

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

Dec 8, 2024 • 48min
Episode 36: Thyroid Truth: Iodine, Hashimoto's, and Hypothyroidism
About My Guest:
Dr. Alan Christianson, NMD is a board-certified naturopathic endocrinologist focused on thyroid care. He is also a best-selling author whose recent titles include The Thyroid Reset Diet and The Metabolism Reset Diet.
Dr. Christianson has been featured on countless media appearances including Dr. Oz, The Doctors, and The Today Show. He is the founding president behind the Endocrine Association of Naturopathic Physicians and The American College of Thyroidology.
Social Handles:
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Facebook
Instagram
Summary:
Discover the hidden link between iodine and thyroid health with Dr. Alan Christensen. In this episode of the #BackToTheBasicsPodcast, learn how environmental factors, diet, and genetics influence thyroid function. Debunk myths about iodine supplementation, understand the limitations of testing, and explore natural strategies to support thyroid healing.
Timestamps:
02:14 - Why thyroid disease rates are increasing.
06:59 - Debunking iodine myths: testing, supplementation, and risks.
18:04 - Managing iodine intake with dietary adjustments.
20:01 - Can Hashimoto's and hypothyroidism be reversed?
29:27 - Success stories of reversing thyroid issues.
40:11 - Benefits of morning sunlight and circadian rhythm resetting.
💊 Get Dr. Cassie's own blend of Dynamic Vitamin D+K2 here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Dynamic-D-K2-60-Count/p/520045249/category=0
⚡️Get Dr. Cassie’s Iron Supplement here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Iron-60-CT-ME/p/520055514
🧪Get Dr. Cassie’s Mighty Methylfolate here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Mighty-Methylfolate-60-Count/p/520047649
Connect with Modern Endocrine:
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Dec 1, 2024 • 1h 19min
Episode 35: How Your Brain and Gut Shape Your Health and Mood
About My Guest:
Dr. Mark Gordon is the author of The Clinical Application of Interventional Medicine, which is recognized as a primer for the standards of care and assessment for interventional endocrinology. He is currently the medical director of CBS/Viacom Studios and the medical director of education for Assess Medical Laboratories. He has also participated in projects with HBO, ESPN, CNN, FOX, and Good Morning.
Social Handles:
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Summary:
In this episode of the #BackToTheBasicsPodcast, let’s dive into the brain-gut connection with neuroendocrinologist Dr. Mark Gordon. Our discussion also reveals how inflammation impacts brain function, hormonal balance, and overall health, offering actionable insights into optimizing mental and physical wellness.
Timestamps:
04:12 - How trauma impacts hormones and the connection to depression
06:34 - The role of gut health in treating inflammation
14:50 - Peroxynitrite and its role in mood disorders
23:09 - Secondary hypothyroidism caused by brain inflammation
31:25 - Non-traumatic factors contributing to brain injuries and mental health issues
43:11 - Benefits of pregnenolone in addressing cognitive decline and hormonal imbalance
57:42 - The importance of optimized hormonal levels for reversing chronic conditions
💊 Get Dr. Cassie's own blend of Dynamic Vitamin D+K2 here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Dynamic-D-K2-60-Count/p/520045249/category=0
⚡️Get Dr. Cassie’s Iron Supplement here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Iron-60-CT-ME/p/520055514
🧪Get Dr. Cassie’s Mighty Methylfolate here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Mighty-Methylfolate-60-Count/p/520047649
Connect with Modern Endocrine:
Check out the website
Follow Cassie on Instagram
Follow Cassie on Facebook
Follow Cassie on YouTube
Follow Cassie on TikTok
Sign up for Modern Endocrine’s newsletter
Disclaimer

Nov 24, 2024 • 1h
Episode 34: The PCOS Puzzle: Mastering Metabolic Health with Marcelle Pick
About My Guest:
Marcelle Pick, OB-GYN NP, is a globally recognized women’s health expert, author, and educator. She co-founded the Women to Women Clinic in 1983 to transform how women experience healthcare. Marcelle’s Drop20 Now™ method has empowered thousands of women to achieve their weight loss and wellness goals naturally.
Social Handles:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
Summary:
Marcelle Pick explains how PCOS is often misunderstood as a hormonal disorder when it is fundamentally a metabolic issue. She shares actionable advice on improving diet, incorporating mindful exercise, and supporting adrenal health to overcome PCOS symptoms.
Timestamps:
(00:00) – Introduction and feedback on PCOS interest
(02:14) – Meet Marcelle Pick: her journey and expertise
(03:00) – Why PCOS is a metabolic problem
(05:33) – Practical dietary tips for PCOS management
(10:22) – Recognizing PCOS symptoms
(17:57) – Exercise and PCOS: What’s safe and effective
(26:55) – Carbs, protein, and timing in PCOS nutrition
(35:16) – The importance of listening to your body
(48:48) – Why gut health and adrenal function matter
💊 Get Dr. Cassie's own blend of Dynamic Vitamin D+K2 here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Dynamic-D-K2-60-Count/p/520045249/category=0
⚡️Get Dr. Cassie’s Iron Supplement here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Iron-60-CT-ME/p/520055514
🧪Get Dr. Cassie’s Mighty Methylfolate here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Mighty-Methylfolate-60-Count/p/520047649
Connect with Modern Endocrine:
Check out the website
Follow Cassie on Instagram
Follow Cassie on Facebook
Follow Cassie on YouTube
Follow Cassie on TikTok
Sign up for Modern Endocrine’s newsletter
Disclaimer

Nov 17, 2024 • 1h 21min
Episode 33: How Gut Health and Hormones Are Linked: Insights from Dr. Peter Kan
Dr. Peter Kan, a board-certified integrative medicine practitioner and creator of the NeuroMetabolic Integration program, explores the vital connection between gut health and hormonal disorders, particularly PCOS. He discusses how insulin resistance and gut imbalances can lead to chronic health issues. Dr. Kan shares practical lifestyle tips for improving digestion and reducing inflammation. He also highlights the importance of the vagus nerve and offers insights on the effects of stress and sleep on digestive health, providing a holistic approach to well-being.

Nov 10, 2024 • 1h 20min
Episode 32: Mold, Gut Health, and DUTCH Testing with Aimee Neumann
About My Guest:Aimee Neumann is a certified nurse practitioner with 17 years of experience specializing in women’s health and functional medicine. After overcoming a personal diagnosis of stage one breast cancer, Aimee has dedicated her career to uncovering the root causes of health issues, empowering her patients to achieve holistic wellness.Social Handles:Website Instagram LinkedInSummary:Join Dr. Cassie Smith and Aimee Neumann as they explore the transformative power of gut health, advanced hormone testing, and mold toxicity awareness. This episode sheds light on the intricacies of DUTCH testing, the importance of gut health in hormone balance, and actionable ways to manage mold exposure. Perfect for anyone looking to take control of their health holistically!Timestamps:(00:00) Introduction and alarming stats about menopause and hormones.(02:36) Why conventional training often overlooks hormonal health.(06:46) The science behind DUTCH testing and how it works.(09:16) Gut health’s impact on hormones and the estrobolome.(37:09) The underestimated danger of mold toxicity and its symptoms.(53:55) Testing for mold: urine vs. blood testing methods.(1:07:21) Why investing in your health is key to true wellness.💊 Get Dr. Cassie's own blend of Dynamic Vitamin D+K2 here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Dynamic-D-K2-60-Count/p/520045249/category=0⚡️Get Dr. Cassie’s Iron Supplement here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Iron-60-CT-ME/p/520055514🧪Get Dr. Cassie’s Mighty Methylfolate here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Mighty-Methylfolate-60-Count/p/520047649Connect with Modern Endocrine:Check out the websiteFollow Cassie on InstagramFollow Cassie on FacebookFollow Cassie on YouTubeFollow Cassie on TikTokSign up for Modern Endocrine’s newsletterDisclaimer

Nov 3, 2024 • 1h 5min
Episode 31: Inside the World of Peptides: What You Need to Know for Better Health
If you are a provider and would like more education or information on the peptides we discussed in this podcast, here is a link to nucleus Pro:https://nucleus.nubioage.com/checkout/nucleus-pro?via=cassieIf you are a provider and would like to sell any of the supplements we discussed in this podcast, here is a link to nuBioAge supplements:https://affiliates.nubioage.com/register?ref=4NJv2kFPNW&p=136448About My Guest:Hayden Collier, PharmD is the director of clinical services at nuBioAge. He is committed to advancing healthcare through innovative, patient-centered approaches. With a passion for weightlifting, he draws parallels between the discipline of fitness and the importance of prevention in modern medicine. Hayden’s expertise extends beyond the pharmacy, blending sports science with cutting-edge medical strategies to redefine how we approach health and longevity. A dedicated husband, father, and sportsman, he brings the same focus and energy to both personal and professional life, always striving to inspire others to take charge of their well-being.Social Handles:Facebook InstagramNuBioAge InstagramLinkedinSummary:Join Dr. Cassie Smith and compounding pharmacy expert Hayden Collier, PharmD, as they dive into the world of peptide therapies, mitochondrial health, and what makes a quality compounding pharmacy.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Back to the Basics and Overview of Peptide Therapy05:00 - Guest Introduction: Hayden Collier and the Role of Compounding Pharmacies10:15 - Explanation of 503A vs. 503B Pharmacies and Regulation Differences16:00 - Discussion on Mitochondrial Health and Benefits of Methylene Blue21:00 - Addressing Risks of Buying Peptides Online Without Medical Supervision27:30 - Overview of NAD Peptides and Their Role in Energy Production34:00 - Importance of Gut Health and Introduction to Peptides for the Gut41:00 - Thymosin Alpha and Beta: Uses in Autoimmune and Injury Recovery47:00 - Hormone Health and Peptides for Sexual Health and Anti-Aging54:00 - Closing Thoughts on Peptide Therapy’s Role in Holistic Health💊 Get Dr. Cassie's own blend of Dynamic Vitamin D+K2 here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Dynamic-D-K2-60-Count/p/520045249/category=0⚡️Get Dr. Cassie’s Iron Supplement here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Iron-60-CT-ME/p/520055514🧪Get Dr. Cassie’s Mighty Methylfolate here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Mighty-Methylfolate-60-Count/p/520047649Connect with Modern Endocrine:Check out the websiteFollow Cassie on InstagramFollow Cassie on FacebookFollow Cassie on YouTubeFollow Cassie on TikTokSign up for Modern Endocrine’s newsletterDisclaimer

Oct 27, 2024 • 1h 9min
Episode 30: Uncover the Truth About Breast Cancer Screening and Hormones
About My Guest:Dr. Jenn Simmons is a breast cancer surgeon turned Integrative oncologist on a mission to change how we diagnose, treat, and screen for breast cancer. Her best selling book, the smart woman’s guide to breast cancer, is changing the narrative around breast cancer and will undoubtedly change the lives of millions of women worried about or affected by a breast cancer diagnosis. She is opening the first perfection imaging center, which accurately screens for breast cancer using revolutionary new technology without pain, compression, or radiation. No more mammograms ladies !Social Handles:WebsiteFacebookYouTubeDr Simmons’ PodcastSummary:In this episode of Back to the Basics, Dr. Cassie Smith hosts Dr. Jenn Simmons, a former breast cancer surgeon turned integrative oncologist, to discuss the shortcomings of traditional breast cancer screening and the potential of safe, alternative therapies. Dr. Simmons sheds light on how mammograms may not save lives as commonly believed, often leading to overdiagnosis and unnecessary treatments that compromise patients' quality of life. She shares insights from studies and patient cases, explaining how breast cancer growth is unpredictable and why current screening methods fail to identify which cancers need intervention.The conversation highlights Dr. Simmons' advocacy for more effective and less invasive breast cancer screening methods, such as QT scanning, which provides better results without the pain and radiation associated with mammograms. They also explore the life-changing benefits of bioidentical hormone therapy for breast cancer survivors, debunking the myth that hormone replacement fuels cancer recurrence. Dr. Simmons emphasizes the importance of personalized, holistic care to help survivors regain their vitality, reduce post-treatment complications, and improve their long-term health outcomes.Timestamps:01:12 - Guest Introduction: Dr. Jenn Simmons02:50 - The Problem with Traditional Breast Cancer Screening05:00 - Overdiagnosis and Its Emotional Impact07:45 - Alternative Breast Cancer Screening10:12 - Bioidentical Hormone Therapy After Breast Cancer14:20 - Addressing Post-Treatment Symptoms18:50 - Holistic Oncology: Personalized Care25:15 - Hormone Therapy Myths40:00 - Future of Breast Cancer Care55:00 - Bioidentical Hormones in Cancer Recovery1:10:00 - Wrapping Up: Empowering Women1:15:00 - Closing Remarks💊 Get Dr. Cassie's own blend of Dynamic Vitamin D+K2 here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Dynamic-D-K2-60-Count/p/520045249/category=0⚡️Get Dr. Cassie’s Iron Supplement here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Iron-60-CT-ME/p/520055514🧪Get Dr. Cassie’s Mighty Methylfolate here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Mighty-Methylfolate-60-Count/p/520047649Connect with Modern Endocrine:Check out the websiteFollow Cassie on InstagramFollow Cassie on FacebookFollow Cassie on YouTubeFollow Cassie on TikTokSign up for Modern Endocrine’s newsletterDisclaimer

Oct 20, 2024 • 58min
Episode 29: Learn Key Strategies to Improve Fertility and Hormonal Health with Dr. Marc Sklar
About My Guest:Dr. Marc Sklar, a.k.a The Fertility Expert, has been helping couples conceive naturally for 21 years, with a mission to restore hope and confidence in their fertility journey. He holds a Doctorate in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine and trained at Harvard Medical School’s Mind/Body Institute. As the creator of Fertility TV, MarcSklar.com, and ReproductiveWellness.com, Dr. Sklar also serves as a Fellow of the American Board of Oriental Reproductive Medicine. Based in San Diego, he runs Reproductive Wellness and offers fertility coaching worldwide through the Hope Fertility Program, while educating a global audience via his YouTube channel, Fertility TV.Social Handles:FacebookInstagramTikTok Fertility TV Weekly Episode Apply to Qualify for Fertility Coaching Download the Free Fertility Guide Summary:In this episode of Back to the Basics, Dr. Cassie Smith welcomes Dr. Marc Sklar, DACM, LAc, a leading natural fertility specialist, to discuss the increasing struggles couples face with infertility. Dr. Sklar highlights the role toxins and processed foods play in declining fertility rates. He also emphasizes the importance of foundational health practices—proper nutrition, stress management, and quality sleep—in optimizing fertility outcomes.The conversation dives deep into the necessary medical assessments for couples facing fertility challenges, including hormone panels and male fertility evaluations, and how certain lifestyle adjustments can make a profound impact on reproductive health. Dr. Sklar also covers specific advice for women with PCOS, stressing the importance of balancing blood sugar levels and addressing thyroid and gut health issues to increase the likelihood of conception.Timestamps:02:16 - Rising Infertility Rates04:40 - Environmental Toxins Affect Male Fertility05:56 - Food and Fertility08:24 - Impact of Stress and Lifestyle on Reproductive Health10:46 - Sleep and Hormonal Balance14:06 - IVF Without Lab Testing Concerns20:48 - Key Fertility Lab Tests28:06 - Managing PCOS Naturally34:13 - Gut Health and Fertility41:06 - Essential Fertility Supplements44:17 - Dangers of Self-Medicating with DHEA45:12 - PCOS, Insulin Resistance, and Fertility48:16 - Genetic Impact of Fertility Issues49:49 - Lifestyle Changes for Fertility💊 Get Dr. Cassie's own blend of Dynamic Vitamin D+K2 here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Dynamic-D-K2-60-Count/p/520045249/category=0⚡️Get Dr. Cassie’s Iron Supplement here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Iron-60-CT-ME/p/520055514🧪Get Dr. Cassie’s Mighty Methylfolate here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Mighty-Methylfolate-60-Count/p/520047649Connect with Modern Endocrine:Check out the websiteFollow Cassie on InstagramFollow Cassie on FacebookFollow Cassie on YouTubeFollow Cassie on TikTokSign up for Modern Endocrine’s newsletterDisclaimer

Oct 13, 2024 • 1h 21min
Episode 28: How to Choose Safe Supplements and Protect Your Health
About My Guest:Shawn Wells, MPH, LDN, RD, CISSN, FISSNNutritional Biochemistry Expert | "The World's Greatest Formulator" | Serial EntrepreneurShawn is a globally recognized nutritional biochemist with a Master’s in Nutritional Biochemistry from UNC Chapel Hill and extensive experience in business and marketing. He has served as Chief Science Officer at Biotrust Nutrition, overseeing R&D and brand marketing for a $125MM company, and is involved in multiple business ventures, having been part of transactions worth over $425 million. A prolific formulator, he has created over 1100 products and holds 40+ patents, including innovations like enfinity® and TeaCrine. Despite overcoming personal health challenges, Shawn remains a leading voice in health optimization, frequently appearing in documentaries, podcasts, and TV segments, and shares his expertise through his company Zone Halo and his websiteSocial Handles:WebsiteInstagramYouTubeFacebookLinkedInXPinterestTikTokSummary:In this insightful episode of the Back to the Basics podcast, Dr. Cassie Smith and Shawn Wells, MPH, RD, discuss the complexities and challenges of the global supplement market. They highlight the widespread issues with supplement quality, particularly on online marketplaces like Amazon, where up to 30% of products may contain no active ingredients. Shawn emphasizes the importance of choosing reputable brands and understanding the testing and regulatory processes that ensure supplement safety.Shawn also shares his passion for gut health, stressing its critical role in immune function and mental health. They discuss the impact of short-chain fatty acids, such as butyrate, on gut integrity and overall health. Additionally, Shawn offers practical advice on selecting effective supplements and shares his favorite go-to products, such as creatine, dihydroberberine, and ergothioneine, to support metabolic function and longevity. The episode is a valuable resource for listeners seeking to navigate the supplement industry and make informed choices for their health.Timestamps:02:23 - Quality Issues in Supplements04:36 - Risks of Buying Supplements Online06:48 - Importance of Quality Control09:46 - Regulatory Challenges12:33 - Dangers of Cheap Supplements14:47 - How to Identify Reliable Brands20:58 - Choosing Quality Omega-330:55 - The Role of Gut Health40:53 - Shawn’s Top Supplement Picks52:33 - Mitochondrial Health & Stress59:58 - Choosing Protein Supplements01:08:40 - Listener Q&A01:10:12 - Future Collaborations💊 Get Dr. Cassie's own blend of Dynamic Vitamin D+K2 here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Dynamic-D-K2-60-Count/p/520045249/category=0⚡️Get Dr. Cassie’s Iron Supplement here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Iron-60-CT-ME/p/520055514🧪Get Dr. Cassie’s Mighty Methylfolate here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Mighty-Methylfolate-60-Count/p/520047649Connect with Modern Endocrine:Check out the websiteFollow Cassie on InstagramFollow Cassie on FacebookFollow Cassie on YouTube

Oct 6, 2024 • 47min
Episode 27: The Thyroid Gut Connection with Functional Nutritionist Divya Gupta
About My Guest:Divya Gupta is a functional nutritionist who empowers busy individuals to surpass their parents' health legacies. Drawing from her corporate background and personal triumphs over gallbladder removal and Hashimoto's, Divya creates personalized wellness plans that fit modern, fast-paced lives.She bridges cutting-edge functional approaches with practical solutions. Divya's mission is for her clients to regain vitality and live life on their own terms.Based in San Jose, California, Divya balances her thriving practice with hiking, cooking, yoga, and adventures with her husband and 8-year-old son. Her journey embodies the transformative power of functional nutrition, inspiring clients to unlock their full health potential.Social Handles:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInSummary:In this episode of Back to the Basics, Dr. Cassie Smith sits down with functional nutritionist Divya Gupta to explore the intricate connection between gut health and thyroid function, particularly focusing on Hashimoto’s disease. Divya shares her personal health journey, including how her gallbladder removal and Hashimoto’s diagnosis led her to seek solutions outside conventional medicine. This pursuit of better health guided her toward functional nutrition, testing, and personalized care.They delve into how poor gut health, including leaky gut, bacterial imbalances, and low digestive enzyme production, can negatively affect thyroid hormone conversion. The conversation emphasizes the need for tailored diets and functional testing, such as the GI map and food sensitivity tests, to heal the gut and improve thyroid conditions. Divya offers actionable advice on optimizing diet by eliminating common inflammatory foods like gluten and dairy and highlights the importance of proper bile function, especially for those who have had their gallbladder removed.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to "Back to the Basics"00:35 - Special Guest: Divya Gupta02:37 - Divya Gupta’s Personal Health Journey05:11 - The Role of Functional Testing in Healing07:00 - Gut Health and Autoimmune Thyroid Conditions08:45 - The GI Map: Key Tool for Diagnosing Gut Issues11:24 - The Importance of Diet in Managing Thyroid Disease13:32 - Why Gut Health Is Essential for Thyroid Function16:48 - Gallbladder Health and Its Impact on Digestion19:36 - Personalized Nutrition and Functional Testing24:41 - What Diet Is Best for Thyroid Patients?30:01 - Practical Tips for Improving Gut and Thyroid Health42:02 - Closing Remarks and Summit Information💊 Get Dr. Cassie's own blend of Dynamic Vitamin D+K2 here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Dynamic-D-K2-60-Count/p/520045249/category=0⚡️Get Dr. Cassie’s Iron Supplement here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Iron-60-CT-ME/p/520055514🧪Get Dr. Cassie’s Mighty Methylfolate here: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/shop/#!/Mighty-Methylfolate-60-Count/p/520047649Connect with Modern Endocrine:Check out the websiteFollow Cassie on InstagramFollow Cassie on FacebookFollow Cassie on YouTube


