine’s functional medicine approach. From Sommer’s transition from emergency medicine to personalized, root-cause care, to the importance of empathy, teamwork, and work-life balance—the episode shines a light on what makes this clinic so unique. You’ll also hear about exciting new programs, patient-centered services, and Dr. Smith’s upcoming book. Whether you're a healthcare provider or someone navigating chronic illness, this conversation offers both inspiration and practical takeaways.
👤 About the Guest
Sommer Hood, APRN, ENP-C, FNP-C is a highly skilled Advanced Practice Registered Nurse with dual certifications as an Emergency Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. After earning her BSN from the University of Central Oklahoma in 2016, she worked for six years in the Emergency Department and two years as a Flight Nurse. She later completed her NP degree at the University of South Alabama and joined Modern Endocrine, where she discovered her passion for individualized, compassionate patient care.
Sommer brings warmth, dedication, and clinical excellence to her work—blending emergency experience with a functional medicine lens. Outside the clinic, she enjoys hot yoga, golfing, playing with her two kids, and sushi nights with her husband. Inspired by Kobe Bryant’s relentless drive, Sommer channels that same commitment into helping patients reclaim their health.
🔑 Key Topics Covered
Sommer’s transition from ER and flight nursing to functional medicine
The philosophy and day-to-day care model at Modern Endocrine
How teamwork enhances patient outcomes and clinic culture
Balancing motherhood, career, and personal wellness
Why root-cause medicine is transforming chronic illness treatment
The value of individualized care vs. symptom-based approaches
New services and upcoming health programs at Modern Endocrine
A preview of Dr. Smith’s upcoming book
Insights into building a values-driven, collaborative health team
How empathy and education empower long-term health change
🎧 Listen Now & Share!
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with someone who needs to hear it! Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and let us know what topics you want to hear next!
📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine
💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en 📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine

Aug 31, 2025 • 1h 11min
74: Your Gut Could Be the Root Cause – The Shocking Link Between Digestion, Mood & Weight with Sarah Nitterauer
>>Join our FREE monthly Gut Health Webinar, so you can begin your Healing Journey. https://modernendocrinewellness.com/join-gut-health<<
🎙️ Episode Summary
In this episode of Hormones, Metabolism, and You, Dr. Cassie Smith is joined by Modern Endocrine’s Health Coach, Sarah Nitterauer, NBC-HWC, NASM, for a rich and empowering conversation on gut health and its role in healing chronic illness, supporting mental health, and managing weight.
Together, they explore how the Modern Endocrine team uses a holistic, root-cause approach—combining functional medicine, lifestyle changes, trauma-informed coaching, and personalized support—to help patients experience lasting wellness. Sarah opens up about her personal health journey and the power of practical, realistic tools for long-term transformation. This is a must-listen if you're seeking clarity, compassion, and real solutions for your gut and beyond.
👤 About the Guest: Sarah Nitterauer, NBC-HWC, NASM
Sarah Nitterauer is a Nationally Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC) with specialized training in Gut and Hormonal Health. She is also a NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, combining her passion for movement, nutrition, and behavior change to help individuals reclaim their health.
Her experience spans corporate wellness, physician practices, and individualized coaching, giving her a unique ability to bridge clinical recommendations with real-life application. Sarah thrives in medical settings where she partners closely with providers to help patients implement sustainable lifestyle changes aligned with their values and routines.
She’s especially passionate about understanding the emotional drivers behind habits, helping clients uncover the “why” that empowers lasting change. When she's not coaching, you can find Sarah enjoying hot yoga, cooking, playing ultimate frisbee, lifting weights, or spending time with her family.
🔑 Key Topics Covered
Why gut health is foundational in treating chronic illness, fatigue, and mood
Sarah’s personal journey of healing with functional and integrative medicine
How coaching bridges the gap between doctor’s orders and everyday life
The power of emotional awareness in creating sustainable health habits
Stress management tools that actually fit into a busy lifestyle
Understanding that healing is nonlinear—and that’s okay
How Modern Endocrine’s team supports long-term transformation
Tips to create realistic change without extreme restriction or burnout
🛒 Products and Resources Mentioned
Gut Health Accelerator Program:https://modernendocrinewellness.com/join-gut-health-accelerator
Order a GI Map Test + Consult:https://www.modern-endocrine.com/gi-map-test-consult/
🎧 Listen Now & Share!
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with someone who needs to hear it! Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and let us know what topics you want to hear next.
📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine
💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353

Aug 24, 2025 • 1h 4min
73: Your Gut Runs the Show – The Shocking Truth About Microbes, Hormones & Health with Kiran Krishnan
>>Join our FREE monthly Gut Health Webinar, so you can begin your Healing Journey. https://modernendocrinewellness.com/join-gut-health<<
🎙️ Episode Summary
In this episode of Hormones, Metabolism, and You, Dr. Cassie Smith interviews research microbiologist Kiran Krishnan for a deep dive into gut health, the microbiome, and how they affect everything from hormone balance to skin conditions. Kiran breaks down the science behind microbial diversity, clears up common myths, and shares actionable strategies to support gut healing—like mindful eating, fiber supplementation, and fasting. Whether you’re dealing with bloating, hormonal imbalance, or simply curious about optimizing your microbiome, this episode gives you the tools to start healing from the inside out.
👤 About the Guest
Kiran Krishnan is a research microbiologist and health and wellness expert committed to making complex science easy to understand. He’s the co-founder of Microbiome Labs and has launched several successful supplement companies. With published scientific studies, textbook contributions, global patents, and a reputation as a dynamic speaker, Kiran continues to lead innovations in microbiome therapeutics and wellness care.
🔑 Key Topics Covered
Human genes vs. microbial genes: who's really in charge of your health?
Why microbial diversity matters more than you think
Misconceptions about pathogenic bacteria and chronic gut issues
The gut-skin connection: what eczema and acne reveal about your gut
How dietary fiber and polyphenols nourish the microbiome
Impacts of GLP-1 receptor agonists on gut health and IBS
Hormonal influences on gut function and microbial health
Tools for healing: digestive bitters, fasting, fiber, mindful eating
Critique of conventional "band-aid" approaches to gut dysfunction
A holistic roadmap to restoring balance from the root cause
🛒 Products and Resources Mentioned
🧠 Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiranbiome
🌿 Organic India Psyllium Husk: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JY5CZ3C
💊 Gut Health Supplements: https://shopmodernendocrine.com/collections/gut-health
🧪 GI Map Gut Test + Consult: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/gi-map-test-consult/
Dr. Cassie Smith’s Book—support the show and grab your copy: https://amzn.to/4djvSKa
🎧 Listen Now & Share!
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with someone who needs to hear it! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and tell us what you want to hear next!
📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine
💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en 📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine ➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353

Aug 17, 2025 • 50min
72: From Birth Control to Muscle Building – The Best Holistic Fixes for PCOS with Dr. Naji Abou-Ali
>>Join our FREE monthly Gut Health Webinar, so you can begin your Healing Journey. https://modernendocrinewellness.com/join-gut-health<<
🎙️ Episode Summary
In this episode of Hormones, Metabolism, and You, Dr. Cassie Smith sits down with Dr. Naji Abou-Ali, a UK-trained PCOS specialist, to explore the root causes of PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) and the metabolic challenges that often accompany it, particularly insulin resistance.
Dr. Abou-Ali explains how lifestyle interventions, such as building muscle, managing stress, and adopting sustainable nutrition habits, can drastically improve outcomes—often outperforming restrictive diets or medication alone. Together, they question conventional approaches like birth control and metformin, while offering practical, holistic strategies that empower women to take control of their hormonal and metabolic health.
Whether you're navigating PCOS personally or supporting someone who is, this episode offers a compassionate and science-backed roadmap to healing.
👤 About the Guest
Dr. Naji Abou-Ali is a UK-trained Internal Medicine Physician and a Member of the Royal College of Physicians. He specialises in PCOS, insulin resistance, and thyroid disorders, with a strong focus on helping women restore their health through a systems-based, root-cause approach.
His work bridges conventional medicine with a deeper understanding of how the nervous system, hormone system, and metabolic system interact. By addressing this full-body network, Dr. Naji helps patients heal from the root rather than just manage symptoms.
He is the founder of The PCOS Reset Academy™, a science-based program that helps women with PCOS lose weight, reverse symptoms, and improve fertility—naturally and without restrictive diets or birth control pills.
Through his growing platform on Instagram, Dr. Naji reaches hundreds of thousands of people with clear, practical insights on hormones, metabolism, and women’s health. His mission is to cut through the noise and provide real, sustainable solutions that work.
🔑 Key Topics Covered
✅ Overview of PCOS symptoms and diagnostic challenges
✅ The link between insulin resistance and PCOS
✅ Why building muscle mass is key to improving metabolic health
✅ How stress and cortisol disrupt hormones and metabolism
✅ The drawbacks of common treatments like birth control and metformin
✅ Thoughts on GLP-1 receptor agonists and their rising use
✅ How to reduce sugar and saturated fat without extreme dieting
✅ Holistic strategies for reversing PCOS and achieving balance
✅ The critical role of education, empowerment, and root-cause thinking
🎧 Listen Now & Share!
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with someone who needs to hear it! Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and let us know what topics you want to hear next.
🌐 Resources & Links:
Doctor Naji Official Website
📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine
💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353

Aug 10, 2025 • 57min
71: Can Plants Activate Stem Cells? – The Shocking Science Behind Self-Healing & Longevity with Ryan Riley
>>Want more information like this? Sign up for Modern Endocrine’s newsletter https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine<<
🎙️ Episode Summary
In this episode of Hormones, Metabolism, and You, Dr. Cassie Smith welcomes Ryan Riley, CEO of Stemregen, to explore the cutting-edge science of activating the body’s own stem cells for healing, reducing inflammation, and promoting longevity.
They break down how Stemregen’s plant-based formula—featuring goji berry, blue-green algae, and aloe—can naturally increase circulating stem cells, which support regeneration and repair. Dr. Cassie adds clinical insights into gut health and chronic disease, while Ryan shares compelling success stories and how environmental factors can impact healing.
This powerful conversation blends science, innovation, and empowerment—offering listeners a unique look at how to optimize their body’s innate repair mechanisms for better health and aging.
👤 About the Guest
Ryan Riley is a visionary entrepreneur and current CEO of STEMREGEN®. With a foundation in digital innovation and web development, Ryan scaled CellCore Biosciences from its founding in 2018 to nearly $50 million in revenue, leading to a $200 million acquisition in 2022.
Today, as CEO of STEMREGEN®, he’s focused on advancing stem cell science, developing plant-based supplements that enhance the body's self-repair mechanisms. Beyond business, Ryan is passionate about inspiring innovation, leadership, and community empowerment across the health and wellness industry.
🔑 Key Topics Covered
✅ What stem cells are and how they support healing and regeneration
✅ How inflammation and aging affect natural stem cell activity
✅ The formulation and research behind STEMREGEN’s plant-based blend
✅ Real-world healing stories using stem cell mobilization
✅ How environmental toxins and gut dysfunction impair the body’s repair systems
✅ The future of regenerative health and non-invasive anti-aging strategies
✅ Empowering the body’s natural systems instead of suppressing symptoms
✅ What to look for in a science-backed supplement
🛒 Products and Resources Mentioned
🌿 STEMREGEN® – Science-backed stem cell support supplement 👉 Learn more: https://stemregen.com
🎧 Listen Now & Share!
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with someone who needs to hear it! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and let us know what topics you want to hear next.
📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine
💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en 📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine ➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353
🔗 Connect with Ryan Riley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryancriley/

Aug 3, 2025 • 1h 5min
70: Fix What Doctors Can’t – The Shocking Power of Functional Health Coaching with Vince Pitstick
>>Want more information like this? Sign up for Modern Endocrine’s newsletter https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine<<
🎙️ Episode Summary:
In this episode of Hormones, Metabolism, and You, Dr. Cassie Smith sits down with functional health coach Vince Pitstick for a deep dive into how functional health coaching and traditional medicine can work hand-in-hand to create powerful, lasting results for patients. Vince shares his own health journey and introduces his transformative “Four F Process,” shedding light on the root causes of chronic disease, especially hormone and metabolic issues. Together, they explore the importance of a systems-based, collaborative approach, showing how lifestyle changes, patient empowerment, and functional medicine principles can pave the way for sustainable wellness.
👤 About the Guest
Vince Pitstick is a leading functional health coach with over two decades of experience in health and wellness. With a background that bridges personal training, clinical nutrition, and functional medicine, Vince has helped thousands of clients reclaim their health by addressing root causes instead of just symptoms. He is the creator of the “Four F Process,” a framework for navigating functional health, and works alongside doctors and practitioners to bring integrative care to the forefront.
🔑 Key Topics Covered
✅ Vince Pitstick’s personal journey from health struggles to functional health pioneer
✅ What the “Four F Process” is — and how it transforms patient care
✅ Why functional health coaching fills gaps in the traditional healthcare model
✅ The critical role of root-cause thinking in hormone and metabolic health
✅ How collaboration between doctors and coaches benefits patients
✅ Practical lifestyle changes that drive real, lasting health outcomes
✅ How mindset and empowerment play into healing and resilience
✅ What listeners can do now to start applying functional health principles
🛒 Products and Resources Mentioned
📘 Vince Pitstick’s Programs & Coaching: https://www.vincepitstick.com
🎧 Listen Now & Share!
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with someone who needs to hear it! Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and let us know what topics you want to hear next!
📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine
💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en 📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine ➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353

Jul 27, 2025 • 59min
69: Bloated Again? – The Shocking Truth About Digestion & Simple Fixes with Dr. Heather Finley
>>Want more information like this? Sign up for Modern Endocrine’s newsletter https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine<<
🎙️ Episode Summary
In this episode of Hormones, Metabolism, and You, Dr. Cassie Smith sits down with gut health expert Dr. Heather Finley to unpack the root causes behind common digestive struggles like bloating, gas, and constipation. Together, they explore how stress, mineral imbalances, and gut bacteria impact digestion — and share simple, non-restrictive strategies to support gut healing. From SIBO and leaky gut to mindful eating and mineral-rich “mocktails,” this conversation is packed with actionable, affordable tips for anyone looking to improve digestion and overall well-being.
👤 About Dr. Heather Finley:
Dr. Heather Finley is a registered dietitian with a doctorate in clinical nutrition. She and her team help people struggling with bloating, brain fog, hormone imbalances, and GI issues find lasting relief and feel excited about food again.
After battling her own digestive and hormone issues for nearly 20 years, Heather understands firsthand how nutrition, lifestyle, and mindset influence gut health. She believes gut healing shouldn't be restrictive, stressful, or all-consuming. Her signature approach helps individuals reduce digestive symptoms while expanding their diet.
Dr. Heather earned her doctorate in clinical nutrition from Maryland University of Integrative Health. Her expertise has been featured on Good Morning Texas, MindBodyGreen, Yahoo! Life, and VeryWell Health. She is the founder of the gutTogether® program for individuals and the gutPractitioner program for clinicians.
🔑 Key Topics Covered
Why bloating isn’t “random” — and what it can reveal about digestion
How stress and rushed eating disrupt gut motility (and how to fix it)
The connection between low stomach acid and bloating
What minerals do for digestion and why they’re so underrated
Simple lifestyle tweaks like mindful eating, breathing, and humming before meals
The truth about gas: causes, types, and how to ease discomfort
Why constipation isn’t normal (and how minerals can help restore regularity)
Understanding SIBO & leaky gut — and the importance of addressing root causes
Practical tips for adding bitters, fiber, and mineral support without overwhelm
Why gut health is essential for hormone balance and overall vitality
🛒 Products and Resources Mentioned
📘 Dr. Heather Finley’s Cookbook – Get your copy here: https://a.co/d/aBPZIuE
🌿 Heather’s Favorite Digestive Bitters – Urban Moonshine (Citrus is smoother than Original), Earthly, or Bitter X (premium option): https://amzn.to/3FdkNOc
🎧 Listen Now & Share!
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with someone who needs to hear it! Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and let us know what topics you want to hear next!
📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine: 💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en 📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine ➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353

Jul 20, 2025 • 59min
68: Feeling Off in Your 30s, 40s or 50s? – The Best Time to Start Hormone Therapy with Dr. Terri DeNeui
>>Want more information like this? Sign up for Modern Endocrine’s newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine <<
🎙️ Episode Summary
In this powerhouse episode of Hormones, Metabolism, and You, Dr. Cassie Smith welcomes nationally recognized hormone expert Dr. Terri DeNeui for a deeply informative conversation about women’s hormone health through every life stage. From the subtle shifts in your 30s to the major hormonal declines of your 40s and 50s, this episode tackles it all — including the myths around hormone replacement therapy and cancer.
Dr. DeNeui, author of Hormone Havoc, shares why symptoms like fatigue, low libido, mood swings, and poor sleep are not just “normal aging,” but signs of underlying hormonal imbalance. She and Dr. Cassie explore the importance of gut health, the dangers of long-term SSRI and birth control use, and how lifestyle choices shape your hormonal landscape. Most importantly, they challenge outdated medical guidance and explain why estrogen therapy may not only be safe — but protective.
Whether you’re navigating perimenopause, confused by lab results, or wondering if it’s “too early” or “too late” to start hormones, this episode brings clarity, compassion, and science-backed advice.
👤 About Dr. Terri DeNeui
Dr. Terri DeNeui is a board-certified nurse practitioner, nationally recognized speaker, author, and founder of EvexiPEL® and Evexia Medical. She holds advanced certifications in hormone replacement, preventive wellness, and functional medicine. Her passion for root-cause healing and optimal hormone balance has helped transform the lives of thousands of patients and train countless providers across the country. Dr. DeNeui is also the author of Hormone Havoc, a must-read guide for anyone struggling with hormone imbalance.
🔑 Key Topics Covered
What happens to women’s hormones in their 30s, 40s, and 50s
Early loss of testosterone and progesterone: why it matters
The emotional and physical symptoms of hormone decline
Why gut health is central to hormone metabolism and disease prevention
The dangers of birth control, SSRIs, and one-size-fits-all care
Debunking the myth: do hormones cause cancer?
Understanding the difference between progesterone and progestin
Estrogen’s protective role in heart, brain, bone, and sexual health
When to start (and when to stop) hormone replacement therapy
Why personalized, root-cause care beats symptom suppression
🛒 Products and Resources Mentioned
Hormone Havoc by Dr. Terri DeNeui: https://a.co/d/2aCDLce
Einkorn (ancient wheat): https://www.einkorn.com/what-is-einkorn/
Evexia Medical: https://www.evexiamedical.com/
2020 JAMA WHI Estrogen Study: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2765301
🎧 Listen Now & Share!
If you enjoyed this episode, share it with someone who needs to hear it! Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and let us know what topics you want to hear next!
📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine:
💻 Check out the website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/
📸 Follow Cassie on Instagram @modernendocrine: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/
🌟 Follow Cassie on Facebook @modernendocrine: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine
📽️ Follow Cassie on YouTube @modernendocrine: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine
🕹️ Follow Cassie on TikTok @modernendocrine: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en
📰 Sign up for Modern Endocrine’s newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine
➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353

Jul 13, 2025 • 1h 1min
67: Fasting Was Wrecking My Hormones – The Shocking Truth About Burnout & Stress with Shana Hussin
>>Want more information like this? Sign up for Modern Endocrine’s newsletter https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine<<
🎙️ Episode Summary:
In this episode of Hormones, Metabolism, and You, Dr. Cassie Smith sits down with registered dietitian Shana Hussin for a refreshingly honest conversation about what happens when health advice meets real life. Shana opens up about how her own experience with stress and burnout caused her to rethink her once-rigid approach to fasting.
Together, they explore why a one-size-fits-all health plan doesn’t work—especially when it comes to things like adrenal health, gut function, and hormone balance. You’ll hear about the role hormones like leptin and cortisol play in our daily rhythms, how stress can throw everything off, and why tuning into your body’s signals matters more than following the latest trend.
About Shana Hussin, RDN:
Shana Hussin is a registered dietitian with over 25 years experience in the nutrition industry. After developing insulin resistance and adrenal fatigue following questionable standard health guidelines given, she built a thriving online business where she helps those with no hope recover and heal. She is the host of the popular wellness podcast, Optimal Metabolism , where she helps listeners reverse stubborn metabolic, cortisol, and blood sugar issues by helping them fix their broken food and lighting environments. Shana uses hormone friendly nutrition and timed eating protocols, along with circadian rhythm biology, and proper lighting environment as key strategies to achieve optimal metabolic and adrenal health.
Connect with Shana: https://shanahussinwellness.com/
✨ Key Topics Covered:
Exploring the relationship between fasting and adrenal health.
Personal stress can significantly shape health and wellness perspectives.
Gut health plays a crucial role in overall metabolic function.
Dietary approaches have evolved, highlighting the importance of individualized nutrition.
Leptin serves as a key hormone in appetite regulation and metabolic health.
Cortisol levels directly affect both sleep quality and digestive health.
Lifestyle changes are vital for effectively managing adrenal fatigue.
Social media continues to influence health perceptions and practices.
Personalized care is essential when addressing metabolic and hormonal issues.
Grounding practices and spending time in nature offer notable benefits for overall well-being.
🛒 Products and Resources Mentioned:
Path Water Bottles: https://amzn.to/3S7fFhw
Fast to Heal Book: https://www.amazon.com/Fast-Heal-Achieving-Nutritional-Resistance/dp/B0874JXVP7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1MKACVDUAZWLE&keywords=shana+hussin&qid=1675971459&sprefix=shana+hussin%2Caps%2C120&sr=8-1
Adrenal Assist: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Adrenal-Assist-60-CT/p/520045490
🎧 Listen Now & Share!If you enjoyed this episode, share it with someone who needs to hear it! Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and let us know what topics you want to hear next!
📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine:
💻 Check out the website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/
📸 Follow Cassie on Instagram @modernendocrine: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/
🌟Follow Cassie on Facebook @modernendocrine: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine
📽️ Follow Cassie on YouTube @modernendocrine: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine
🕹️ Follow Cassie on TikTok @modernendocrine: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en
📰 Sign up for Modern Endocrine’s newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine
➡️ Disclaimer : https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353