Podcasts by Category
The Dr. Brighten Show

Dr. Jolene Brighten, a best-selling author, board certified naturopathic endocrinologist, and women’s health expert, hosts The Dr. Brighten Show—a podcast dedicated to igniting transformative conversations in women’s health. Through candid interviews with leading experts, innovators, and thought-leaders, this show brings you groundbreaking research, personal stories, and practical tools to help you confidently navigate your body and hormones. It’s a fun, engaging, and insightful journey designed to empower you with tangible, science-backed insights, so you can live your best, most vibrant life.
- 180 - ADHD Medication and Your Period: What Women Need to Know About Treatment, PMDD, and Changing Symptoms
ADHD medication can feel different across your menstrual cycle, and a difficult month doesn’t automatically mean your treatment has failed. View the show notes and episode resources at https://drbrighten.com/podcast/adhd-medication-and-your-period/ . 📚 ADHD and Women — If this conversation has you rethinking what ADHD can look like through a woman’s life and cycle, my book ADHD and Women goes deeper. It explores the connection between ADHD, hormones, and the symptoms women are too often told to push through. Learn more: https://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen 🎧 Podcast: https://drbrighten.com/podcast 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJoleneBrighten 📝 Show notes: https://drbrighten.com/podcast/adhd-medication-and-your-period/ In this conversation, Dr. Jolene Brighten, board-certified in naturopathic endocrinology, nutrition scientist, and author of ADHD and Women, talks with board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Agnes Kwan Simone, board-certified pediatric psychologist Dr. Anne-Louise Lockhart, and Annika Joya, MS, author of The Eat to Focus Cookbook, about ADHD medication, nutrition, menstrual-cycle changes, and PMDD. ABOUT THE GUESTS 🎓 Annika Joya, MS, is the author of The Eat to Focus Cookbook and shares science communication about ADHD nutrition. Website: https://nutrimindlab.com/ | Links: https://linktr.ee/nutrimindcoach 🧠 Dr. Agnes Kwan Simone is a board-certified psychiatrist with practices in general psychiatry and women’s midlife mental health. Website: https://www.simonepsych.com/ 🌱 Dr. Anne-Louise Lockhart is a pediatric psychologist, board-certified in clinical child and adolescent psychology, and author of Love the Teen You Have. Website: https://drannlouiselockhart.com/ | Links: https://linktr.ee/dr.annlouise.lockhart 🔗 RESOURCES & FOLLOW 🌿 Radiant Mind: https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/radiant-mind 🌐 Dr. Jolene Brighten: https://drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJoleneBrighten 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjolenebrighten 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolenebrighten 📣 If this conversation helped, please like, share it with someone who may need it, and subscribe for more episodes. Leave a comment with what you’d like us to cover next. This episode is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized medical or mental health care. Discuss diagnosis, medication, and treatment decisions with a qualified clinician. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 20 Oct 2026 - 179 - Psychiatrists Warning: ADHD Relationships, Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria, and Building a Life That Works
ADHD rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD), women’s mental load, and the relationship fights that never seem to end—this episode explores how ADHD can affect communication, friendship, intimacy, and the stories we tell ourselves about being “too much.” View the full show notes and resources at DrBrighten.com: https://drbrighten.com/podcast/adhd-and-relationships/ Before we get into today’s episode: ADHD and Women is officially out https://amzn.to/4mPBO2x, and I am so deeply grateful for every person who has bought the book, shared it, posted about it, recommended it to a friend, or simply sent me a note of support. You are helping change the conversation around women, hormones, and ADHD—and I do not take that lightly. And if you are a midlife woman whose brain suddenly feels like it is struggling—more forgetful, scattered, emotionally reactive, exhausted, or unable to focus—this book is for you, too. Perimenopause can look and feel a whole lot like ADHD, and you deserve answers that go deeper than “you’re just stressed.” In episode three of our ADHD in Women series, Dr. Jolene Brighten is joined by, Dr. Agnes Kwon Simone, board-certified psychiatrist, Annika Angelo, MS, and Leann Borneman, LCSW for an honest, practical conversation about building relationships and systems that work with your brain—not against it. You’ll learn why “just tell me what to do” can create more mental load, how to distinguish an ADHD explanation from an excuse, what rejection sensitivity can look like in real life, why friendships can feel so hard to maintain, and how executive function can affect sexual desire and connection. 💛 If this episode helps you feel seen, please like, share, and subscribe. It helps more women find evidence-informed conversations about ADHD, hormones, and mental health. 🎧 In this episode 🧠 Mental load is not just doing the task. It is noticing, remembering, planning, delegating, following up, and ensuring the task is actually complete. 💬 Shared language changes relationships. When both people can name the barrier, they can stop treating each other like the problem and start designing a better system. 💛 You are not a bad friend because you struggle with follow-through. But communication, repair, and choosing friendships that make room for your actual brain matter. ❤️ Desire is not always spontaneous. For many people, stress, task-switching, emotional safety, and executive-function demands can affect their ability to access desire and intimacy. ⚠️ A note on RSD: Rejection sensitive dysphoria is a widely used term to describe intense reactions to perceived rejection or criticism, but it is not a formal psychiatric diagnosis. If mood symptoms, anxiety, trauma responses, or relationship distress are affecting your life, individualized support from a qualified clinician can help. 🔗 Links mentioned in this episode 📚 ADHD and Women by Dr. Jolene Brighten: https://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen 📝 The Dr. Brighten Show + episode show notes: https://drbrighten.com/podcast 🌐 Dr. Brighten’s website: https://drbrighten.com 👋 Connect with our guests 🩺 Dr. Agnes Kwon Simone | Website: https://www.simonepsych.com📲 Dr. Agnes Kwon Simone | Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.agnesksimone 🍓 Annika Angelo, MS | Nutrimind Lab: https://nutrimindlab.com📲 Annika Angelo | Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nutrimindcoach🎙️ Annika Angelo | Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nutrimindcoach 🧠 Dr. Leann Borneman | Website: https://www.bornemancoaching.com📲 Dr. Leann Borneman | Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bornemancoaching 💛 Connect with Dr. Jolene Brighten 🌐 Website: https://drbrighten.com 📚 Books: https://drbrighten.com/books 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJoleneBrighten 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjolenebrighten 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolenebrighten This episode is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized medical or mental-health care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 13 Oct 2026 - 178 - ADHD and Hormones in Women: Why Symptoms Change Across Your Cycle and in Perimenopause | Agnes K. Simone & Annika Joya
ADHD and hormones are deeply connected, and shifts in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone may help explain why focus, mood, executive function, and even the experience of ADHD medication can change across the menstrual cycle and during perimenopause. View the full show notes and additional resources at https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/adhd-hormones-in-women/. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, I’m joined by board-certified psychiatrist Dr. Agnes K. Simone, MD and ADHD nutrition researcher Annika Joya, MS, for a conversation about what happens when ADHD meets the menstrual cycle, PMDD, and perimenopause. We talk about why some women feel like they have a completely different brain depending on the week of their cycle, why ADHD medication may feel less effective before a period, how estrogen interacts with dopamine, and why women can reach their 40s and suddenly feel like the systems that worked for decades no longer work. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why the follicular phase may feel easier for some women with ADHD How estrogen and dopamine interact in the ADHD brain Why ADHD medication may feel different during the luteal phase—and why you should not change your dose without speaking with your prescriber What to track for two cycles if your ADHD symptoms or medication response change before your period How sleep, nutrition, stress, and eating consistency can influence how your brain feels What premenstrual exacerbation (PME) is and how it differs from simply having “bad PMS” Why some women describe PMDD as feeling like they become a completely different person before their period Why PMDD isn’t simply a matter of being “low in progesterone” How masking can allow ADHD in women to remain undiagnosed for decades Why ADHD does not suddenly begin at age 45 How perimenopause can affect focus, memory, mood, sleep, and executive function even without classic hot flashes Why a single estrogen or progesterone blood test cannot diagnose perimenopause Why women deserve individualized conversations about hormone therapy, birth control, ADHD medication, and their own symptoms Simple strategies for feeding yourself when executive function is low Practical things you can start doing now when ADHD feels harder during certain parts of your cycle Dr. Simone also explains why an ADHD diagnosis requires looking for symptoms that were present in childhood or adolescence—not simply symptoms that suddenly appeared in midlife. Later, we discuss how masking, life demands, and hormonal changes can collide during perimenopause and make previously effective coping systems stop working. The episode specifically moves from menstrual-cycle changes and medication response into estrogen, dopamine, progesterone sensitivity, PMDD, masking, perimenopause, hormone therapy, and finally a practical “Protocol Playground” for what listeners can start doing now. 🩺 Dr. Jolene BrightenDr. Jolene Brighten is a women’s hormone expert, naturopathic physician, Certified Menopause Society Practitioner, nutrition scientist, certified sex counselor, host of The Dr. Brighten Show, and author of ADHD and Women. 🌐 Dr. Brighten Website: https://drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten/ 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJoleneBrighten 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjolenebrighten 👩⚕️ MEET THE EXPERTS 🧠 Dr. Agnes K. Simone, DO Dr. Simone is a board-certified psychiatrist and founder of Olea Women’s Health, where her work focuses on the intersection of psychiatry, hormones, perimenopause, menopause, cognition, and women’s mental health. Olea Women's Health https://www.oleawomenshealth.com/about-dr-agnes-simone 🌐 Dr. Agnes Simone: https://www.simonepsych.com/ 🌿 Olea Women’s Health: https://www.oleawomenshealth.com/ 🍓 Annika Joya, MS — Nutrimind Lab Annika holds a master’s degree in health psychology and specializes in translating ADHD nutrition research into practical strategies for neurodivergent people. Nutrimind Lab https://nutrimindlab.com/about-annika 🌐 Nutrimind Lab: https://nutrimindlab.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenutrimindlab/ 🔗 Annika’s Links: https://linktr.ee/nutrimindlab 📕 ADHD AND WOMEN 🧠 Get ADHD and Women by Dr. Jolene Brighten: https://drbrighten.com/adhd-and-women/ The book dives much deeper into how hormones, the menstrual cycle, perimenopause, nutrition, sleep, stress, and other factors can influence the way ADHD presents in women. 🎁 RETREAT GIFT: If you get ADHD and Women and enter by October 9, one person will receive a gifted spot at my May 2027 retreat. Details and entry are here: https://drbrighten.com/adhd-and-women/ 🌿 SPONSOR + RESOURCES ✨ Dr. Brighten Essentials: https://drbrightenessentials.com/ 📚 Dr. Brighten Books & Resources: https://drbrighten.com/books 🎧 The Dr. Brighten Show: https://drbrighten.com/podcast/ 📝 More women’s health education: https://drbrighten.com 💬 JOIN THE CONVERSATION 👍 LIKE this episode if it helped you understand your brain differently. 💬 COMMENT with the biggest thing you recognized in yourself—or tell me whether your ADHD feels different depending on where you are in your cycle. 📲 SHARE this with the woman who keeps saying, “I swear my ADHD gets worse before my period.” 🔔 SUBSCRIBE to The Dr. Brighten Show so you don’t miss the rest of the ADHD in Women series. ⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not individualized medical advice. Always work with a qualified healthcare professional regarding diagnosis, medication, hormone therapy, supplements, or treatment decisions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 06 Oct 2026 - 177 - ADHD in Women Symptoms: Why Success Can Hide the Signs
ADHD in women symptoms can hide behind straight As, a successful career, a packed calendar, and the exhausting work of appearing “fine.” In Episode 1 of the ADHD in Women series, Dr. Jolene Brighten joins psychiatrist Dr. Agnes Kwon Simone, pediatric psychologist Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart, and clinical s/xologist Dr. Leann Borneman to unpack the signs women mask, the assessment gaps that lead to missed diagnoses, and how to advocate for a thorough evaluation. View the full show notes at https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/adhd-in-women-symptoms/ . 📘 Preorder ADHD and Women by Dr. Jolene Brighten: https://drbrighten.com/adhd-and-women/ 👍 Like this video, share it with the woman who has been told she is “too successful” to have ADHD, and subscribe to The Dr. Brighten Show so you do not miss the rest of this eight-part series. Many women with ADHD were never disruptive in class. They may have been the student who got straight As, the employee who pulled off impossible deadlines, or the partner who carried the entire mental load while quietly falling apart. This conversation explains why achievement does not rule out ADHD, why attention can look inconsistent, and why a 15-minute screener cannot replace a complete clinical assessment. 🎓 Meet the expert panel 🩺 Dr. Jolene Brighten is a board-certified naturopathic endocrinologist, nutrition scientist, and author of ADHD and Women. 🧠 Dr. Agnes Kwon Simone is a board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in ADHD, anxiety, OCD, and psychiatric evaluation. 👩⚕️ Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart is a pediatric psychologist and board-certified clinical child and adolescent psychologist. 💬 Dr. Leann Borneman is a clinical s/xologist (PhD), licensed psychotherapist, and ADHD relationship expert. ✨ In this episode, you’ll learn 🧩 Why straight As, organization, hyperfocus, career success, or marriage do not rule out ADHD. ⏰ How time blindness, procrastination, internal restlessness, and emotional dysregulation can show up in adult women. 📝 How to build an ADHD evidence map before you book an evaluation. 🧠 Why you can manage a crisis, run a business, or write a book, yet still struggle to answer an email or make a dentist appointment. 🔥 Why urgency can temporarily help an ADHD brain engage, and why relying on stress eventually stops working. 🤝 How body doubling can support task initiation, persistence, and completion. 🧬 What we know about ADHD’s genetic contribution and why trauma alone does not explain every case. 🎭 How masking can look like perfectionism, over-preparing, people-pleasing, hypervigilance, and exhaustion. 🏫 How parents can advocate for accommodations without reducing ADHD support to medication alone. 🚩 What a thorough ADHD assessment includes, plus the red flags to watch for in an evaluator. 🔎 Why anxiety, depression, OCD, learning differences, iron deficiency, thyroid dysfunction, and psychosocial stressors deserve consideration in an assessment. ⚖️ How bias affects who gets diagnosed, treated, accommodated, or labeled as “difficult.” 🧠 A practical note before an ADHD evaluation 📱 Open your Notes app and write down what happens, where it happens, how often it happens, what it costs you, how you compensate, and what you remember from childhood. 🗂️ Add examples such as missed deadlines, chronic lateness, unpaid fees, relationship conflict, all-night overwork, or the systems you use to avoid forgetting something important. 🩺 Bring that note to a qualified clinician. A diagnosis requires a full assessment, but your history helps the right provider ask better questions. 📚 This episode offers education and does not replace individual medical or mental health care. Work with a qualified clinician for diagnosis, treatment, and medication decisions. ✨ Connect with the panel 🌿 Dr. Jolene Brighten Website: https://drbrighten.com 📸 Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten/ ▶️ Subscribe to Dr. Jolene Brighten on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJoleneBrighten 🩺 Dr. Agnes Kwon Simone: https://www.simonepsych.com/ 📸 Follow Dr. Agnes Kwon Simone: https://www.instagram.com/dr.agnesksimone/ 🧠 Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart: https://drannlouiselockhart.com/ 📸 Follow Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.annlouise.lockhart/ 💬 Dr. Leann Borneman: https://www.bornemancoaching.com/ 📸 Follow Dr. Leann Borneman on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drb_unfiltered/ 💌 Subscribe, like, and share this episode with someone who has spent years wondering why life feels harder than it looks from the outside. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 29 Sep 2026 - 176 - Endometriosis and Perimenopause: Can You Use HRT? | Hormone Doctor's Warning
Did you know women with endometriosis are twice as likely to be diagnosed with ADHD? In my new book, ADHD and Women, I connect the dots between hormones, pain, mood, focus, and the symptoms women are too often told to simply push through—so you can finally understand what is happening in your body and brain. Get your copy: https://drbrighten.com/adhd-and-women/ Endometriosis in perimenopause can become more painful, more inflammatory, and far more confusing, but it is not “all in your head,” and it is not simply a matter of estrogen being too high. In this AMA, Dr. Jolene Brighten and Angela, who works with her behind the scenes, answer your biggest questions about endometriosis, adenomyosis, progesterone, HRT, surgery, fibroids, and what changes as hormones shift; view the show notes at https://drbrighten.com. 💬 If this conversation helps you feel more informed, please like, share, comment, and subscribe to The Dr. Brighten Show so more women can access evidence-informed conversations about their health. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 22 Sep 2026 - 175 - ADHD Rejection Sensitivity: Why Rejection Can Feel So Personal | Alex Partridge
ADHD rejection sensitivity can make one comment, one text, or one change in someone’s tone feel like proof that everything is falling apart. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Alex Partridge joins me to unpack rejection sensitivity, masking, identity, self-trust, and the hidden emotional cost of ADHD; view the full show notes at https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/adhd-rejection-sensitivity/ 📚 My new book, ADHD and Women, explores the relationship between ADHD, hormones, the nervous system, nutrition, and the experiences women are so often never taught to connect. 🎁 Preorder the book and see the current limited-time bonuses here:https://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen In This Episode Why ADHD can make rejection and criticism feel disproportionately intense How childhood comments like “you’re too much,” “stop being so emotional,” or “why are you so weird?” can shape the way you see yourself as an adult How masking can slowly shift the question from “Who am I?” to “Who do I need to be so people will accept me?” Why Alex believes rejection sensitivity can become one of the most debilitating and overlooked parts of ADHD How an unanswered text, unusual tone of voice, meeting request, or single negative comment can trigger catastrophic thinking How people-pleasing and fear of disappointing others can undermine your ability to trust your own instincts Why an emotional trigger can lead to quitting, relationship conflict, impulsive decisions, or behaviors you regret once you’re regulated again What it can feel like to receive an ADHD diagnosis and suddenly realize you don’t know who you are underneath years of masking Why your brain may seek out criticism—even when you’re already feeling terrible—and how to interrupt that pattern How creating a bank of real evidence can help challenge the story rejection sensitivity is telling you How to repair after an intense emotional reaction without using ADHD as an excuse for harmful behavior Why someone who appears “high functioning” at work may actually be high masking and completely depleted by the time they get home Why “you just need to try harder” may be one of the most damaging messages people with ADHD hear How curiosity, pattern recognition, creativity, entrepreneurship, and intense interests can become powerful ADHD strengths About Alex Partridge 🎙️ Alex Partridge is the founder of UNILAD and LADbible, host of the award-winning ADHD Chatter podcast, a Sunday Times bestselling author, and a leading voice in conversations about ADHD and neurodiversity. In this conversation, Alex shares not only what he has learned through interviewing hundreds of experts, but his own experiences with masking, alcoholism, entrepreneurship, rejection sensitivity, identity, and rebuilding self-trust. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind Want a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code POD15 for 15% off your order Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/radiant-mind LMNT Electrolytes Want a clean, science-backed way to stay hydrated and energized? At LMNT, electrolytes are formulated with a precise balance of sodium, potassium, and magnesium — with no sugar, no artificial ingredients, and no unnecessary fillers. Designed to support hydration, muscle function, and daily energy, LMNT helps you feel your best through workouts, busy days, and everyday life. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Visit http://drinklmnt.com/Brighten to receive a free sample pack with any purchase. Fygg Want a dentist-developed oral care brand on a mission to “Feed Your Good Guys.” Fygg makes science-backed, microbiome-friendly oral care products — like fluoride-free toothpaste and remineralizing varnish — that support a balanced oral microbiome without harsh chemicals, foam, or unnecessary ingredients. Developed by dentists and grounded in research, Fygg helps strengthen enamel, maintain oral health, and promote a healthier mouth for the whole family. Use code DRBRIGHTEN for 15% off of their products (both one-time and subscription) Shop now https://fygg.sjv.io/ragbBv Follow Alex Partridge 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alex_partridge_100/?hl=en 🌐 Website: https://www.alex-partridge.com/ 🎙️ ADHD Chatter:https://www.instagram.com/adhd_chatter_podcast ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ADHD_Chatter_Podcast Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten 🌐 Website: https://drbrighten.com 🎙️ The Dr. Brighten Show: https://drbrighten.com/podcast 📚 Books: https://drbrighten.com/books 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎵 TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/drjolenebrighten Join the Conversation 💬 Have you ever interpreted a tiny change in someone’s tone, a delayed text, or a request to “talk later” as proof you had done something wrong? 👇 Tell me in the comments what rejection sensitivity or masking has looked like for you. 👍 Like this episode if it helped you put words to something you’ve experienced. 📤 Share it with someone who has spent years believing they were “too sensitive” or “too much.” 🔔 Subscribe to The Dr. Brighten Show for more evidence-informed conversations about ADHD, hormones, women’s health, relationships, and the brain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 15 Sep 2026 - 174 - Cellular Aging: Why Your Body May Be Aging Faster Than You Think | Dr. Will Cole
Cellular aging may be happening faster than your chronological age suggests—and in this episode, Dr. Will Cole explains what can accelerate it, what mitochondrial dysfunction can actually feel like, and what may help protect your healthspan; view the full show notes at https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/cellular-aging/. We break down the science of biological age, organ aging, inflammation, metabolic health, circadian rhythms, nutrition, movement, and practical longevity strategies you can actually use. IN THIS EPISODE Why people in their 20s, 30s, and 40s may be experiencing accelerated cellular aging How your heart, brain, kidneys, and other organs can age at different rates Why brain fog, fatigue, feeling wired-but-tired, and anxiety with exhaustion may be clues worth paying attention to How inflammation and “cellular confusion” may affect mitochondrial function and aging Which metabolic, cardiovascular, and inflammatory markers Dr. Cole considers clinically meaningful How environmental toxins, microplastics, PFAS, stress, trauma, food, and artificial light may influence cellular health The surprising conversation around nature, bird song, spirituality, community, and longevity Why light exposure can disrupt more than sleep—your organs have their own cellular clocks Why fatigue in women, including women with endometriosis, deserves to be taken seriously How fasting, green tea, polyphenols, and meal timing fit into the longevity conversation How to build a longevity-supportive plate without following a rigid wellness diet Why a 10–15 minute walk after dinner may be one of the simplest metabolic tools available Zone 2, REHIT, strength training, sauna, cold exposure, and mobility—what may actually be worth your time And how to support healthier aging without turning wellness into a full-time job ABOUT DR. WILL COLE Dr. Will Cole is a functional medicine expert, New York Times bestselling author, and an early pioneer in functional medicine telehealth. In this conversation, he shares concepts from his newest book, Heal Your Cells, and explains the clinical lens he uses to think about inflammation, mitochondrial health, metabolic health, and longevity. 🌐 Dr. Will Cole: https://drwillcole.com 📘 Heal Your Cells: https://healyourcells.com 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/drwillcole CONNECT WITH DR. JOLENE BRIGHTEN💛 🌐 Dr. Brighten: https://drbrighten.com 🎙️ The Dr. Brighten Show: https://drbrighten.com/podcasts 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrBrighten 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjolenebrighten 📌 Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drjolenebrighten THIS EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY ✨ Dr. Brighten Essentials: https://drbrighten.com 🏷️ Use code POD15 where applicable. 📚 MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE 📘 Heal Your Cells by Dr. Will Cole: https://healyourcells.com 🌐 Dr. Will Cole’s website + resources: https://drwillcole.com 🎙️ More episodes of The Dr. Brighten Show: https://drbrighten.com/podcasts ❤️ SUPPORT THE SHOW 👍 LIKE this episode if it gave you a new way to think about aging and cellular health. 💬 COMMENT below: What is one longevity habit you’re actually willing to start this week? 📤 SHARE this episode with someone who is constantly tired, dealing with brain fog, or wants to protect their health for the long term. 🔔 SUBSCRIBE to The Dr. Brighten Show for evidence-informed conversations about women’s health, hormones, brain health, metabolism, longevity, and the science that helps you better understand your body. ⚕️ This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized medical care. Always discuss changes to your medications, supplements, fasting practices, or treatment plan with your healthcare professional. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 08 Sep 2026 - 173 - Perimenopause Hormone Therapy: What Women Need to Know About HRT, Progesterone & Estrogen
Perimenopause hormones can make you feel like your body changed overnight—even when your labs look “normal,” and in this AMA Dr. Jolene Brighten answers your biggest questions about estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, HRT, birth control, Mirena, ovulation, POI, and postmenopause. View the complete show notes, references, and resources at https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/perimenopause-hormones/ 📖 PREORDER ADHD AND WOMEN: https://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen What You’ll Learn in This Episode 🧪 Why “normal” hormone labs don’t necessarily explain how you feel during perimenopause 😤 What symptoms like rage, anxiety, poor sleep, and irritability may tell you about progesterone 🥚 How to tell whether you’re still ovulating in perimenopause using cycle patterns, cervical mucus, temperature, LH, and progesterone 🩸 Why a shortening luteal phase may be an early clue that progesterone production is changing 🔬 Which hormone tests Dr. Brighten finds useful—and why testosterone, thyroid, insulin, and other markers deserve attention too 🧠 What we know—and still don’t know—about progestins, progesterone, GABA, BDNF, and women’s brain health 🌀 Where the Mirena IUD may fit during perimenopause, heavy bleeding, adenomyosis, and hormone therapy 🌙 When cyclic versus continuous progesterone may make sense 🧴 Dr. Brighten’s approach to estradiol, estriol, Biest, testosterone, and compounded hormone therapy 🏋️ How declining estrogen can affect muscle, connective tissue, mitochondria, exercise tolerance, and recovery ❤️ Why menopause doesn’t have to be a story of decline—including the part nobody talks about enough: sex can get better 🩺 When symptoms like varicose veins deserve further evaluation rather than being dismissed as “just hormones” Resources 📖 ADHD and Women — Preorder + Bonuses: https://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen 🌐 Dr. Brighten Website: https://drbrighten.com 🎙️ The Dr. Brighten Show: https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/ 🌟 Free Hormone-Friendly Recipes: https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ Sponsorship & Resources 🧠 Dr. Brighten Essentials — Radiant Mind: https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/radiant-mind Podcast listeners can use POD15 for 15% off. 👩🏻⚕️ About Dr. Jolene Brighten Dr. Jolene Brighten is a board-certified naturopathic endocrinologist, nutrition scientist, women’s health educator, and author of ADHD and Women. Her work focuses on translating complex hormone science into practical information women can use to better understand their bodies and have more informed conversations with their healthcare providers. 👩🏻⚕️ Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten 💻 Website: https://drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵 Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJoleneBrighten 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjolenebrighten 👍 If this episode helped you, like the video, subscribe to The Dr. Brighten Show, and share it with a woman who has been told her labs are “normal” even though she knows something has changed. And tell me in the comments: what perimenopause or hormone question should we answer in the next AMA? ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or replace individualized medical care. Always discuss symptoms, medications, supplements, testing, and hormone therapy with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 01 Sep 2026 - 172 - Women’s Health Questions Answered: AMA 1 Lightening Round
Endometriosis pain can rewire the brain and nervous system, yet women are still told to tolerate severe pelvic pain, traumatic IUD insertions, and years of medical dismissal; explore the research and resources in the show notes at http://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen. In this AMA, Dr. Jolene Brighten explains central sensitization, vagus nerve dysfunction, cycle-related inflammation, copper IUD pain, omega-3s, food sensitivities, and what it can take to recover after chronic pain. 🧠 In this episode, you’ll learn: How unmanaged endometriosis and adenomyosis pain can change pain processing in the brainWhy pain may persist after excision surgery or a hysterectomy What central sensitization means and why recovery can take time How endometriosis may disrupt vagal tone and autonomic nervous-system function Why a hysterectomy can treat adenomyosis but does not treat endometriosis outside the uterus How copper IUDs create localized inflammation Why severe IUD pain, bleeding, fainting, or loss of function deserves investigation How estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, oxytocin, and melatonin interact with inflammation Why histamine symptoms may intensify around ovulation How prostaglandins influence menstrual cramps, inflammation, and “period poops” What to look for when choosing an omega-3 supplement How Dr. Brighten’s approach to elimination diets and nutritional restriction has evolved Why food variety and oral tolerance matter for women with chronic inflammatory conditions How patients and clinicians can help change the standard of care for women 💬 Have you experienced severe IUD pain, medical gaslighting, or persistent pain after endometriosis treatment? Share your experience in the comments, including where you live and whether you were offered meaningful pain relief. 👍 If this episode helped you, please like the video, subscribe to The Dr. Brighten Show, and share it with someone who has been told her pain is normal. ⚕️ This content is for educational purposes and does not replace individualized medical care. Speak with a qualified healthcare professional about persistent or severe pain, heavy bleeding, fainting, anemia, or symptoms that interfere with daily life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 25 Aug 2026 - 171 - Late Diagnosed ADHD and Autism | Rich & Rox Pink
Late diagnosed ADHD & autism can change the story you’ve been telling yourself (and your relationship) for decades. In this episode, Dr. Brighten joins Rich and Rox Pink of ADHD Love and the Late Bloomers podcast to talk diagnosis, masking, relationships, perimenopause, HRT, and what finally made their lives make sense; view the full show notes and resources at https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/late-diagnosed-adhd-and-autism/ . Rich and Rox Pink have built a community of more than 5 million followers by showing the messy, funny, painful, and deeply human reality of neurodivergent life. In this candid conversation, Rox opens up about receiving her ADHD diagnosis after years of believing she was lazy, broken, and incapable of maintaining relationships, while Rich shares what it has been like to realize in his 40s that the “neurotypical husband” was actually autistic. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN Why late diagnosed ADHD and autism can completely rewrite decades of shame and self-blame Why traits like lateness, forgetfulness, social awkwardness, sensory sensitivity, and executive dysfunction are so easily interpreted as personal failures How masking can become so automatic that you may even mask in therapy Why trauma and neurodivergence can overlap—and why treating every neurodivergent trait as “just trauma” can miss the bigger picture Why women with ADHD are so often diagnosed later in life How puberty and hormonal changes may alter the way ADHD presents in women Why needing accommodations can bring up unexpected guilt and shame What Dr. Brighten discovered when she finally began using disability accommodations while traveling Why accessing an ADHD or autism diagnosis can still be incredibly difficult How undiagnosed ADHD can contribute to attempts to self-medicate How perimenopause can intensify ADHD symptoms, brain fog, anxiety, sleep disruption, and executive dysfunction Why Rox reached the point where she thought she might have to walk away from her music career What changed for Rox after starting estrogen and progesterone hormone therapy Why testosterone matters in women—and its relationship with energy, motivation, muscle, and follow-through How ADHD can influence novelty, intense relationships, impulsivity, and the experience of falling in love Why Rich and Rox credit learning how to actually communicate as one of the biggest shifts in their relationship Why traditional therapy doesn't always feel accessible or effective for neurodivergent people Why socializing, public speaking, travel, touch, noise, and other seemingly ordinary experiences can require enormous amounts of energy Why someone can love being around people while still desperately needing silence afterward How Rich and Rox stopped interpreting neurodivergent behaviors as rejection or bad intentions The relationship philosophy they now use: “us versus the ADHD” and “us versus the autism” Why curiosity and giving your partner the benefit of the doubt can change a neurodivergent relationship ABOUT RICH & ROX PINK Rich and Rox Pink are the couple behind ADHD Love, known for their candid and often hilarious conversations about ADHD, autism, shame, relationships, addiction, recovery, and learning to work with a neurodivergent brain instead of constantly fighting it. Together, they are bestselling authors and hosts of the Late Bloomers podcast, where they share the lessons they learned after years of believing they had simply failed at being adults. 🌐 ADHD Love: https://www.adhd-love.co.uk/ 📸 Rich & Rox / ADHD Love Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhd_love_/ 📚 Rich & Rox books + resources: https://linktr.ee/ADHD_Love 🎧 Late Bloomers Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/late-bloomers/id1788035047 RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE 📖 Dirty Laundry by Richard Pink & Roxanne Emery: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/743719/dirty-laundry-by-richard-pink-and-roxanne-emery/ 💗 ADHD Love: https://www.adhd-love.co.uk/ 🎧 Late Bloomers: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/late-bloomers/id1788035047 🌻 Hidden Disabilities Sunflower: https://hdsunflower.com/ 🧠 More episodes from The Dr. Brighten Show: https://drbrighten.com/podcast/ 📚 ADHD and Women by Dr. Brighten: http://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen THIS EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind Want a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code POD15 for 15% off your order Shop now: https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/radiant-mind FOLLOW DR. BRIGHTEN 💻 Website: https://drbrighten.com 🎙️ The Dr. Brighten Show: https://drbrighten.com/podcast/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJoleneBrighten 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjolenebrighten Dr. Brighten is a naturopathic physician, Certified Menopause Specialist through The Menopause Society, Fellow of the American Board of Naturopathic Endocrinology (FABNE), author, researcher, and women’s health expert focused on translating complex hormone and health science into information women can actually use. ❤️ LIKE this episode if something in Rich and Rox’s story made your own experience make more sense. 📤 SHARE it with someone who may have spent years believing their ADHD, autism, or neurodivergent traits were character flaws. 🔔 SUBSCRIBE to The Dr. Brighten Show for evidence-based conversations about ADHD, hormones, women’s health, menopause, relationships, and the topics women deserve better answers about. 💬 COMMENT BELOW: What is something you understand differently about yourself since learning more about neurodivergence? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 18 Aug 2026 - 170 - Endometriosis Inflammation: Why This Disease May Affect More Than Your Pelvis
Endometriosis inflammation may have implications far beyond pelvic pain, including associations with cardiovascular disease, autoimmune conditions, and long-term health risks. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten explains what the research actually shows, why a normal CRP doesn’t necessarily rule out inflammation, and what women and clinicians should understand about endometriosis as a whole-body disease. View the complete show notes at Dr. Brighten: https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/endometriosis-inflammation/ Pre-order ADHD and Women by Dr. Jolene Brighten and discover how hormones shape focus, motivation, executive function, and emotional regulation http://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen What You'll Learn in This Episode Why endometriosis is about much more than misplaced tissue or retrograde menstruation How immune dysregulation and inflammatory cytokines may contribute to the endometriosis environment Why normal CRP or hs-CRP doesn't necessarily mean inflammation isn't present The important difference between localized, regional, and systemic inflammation How inflammatory signaling, nerve growth, and blood vessel formation may help explain severe pain Why progesterone resistance is an important but often overlooked part of endometriosis biology How lesions may produce estrogen locally and contribute to a self-sustaining inflammatory environment What research suggests about endometriosis and long-term cardiovascular risk How chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and altered hormone signaling could potentially connect endometriosis and cardiovascular health Why the long-term consequences of certain endometriosis treatments deserve consideration alongside their potential benefits Why women with endometriosis are also diagnosed with certain autoimmune and immune-mediated diseases at higher rates Why clinicians shouldn't automatically attribute every new symptom to endometriosis Why cardiovascular and metabolic prevention conversations may need to begin well before midlife Why successful endometriosis care should consider a woman's health trajectory over the next 20–30 years, not simply her pain today 🎧 This Episode Is Brought to You By EndoGlobal Group At EndoGlobal Group, a network of world-class endometriosis specialists comes together to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for patients with complex endometriosis—offering advanced diagnostic mapping, complete excision surgery, and holistic support. Click here to learn more and schedule a free consultation https://drbrighten.com/endoglobal Dr. Brighten Essentials – NAC Dr. Brighten’s N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/n-acetyl-cysteine) is a high-quality formula designed to support glutathione production — your body’s master antioxidant. It helps promote healthy detoxification, immune resilience, respiratory health, and balanced inflammation. Support your cells from the inside out. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com LUMEBOX Ready to take your skincare results to the next level—right from home? 💡 LUME Box delivers professional-grade LED light therapy in a sleek, easy-to-use device that targets fine lines, pigmentation, and dullness at the cellular level. Just minutes a day can help boost collagen, calm inflammation, and reveal that lit-from-within glow. It’s the same science trusted in top dermatology clinics, now in your hands. Shop now → https://drbrighten.com/lumebox use code drbrighten for our exclusive community discount on your purchase. 🔗 Follow Dr. Brighten 🌐 Dr. Brighten Website & Show Notes: https://drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/drjolenebrighten ▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 🎵 TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten If this episode changed the way you think about endometriosis, like this video, subscribe to The Dr. Brighten Show, and share it with someone who needs to hear it. 👍 LIKE this episode so YouTube knows you want more evidence-based women's health conversations 🔔 SUBSCRIBE and turn on notifications so you don't miss the next episode 💬 COMMENT: Were you ever told your labs were “normal” despite continuing to experience symptoms? ↗️ SHARE this episode with someone living with endometriosis or adenomyosis ⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or replace individualized medical advice from your healthcare professional. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 11 Aug 2026 - 169 - The Hidden Cause of Brain Inflammation Doctors Miss | Dr. Pejman Katiraei
Brain inflammation may influence behavior, sensory processing, sleep, mood, and cognition in ways many families never realize. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten and Dr. Pejman Katiraei explore the connections between the immune system, gut health, environmental exposures, ADHD, autism, PANS/PANDAS, and neuroinflammation; view the complete show notes at https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/brain-inflammation-and-behavior/ Neurodivergence Is Not the Problem This episode does not suggest that autism or ADHD should be erased, “fixed,” or reduced to inflammation. Instead, the conversation explores an important distinction: A person’s neurodivergent wiring may be an intrinsic part of who they are. Pain, severe anxiety, sleep disruption, gut dysfunction, overwhelming sensory sensitivity, aggression, or sudden regression may represent additional challenges affecting that person’s quality of life. Understanding that distinction can help families support the whole person without treating their identity as a disease. Signs That May Deserve a Closer Look These symptoms do not confirm a diagnosis, but clusters of symptoms may warrant a more comprehensive conversation with a qualified healthcare professional: Sudden or dramatic changes in behavior New fears, phobias, compulsions, or repetitive thoughts Severe sensory sensitivity to sound, touch, clothing, food, or water Chronic constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, reflux, or bloating Eczema or recurring skin symptoms alongside digestive concerns Restrictive eating that appears driven by texture, smell, or sensory distress Significant sleep disruption or waking consistently during the night Repeated ear infections, respiratory infections, or unexplained inflammatory symptoms Symptoms that worsen after illness, certain foods, antibiotics, or environmental exposures A child expressing beliefs such as “I’m bad,” “I’m mean,” or “I’m stupid” after struggling to control their behavior Always work with an appropriately licensed healthcare professional before beginning medications, antifungals, restrictive diets, parasite protocols, or treatment for suspected mold-related illness. 👨⚕️ About Dr. Pejman Katiraei Dr. Pejman Katiraei works with children and families experiencing complex combinations of behavioral, neurological, immune, gastrointestinal, and environmental health concerns. In this episode, he shares clinical observations from his work with children experiencing neuroinflammation, sensory challenges, PANS/PANDAS, gut dysfunction, and significant behavioral changes. Dr. Pejman Katiraei’s Website: https://drkatiraei.com/ Dr. Pejman Katiraei’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholistickids/?hl=en Dr. Pejman Katiraei’s Substack: https://pkatiraei.substack.com/ 👩⚕️ About Dr. Jolene Brighten Dr. Jolene Brighten is a board-certified naturopathic endocrinologist, Certified Menopause Practitioner, nutrition scientist, certified sex counselor, bestselling author, and host of The Dr. Brighten Show. Her work focuses on women’s hormones, reproductive health, ADHD, neurodivergence, perimenopause, menopause, and the complex ways the brain, immune system, gut, and endocrine system interact. 🌐 Dr. Brighten’s Website: https://drbrighten.com 📸 Follow Dr. Brighten on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten/ 🎵 Follow Dr. Brighten on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten ▶️ Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJoleneBrighten 📘 Follow Dr. Brighten on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drbrighten ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It does not replace individualized medical advice. Always consult an appropriately qualified healthcare professional regarding symptoms, testing, medications, supplements, environmental concerns, or treatment decisions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 04 Aug 2026 - 168 - Melatonin Benefits: Why Your Brain Needs Darkness for Better Sleep, Brain Health, and Healthy Aging | Deanna Minich
Melatonin benefits extend far beyond helping you fall asleep. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, I sit down with nutrition scientist Dr. Deanna Minich, MS, PhD, CNS, IFMCP, to explore the surprising science behind melatonin, circadian rhythms, color, inflammation, brain health, and why being deficient in darkness may be one of the most overlooked threats to your long-term health. For additional resources, research, and key takeaways, be sure to visit the full show notes at https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/melatonin-benefits/ Whether you're struggling with poor sleep, hormone imbalance, chronic inflammation, or simply want to optimize healthy aging, this conversation will completely change how you think about light, darkness, and the body's innate healing capacity. Pre-order ADHD and Women by Dr. Jolene Brighten and discover how hormones shape focus, motivation, executive function, and emotional regulation http://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen In This Episode You'll Learn Why melatonin is one of the body's most important molecules, not just a sleep hormone How darkness influences your hormones, brain health, and longevity The surprising role melatonin plays in your mitochondria and cellular energy Why melatonin supports your immune system and helps regulate inflammation How declining melatonin may contribute to brain aging and neurodegenerative disease The critical difference between morning sunlight and evening light exposure How different colors may influence mood, hormones, creativity, and healing Why the colors of the foods you crave may reveal more than you think The emotional connections behind food cravings and emotional eating Why creative expression may be essential for emotional and physical healing The powerful relationship between stress, inflammation, and self-talk Simple daily habits that support healthy circadian rhythms and hormone balance About Dr. Deanna Minich Dr. Deanna Minich, MS, PhD, CNS, IFMCP is an internationally recognized nutrition scientist, educator, author, and functional medicine expert. She has published extensively on nutrition, phytochemicals, metabolism, inflammation, detoxification, and whole-person health, and is widely known for her work connecting food, color, physiology, and emotional well-being. About Dr. Jolene Brighten Dr. Jolene Brighten, NMD is a board-certified naturopathic endocrinologist, Certified Menopause Society Practitioner (NCMP), nutrition scientist, and bestselling author specializing in women's hormone health, ADHD in women, fertility, autoimmune disease, and longevity. 🔗 Connect with Dr. Deanna Minich 🌐 Website: https://deannaminich.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deannaminich 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deannaminich 🔗 Connect with Dr. Jolene Brighten 🌐 Website: https://drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJoleneBrighten 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjolenebrighten ❤️ Support The Show 👍 Like this video 💬 Comment with your biggest takeaway 📤 Share this episode with someone who struggles with sleep, hormones, or chronic inflammation 🔔 Subscribe for new conversations on hormones, women's health, nutrition, and longevity every week. ⚠️ Medical Disclaimer The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your medications, supplements, or treatment plan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 28 Jul 2026 - 167 - Chronic Inflammation: The Hidden Driver Behind Autoimmune Disease, Fatigue, and Gut Health | Daniel Cardenas
Chronic inflammation is at the root of many of today's most common health conditions, including autoimmune disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, leaky gut, chronic pain, fatigue, and brain fog—but it's often overlooked until significant damage has already occurred. View the full show notes, research, and resources mentioned in this episode at https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/chronic-inflammation/ . In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with Dr. Daniel Cárdenas, a conventionally trained physician, functional medicine practitioner, and medical homeopath, to explore why inflammation rarely exists in isolation. Together, they discuss how the gut, immune system, thyroid, nervous system, mitochondria, sleep, nutrition, stress, and environment all interact to influence long-term health—and what you can start doing today to address inflammation at its source. Pre-order ADHD and Women by Dr. Jolene Brighten and discover how hormones shape focus, motivation, executive function, and emotional regulation http://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen In This Episode You'll Learn: Why chronic inflammation is involved in many chronic diseases—not just autoimmune conditions The difference between acute and chronic inflammation Early signs your body may be chronically inflamed How mood changes and fatigue can be symptoms of inflammation The laboratory markers that may help evaluate inflammation Why ferritin doesn't always tell the full story What leaky gut really is—and why it matters How molecular mimicry may contribute to autoimmune disease Why Hashimoto's is more than a thyroid problem The surprising discussion around gluten sensitivity How elimination diets should actually be used The Five R framework for gut healing The relationship between stress, the nervous system, and digestion Why mindful eating may improve digestive health The importance of chewing your food Traditional Mexican cuisine and food as medicine The science behind capsaicin and gut health Lifestyle habits that support immune regulation The role of vitamin D, omega-3s, and mitochondria Why movement matters for autoimmune disease Fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic pain Environmental toxins, liver health, and detoxification Why healing requires more than medication alone Connect with Daniel Cardenas 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_danielcardenas/?hl=en 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.danielcardenas Connect with Dr. Jolene Brighten 🌐 Website: https://drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJoleneBrighten 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjolenebrighten Subscribe for more evidence-based conversations on hormones, autoimmune disease, metabolism, thyroid health, menopause, nutrition, and functional medicine. Show notes, studies, and additional resources: https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/chronic-inflammation/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 21 Jul 2026 - 166 - The Dr. Brighten Show is entering a new chapterThu, 16 Jul 2026
- 165 - Your Body Knows: The Hidden Cost of Always Being "The Strong One"
What happens when being the strong one becomes the reason your body starts breaking down? In this episode, Dr. Jolene Brighten explains how chronic stress, hypervigilance, nervous system dysregulation, and emotional over-functioning can contribute to burnout, hormone symptoms, autoimmune disease, and chronic illness. For additional resources and references, visit the show notes at https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/being-the-strong-one/ Whether you're the woman everyone depends on, the caregiver, the fixer, or the one who never asks for help, this conversation will help you understand why your body may be asking you to finally put the weight down. Pre-order ADHD and Women by Dr. Jolene Brighten and discover how hormones shape focus, motivation, executive function, and emotional regulation http://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen In This Episode You'll Learn: Why "being the strong one" isn't just emotional—it's biological How chronic hypervigilance rewires your nervous system Why capable women often become invisible when they need support most The connection between stress, hormones, autoimmune disease, and burnout Why your symptoms may be your body's way of protecting you—not betraying you Three powerful mindset shifts that can begin your healing today This Episode is Sponsored By Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com LMNT Electrolytes Want a clean, science-backed way to stay hydrated and energized? At LMNT, electrolytes are formulated with a precise balance of sodium, potassium, and magnesium — with no sugar, no artificial ingredients, and no unnecessary fillers. Designed to support hydration, muscle function, and daily energy, LMNT helps you feel your best through workouts, busy days, and everyday life. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Visit http://drinklmnt.com/Brighten to receive a free sample pack with any purchase. Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 14 Jul 2026 - 164 - The Hidden Burnout of ADHD & Autism After Motherhood | MasterChef Vanessa D'Souza
Motherhood can expose ADHD and autism in ways many women never expect. In this episode, Dr. Jolene Brighten and Vanessa D’Souza discuss how postpartum hormones, burnout, masking, sensory overload, and relationship dynamics can leave neurodivergent women feeling like they’ve lost themselves—not because they’re failing, but because no one prepared them for what happens after birth. For the complete show notes, research, and resources, visit Dr. Brighten: Vanessa D’Souza joins Dr. Brighten for an honest conversation about why pregnancy may feel easier than postpartum for women with ADHD and autism, how estrogen and progesterone influence executive function, why postpartum burnout is often mistaken for depression, and what partners, families, and healthcare providers need to understand to better support neurodivergent mothers. ✨ In This Episode 🧠 Why ADHD and autism often become much more noticeable after childbirth 🌸 The dramatic hormone shifts from pregnancy to postpartum 🎭 Why masking suddenly becomes impossible 💥 How postpartum burnout differs from postpartum depression 🍼 Breastfeeding, sensory overload, and nervous system regulation 💛 The invisible emotional labor carried by neurodivergent mothers 🧑🤝🧑 Why relationships often become strained after a baby 🏥 How birth environments can affect autistic women 🧬 The role estrogen, progesterone, dopamine, testosterone, and cortisol play in executive function 🚩 Early warning signs of burnout before a complete crash 🛠 Practical ways to better prepare for the fourth trimester 📚 Resources Mentioned 📖 Is This Normal?: https://drbrighten.com/is-this-normal/ 📖 Beyond the Pill: https://drbrighten.com/beyond-the-pill 📖 ADHD & Women by Dr. Jolene Brighten: https://drbrighten.com/adhd-and-women/ 🤝 Connect with Vanessa D’Souza 🌐 Website: https://vanessadsouza.co.uk/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.autistic.chef/?hl=en 💜 Connect with Dr. Jolene Brighten 🌐 Website: https://drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJoleneBrighten 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjolenebrighten ❤️ Enjoying the Show? 👍 Like this video 💬 Share it with someone who needs to hear this conversation 🔔 Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a new episode Your support helps us bring more evidence-based conversations about women’s health, hormones, ADHD, autism, and neuroscience to millions of people. Medical Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your healthcare plan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 09 Jul 2026 - 163 - Why MasterChef Was the Perfect Storm for My Autism & ADHD | Vanessa D’Souza
High-masking autism in women often goes unnoticed because success can hide disability. In this episode, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with MasterChef UK contestant Vanessa D'Souza to discuss autism, ADHD, sensory processing, masking, autistic burnout, and why so many women aren't diagnosed until adulthood. 📖 For show notes, resources, and links mentioned in this episode, visit: https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/autism-and-adhd/ Pre-order your copy of ADHD and Women and unlock exclusive bonuses—including my PMDD Solution Workshop, bonus trainings, downloadable resources, and more before they're gone! 👉 Pre-Order Here: http://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen You'll Learn Why MasterChef became the perfect storm for autistic burnout Why autism in women is still so frequently overlooked The hidden cost of high masking and why success doesn't mean someone isn't struggling How sensory processing affects food, cooking, and everyday life Why so many women don't receive an autism diagnosis until adulthood What autistic burnout actually feels like—and why recovery can take months The accommodations that can make an enormous difference for autistic adults Why asking for support isn't weakness—it's self-understanding How MasterChef unexpectedly became a platform for autism advocacy Why uncertainty can be more overwhelming than failure for many autistic people How understanding sensory needs can improve quality of life for both children and adults What every healthcare provider, parent, and partner should know about autism in women This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind Want a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code POD15 for 15% off your order Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/radiant-mind Pique – Pu’er Tea Duo Gut health isn’t just about probiotics—it’s also about nourishing your microbiome. Pique’s Pu’er Tea Duo delivers polyphenol-rich support to help promote microbial diversity, gut lining health, and balanced digestion. Featuring Green Pu’er for antioxidant support and Black Pu’er for digestion and reduced bloating, it’s an easy daily ritual for whole-gut wellness. Get 20% off at https://piquelife.com/drbrighten to learn more. Shop now http://drbrighten.com/piquelife Follow Vanessa D'Souza Vanessa D'Souza’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.autistic.chef/ Vanessa D’Souza’s Website: https://vanessadsouza.co.uk/ MasterChef UK’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masterchefuk/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJoleneBrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 07 Jul 2026 - 162 - My Long COVID Story: What Finally Helped Me Recover (Not Medical Advice)
Pre-order ADHD and Women by Dr. Jolene Brighten and discover how hormones shape focus, motivation, executive function, and emotional regulation http://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen In early 2020, my life completely changed when I contracted COVID-19. As a doctor, I thought I knew what to expect—but my symptoms didn't look like anything on the news. Instead of a cough or high fever, I experienced a subtle, terrifying decline in my ability to breathe. When I finally went to the ER, a physician stood across the parking lot and told me to get my affairs in order. But that was just the beginning. What followed was a debilitating, multi-system shutdown known as Long COVID—bringing crushing fatigue, brain fog, POTS, and nerve pain. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on my personal health journey and the exact cellular framework I used to rebuild my body from the ground up. I break down the emerging science behind viral mitochondrial damage and the four-part protocol (focusing on oxidative stress and ATP production) that helped me reclaim my life. If you are currently fighting Long COVID or feeling dismissed by medicine, please know you are not alone. Let's talk in the comments below. Links & Resources: Persistent Suppression of Oxidative Phosphorylation & Mitochondrial Changes in Post-COVID Conditions (Frontiers in Immunology): https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2026.1776555/full Mitochondrial metabolic rescue in post-COVID-19 syndrome: MR spectroscopy insights and precision nutritional therapeutics: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2025.1597370/full NIH RECOVER Initiative Findings on Post-Exertional Malaise: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-launches-long-covid-clinical-trials-through-recover-initiative-opening-enrollment 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJoleneBrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Disclaimer: I am a board-certified doctor, but I am not your doctor. The information provided in this video is for educational, informational, and personal storytelling purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard in this video. If You Enjoyed This Episode Like this video Share your experience or questions in the comments. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a new episode. Share this episode with someone who has been told, "It's just a cyst." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 02 Jul 2026 - 161 - Endometriomas and Endometriosis: What Every Woman Needs to Know About Diagnosis, Surgery, and Self-Advocacy with Dr. Amanda Chu
Pre-order ADHD and Women by Dr. Jolene Brighten and discover how hormones shape focus, motivation, executive function, and emotional regulation http://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen Endometriosis and Endometriomas are often misunderstood, leaving many women without answers for years. In this episode, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with endometriosis surgeon Dr. Amanda Chu, MD, to discuss how endometriomas may signal more advanced disease, why they're frequently dismissed, and what every woman should know about diagnosis and treatment. For the complete research, resources, and show notes, visit https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/endometriomas-and-endometriosis/ If you've been told it's "just a cyst," have been sent home from the ER without answers, or wonder whether surgery is the right next step, this conversation will help you better understand your options and how to advocate for yourself. 👩⚕️ About Today's Experts Dr. Jolene Brighten, NMD, FABNE is a board-certified naturopathic endocrinologist, Certified Menopause Specialist through The Menopause Society, bestselling author, and internationally recognized leader in women's hormone health. Dr. Amanda Chu, MD is a fellowship-trained minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon specializing exclusively in endometriosis excision surgery. She is recognized for her expertise in complex endometriosis, fertility preservation, and advanced pelvic surgery. Thank You to Our Sponsor Endo Global supports women in finding answers sooner. If you're wondering whether your symptoms could be endometriosis, schedule a FREE consultation to better understand: Whether your symptoms fit endometriosis What your next diagnostic steps may be Potential treatment options How to connect with experienced endometriosis specialists Endo Global: https://jolene.endoglobalgroup.com/ 👩⚕️ FOLLOW DR. JOLENE BRIGHTEN 🌐 Website: https://drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 📘 Facebook: https://facebook.com/drjolenebrighten 🎵 TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@DrJoleneBrighten 📰 Newsletter: https://drbrighten.com 📚 Dr. Brighten's Books: https://drbrighten.com/books 👩⚕️ FOLLOW DR. AMANDA CHU 🌐 ESSE Care: https://esse.care/dr-amanda-chu-md/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchu_endodoc/ If You Enjoyed This Episode Like this video Share your experience or questions in the comments. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a new episode. Share this episode with someone who has been told, "It's just a cyst." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 30 Jun 2026 - 160 - Endometrioma: The Hidden Sign of Deep Endometriosis That Could Affect Fertility | Amanda Chu
Pre-order ADHD and Women by Dr. Jolene Brighten http://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen and discover how hormones shape focus, motivation, executive function, and emotional regulation. Endometrioma may be one of the most overlooked signs of advanced endometriosis—and it could have major implications for pain, fertility, ovarian reserve, and long-term health. For full show notes, resources, and links mentioned in this episode, visit https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/endometrioma/. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, I sit down with endometriosis specialist and minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon Dr. Amanda Chu to discuss what an endometrioma really is, why it's often called a "chocolate cyst," how it may impact fertility, and why many women are told not to worry about these cysts when they may actually be a sign of deep infiltrating endometriosis. We also discuss ovarian reserve, cancer risk, hormone therapy, surgical options, nutrition, inflammation, and the challenges women continue to face when seeking diagnosis and treatment. This Episode Is Brought to You By Alloy Struggling with hot flashes, sleep disruptions, brain fog, or other menopause symptoms? Alloy is a digital health platform that connects you with menopause-specialized doctors who create personalized treatment plans—all from the comfort of home. Join the 95% of women who experienced symptom relief within the first two weeks. Visit https://www.myalloy.com/ and use code DRBRIGHTEN to get $20 off your first order. You'll receive a customized treatment plan and unlimited messaging with your doctor. EndoGlobal Group At EndoGlobal Group, a network of world-class endometriosis specialists comes together to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for patients with complex endometriosis—offering advanced diagnostic mapping, complete excision surgery, and holistic support. Click here to learn more and schedule a free consultation https://drbrighten.com/endoglobal Meet Amanda Chu: Instagram https://www.instagram.com/drchu_endodoc/ ESSE Care https://esse.care/endometriosis/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 25 Jun 2026 - 159 - Overthinking at Night: Why Your Brain Won’t Shut Off When Your Body Is Exhausted
Pre-order ADHD and Women by Dr. Jolene Brighten http://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen and discover how hormones shape focus, motivation, executive function, and emotional regulation. Overthinking at night can feel like anxiety, but for many women, racing thoughts, waking up at 3 AM, and feeling exhausted but unable to sleep may be connected to cortisol, blood sugar, ADHD, hormones, and nervous system dysregulation. View the full show notes at https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/overthinking-at-night/ for links, resources, and more from this episode. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten, board-certified in naturopathic endocrinology, Certified Menopause Specialist through The Menopause Society, certified sex counselor, and author of the upcoming book ADHD and Women, explains why your brain may feel loudest the moment your head hits the pillow. Drawing on her clinical experience working with women navigating ADHD, perimenopause, hormone changes, insomnia, and chronic stress, Dr. Brighten explains why your nighttime anxiety may not be “just anxiety.” You’ll learn how cortisol dysregulation, blood sugar crashes, estrogen and dopamine changes, progesterone and GABA, hypervigilance, and an overburdened nervous system can all contribute to that “wired but tired” feeling. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Adrenal Calm https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/adrenal-calm?variant=40317442228258 For the nights when your body is exhausted but your brain missed the bedtime memo, Adrenal Calm helps support a calmer stress response and deeper, more restorative sleep. Use code POD15 for 15% off at http://drbrighten.com. Alloy Struggling with hot flashes, sleep disruptions, brain fog, or other menopause symptoms? Alloy is a digital health platform that connects you with menopause-specialized doctors who create personalized treatment plans—all from the comfort of home.Join the 95% of women who experienced symptom relief within the first two weeks. Visit https://www.myalloy.com/ and use code DRBRIGHTEN to get $20 off your first order. You'll receive a customized treatment plan and unlimited messaging with your doctor. Show now and use code DRBRIGHTEN. 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 23 Jun 2026 - 158 - Why Am I So Irritated All the Time? The Hidden Cause Most Women Miss
Pre-order ADHD and Women by Dr. Jolene Brighten http://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen and discover how hormones shape focus, motivation, executive function, and emotional regulation. Have you ever found yourself snapping at your partner, feeling annoyed by your kids, or becoming irrationally frustrated by something as simple as a dirty dish in the sink—and then immediately wondering, What is wrong with me? If so, you're not alone. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten explores a question that countless women quietly ask themselves: Why am I so irritated all the time? Through the lens of women's health, hormones, emotional well-being, and nervous system function, she reveals why irritability is often not a personality flaw but an important signal from the body. Many women assume that constant irritability means they're becoming impatient, short-tempered, or less kind. But what if irritation isn't the problem? What if it's actually a messenger pointing toward unmet needs, hormonal shifts, emotional exhaustion, chronic stress, or the invisible load so many women carry every day? In this deeply validating episode, Dr. Brighten discusses the emotional and physiological factors that can influence mood, resilience, and reactivity while offering a powerful framework for understanding yourself with greater compassion. This Episode Is Brought to You By Pique – Pu’er Tea Duo Gut health isn’t just about probiotics—it’s also about nourishing your microbiome. Pique’s Pu’er Tea Duo delivers polyphenol-rich support to help promote microbial diversity, gut lining health, and balanced digestion. Featuring Green Pu’er for antioxidant support and Black Pu’er for digestion and reduced bloating, it’s an easy daily ritual for whole-gut wellness. Get 20% off at https://piquelife.com/drbrighten to learn more. Shop now http://drbrighten.com/piquelife Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 18 Jun 2026 - 157 - Hormone Therapy and Breast Cancer: What Women Need to Know About Risk, Screening, and Prevention | Jenn Simmons
When it comes to hormone therapy and breast cancer, few topics create more confusion, fear, and conflicting information. Women are often told they need to be concerned about breast cancer risk, yet many never receive a nuanced discussion about screening, lifestyle factors, inflammation, environmental exposures, or how to evaluate their individual risk profile. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with former breast surgeon Dr. Jenn Simmons to discuss breast cancer screening, hormone therapy, risk assessment, inflammation, lifestyle factors, and the questions women should be asking about their long-term health. This conversation explores both conventional and emerging perspectives on breast health while emphasizing the importance of individualized care and informed decision-making. Women listening to this episode will gain insight into current screening conversations, breast cancer risk factors, lifestyle interventions, metabolic health, environmental exposures, and the role of personal empowerment in supporting long-term wellness. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com LUMEBOX Ready to take your skincare results to the next level—right from home? 💡 LUME Box delivers professional-grade LED light therapy in a sleek, easy-to-use device that targets fine lines, pigmentation, and dullness at the cellular level. Just minutes a day can help boost collagen, calm inflammation, and reveal that lit-from-within glow. It’s the same science trusted in top dermatology clinics, now in your hands. Shop now → https://drbrighten.com/lumebox use code drbrighten for our exclusive community discount on your purchase. LMNT Electrolytes Want a clean, science-backed way to stay hydrated and energized? At LMNT, electrolytes are formulated with a precise balance of sodium, potassium, and magnesium — with no sugar, no artificial ingredients, and no unnecessary fillers. Designed to support hydration, muscle function, and daily energy, LMNT helps you feel your best through workouts, busy days, and everyday life. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Visit http://drinklmnt.com/Brighten to receive a free sample pack with any purchase. 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 16 Jun 2026 - 156 - Is Picky Eating a Nutrient Deficiency? Dr. Elisa Song Explains
My new book, ADHD and Women, is now available for pre-order! Learn how hormones influence ADHD symptoms and get your copy here: http://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen End picky eating with practical, root-cause strategies from integrative pediatrician Dr. Elisa Song, MD, and view the full show notes at DrBrighten.com: https://drbrighten.com. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten and Dr. Song discuss picky eating, zinc, gut health, sensory food aversions, and simple ways parents can help kids expand their diet with less stress. 👩⚕️ Dr. Elisa Song, MD, joins Dr. Brighten to explain why picky eating may be more than “just a phase” and how nutrient status, the gut microbiome, sleep, movement, and nervous system regulation can influence a child’s food preferences. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: - Why zinc may be a key nutrient to consider for selective eaters - How sensory food aversions may connect to nutrient insufficiencies - How to involve kids in food choices without pressure - What parents should know about zinc supplements and food sources - Why gut health matters for nutrient absorption, mood, immunity, and food preferences - How fiber, phytonutrients, and fermented foods support the microbiome - Why sleep and movement can help support gut health, even before changing diet - How nervous system regulation may help kids feel calmer around food - How to teach kids to become confident food label detectives 🎁 Sponsorship & Resources: Dr. Brighten Supplements: https://drbrightenessentials.com/ Hormone & Wellness Resources: https://drbrighten.com Guest Resources from Dr. Elisa Song: https://healthykidshappykids.com 📲 Follow Dr. Elisa Song: 🌐 Website: https://healthykidshappykids.com 🧒 Healthy Kids Happy Kids Membership: https://members.healthykidshappykids.com 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 09 Jun 2026 - 155 - The IVF Missing Piece: Why Recurrent Miscarriage May Not Be “Just Egg Quality”
I'm hosting a live PMDD Relief Workshop on June 10th, free when you pre-order ADHD and Women. Get your spot at https://drbrighten.com/pmdd What if the IVF missing piece is not only the embryo—but the environment that embryo is trying to implant into? In this powerful episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with Dr. Gerardo Barroso Villa, a world-renowned fertility expert and reproductive biologist, to talk about recurrent miscarriage, IVF, endometritis, sperm health, PGT-A, and why fertility care should look at the full picture—not just the egg. Dr. Barroso brings an extraordinary depth of expertise to this conversation. He is introduced as a fertility expert and reproductive biologist trained at prestigious institutions including the Jones Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Cornell University, with advanced expertise in microsurgical male factor treatment and IVF techniques, a doctorate from Eastern Virginia Medical School, more than 2,500 international citations for his research, and experience serving as an ad hoc reviewer for leading medical journals. Together, Dr. Brighten and Dr. Barroso unpack one of the most emotionally loaded and medically complex topics in reproductive health: why miscarriages happen, what may be missed in recurrent pregnancy loss, and how a more complete fertility workup may help couples make more informed decisions. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Prenatal Plus Want a science-backed prenatal that is designed to support women through preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum. Prenatal Plus is thoughtfully formulated with active B vitamins, well-absorbed nutrients like methylated folate, iron, iodine, and essential minerals to help support energy, hormone health, and healthy development. This vegan, non-GMO, and third-party tested formula is designed to support your body through every stage of motherhood. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code POD15 for 15% off your order Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/prenatal-plus Natural Cycles The first, and currently the only FDA-cleared birth control app. It’s completely hormone-free, science-backed, and designed to make tracking your cycle and fertility simple and stress-free. Using a certified algorithm, the app analyzes hormone-driven changes in your body temperature to learn your unique cycle pattern and confirm your daily fertility status. This helps remove much of the guesswork and human error that can come with traditional fertility awareness methods. Whether you’re looking to prevent pregnancy or plan for one, Natural Cycles offers a personalized, non-invasive approach to understanding your body. Use code DrBrighten to get 15% off an annual subscription plus a free Bluetooth thermometer. Shop now https://naturalcycles.app/DrBrighten HigherDOSE – Red Light Showerhead Filter Your shower water could be impacting your skin more than you think. The HigherDOSE Red Light Showerhead Filter features a 10-stage filtration system designed to reduce chlorine, VOCs, and other contaminants that can contribute to dryness and irritation. It also includes built-in red light therapy to support cellular energy and overall skin appearance—turning your daily shower into a more restorative ritual. Save 15% at http://higherdose.com/drbrighten and use code DRBRIGHTEN15 for 15% off Connect with Dr. Gerardo Barroso Villa: Clinic Website https://nascere.org.mx/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/clinicanascere YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@clinicanascere 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 04 Jun 2026 - 154 - Brain Inflammation and Food: Dr. Austin Perlmutter on the Gut-Brain Connection, Brain Fog, and What to Eat for Better Cognitive Health
I'm hosting a live PMDD Relief Workshop on June 10th, free when you pre-order ADHD and Women. Get your spot at https://drbrighten.com/pmdd What if your brain fog, low mood, and poor focus were not just “in your head,” but connected to what is happening in your immune system, gut microbiome, and daily food choices? In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with Dr. Austin Perlmutter to unpack the connection between brain inflammation and food, including why the brain is literally built from the nutrients you eat, how added sugar may influence systemic inflammation, and why the gut-brain connection is one of the most important conversations in brain health right now. Dr. Austin Perlmutter is a board-certified internal medicine physician, New York Times bestselling author, and Managing Director of Big Bold Health. His work focuses on brain and body health, including the biological roots of mental and physical “stuckness,” how environmental factors shape cognitive and emotional well-being, and how plant nutrients may impact human aging through epigenetics. His work has reached millions through media outlets including PBS, Rolling Stone, and NPR. In this episode, Dr. Perlmutter and Dr. Brighten explore how brain inflammation, nutrition, the microbiome, stress, sleep, exercise, air quality, social media, and daily habits all intersect. But the heart of this conversation is simple and powerful: your brain is not separate from your body. It is built from the food you eat, shaped by the microbes you feed, and influenced by the inflammatory signals your body produces every day. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind Your brain deserves support every day—not just when your focus disappears, your motivation crashes, or your hormones decide to make executive function feel like a full-contact sport. Radiant Mind by Dr. Brighten Essentials was formulated to support cognitive function, mental clarity, and a healthy stress response, making it a perfect companion to today’s conversation about estrogen, dopamine, focus, and women’s brain health. Get Radiant Mind here https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/radiant-mind Sunlighten Saunas Supporting your brain and hormones isn’t only about what you take—it’s also about how you support your body’s resilience. Sunlighten Saunas are designed to help you create a restorative wellness ritual at home, supporting relaxation, sweating, and recovery. For women navigating stress, perimenopause, and the daily demands on the nervous system, having a consistent way to unwind can be a powerful part of your self-care routine. Learn more about Sunlighten Saunas here https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten OneSkin Founded by an all-woman team of PhD-level scientists, OneSkin is revolutionizing aging with the OS-01™ peptide, the first ingredient proven to reverse skin’s biological age by targeting cellular senescence. The result? Skin that looks, feels, and acts younger. It’s never too early — or too late — to invest in your skin health. Shop now https://oneskin.pxf.io/c/1950532/2885132/31050 Connect with Dr. Austin Perlmutter: Website: https://www.austinperlmutter.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/draustinperlmutter 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 02 Jun 2026 - 153 - Endometriosis Imaging: Why Your "Normal" Results Don't Rule Out Endometriosis
I'm hosting a live PMDD Relief Workshop on June 10th, free when you pre-order ADHD and Women. Get your spot at https://drbrighten.com/pmdd Most women with endometriosis are told their imaging is "normal" — sometimes for years, sometimes for decades — while the disease silently progresses through their body. When Bryan Johnson posted a viral photo of his girlfriend Kate Tollo undergoing a transvaginal ultrasound, it exposed more than just one couple's private medical moment. It exposed how little most people — including those with enormous platforms — understand about what proper endometriosis imaging and diagnosis actually require. In this episode, I respond to that viral post and use it as a teaching moment. I walk through why normal imaging can never rule out endometriosis, how most radiologists miss the disease entirely, and what the right diagnostic pathway actually looks like. I also share my own story of being dismissed as "attention-seeking" by a radiologist — only to be diagnosed with stage four endometriosis. You'll learn: - Why a "normal" ultrasound or MRI does not rule out endometriosis — and what gets missed when general radiologists read your scans - What an ENZIAN score is, why it matters more than the I–IV staging system for surgical planning, and how to request one - The three types of endometriosis (endometriomas, deep infiltrating, and superficial/peritoneal) — and which ones imaging can and cannot detect - Why endometriosis is a full-body inflammatory disease linked to a 20–60% increased risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and blood clots - The embryological rest theory: why endometriosis can occur without a uterus, and why you don't need to have a period to have this disease - The mast cell, histamine, and estrogen feedback loop that drives lesion growth and systemic inflammation - How to vet your radiologist, why an "endometriosis protocol" at an imaging center isn't a guarantee, and what questions to ask before surgery - Why the birth control pill and Lupron are symptom management tools, not treatment — and what true treatment actually requires - What proper pre-surgical imaging looks like — from transvaginal ultrasound at a center of excellence to ENZIAN-scored expert reads — and why it's the difference between a planned surgery and waking up to surprises This episode will change how you think about endometriosis diagnosis — and what you demand from your next scan. 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 28 May 2026 - 152 - Estrogen and Dopamine: Why Your Brain, Motivation, and ADHD Symptoms Can Change With Your Hormones
Pre-order ADHD and Women by Dr. Jolene Brighten http://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen and discover how hormones shape focus, motivation, executive function, and emotional regulation. This conversation is about one of the most misunderstood areas in women’s health: how hormones interact with the brain. Dr. Brighten explains why estrogen is not just a reproductive hormone, why dopamine is not just a “pleasure chemical,” and why hormonal changes can influence motivation, reward, focus, working memory, task initiation, emotional bandwidth, and the way your brain responds to stress. You’ll also learn why perimenopause can be such a blindsiding experience for women who previously felt like they were “holding it all together.” Estrogen doesn’t always decline in a neat, straight line. It can fluctuate, surge, and drop, and those changes can feel disruptive for the brain, especially if you already have ADHD, PMDD, premenstrual exacerbation, depression, anxiety, chronic stress, trauma, or a history of traumatic brain injury. Dr. Brighten also makes one point very clear: this is not a “go start hormones” episode. This is a “your brain symptoms deserve a real differential diagnosis” episode. Hormones matter, but so do thyroid function, iron status, sleep, B12, vitamin D, insulin resistance, metabolic health, inflammation, medication response, stress load, and your lived experience of symptoms. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind Your brain deserves support every day—not just when your focus disappears, your motivation crashes, or your hormones decide to make executive function feel like a full-contact sport. Radiant Mind by Dr. Brighten Essentials was formulated to support cognitive function, mental clarity, and a healthy stress response, making it a perfect companion to today’s conversation about estrogen, dopamine, focus, and women’s brain health. Get Radiant Mind here https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/radiant-mind Sunlighten Saunas Supporting your brain and hormones isn’t only about what you take—it’s also about how you support your body’s resilience. Sunlighten Saunas are designed to help you create a restorative wellness ritual at home, supporting relaxation, sweating, and recovery. For women navigating stress, perimenopause, and the daily demands on the nervous system, having a consistent way to unwind can be a powerful part of your self-care routine. Learn more about Sunlighten Saunas here https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten LMNT Hydration matters for energy, focus, workouts, sauna sessions, and feeling like your brain actually came online today. LMNT is an electrolyte drink mix with sodium, potassium, and magnesium—and no sugar—making it an easy way to support hydration, especially if you’re sweating, exercising, eating lower carb, or simply need help keeping up with mineral intake. Get LMNT here http://drinklmnt.com/Brighten Thank you to our sponsors for supporting The Dr. Brighten Show and helping us bring evidence-informed women’s health conversations to more people. 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 26 May 2026 - 151 - PMDD vs PME: How to Tell the Difference and Why It Changes Treatment
I'm hosting a live PMDD Relief Workshop on June 10th, free when you pre-order ADHD and Women. Get your spot at https://drbrighten.com/pmdd If symptoms get worse before a period but do not let up once bleeding starts, is it really PMDD, or could it be PME instead? In this episode, Dr. Brighten breaks down why PMDD vs PME is not a small wording difference but a clinical distinction that can change what treatment needs to address. Listeners will learn how to tell whether symptom timing fits PMDD or PME, why the symptom-free or mostly symptom-free window matters so much, what two months of daily tracking can reveal before a doctor's appointment, which underlying issues can be mistaken for PMDD, including ADHD, depression, anxiety, thyroid problems, and chronic pain, and why severe mood symptoms, self-harm thoughts, or suicidal thoughts need medical and mental health support instead of self-diagnosis. For anyone who has been told it is just hormones, this episode leaves one question hanging: what does the full month actually show? 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 21 May 2026 - 150 - Autoimmune Disease Management with Dr. Terry Wahls: Nutrition, Mitochondria, and Women's Hormone Transitions
I'm hosting a live PMDD Relief Workshop on June 10th, free when you pre-order ADHD and Women. Get your spot at https://drbrighten.com/pmdd Autoimmune disease management is often reduced to one question: which medication comes next? This episode pushes back on that narrow frame. For listeners living with fatigue, brain fog, pain, or gradual loss of function, that frustration is real. The conversation with Dr. Terry Wahls centers on a different idea: autoimmune disease is not only about immune signaling, but also about mitochondrial energy production, nutrient status, gut integrity, environmental load, and hormone transitions. That does not turn the episode into an anti-medication message. It makes the case that symptom burden and progression may be shaped by modifiable lifestyle factors that deserve far more attention than they usually get. So what happens when the standard conversation is too small for what patients are actually experiencing? This episode changes the conversation. This Episode is Sponsored By Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com LMNT Electrolytes Want a clean, science-backed way to stay hydrated and energized? At LMNT, electrolytes are formulated with a precise balance of sodium, potassium, and magnesium — with no sugar, no artificial ingredients, and no unnecessary fillers. Designed to support hydration, muscle function, and daily energy, LMNT helps you feel your best through workouts, busy days, and everyday life. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Visit http://drinklmnt.com/Brighten to receive a free sample pack with any purchase. Meet Terry Wahls Dr. Terry Wahls website https://terrywahls.com/ Dr. Terry Wahls Instagram https://www.instagram.com/drterrywahls/ Environmental Working Group consumer guides https://www.ewg.org/ The Wahls Protocol https://amzn.to/4tP7RRX 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 19 May 2026 - 149 - PCOS Has a New Name: What PMOS Means and What Still Hasn’t Changed
I'm hosting a live PMDD Relief Workshop on June 10th, free when you pre-order ADHD and Women. Get your spot at https://drbrighten.com/pmdd PCOS has a new name, and a lot of people are asking the right question: does this actually change anything? In this episode, I break down the shift from PCOS to PMOS—polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome—and why I see it as directionally positive, but nowhere near sufficient on its own. The old name was misleading. It made “cysts” the focus, even though those findings were often just follicles, and it helped turn ultrasound imaging into the main character instead of the patient sitting in front of the provider. That needed to change. But a more accurate label does not automatically produce more accurate care. If clinicians still reduce this condition to irregular periods, acne, infertility, or a weight problem, then women are still going to be missed, misunderstood, and treated one symptom at a time. What You’ll Learn in This Episode What PMOS means and why PCOS is being renamed Why the word “cysts” sent the conversation in the wrong direction How ultrasound findings became overemphasized in diagnosis and care Why the PMOS name change is helpful but still incomplete Why “metabolic” should not be translated as “this only counts if you live in a larger body” How lean PCOS patients risk being overlooked again Why symptom-by-symptom treatment is still one of the biggest failures in mainstream care Where supplements like inositol, spearmint, green tea extract, and saw palmetto may fit Why health coaches and influencers are now repeating metabolic PCOS insights they did not originate This Episode is Sponsored By Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com LMNT Electrolytes Want a clean, science-backed way to stay hydrated and energized? At LMNT, electrolytes are formulated with a precise balance of sodium, potassium, and magnesium — with no sugar, no artificial ingredients, and no unnecessary fillers. Designed to support hydration, muscle function, and daily energy, LMNT helps you feel your best through workouts, busy days, and everyday life. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Visit http://drinklmnt.com/Brighten to receive a free sample pack with any purchase. 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 14 May 2026 - 148 - Why Perimenopause Hormone Therapy Can Make Symptoms Worse: Gut, Liver, Thyroid, and Toxin Factors | Pamela Langenderfer
I'm hosting a live PMDD Relief Workshop on June 10th, free when you pre-order ADHD and Women. Get your spot at https://drbrighten.com/pmdd Have you ever started perimenopause hormone therapy and expected relief, only to feel more bloated, more irritable, more tired, or more in the grip of insomnia instead? If that sounds familiar, you are not imagining it. In this episode, I talk with Dr. Pamela Langenderfer about why hormones can be an important tool, but not the whole story. A prescription is only one piece of the puzzle. What your body can metabolize, clear, and tolerate matters just as much as the hormone itself. That means the gut, liver, thyroid, bowel habits, histamine load, and environmental exposures may all influence whether hormone therapy helps or feels like one more thing your body has to manage. This is the conversation I want more women to hear before they assume they simply need a higher dose, a different hormone, or another supplement. Sometimes the real question is not, “What hormone should I add?” It is, “What is getting in the way of my body responding well?” This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com HigherDOSE – Red Light Showerhead Filter Your shower water could be impacting your skin more than you think. The HigherDOSE Red Light Showerhead Filter features a 10-stage filtration system designed to reduce chlorine, VOCs, and other contaminants that can contribute to dryness and irritation. It also includes built-in red light therapy to support cellular energy and overall skin appearance—turning your daily shower into a more restorative ritual. Save 15% at http://higherdose.com/drbrighten and use code DRBRIGHTEN15 for 15% off LUMEBOX Ready to take your skincare results to the next level—right from home? 💡 LUME Box delivers professional-grade LED light therapy in a sleek, easy-to-use device that targets fine lines, pigmentation, and dullness at the cellular level. Just minutes a day can help boost collagen, calm inflammation, and reveal that lit-from-within glow. It’s the same science trusted in top dermatology clinics, now in your hands. Shop now → https://drbrighten.com/lumebox use code drbrighten for our exclusive community discount on your purchase. Links Mentioned in This Episode Dr. Pamela Langenderfer’s website: https://drlangenderfer.com/ Dr. Pamela Langenderfer’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drpamlangenderfer Dr. Pamela Langenderfer’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrLangenderfer/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 12 May 2026 - 147 - Why PMDD Treatment Fails: SSRIs for PMDD, Birth Control, and What Your Doctor May Be Missing
I'm hosting a live PMDD Relief Workshop on June 10th, free when you pre-order ADHD and Women. Get your spot at https://drbrighten.com/pmdd If you have PMDD and feel like you’ve tried everything—SSRIs, birth control, progesterone, gut protocols, antihistamines, supplements, cycle tracking—and you’re still crashing every luteal phase, this episode is for you. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten breaks down why PMDD treatment is not one-size-fits-all, why some women feel better on standard care while others feel worse, and how PMDD can overlap with ADHD, perimenopause, histamine issues, endometriosis, progesterone intolerance, inflammation, and brain sensitivity to hormone changes. The biggest message: if your PMDD treatment has failed, you are not broken—the treatment may not have matched your biology. Learn more about the upcoming PMDD workshop hosted by Dr. Brighten here https://drbrighten.com/pmdd In this show, you’ll learn why PMDD is more than “bad PMS,” why normal hormone levels don’t rule it out, why SSRIs for PMDD can be helpful for some but not everyone, how birth control can help or hurt depending on your body, and how to tell whether your symptoms are more likely PMDD, ADHD, perimenopause, or all three. Dr. Brighten also shares why PMDD has such a complicated history in medicine, how pharmaceutical influence shaped the diagnosis, and why that history should never be used to dismiss the real suffering women experience. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com Pique – Pu’er Tea Duo Gut health isn’t just about probiotics—it’s also about nourishing your microbiome. Pique’s Pu’er Tea Duo delivers polyphenol-rich support to help promote microbial diversity, gut lining health, and balanced digestion. Featuring Green Pu’er for antioxidant support and Black Pu’er for digestion and reduced bloating, it’s an easy daily ritual for whole-gut wellness. Get 20% off at https://piquelife.com/drbrighten to learn more. HigherDOSE – Red Light Showerhead Filter Your shower water could be impacting your skin more than you think. The HigherDOSE Red Light Showerhead Filter features a 10-stage filtration system designed to reduce chlorine, VOCs, and other contaminants that can contribute to dryness and irritation. It also includes built-in red light therapy to support cellular energy and overall skin appearance—turning your daily shower into a more restorative ritual. Save 15% at http://higherdose.com/drbrighten and use code DRBRIGHTEN15 for 15% off 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 07 May 2026 - 146 - PMDD Antihistamines: Why They May Help — and Why Histamine Isn't the Whole Story
I'm hosting a live PMDD Relief Workshop on June 10th, free when you pre-order ADHD and Women. Get your spot at https://drbrighten.com/pmdd It seems like everywhere women turn lately, someone is talking about using Allegra or Pepcid to get through the worst days of their cycle. The stories are consistent: a few pills, and the dark cloud lifts. The question is — is it real? The short answer is: histamine can be involved in PMDD. But the longer, more important answer is that histamine alone is not the whole story. This episode of The Dr. Brighten Show breaks down exactly why that distinction matters — and what women deserve to know before building a routine around over-the-counter antihistamines. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com Pique – Pu’er Tea Duo Gut health isn’t just about probiotics—it’s also about nourishing your microbiome. Pique’s Pu’er Tea Duo delivers polyphenol-rich support to help promote microbial diversity, gut lining health, and balanced digestion. Featuring Green Pu’er for antioxidant support and Black Pu’er for digestion and reduced bloating, it’s an easy daily ritual for whole-gut wellness. Get 20% off at https://piquelife.com/drbrighten to learn more. HigherDOSE – Red Light Showerhead Filter Your shower water could be impacting your skin more than you think. The HigherDOSE Red Light Showerhead Filter features a 10-stage filtration system designed to reduce chlorine, VOCs, and other contaminants that can contribute to dryness and irritation. It also includes built-in red light therapy to support cellular energy and overall skin appearance—turning your daily shower into a more restorative ritual. Save 15% at http://higherdose.com/drbrighten and use code DRBRIGHTEN15 for 15% off 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 05 May 2026 - 145 - High Insulin, Severe PMS, Fibroids & Postpartum Anxiety: Your Hormone AMA
I'm hosting a live PMDD Relief Workshop on June 10th, free when you pre-order ADHD and Women. Get your spot at https://drbrighten.com/pmdd Many women are told that lab work is normal while symptoms keep getting louder. Weight-loss resistance can worsen even with a normal A1C. Mood can crash before a period even when routine testing shows nothing unusual. Anxiety can intensify after birth and still be brushed aside as part of new motherhood. Digestive symptoms can flare every luteal phase and still get labeled as nothing more than hormones. This Hormone AMA focuses on the gap between what patients feel and what standard care often catches. I walk through the patterns that tend to show up before a formal diagnosis appears on paper. Instead of treating these issues as separate problems, I connect insulin signaling, inflammation, progesterone, thyroid function, the gut, and the nervous system. That framing matters because many women are not being ignored by a single uncaring clinician. They are being managed inside a system that often waits for disease to become obvious before offering answers. This episode explains what can be happening earlier, what questions may move the conversation forward, and which warning signs should never be brushed off. This Episode is Sponsored By Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com HigherDOSE – Red Light Showerhead Filter Your shower water could be impacting your skin more than you think. The HigherDOSE Red Light Showerhead Filter features a 10-stage filtration system designed to reduce chlorine, VOCs, and other contaminants that can contribute to dryness and irritation. It also includes built-in red light therapy to support cellular energy and overall skin appearance—turning your daily shower into a more restorative ritual. Save 15% at http://higherdose.com/drbrighten and use code DRBRIGHTEN15 for 15% off LMNT Electrolytes Want a clean, science-backed way to stay hydrated and energized? At LMNT, electrolytes are formulated with a precise balance of sodium, potassium, and magnesium — with no sugar, no artificial ingredients, and no unnecessary fillers. Designed to support hydration, muscle function, and daily energy, LMNT helps you feel your best through workouts, busy days, and everyday life. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Visit http://drinklmnt.com/Brighten to receive a free sample pack with any purchase. 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 30 Apr 2026 - 144 - Could GLP-1s Help Endometriosis? The Progesterone Resistance Theory
I'm hosting a live PMDD Relief Workshop on June 10th, free when you pre-order ADHD and Women. Get your spot at https://drbrighten.com/pmdd Can a GLP-1 medication change the way progesterone works in endometriosis? That is the central question Dr. Brighten explores in this episode, and it is not a throwaway idea. It sits at the intersection of inflammation, hormone receptor signaling, and the reality that many women are told to manage endometriosis with options that reduce symptoms without stopping the disease process. This episode examines a novel mechanistic theory: GLP-1 agonists may help restore progesterone responsiveness by lowering inflammatory signaling inside endometriosis lesions. The conversation is careful about the evidence stage. The research is promising, but it is still emerging, and the episode makes that distinction clear while still taking women’s lived experience seriously. That matters because women with endometriosis are often told to accept unbearable pain, mood changes, and gut disruption as normal. This episode does not accept that as the end of the story. It asks a better question: what if the inflammatory environment is part of why progesterone stops working the way it should? This episode changes the conversation. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com LUMEBOX Ready to take your skincare results to the next level—right from home? 💡 LUME Box delivers professional-grade LED light therapy in a sleek, easy-to-use device that targets fine lines, pigmentation, and dullness at the cellular level. Just minutes a day can help boost collagen, calm inflammation, and reveal that lit-from-within glow. It’s the same science trusted in top dermatology clinics, now in your hands. Shop now → https://drbrighten.com/lumebox use code drbrighten for our exclusive community discount on your purchase. Pique – Pu’er Tea Duo Gut health isn’t just about probiotics—it’s also about nourishing your microbiome. Pique’s Pu’er Tea Duo delivers polyphenol-rich support to help promote microbial diversity, gut lining health, and balanced digestion. Featuring Green Pu’er for antioxidant support and Black Pu’er for digestion and reduced bloating, it’s an easy daily ritual for whole-gut wellness. Get 20% off at https://piquelife.com/drbrighten to learn more. Shop now http://drbrighten.com/piquelife 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 28 Apr 2026 - 143 - ADHD, Motherhood, and Invisible Overload
I'm hosting a live PMDD Relief Workshop on June 10th, free when you pre-order ADHD and Women. Get your spot at https://drbrighten.com/pmdd When I say ADHD in women, I am not talking about simple distraction. I am talking about the kind of overload that happens when the brain is already working hard, and then motherhood asks for a million tiny decisions before noon. That is the reality I wanted to talk about in this episode. Because for many of us, the hard part is not that we do not care. It is that we care about everything, all at once, while our executive function is trying to keep up. In this conversation, I get honest about what it feels like when time blindness, shame, and hormone shifts collide. I also talk about the supports that help me stay functional: movement, creatine, omega-3s, magnesium, sleep, and the recovery routines I lean on when my body is asking for help. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind Want a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code POD15 for 15% off your order Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/radiant-mind HigherDOSE – Red Light Showerhead Filter Your shower water could be impacting your skin more than you think. The HigherDOSE Red Light Showerhead Filter features a 10-stage filtration system designed to reduce chlorine, VOCs, and other contaminants that can contribute to dryness and irritation. It also includes built-in red light therapy to support cellular energy and overall skin appearance—turning your daily shower into a more restorative ritual. Use the code DRBRIGHTEN15 for 15% off Shop now http://drbrighten.com/higherdose 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 23 Apr 2026 - 142 - Perimenopause Sleep Hormones: Cynthia Thurlow on Why Rest Changes First
What if the first sign that perimenopause is shifting hormones is not a hot flash, but broken sleep? For many women, the earliest clues are more subtle: waking at 2 a.m., feeling wired but tired, noticing more palpitations, or realizing that brain fog and irritability are showing up alongside restless nights. In this episode, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with Cynthia Thurlow, nurse practitioner, author, podcast host, and intermittent fasting expert, to unpack why sleep often becomes the first visible sign that the body needs more support in midlife. The conversation does not reduce perimenopause to sleep hygiene tips or blame women for not doing enough. It connects sleep disruption to progesterone, estradiol, testosterone, stress physiology, muscle loss, fasting, and recovery capacity. Women are often told these changes are random or simply part of getting older. This episode takes a different approach: it treats symptoms as information and asks what the body is signaling. If perimenopause has brought brain fog, palpitations, joint pain, itchiness, recurrent infections, or overnight waking, this conversation offers a clearer framework for what may be happening. Here’s what the science says. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com Meet Cynthia Thurlow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cynthia_thurlow_/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@CynthiaThurlow Website: https://www.cynthiathurlow.com/ Cynthia Thurlow’s Book: https://amzn.to/48hoY78 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 21 Apr 2026 - 141 - Fertility Protocol for Conception: Labs, Nutrition & Proven Strategies
What if targeted, evidence-informed changes to daily habits could improve your chances of conceive without turning your life upside down? In this episode, I walk you through a practical fertility protocol that centers metabolic health, ovulatory function, and simple habit shifts that actually stick. I focus on what the data shows is most actionable—which labs to run and how to interpret them, which nutritional strategies and supplements have the strongest evidence for preconception support, and how sleep, stress biology, and circadian alignment shape your fertile window. I also cover quick environmental wins to reduce chemical and thermal exposures that can undermine reproductive outcomes and share short-term strategies you can implement this week while you pursue longer-term optimizations. This isn’t about one-size-fits-all promises; it’s about prioritizing changes that change physiology, using markers we can measure, and tailoring the approach to where you are now in your cycle and life. If you’re trying to conceive or preparing to, I designed this protocol to give you clarity, measurable steps, and realistic timelines so you can act with confidence. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Prenatal Plus Want a science-backed prenatal that is designed to support women through preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum. Prenatal Plus is thoughtfully formulated with active B vitamins, well-absorbed nutrients like methylated folate, iron, iodine, and essential minerals to help support energy, hormone health, and healthy development. This vegan, non-GMO, and third-party tested formula is designed to support your body through every stage of motherhood. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code POD15 for 15% off your order Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/prenatal-plus HigherDOSE – Red Light Showerhead Filter Your shower water could be impacting your skin more than you think. The HigherDOSE Red Light Showerhead Filter features a 10-stage filtration system designed to reduce chlorine, VOCs, and other contaminants that can contribute to dryness and irritation. It also includes built-in red light therapy to support cellular energy and overall skin appearance—turning your daily shower into a more restorative ritual. Save 15% at http://higherdose.com/drbrighten and use code DRBRIGHTEN15 for 15% off 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 16 Apr 2026 - 140 - Dry Eye Relief: What’s Causing Your Dry, Gritty Eyes (and the Simple Routine That Helps) | Dr. Carly Rose
Most dry eye treatment focuses on drops. This episode is about what drops don’t fix — and the daily habits that actually change things. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten talks with Dr. Carly Rose (Dr. Rose) about what dry eye really is, why it keeps showing up, and what actually helps. Dry eye is often less about “not making tears” and more about the tear film not staying stable—especially when the oil layer isn’t doing its job. That’s why habits like lid hygiene, warm/hot compresses, and complete blinking can make such a difference over time. This Episode Is Brought to You By Pique – Pu’er Tea Duo Gut health isn’t just about probiotics—it’s also about nourishing your microbiome. Pique’s Pu’er Tea Duo delivers polyphenol-rich support to help promote microbial diversity, gut lining health, and balanced digestion. Featuring Green Pu’er for antioxidant support and Black Pu’er for digestion and reduced bloating, it’s an easy daily ritual for whole-gut wellness. Get 20% off at https://piquelife.com/drbrighten to learn more. Shop now http://drbrighten.com/piquelife HigherDOSE – Red Light Showerhead Filter Your shower water could be impacting your skin more than you think. The HigherDOSE Red Light Showerhead Filter features a 10-stage filtration system designed to reduce chlorine, VOCs, and other contaminants that can contribute to dryness and irritation. It also includes built-in red light therapy to support cellular energy and overall skin appearance—turning your daily shower into a more restorative ritual. Save 15% at http://higherdose.com/drbrighten and use code DRBRIGHTEN15 for 15% off Shop now http://higherdose.com/drbrighten Dr. Carly Rose’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctorrosetalks/ Dr. Carly Rose’s Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@doctorrose 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 14 Apr 2026 - 139 - What Is ADHD Masking? The Perimenopause ADHD Connection
If you’ve ever wondered why you used to be able to hold it all together and now suddenly feel like your brain is working against you, this episode will hit home. In this conversation, Dr. Brighten unpacks the reality of ADHD masking, why so many women go decades without a diagnosis, and how perimenopause ADHD symptoms can make long-standing coping mechanisms stop working almost overnight. This episode connects the dots between hormones, executive dysfunction, burnout, sensory overload, and the invisible labor women carry every day, making it especially relevant for women who have spent years being told they are lazy, too emotional, or simply need to try harder. In this episode, listeners will learn why ADHD masking is not “faking it,” but a survival strategy many women rely on to fit in, perform, and protect relationships. They will also hear how hormonal shifts, especially during perimenopause, can strip away the brain’s ability to compensate, revealing symptoms that may have been present all along. Dr. Brighten also explores the overlap between ADHD, autism, sleep issues, metabolic health, chronic stress, and women’s hormone changes, while offering practical ways to reduce load, support the brain, and stop blaming yourself for symptoms that were never a character flaw. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind Want a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code POD15 for 15% off your order Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/radiant-mind LMNT Electrolytes Want a clean, science-backed way to stay hydrated and energized? At LMNT, electrolytes are formulated with a precise balance of sodium, potassium, and magnesium — with no sugar, no artificial ingredients, and no unnecessary fillers. Designed to support hydration, muscle function, and daily energy, LMNT helps you feel your best through workouts, busy days, and everyday life. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Visit http://drinklmnt.com/Brighten to receive a free sample pack with any purchase. LUMEBOX Ready to take your skincare results to the next level—right from home? 💡 LUME Box delivers professional-grade LED light therapy in a sleek, easy-to-use device that targets fine lines, pigmentation, and dullness at the cellular level. Just minutes a day can help boost collagen, calm inflammation, and reveal that lit-from-within glow. It’s the same science trusted in top dermatology clinics, now in your hands. Shop now → https://drbrighten.com/lumebox use code drbrighten for our exclusive community discount on your purchase. 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 09 Apr 2026 - 138 - Skin Aging Treatment and Skin Microbiome: What “Leaky Skin” Could Be Telling You About Inflammation, Hormones, and Healthy Aging | Kiran Krishnan
What if the condition of your skin was saying far more about your health than whether you need a new moisturizer? In this conversation, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with microbiologist Kiran Krishan to unpack a provocative idea: that skin barrier dysfunction may be linked not only to dryness, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation, but also to systemic inflammation, hormone shifts, gut health, and even long-term disease risk. This episode challenges the modern skincare mindset and asks a bigger question: are we trying to make skin look better while quietly making it less healthy? This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Myo-Inositol Plus— a research-backed formula designed to support hormone balance, metabolic health, and ovarian function. Featuring the clinically studied 40:1 ratio of myo-inositol to D-chiro-inositol, it helps promote healthy ovulation, improve insulin sensitivity, and support more regular cycles—making it a powerful daily tool for PCOS, fertility, and overall hormone support. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code POD15 for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/myoinositol-plus OneSkin Founded by an all-woman team of PhD-level scientists, OneSkin is revolutionizing aging with the OS-01™ peptide, the first ingredient proven to reverse skin’s biological age by targeting cellular senescence. The result? Skin that looks, feels, and acts younger. It’s never too early — or too late — to invest in your skin health. Use code BRIGHTEN for 15% off your first purchase. Shop now https://oneskin.pxf.io/c/1950532/2885132/31050 Kiran Krishnan’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiranbiome/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 07 Apr 2026 - 137 - Can Ozempic and GLP-1’s Help Treat Endometriosis
If you’ve been wondering whether Ozempic, semaglutide, tirzepatide, or other GLP-1 medications could help with endometriosis symptoms, chronic pelvic pain, adhesions, fatigue, or endo belly, you are not alone. More and more women with endometriosis are reporting that GLP-1 medications may be helping with symptoms that go far beyond weight loss, from lower inflammation and less pain to improved energy and better blood sugar stability. But what does the science actually say? In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten breaks down the emerging research and real-world clinical observations around GLP-1 receptor agonists and endometriosis, including what is currently known, what remains theoretical, and why this conversation may be one of the most important developments in women’s health right now. You’ll learn how GLP-1 medications like Ozempic (semaglutide), Wegovy, Mounjaro (tirzepatide), liraglutide, and exenatide may influence inflammatory signaling, fibrosis, metabolic dysfunction, and long-term cardiovascular risk in women living with endometriosis. This Episode Is Brought to You By This episode is brought to you by The Endometriosis Reset, my step-by-step program designed to help women address the full-body drivers of endometriosis symptoms, including inflammation, blood sugar instability, endo belly, fatigue, scar tissue support, and nervous system dysregulation. Inside the program, I walk you through clear protocols for nutrition, supplement timing and dosing, lifestyle support, and the conversations to have with your doctor so you can stop piecing together conflicting advice online. Learn more at http://drbrighten.com/endocourse EndoGlobal Group At EndoGlobal Group, a network of world-class endometriosis specialists comes together to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for patients with complex endometriosis—offering advanced diagnostic mapping, complete excision surgery, and holistic support. Click here to learn more and schedule a free consultation https://drbrighten.com/endoglobal 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 02 Apr 2026 - 136 - Birth Control for Endometriosis? Hormones, Progesterone Resistance, and What Doctors Aren’t Telling You
If you’ve ever been told to “just go on birth control” for endometriosis, this episode is going to change the way you understand endometriosis and hormones. Hormonal therapy is often the first-line treatment for endometriosis, but not all hormones work the same way and for many women, birth control helps symptoms without ever addressing the underlying disease. In this powerful final panel episode of our endometriosis expert series, leading excision surgeons and hormone specialists unpack the truth about the best birth control for endometriosis, progesterone resistance, HRT, perimenopause flares, and whether endometriosis is truly a hormone imbalance. You’ll learn why some women feel better on hormonal suppression, why others feel dramatically worse, and what every woman deserves to know before being told to wait for menopause, try Lupron, or start HRT. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials https://drbrightenessentials.com/, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. EndoGlobal Group At EndoGlobal Group, a network of world-class endometriosis specialists comes together to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for patients with complex endometriosis—offering advanced diagnostic mapping, complete excision surgery, and holistic support. Click here to learn more and schedule a free consultation https://drbrighten.com/endoglobal Meet Our Experts Dr. Anna Sierra, Endometriosis Surgeon with Neuropeviology Training Doyenne Institute and Endo Global Based in Mexico City https://jolene.endoglobalgroup.com/ Dr. Cindy Mosbrucker, Endometriosis Excision SurgeonPacific Endometriosis and Pelvic SurgeryBased in Gig Harbor, Washington https://pacificendometriosis.com/ Dr. Shanti Mohling, Endometriosis Excision SurgeonNorthwest Endometriosis and Pelvic SurgeryBased in Portland, Oregon https://www.nwendometriosis.com/ Dr. Victoria Vargas, Endometriosis Excision Surgeon Founder, Washington Endometriosis and Complex SurgeryBased in Washington DC https://www.washingtonendometriosis.com/dr-maria-victoria-vargas-md/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 31 Mar 2026 - 135 - The 10 Most Unusual Symptoms of Perimenopause (and What They Really Mean)
Perimenopause doesn’t announce itself the way most women expect. There’s no official start date, no clear signal—just a slow unraveling of things that used to feel easy. Your brain misfires mid-sentence. Your body sends strange, almost unbelievable signals. And somewhere along the way, you’re told, “Your labs are normal.” In fact, many women start searching things like “itchy ears perimenopause,” “burning tongue menopause,” “perimenopause weird symptoms,” or “why do I feel electric shocks in my body in my 40s” because the symptoms don’t seem connected to hormones at all. In this episode, we unpack the most overlooked and misunderstood symptoms of perimenopause (the ones that leave women questioning their sanity) and more importantly, what’s actually driving them beneath the surface. Because once you understand the “why,” you can finally do something about it. And I’ll guide you on when symptoms may be more serious and when it is time to see a doctor. This episode is brought to you by: Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com HigherDOSE – Red Light Showerhead Filter Your shower water could be impacting your skin more than you think. The HigherDOSE Red Light Showerhead Filter features a 10-stage filtration system designed to reduce chlorine, VOCs, and other contaminants that can contribute to dryness and irritation. It also includes built-in red light therapy to support cellular energy and overall skin appearance—turning your daily shower into a more restorative ritual. Save 15% at http://higherdose.com/drbrighten and use code DRBRIGHTEN15 for 15% off Pique – Pu’er Tea Duo Gut health isn’t just about probiotics—it’s also about nourishing your microbiome. Pique’s Pu’er Tea Duo delivers polyphenol-rich support to help promote microbial diversity, gut lining health, and balanced digestion. Featuring Green Pu’er for antioxidant support and Black Pu’er for digestion and reduced bloating, it’s an easy daily ritual for whole-gut wellness. Get 20% off at https://piquelife.com/drbrighten to learn more. Shop now http://drbrighten.com/piquelife 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 26 Mar 2026 - 134 - Endometriosis Surgery: What Most Doctors Won’t Tell You
In this powerful surgical roundtable, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with four leading endometriosis surgeons to unpack what truly determines success in endometriosis surgery and why so many women are left worse off after procedures that were supposed to help. This is the 3rd episode in our endometriosis panel expert series—be sure to check out the previous episodes for more endometriosis specific information. This is not a generic “what is endometriosis” conversation. It is a deep dive into surgical skill, systemic failures, fertility trade-offs, nerve involvement, recurrence myths, and the hard truths about hysterectomy. If you’re considering surgery — or recovering from one — this episode may change how you think about your options. In this discussion, you’ll learn how to identify red flags in a surgical consult, what “peek and shriek” means (and why it can sometimes be safer than incomplete surgery), why reimbursement structures influence care, and what realistic recovery looks like. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten’s N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/n-acetyl-cysteine is a high-quality formula designed to support glutathione production — your body’s master antioxidant. It helps promote healthy detoxification, immune resilience, respiratory health, and balanced inflammation. Support your cells from the inside out. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com EndoGlobal Group At EndoGlobal Group, a network of world-class endometriosis specialists comes together to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for patients with complex endometriosis—offering advanced diagnostic mapping, complete excision surgery, and holistic support. Click here to learn more and schedule a free consultation. https://drbrighten.com/endoglobal LUMEBOX Ready to take your skincare results to the next level—right from home? 💡 LUME Box delivers professional-grade LED light therapy in a sleek, easy-to-use device that targets fine lines, pigmentation, and dullness at the cellular level. Just minutes a day can help boost collagen, calm inflammation, and reveal that lit-from-within glow. It’s the same science trusted in top dermatology clinics, now in your hands. Shop now → https://drbrighten.com/lumebox use code drbrighten for our exclusive community discount on your purchase. Meet Our Experts Dr. Victoria Vargas, Endometriosis Surgeon https://www.washingtonendometriosis.com/dr-maria-victoria-vargas-md/ Dr. Ana Sierra, Endometriosis Surgeon with Neuropeviology Training https://jolene.endoglobalgroup.com/ Dr. Cindy Mosbrucker, Endometriosis Excision Surgeon https://pacificendometriosis.com/ Shanti Mohling, MD, Endometriosis Surgeon https://www.nwendometriosis.com/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 24 Mar 2026 - 133 - Natural Ways to Manage Endometriosis Beyond Surgery
If you are looking for natural ways to manage endometriosis, the most important thing to understand is this: endometriosis is not just a surgical condition. In this episode, Dr. Jolene Brighten explains why many women continue to experience pelvic pain, fatigue, brain fog, gut issues, and flares even after surgery, and what a more complete support plan can look like. The conversation covers inflammation, gut health, estrogen metabolism, stress physiology, pelvic floor dysfunction, immune resilience, and blood sugar stability so women can better understand why symptoms persist and what may help support long-term recovery. This framing closely matches the episode itself, which centers on six biological systems influencing symptoms and emphasizes that surgery can help, but is not always the whole answer. If you have ever felt dismissed, confused by ongoing symptoms, or frustrated that your body still does not feel better after treatment, this episode offers a more useful roadmap. Women with endometriosis wait an average of seven to ten years for diagnosis, and Dr. Brighten shares that it took her twenty-nine years to get her own. This episode is brought to you by: Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com EndoGlobal Group At EndoGlobal Group, a network of world-class endometriosis specialists comes together to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for patients with complex endometriosis—offering advanced diagnostic mapping, complete excision surgery, and holistic support. Click here to learn more and schedule a free consultation. https://drbrighten.com/endoglobal 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 19 Mar 2026 - 132 - Endometriosis Relief of Pain: Experts Explain Laparoscopy, Chronic Pelvic Pain, and Why So Many Women Are Still Suffering
This conversation dives deep into endometriosis relief of pain, laparoscopy for endometriosis pain, and the treatment of chronic pelvic pain in females, offering insight into why conventional approaches often fall short. The experts discuss how endometriosis pain can evolve over time, from inflammatory pelvic pain to complex nervous-system-driven chronic pain, and why a comprehensive treatment strategy is often required. If you’ve ever been told your pain is “normal,” that imaging looks fine, or that suppression is your only option, this episode explains what medicine often gets wrong about chronic pelvic pain in females and what women deserve to know instead. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials – NACDr. Brighten’s N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/n-acetyl-cysteine is a high-quality formula designed to support glutathione production — your body’s master antioxidant. It helps promote healthy detoxification, immune resilience, respiratory health, and balanced inflammation. Support your cells from the inside out. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. EndoGlobal Group At EndoGlobal Group, a network of world-class endometriosis specialists comes together to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for patients with complex endometriosis—offering advanced diagnostic mapping, complete excision surgery, and holistic support. Click here to learn more and schedule a free consultation https://drbrighten.com/endoglobal LUMEBOX Ready to take your skincare results to the next level—right from home? 💡 LUME Box delivers professional-grade LED light therapy in a sleek, easy-to-use device that targets fine lines, pigmentation, and dullness at the cellular level. Just minutes a day can help boost collagen, calm inflammation, and reveal that lit-from-within glow. It’s the same science trusted in top dermatology clinics, now in your hands. Shop now → https://drbrighten.com/lumebox use code drbrighten for our exclusive community discount on your purchase. Meet the Doctors Dr. Ana Sierra https://www.instagram.com/institutodoyenne/ is an endometriosis excision surgeon specializing in advanced laparoscopic treatment of complex endometriosis. She has extensive training in neuropelviology and pelvic pain. Dr. Victoria Vargas https://www.washingtonendometriosis.com/dr-maria-victoria-vargas-md/ is a fellowship-trained minimally invasive gynecologic surgeon specializing in advanced laparoscopic surgery for endometriosis and complex pelvic disorders. Dr. Shanti Mohling https://www.nwendometriosis.com/ is a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist and internationally recognized endometriosis excision surgeon. Dr. Cindy Mosbrucker https://pacificendometriosis.com/ is a fellowship-trained gynecologic surgeon specializing in excision surgery for endometriosis and complex pelvic pain disorders. 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 17 Mar 2026 - 131 - The Hidden Connection Between Estrogen and Histamine: Why Your Hormones Cause Inflammation
If you’ve ever wondered “why do I get migraines before my period?” or felt weirdly “allergic” to your own cycle, you’re not imagining things. You may be stuck in the estrogen histamine feedback loop, a biologic back-and-forth where hormones and immune chemistry keep poking each other until symptoms flare. This is the part that makes people feel dismissed: your labs can look “normal” while your body clearly isn’t acting normal. You bounce between an allergist for hives, a neurologist for migraines, a GI doctor for bloating, and maybe someone offering an antidepressant for the sudden anxiety that shows up like clockwork. Still, the pattern keeps repeating. The reality is that estrogen and histamine aren’t separate storylines. They’re in the same conversation—sometimes as allies, sometimes as accelerants. Once you see the connection, a lot of “random” symptoms finally start to make sense. This episode is brought to you by: Dr. Brighten Essentials https://drbrightenessentials.com/ Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. EndoGlobal Group At EndoGlobal Group, a network of world-class endometriosis specialists comes together to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for patients with complex endometriosis—offering advanced diagnostic mapping, complete excision surgery, and holistic support. Click here to learn more and schedule a free consultation https://drbrighten.com/endoglobal Fygg — a dentist-developed oral care brand on a mission to “Feed Your Good Guys.” Fygg makes science-backed, microbiome-friendly oral care products — like fluoride-free toothpaste and remineralizing varnish — that support a balanced oral microbiome without harsh chemicals, foam, or unnecessary ingredients. Developed by dentists and grounded in research, Fygg helps strengthen enamel, maintain oral health, and promote a healthier mouth for the whole family. Use code DRBRIGHTEN for 15% off of their products (both one-time and subscription) Shop now https://fygg.sjv.io/ragbBv 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 - 130 - What Is Endometriosis? 4 Surgeons Explain the Symptoms, Misdiagnosis, and Whole-Body Impact
Endometriosis is one of the most misunderstood conditions in women’s health. Millions of women live with severe pain, fatigue, digestive problems, infertility, and systemic inflammation—yet many are told their symptoms are “normal” or dismissed entirely. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, we take a deeper look at what is endometriosis, why it behaves as a whole-body inflammatory disease, and how women can begin to better understand the signals their bodies are sending. In this episode, you’ll hear an in-depth discussion about endometriosis symptoms, why the disease often goes unrecognized, and how a more comprehensive understanding of inflammation, immune signaling, and nervous system regulation may change the way we approach this condition. Whether you’re newly diagnosed, suspect you may have endometriosis, or have been navigating symptoms for years, this episode provides clarity on what may actually be happening inside the body and what steps women can begin taking today. This episode is brought to you by: Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials https://drbrightenessentials.com/, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. EndoGlobal Group At EndoGlobal Group, a network of world-class endometriosis specialists comes together to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for patients with complex endometriosis—offering advanced diagnostic mapping, complete excision surgery, and holistic support. Click here to learn more and schedule a free consultation. https://drbrighten.com/endoglobal Sunlighten Saunas —Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten Meet the Doctors in This Episode Dr. Ana Sierra https://www.instagram.com/institutodoyenne/ Dr. Victoria Vargas https://www.washingtonendometriosis.com/dr-maria-victoria-vargas-md/ Dr. Shanti Mohling https://www.nwendometriosis.com Dr. Cindy Moss Bricker https://pacificendometriosis.com 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 10 Mar 2026 - 129 - 3 Period Problems Women Should Never Ignore (Heavy Bleeding, PMS, and Period Pain)
If you’ve ever been told that heavy periods, worsening PMS, or debilitating cramps are just part of being a woman, this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show challenges that narrative. In this conversation, Dr. Jolene Brighten breaks down the three most common menstrual problems she sees in clinical practice—heavy bleeding, PMS that keeps getting worse, and severe period pain, and explains why they happen and what women can do about them. If you’ve ever felt like you’re piecing together conflicting advice from social media, Google, and different doctors, this episode aims to bring clarity. By the end of the conversation, you’ll understand the shared biological pattern that links heavy bleeding, PMS, and period pain and how to start addressing the root causes instead of just managing symptoms. This episode is especially valuable for women navigating PCOS, perimenopause, hormone imbalance, painful periods, or unexplained PMS, because it connects the dots between hormones, inflammation, and the nervous system in a way that is both practical and evidence-informed. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials – Period Problems Kit Struggling with PMS, fatigue, or cycle-related symptoms? The Period Problems Kit from Dr. Brighten Essentials combines three targeted formulas—Balance, Adrenal Support, and Women’s Probiotic—to support hormone balance, stress resilience, and gut health throughout your cycle. Designed to help address common period concerns - it’s a comprehensive approach to feeling your best all month long. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/period-problems-kit EndoGlobal Group At EndoGlobal Group, a network of world-class endometriosis specialists comes together to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for patients with complex endometriosis—offering advanced diagnostic mapping, complete excision surgery, and holistic support. Click here to learn more and schedule a free consultation https://drbrighten.com/endoglobal LUMEBOX Ready to take your skincare results to the next level—right from home? 💡 LUME Box delivers professional-grade LED light therapy in a sleek, easy-to-use device that targets fine lines, pigmentation, and dullness at the cellular level. Just minutes a day can help boost collagen, calm inflammation, and reveal that lit-from-within glow. It’s the same science trusted in top dermatology clinics, now in your hands. Shop now → https://drbrighten.com/lumebox use code drbrighten for our exclusive community discount on your purchase. Support for The Dr. Brighten Show makes it possible to continue bringing you evidence-based conversations on women’s health, hormones, and metabolic wellness. 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 05 Mar 2026 - 128 - Endometriosis Symptoms vs Normal Period Pain with Dr. Patrick Yeung
I talk to women every week who’ve been told their pain is “just part of being a woman”—even when it’s stealing their school years, careers, relationships, and fertility. This episode is a direct challenge to that narrative. Endometriosis is not simply a pelvic problem or a “hormone issue.” It’s a systemic, neuroinflammatory condition that can drive full-body symptoms, persistent pain, and fertility struggles—while still being dismissed or mismanaged in standard care. Here’s the thesis: endometriosis is frequently misdiagnosed and undertreated, and many common approaches—like defaulting to hormonal suppression or jumping straight to IVF—often mask symptoms or bypass the root cause rather than addressing it. In contrast, specialized excision surgery (done well) plus holistic optimization (sleep, inflammation, pelvic floor, nutrition) can be a game-changer for both pain relief and fertility. “If your period pain puts you in the fetal position or makes you miss work, that’s a red flag—not ‘normal.’” This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials – NAC Dr. Brighten’s N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/n-acetyl-cysteine) is a high-quality formula designed to support glutathione production — your body’s master antioxidant. It helps promote healthy detoxification, immune resilience, respiratory health, and balanced inflammation. Support your cells from the inside out. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. EndoGlobal Group At EndoGlobal Group, a network of world-class endometriosis specialists comes together to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for patients with complex endometriosis—offering advanced diagnostic mapping, complete excision surgery, and holistic support. Click here to learn more and schedule a free consultation https://drbrighten.com/endoglobal Dr. Patrick Yeung Patrick Yeung’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppyeungjrmd/ Patrick Yeung Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ppyeungjrmd/ Patrick Yeung’s Clinic: Restore Center for Endometriosis https://www.restoreendo.com/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 03 Mar 2026 - 127 - Daily Protein Intake for Women: Why You Don’t Need 200 Grams (And What to Do Instead)
If you feel like "protein" has become a competitive sport on your social media feed, you are not alone. Between the "What I Eat In A Day" videos and the pressure to carry hard-boiled eggs in your purse, the message is clear: more is better. But for the woman in perimenopause, "more" is not a strategy: it is a recipe for burnout. You do not need to eat like a bodybuilder to save your muscle. You need to eat like a woman who understands her changing hormones and the daily protein intake for women that actually works. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, I examine the science behind daily protein intake for women and explain how declining estrogen, shifts in insulin sensitivity, and age-related anabolic resistance change your protein requirements. We discuss whether 1.2 to 1.6 grams per kilogram is sufficient, when higher protein targets may be appropriate, how protein distribution across meals impacts muscle protein synthesis, and why extreme recommendations can crowd out fiber and negatively affect gut and thyroid health. If you are trying to determine the right daily protein intake for women in perimenopause — whether you should aim for 90 grams, 120 grams, or more — this episode provides a research-informed, nuanced framework rather than a one-size-fits-all number. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com LMNT Electrolytes —Want a clean, science-backed way to stay hydrated and energized? At LMNT, electrolytes are formulated with a precise balance of sodium, potassium, and magnesium — with no sugar, no artificial ingredients, and no unnecessary fillers. Designed to support hydration, muscle function, and daily energy, LMNT helps you feel your best through workouts, busy days, and everyday life. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Visit http://drinklmnt.com/Brighten to receive a free sample pack with any purchase. Shop now http://drinklmnt.com/Brighten 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 26 Feb 2026 - 125 - Colon Cancer Is Rising in Younger Adults — 5 Ways to Protect Yourself Now
When news broke about James Van Der Beek colon cancer, it forced a conversation many people have been avoiding. Colon cancer has long been considered a disease of older adults. But that narrative is outdated. Rates are climbing in younger people. Women are being diagnosed earlier. And far too many are told their symptoms are “just stress,” “just IBS,” or “just hormones.” In this episode, we unpack what’s really happening with colon cancer trends, what the symptoms of colon cancer actually look like (especially in women), and what you can do right now to lower your risk. This is not fear-based medicine. This is informed, proactive prevention rooted in science. We break down colon cancer screening options, the data on early-onset disease, and the often-overlooked causes of colon cancer—from dietary patterns to microbiome shifts to hormone changes in midlife. By the end of this episode, you’ll understand how to protect yourself and your family with clarity instead of confusion. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/womens-probiotic is formulated to support healthy digestion, vaginal microbiome balance, and everyday immune function—simple, daily care for women.A balanced microbiome is foundational for feeling your best—from digestion to confidence.Quality you can trust: third-party tested; manufactured in a cGMP facility Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code POD15 for 15% off your order Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten Fygg — a dentist-developed oral care brand on a mission to “Feed Your Good Guys.” Fygg makes science-backed, microbiome-friendly oral care products — like fluoride-free toothpaste and remineralizing varnish — that support a balanced oral microbiome without harsh chemicals, foam, or unnecessary ingredients. Developed by dentists and grounded in research, Fygg helps strengthen enamel, maintain oral health, and promote a healthier mouth for the whole family. Use code DRBRIGHTEN for 15% off of their products (both one-time and subscription) Shop now https://fygg.sjv.io/ragbBv 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 19 Feb 2026 - 124 - Why You’re Gaining Weight in Midlife: Ozempic, Muscle Loss, and Longevity | Dr. Mary Pardee
Midlife weight gain is often blamed on a “slowing metabolism.” But the science tells a different story. Between ages 20 and 60, your metabolism barely changes. What does change? Muscle mass. Exercise habits. Hormonal signaling. Cardiovascular risk. And increasingly, the conversation around GLP-1 medications like Ozempic. In this episode, we unpack the real drivers of midlife weight gain, the surprising data on muscle loss and mortality, the nuanced role of GLP-1 drugs in long-term health, and what actually improves lifespan and healthspan. If you’ve wondered: Is my metabolism broken? Is Ozempic helping or hurting long term? Why is muscle suddenly such a big deal? What actually prevents heart disease and dementia? This episode connects the dots. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 17 Feb 2026 - 123 - Discover Your Energy Archetype and How to Increase Energy | Hadlee Garrison
If you’ve ever asked yourself, Why am I so tired when I’m doing everything right? — this episode is for you. From clean eating and HIIT workouts to supplements and sleep tracking, many women are doing “all the things” and still waking up exhausted, crashing mid-afternoon, and lying awake at night unable to wind down. The missing piece may not be discipline, motivation, or another wellness hack — it may be that you’re trying to increase energy in a way that doesn’t match your body. In this conversation, we explore a powerful framework: energy archetypes. Instead of generic advice like “just rest more” or “just push harder,” you’ll learn how your unique pattern of depletion determines what actually restores you. Drawing from Ayurveda, behavior change science, and modern physiology, we break down the three core energy archetypes and how to work with your nervous system — not against it. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com LMNT Electrolytes —Want a clean, science-backed way to stay hydrated and energized? At LMNT, electrolytes are formulated with a precise balance of sodium, potassium, and magnesium — with no sugar, no artificial ingredients, and no unnecessary fillers. Designed to support hydration, muscle function, and daily energy, LMNT helps you feel your best through workouts, busy days, and everyday life. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Visit http://drinklmnt.com/Brighten to receive a free sample pack with any purchase. Sunlighten Saunas —Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten Hadlee Garrison’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happyhealthyhadlee/ Hadlee Garrison’s Website: https://www.happyhealthyhadlee.com/ Hadlee Garrison’s energy quiz: https://hadlee.kit.com/energyquiz Schedule a discovery session with Hadlee: https://calendly.com/hadlee/healthgoalssession 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 12 Feb 2026 - 122 - Why Women Lose Interest in Sex in Perimenopause and Midlife | Emily Morse
If you’ve noticed a shift in your desire for intimacy in midlife, you’re not alone—and it’s not simply a hormone problem. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with relationship and intimacy expert Emily Morse for a candid, clinically grounded conversation about why so many women experience changes in connection, closeness, and physical responsiveness during perimenopause. Rather than defaulting to the oversimplified explanation that estrogen decline is to blame, this discussion explores the deeper drivers of desire: stress physiology, sleep disruption, emotional safety, relationship dynamics, and nervous system overload. For many women, perimenopause becomes the moment when long-standing issues around intimacy finally surface—not because something broke, but because the body and brain are no longer willing to override unmet needs. In this episode, you’ll learn why desire is not a switch you flip, why fixing hormones alone often isn’t enough, and how midlife can become a powerful turning point toward more fulfilling connection—if you understand what your body is actually asking for. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com Coconu Want body-safe, hormone-friendly intimacy products you can trust? 🥥 At Coconu, everything is made with organic, plant-based ingredients and free from hormone disruptors, harsh chemicals, and synthetic additives. From luxurious lubricants to intimate essentials, Coconu is designed to support comfort, confidence, and connection — helping you feel your best in your most personal moments. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code DRBRIGHTEN15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now https://coconu.com/?srsltid=AfmBOooMIqrz83hshHQKhKgBI10ExK2Q2Erh3DUCLJ-BTwC79XgO4WrL LMNT Electrolytes —Want a clean, science-backed way to stay hydrated and energized? At LMNT, electrolytes are formulated with a precise balance of sodium, potassium, and magnesium — with no sugar, no artificial ingredients, and no unnecessary fillers. Designed to support hydration, muscle function, and daily energy, LMNT helps you feel your best through workouts, busy days, and everyday life. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Visit http://drinklmnt.com/Brighten to receive a free sample pack with any purchase. Find Emily Morse Emily Morse’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sexwithemily/ Emily Morse’s Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sexwithemily Emily Morse’s Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/sexwithemily Emily Morse’s Website: https://sexwithemily.com/read/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 10 Feb 2026 - 121 - Testosterone Hormone Therapy in Perimenopause: How to Match Symptoms, Labs, and Treatment Correctly
Testosterone is having a moment—but much of what women are being told about it is incomplete, oversimplified, or outright misleading. If you’ve been told testosterone is only about libido, or that your fatigue, emotional flatness, loss of motivation, or inability to build muscle is just “getting older,” this episode challenges that narrative. In this conversation, Dr. Jolene Brighten breaks down what testosterone actually does in women’s bodies during perimenopause, why symptoms matter as much as labs, and how poorly matched hormone therapy can lead to side effects that leave women feeling worse instead of better. This episode is a deep dive into testosterone hormone therapy in perimenopause, designed to help women—and clinicians—understand how to evaluate symptoms, interpret labs with nuance, and choose treatment approaches that respect the entire hormone system. Rather than pushing testosterone as a cure-all, this episode lays out when it helps, when it harms, and why careful dosing, delivery method, and monitoring are essential. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind — a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/radiant-mind Sunlighten Saunas — Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten LUMEBOX Ready to take your skincare results to the next level—right from home? 💡 LUME Box delivers professional-grade LED light therapy in a sleek, easy-to-use device that targets fine lines, pigmentation, and dullness at the cellular level. Just minutes a day can help boost collagen, calm inflammation, and reveal that lit-from-within glow. It’s the same science trusted in top dermatology clinics, now in your hands. Shop now http://drbrighten.com/lumeboxuse code drbrighten for our exclusive community discount on your purchase. 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 05 Feb 2026 - 120 - How to Get Pregnant Faster: The Role of Toxins, Inflammation, and Men’s Health┃Ann Shippy
If you’re trying to conceive and wondering how to get pregnant faster, you’re likely being flooded with advice that ranges from tracking ovulation to “just relaxing” or jumping straight to IVF. What’s often missing from these conversations is a deeper understanding of preconception health—the biological groundwork that determines whether conception is easy, delayed, or doesn’t happen at all. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with Anna Shippy to unpack why fertility challenges are rarely random and why the body often sends signals long before a pregnancy test turns positive. Together, they explore how inflammation, environmental toxins, nutrient status, gut health, and—critically—men’s health and sperm quality all shape fertility outcomes. This conversation reframes infertility not as a failure, but as a check-engine light—a sign that the body may not yet be in an optimal state to support conception, pregnancy, or a healthy baby. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Prenatal Plus — a science-backed prenatal that is designed to support women through preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum. Prenatal Plus is thoughtfully formulated with active B vitamins, well-absorbed nutrients like methylated folate, iron, iodine, and essential minerals to help support energy, hormone health, and healthy development. This vegan, non-GMO, and third-party tested formula is designed to support your body through every stage of motherhood. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/prenatal-plus Sunlighten Saunas —Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten LMNT Electrolytes —Want a clean, science-backed way to stay hydrated and energized? At LMNT, electrolytes are formulated with a precise balance of sodium, potassium, and magnesium — with no sugar, no artificial ingredients, and no unnecessary fillers. Designed to support hydration, muscle function, and daily energy, LMNT helps you feel your best through workouts, busy days, and everyday life. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Visit http://drinklmnt.com/Brighten to receive a free sample pack with any purchase. Find Ann Shippy Ann Shippy's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annshippymd/ Ann Shippy's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnnShippyMD/ Ann Shippy's YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/annshippymd Ann Shippy’s Book: The Preconception Revolution https://amzn.to/4kfj1w9 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 03 Feb 2026 - 119 - How to Increase Testosterone Naturally in Women
Low energy. Vanishing libido. Brain fog that makes you feel like you’re pushing through mud. Muscle that refuses to build no matter how hard you train. If you’ve ever been told this is “just stress,” “just aging,” or worse—all in your head—this episode is for you. In this powerful, no-fluff conversation, Dr. Jolene Brighten breaks down how to boost testosterone naturally in women by unpacking the real, research-backed reasons testosterone drops—and exactly what to do about it. This episode goes far beyond surface-level hormone talk. You’ll learn why low testosterone is far more common in women than most clinicians acknowledge, how modern life quietly sabotages androgen production, and why symptoms like low motivation, poor resilience, loss of orgasms, and difficulty setting boundaries are biochemical—not psychological. Most importantly, you’ll walk away with specific, evidence-based strategies you can start implementing today to support testosterone production, signaling, and receptor function—whether or not hormone therapy is part of your future plan. This episode is brought to you by: Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. And for a limited time, when you order Radiant Mind, you’ll also receive a free bottle of our best-selling Magnesium Plus—the perfect partner for restorative sleep and steady mood. Learn more at http://drbrighten.com/radiant LMNT Electrolytes —Want a clean, science-backed way to stay hydrated and energized? At LMNT, electrolytes are formulated with a precise balance of sodium, potassium, and magnesium — with no sugar, no artificial ingredients, and no unnecessary fillers. Designed to support hydration, muscle function, and daily energy, LMNT helps you feel your best through workouts, busy days, and everyday life. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Visit http://drinklmnt.com/Brighten to receive a free sample pack with any purchase. Fygg — a dentist-developed oral care brand on a mission to “Feed Your Good Guys.” Fygg makes science-backed, microbiome-friendly oral care products — like fluoride-free toothpaste and remineralizing varnish — that support a balanced oral microbiome without harsh chemicals, foam, or unnecessary ingredients. Developed by dentists and grounded in research, Fygg helps strengthen enamel, maintain oral health, and promote a healthier mouth for the whole family. Use code DRBRIGHTEN for 15% off of their products (both one-time and subscription) Shop now https://fygg.sjv.io/ragbBv 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 29 Jan 2026 - 118 - Why Strength Training for Women Is Not Optional for Longevity | Gabrielle Lyon
For generations, women have been told that healthy aging comes down to eating less, doing more cardio, and staying “small.” But in this powerful conversation, Dr. Jolene Brighten and Dr. Gabrielle Lyon challenges that narrative with a biologically grounded truth: muscle is one of the most critical and most neglected determinants of women’s longevity. Strength training for women isn’t about aesthetics or athleticism. It’s about preserving metabolic health, protecting the brain, maintaining independence, supporting hormone transitions, and reducing the risk of nearly every chronic disease associated with aging. In this episode, muscle is reframed not as optional fitness tissue, but as a vital organ system that determines how well women live in midlife and beyond. If you’ve ever been told that weight gain, fatigue, insulin resistance, or physical decline are “just part of aging,” this episode explains why that belief is outdated—and what actually moves the needle. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. And for a limited time, when you order Radiant Mind, you’ll also receive a free bottle of our best-selling Magnesium Plus—the perfect partner for restorative sleep and steady mood. Learn more at http://drbrighten.com/radiant. Sunlighten Saunas —Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten LMNT Electrolytes —Want a clean, science-backed way to stay hydrated and energized? At LMNT, electrolytes are formulated with a precise balance of sodium, potassium, and magnesium — with no sugar, no artificial ingredients, and no unnecessary fillers. Designed to support hydration, muscle function, and daily energy, LMNT helps you feel your best through workouts, busy days, and everyday life. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Visit http://drinklmnt.com/Brighten to receive a free sample pack with any purchase. Where to Find Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Website: https://drgabriellelyon.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drgabriellelyon/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrGabrielleLyon Order FOREVER STRONG: https://drgabriellelyon.com/forever-strong/ Order THE FOREVER STRONG PLAYBOOK: https://drgabriellelyon.com/playbook/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 27 Jan 2026 - 117 - ADHD in Women: How Your Periods, Progesterone, PMS, and PMDD Can Change Your Brain Every Month
If you’ve ever wondered why your ADHD feels manageable one week and completely unhinged the next—why your medication suddenly feels useless, your focus evaporates, your emotions feel impossible to regulate, and even simple tasks like making dinner feel overwhelming—this episode was made for you. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten breaks down what a major scientific review confirms: ADHD symptoms in women do not remain stable across the menstrual cycle. Instead, attention, executive function, impulsivity, emotional regulation, and even medication response shift predictably in response to cyclical hormone changes. And for women with ADHD—especially those with PMS or PMDD—these shifts are often dramatic, disabling, and consistently dismissed. Drawing from nearly a decade of research, this episode explains exactly how your periods affect your ADHD, why progesterone can feel like your brain’s kryptonite, and what women and clinicians need to understand to finally stop gaslighting ADHD symptoms in women. If your ADHD feels unpredictable from week to week, this episode will finally explain why. Visit the episode webpage to see all links and sources mentioned in this podcast https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/adhd-the-menstrual-cycle/ This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. Shop now https://drbrighten.com/radiant/ Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten Fygg — a dentist-developed oral care brand on a mission to “Feed Your Good Guys.” Fygg makes science-backed, microbiome-friendly oral care products — like fluoride-free toothpaste and remineralizing varnish — that support a balanced oral microbiome without harsh chemicals, foam, or unnecessary ingredients. Developed by dentists and grounded in research, Fygg helps strengthen enamel, maintain oral health, and promote a healthier mouth for the whole family. Use code DRBRIGHTEN for 15% off of their products (both one-time and subscription) Shop now https://fygg.sjv.io/ragbBv 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 22 Jan 2026 - 115 - ADHD and Perimenopause: Why Perimenopause Is Worse for Women With ADHD | Dr. Jolene Brighten
If you feel like your ADHD symptoms exploded in your late 30s or early 40s—your focus vanished, your sleep fell apart, your body started hurting, and your brain felt like it stopped working—you are not imagining it. And you are not failing. This episode explains why perimenopause is worse for women with ADHD, why it often begins years earlier than most doctors recognize, and why ADHD women experience a more severe, full-body symptom burden during this transition. Far from being “just stress” or “just anxiety,” the experience of ADHD and perimenopause is a neuroendocrine brain-body collision that modern medicine is largely unprepared to address. Grounded in a large population-based study and real clinical patterns, this episode reframes perimenopause as a critical neurological and hormonal transition, especially for women with ADHD, and explains why so many women feel blindsided, dismissed, and misdiagnosed during this stage of life. This Episode Is Brought to You By: Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. Shop now https://drbrighten.com/radiant/ OneSkin Founded by an all-woman team of PhD-level scientists, OneSkin is revolutionizing aging with the OS-01™ peptide, the first ingredient proven to reverse skin’s biological age by targeting cellular senescence. The result? Skin that looks, feels, and acts younger. It’s never too early — or too late — to invest in your skin health. Shop now https://oneskin.pxf.io/c/1950532/2885132/31050 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 15 Jan 2026 - 114 - Dietary Fiber Benefits: Gut Health, Hormones, Blood Sugar, and What a High-Fiber Diet Really Does for Women | Gabrielle Palmeri
For years, dietary fiber has been framed as one thing: something you need “to stay regular.” But in this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with registered dietitian Gabrielle Palmeri to unpack why that narrative is dangerously incomplete—especially for women. This conversation reframes fiber as a metabolic, hormonal, and immune regulator, not a digestive afterthought. The episode explores why most people feel worse when they first increase fiber, how diet culture has distorted the conversation, and why avoiding fiber long-term can quietly sabotage gut health, estrogen metabolism, blood sugar, and inflammation. If you’ve ever wondered what is a high fiber diet, whether fiber is really necessary, or why “healthy eating” sometimes makes you feel worse, this episode provides the missing context. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Women’s Probiotic https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/womens-probiotic?selling_plan=995917858 is formulated to support healthy digestion, vaginal microbiome balance, and everyday immune function—simple, daily care for women.A balanced microbiome is foundational for feeling your best—from digestion to confidence. Quality you can trust: third-party tested; manufactured in a cGMP facility Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code POD15 for 15% offf your order Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com/ Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten Fygg — a dentist-developed oral care brand on a mission to “Feed Your Good Guys.” Fygg makes science-backed, microbiome-friendly oral care products — like fluoride-free toothpaste and remineralizing varnish — that support a balanced oral microbiome without harsh chemicals, foam, or unnecessary ingredients. Developed by dentists and grounded in research, Fygg helps strengthen enamel, maintain oral health, and promote a healthier mouth for the whole family. Use code DRBRIGHTEN for 15% off of their products (both one-time and subscription) Shop now https://fygg.sjv.io/ragbBv Connect with Gabrielle Website (with Fiber Guide & Private Community): https://stan.store/dietitiangabrielle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dietitian.gabrielle/?hl=en Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dietitian.gabrielle?lang=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC89lIEaRwW9dL8BftTzK2Tg Threads: https://www.threads.com/@dietitian.gabrielle 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 13 Jan 2026 - 113 - Weight Gain in Perimenopause Over 35: Why Your Body Is Changing and What Actually Works
If you’re experiencing weight gain that feels sudden, unexplained, and resistant to everything that used to work—especially after age 35—you are not alone. For many women, weight gain in perimenopause begins years before menopause is ever mentioned in a doctor’s office. Alongside changes in weight, sleep often deteriorates, anxiety increases, cravings feel harder to control, and energy becomes unpredictable. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten breaks down the real hormonal mechanisms behind weight gain in perimenopause over 35—and why this phase of life requires an entirely different approach than “eat less and move more.” This conversation focuses on the biological changes happening beneath the surface, how hormones like progesterone, estrogen, cortisol, insulin, and thyroid hormones interact, and what women can do to support their metabolism, sleep, and overall health during this transition. This is not about willpower. It’s about physiology. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind — a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/radiant-mind Sunlighten Saunas — Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten LUMEBOX Ready to take your skincare results to the next level—right from home? 💡 LUME Box delivers professional-grade LED light therapy in a sleek, easy-to-use device that targets fine lines, pigmentation, and dullness at the cellular level. Just minutes a day can help boost collagen, calm inflammation, and reveal that lit-from-within glow. It’s the same science trusted in top dermatology clinics, now in your hands. Shop now → https://drbrighten.com/lumebox use code drbrighten for our exclusive community discount on your purchase. 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 08 Jan 2026 - 112 - Ozempic, Weight Loss, and the Metabolic Truth No One Is Talking About | Ashley Koff
Weight loss has always been a loaded topic, but in the era of Ozempic, it has become even more polarized. For some, GLP-1 medications feel like a long-overdue breakthrough. For others, they trigger fear, shame, or moral judgment. And for many women, they come with unexpected side effects, confusing outcomes, and the unsettling realization that losing weight doesn’t always mean feeling better. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with registered dietitian and nutrition expert Ashley Koff for a nuanced, science-forward conversation about weight loss and Ozempic—one that goes far beyond the scale. Together, they explore why weight loss alone is a flawed goal, what GLP-1 medications actually reveal about human physiology, and why women are being disproportionately affected by oversimplified approaches to metabolic health. If you’ve ever wondered why weight loss feels harder than it “should,” why Ozempic works for some people but not others, or why your labs can look normal while your body feels anything but—this episode offers clarity. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 06 Jan 2026 - 111 - Hormone Replacement Therapy for Menopause: What the FDA’s Black Box Removal Really Means for Women
Hormone replacement therapy for menopause has been one of the most misunderstood and fear-driven topics in women’s health. For years, women were warned away from hormone therapy based on a black box warning that failed to reflect how hormones are prescribed today, who benefits most, and when therapy is most effective. The recent decision by the FDA to remove the black box warning from certain menopausal hormone therapies has reignited questions, confusion, and concern. This episode of The Dr. Brighten Show—Hormone Replacement Therapy for Menopause: What the FDA’s Black Box Removal Really Means for Women—explains what hormone replacement therapy for menopause actually is, why the warning existed in the first place, what changed, what didn’t, and how women can make evidence-based decisions grounded in modern science rather than outdated fear. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. And for a limited time, when you order Radiant Mind, you’ll also receive a free bottle of our best-selling Magnesium Plus—the perfect partner for restorative sleep and steady mood. Learn more at http://drbrighten.com/radiant. Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten LUMEBOX Ready to take your skincare results to the next level—right from home? 💡 LUME Box delivers professional-grade LED light therapy in a sleek, easy-to-use device that targets fine lines, pigmentation, and dullness at the cellular level. Just minutes a day can help boost collagen, calm inflammation, and reveal that lit-from-within glow. It’s the same science trusted in top dermatology clinics, now in your hands. Shop now → https://drbrighten.com/lumebox use code drbrighten for our exclusive community discount on your purchase. 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 30 Dec 2025 - 110 - Estrogen Cream for the Face: What the Science Says About Anti-Aging, Collagen, and Hormones
Is estrogen cream for the face really the new holy grail of anti-aging—or is it another skincare trend overselling its promise? In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten breaks down the biology behind estrogen and skin aging, why women’s skin often changes rapidly after 35, and what clinical studies actually show about using topical estrogen on the face. This isn’t about chasing youth—it’s about understanding collagen loss, inflammation, and how hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause directly affect the skin. What You’ll Learn in This Episode In this episode, you’ll learn how estrogen interacts with the skin at a cellular level, why traditional skincare often stops working in midlife, and how clinicians are using estrogen cream for the face—specifically estriol and estradiol—in a thoughtful, medically supervised way. Dr. Brighten explains who may benefit, how these creams are typically used, what results are realistic, and which healthcare providers are qualified to prescribe them, all through a women’s-health-first, evidence-based lens. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. Shop now https://drbrighten.com/radiant/ OneSkin Founded by an all-woman team of PhD-level scientists, OneSkin is revolutionizing aging with the OS-01™ peptide, the first ingredient proven to reverse skin’s biological age by targeting cellular senescence. The result? Skin that looks, feels, and acts younger. It’s never too early — or too late — to invest in your skin health. Shop now https://oneskin.pxf.io/c/1950532/2885132/31050 LUMEBOX Ready to take your skincare results to the next level—right from home? 💡 LUME Box delivers professional-grade LED light therapy in a sleek, easy-to-use device that targets fine lines, pigmentation, and dullness at the cellular level. Just minutes a day can help boost collagen, calm inflammation, and reveal that lit-from-within glow. It’s the same science trusted in top dermatology clinics, now in your hands. Shop now → https://drbrighten.com/lumebox use code drbrighten for our exclusive community discount on your purchase. 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 23 Dec 2025 - 109 - Doctor Reacts to Lili Reinhart and Breaks the Endometriosis Diagnosis Myth | Dr. Jolene Brighten
Endometriosis shouldn’t require fame, influence, or extraordinary persistence to be taken seriously—yet that’s exactly what Lili Reinhart’s viral post reveals. In her deeply vulnerable message, she shared years of worsening symptoms, medical dismissal, and confusion that ultimately led her to discover she had both endometriosis and adenomyosis. Her experience mirrors the journey of millions of people who have been repeatedly told their pain is normal, exaggerated, or unrelated to their reproductive health. In this powerful episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten reacts to Lili’s post and uses it as a launch point to expose the endometriosis diagnosis myth, highlight the systemic failures that keep patients undiagnosed for years, and provide a clear, practical path for listeners who suspect endo but haven’t been taken seriously. Drawing from her own 29-year delay to diagnosis, her clinical expertise, and the lived experiences of her community, Dr. Brighten breaks down the biggest misconceptions, the biases baked into diagnostic processes, and the tools that actually help patients get answers. You’ll learn why “normal” imaging is often meaningless, how endometriosis can hide from inexperienced radiologists, and why patients who tell doctors they want to conceive get diagnosed faster—even when their symptoms are the same. You’ll also learn how pelvic floor dysfunction, bladder symptoms, digestive issues, fatigue, and systemic inflammation all intersect with endometriosis and what this means for your care. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. Shop now https://drbrighten.com/radiant/ Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten LUMEBOX Ready to take your skincare results to the next level—right from home? 💡 LUME Box delivers professional-grade LED light therapy in a sleek, easy-to-use device that targets fine lines, pigmentation, and dullness at the cellular level. Just minutes a day can help boost collagen, calm inflammation, and reveal that lit-from-within glow. It’s the same science trusted in top dermatology clinics, now in your hands. Shop now → https://drbrighten.com/lumebox use code drbrighten for our exclusive community discount on your purchase. 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 18 Dec 2025 - 108 - How to Lower Cortisol & RESET Your Nervous System in 90 Seconds | Rosie Acosta
If you’ve ever felt like stress runs the show, your cortisol is permanently stuck on “high,” or mindfulness sounds great in theory but completely unrealistic in real life… this episode is about to change everything. Bestselling author and mindfulness teacher Rosie Acosta joins Dr. Jolene Brighten to reveal how you can lower cortisol, calm your nervous system, and shift out of survival mode in as little as 90 seconds — even if you’re overwhelmed, exhausted, or navigating perimenopause. From the science of vagus nerve breathing to the emotional reactivity of modern life, Rosie and Dr. Brighten break down how tiny, realistic mindfulness practices can literally reshape your brain, support hormone balance, and anchor you back into the person you want to be. This is one of those episodes that makes you pause, breathe differently, and rethink what it means to feel grounded. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. Shop now https://drbrighten.com/radiant/ Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten LUMEBOX Ready to take your skincare results to the next level—right from home? 💡 LUME Box delivers professional-grade LED light therapy in a sleek, easy-to-use device that targets fine lines, pigmentation, and dullness at the cellular level. Just minutes a day can help boost collagen, calm inflammation, and reveal that lit-from-within glow. It’s the same science trusted in top dermatology clinics, now in your hands. Shop now → https://drbrighten.com/lumebox use code drbrighten for our exclusive community discount on your purchase. 💫 Follow Rosie Acosta: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rosieacosta/ 👥 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/radicallylovedrosie/ ⭕ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/rosieacosta 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 16 Dec 2025 - 107 - The Hidden Hormone Disorder: How Isolation Disrupts Cortisol, Sleep & Emotional Stability | Shawn Stevenson
Loneliness isn’t just an emotional experience—it’s a biological event that behaves like a hidden hormone disorder. In this episode, Shawn Stevenson joins Dr. Brighten to expose how the effects of social isolation ripple across your cortisol levels, immune system, emotional stability, and even your genes. You’ll hear how technology, toxic relationships, fractured community networks, and modern family dynamics are driving a quiet but powerful shift in women’s health and longevity. What follows is one of the most illuminating, compassionate, and actionable conversations you’ll ever hear about connection, stress, and the biology of belonging. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. And for a limited time, when you order Radiant Mind, you’ll also receive a free bottle of our best-selling Magnesium Plus—the perfect partner for restorative sleep and steady mood. Learn more at http://drbrighten.com/radiant. Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten OneSkin Founded by an all-woman team of PhD-level scientists, OneSkin is revolutionizing aging with the OS-01™ peptide, the first ingredient proven to reverse skin’s biological age by targeting cellular senescence. The result? Skin that looks, feels, and acts younger. It’s never too early — or too late — to invest in your skin health. Shop now https://oneskin.pxf.io/c/1950532/2885132/31050 🔥 Follow Shawn Stevenson: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawnmodel/ 👥 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheModelHealthShow ⭕ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtFV6nJ5zZ0__SXBkikfLlg 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 11 Dec 2025 - 106 - How to Reduce Stress Hormones Naturally (4-Step Plan)
If you’ve been waking up exhausted, crashing in the afternoon, gaining weight around your belly, or feeling overwhelmed by even the smallest things, this episode is going to be a turning point for you. So many women—especially women over 35 and women moving through perimenopause—are unknowingly dealing with chronic cortisol dysregulation, even when they’re eating well, exercising, and doing “everything right.” In today’s conversation, I walk you through how to reduce stress hormones naturally, using a simple and effective four-step plan you can begin today. You’ll also learn why the holiday season is one of the most stressful times of the year for women’s hormones, and how to make small changes that allow you to enjoy the season without crashing in January. This episode blends science with practicality, and gives you the tools, data, and strategies you need to support cortisol in a way that’s sustainable, accessible, and incredibly effective. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Optimal Adrenal Kit — a science-backed system created to support women’s stress response, energy, and hormonal balance through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the exhaustion of chronic stress, the wired-and-tired cycles of adrenal imbalance, or the way burnout can amplify challenges with mood, focus, or sleep, you’re not alone. The Optimal Adrenal Kit brings together clinically informed adaptogens, targeted B-vitamins, and foundational adrenal nutrients to help nourish your stress pathways and support steady energy, emotional resilience, and whole-body vitality. Shop now https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/optimal-adrenal-kit?_pos=1&_psq=adrenal+kit&_ss=e&_v=1.0&selling_plan=995590178 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 09 Dec 2025 - 105 - 5 Science-Backed Steps to Stop Female Hair Loss and Regrow Your Hair
If you've noticed more hair in your brush, shedding in the shower, or a widening part line, you're in the right place. This episode breaks down the real reasons women lose hair and exactly what you can do about it. Because I promised in the episode that everything would be clearly divided into categories in the show notes, this page includes a step-by-step, science-backed protocol, organized by mechanism so you can easily follow and implement the plan. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. Shop now https://drbrighten.com/radiant/ OneSkin Founded by an all-woman team of PhD-level scientists, OneSkin is revolutionizing aging with the OS-01™ peptide, the first ingredient proven to reverse skin’s biological age by targeting cellular senescence. The result? Skin that looks, feels, and acts younger. It’s never too early — or too late — to invest in your skin health. Shop now https://oneskin.pxf.io/c/1950532/2885132/31050 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 04 Dec 2025 - 104 - Pain During Sex, Causes, Symptoms & When to See a Doctor | Dr. Ana Sierra
In this powerful and deeply validating conversation, we unpack what pain is actually telling you, how doctors should evaluate it, why so many women are misdiagnosed, and the anatomical truths every woman deserves to know about her pelvic health. If you've ever wondered why sex is painful and what to do next, this is the most comprehensive and actionable explanation you’ve ever heard—all based entirely on the insights from the episode transcript. For full episode notes see: https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/pain-during-sex/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 03 Dec 2025 - 103 - How Stress Causes Brain Damage: The New Science of Cortisol, Trauma, and Women’s Brains | Dr. Jessica Peatross
Most people think of traumatic brain injury (TBI) as something caused by a fall, car accident, or physical impact. But new research is redefining TBI entirely — and it has major implications for women. Emotional trauma, chronic stress, and prolonged cortisol elevation can create measurable changes in the brain that mimic the neurological patterns traditionally seen after concussions. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jessica Peatross to explore the emerging science of stress-induced brain injury, why women are uniquely affected, and how emotional trauma disrupts everything from neurotransmitter production to gut permeability to hormone balance. We also discuss Jessica’s personal experience: a cascade of traumatic events, B-vitamin deficiencies, functional freeze, personality changes, and escalating neurological symptoms that eventually led to the discovery of a right-sided brain injury. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. Shop now https://drbrighten.com/radiant/ Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten LUMEBOX Ready to take your skincare results to the next level—right from home? 💡 LUME Box delivers professional-grade LED light therapy in a sleek, easy-to-use device that targets fine lines, pigmentation, and dullness at the cellular level. Just minutes a day can help boost collagen, calm inflammation, and reveal that lit-from-within glow. It’s the same science trusted in top dermatology clinics, now in your hands. Shop now → https://drbrighten.com/lumebox use code drbrighten for our exclusive community discount on your purchase. ⭐ Follow Dr. Jessica Peatross: 💻 Website: https://drjessmd.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.jess.md/?hl=en 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 27 Nov 2025 - 102 - The Hidden Brain Risk Every Woman Over 30 Needs To Know | Max Lugavere
Women make up two out of three cases of Alzheimer’s disease, yet most are never told why—or what they can do to protect themselves long before symptoms appear. In this powerful conversation, Max Lugavere breaks down the misunderstood early drivers of cognitive decline, the role of metabolic health, how environmental toxins contribute to neurodegenerative diseases, and the research showing that the foods you eat every day can shift your brain’s trajectory decades before a diagnosis. If you’ve ever wondered why brain-related conditions disproportionately affect women, or whether prevention is actually possible, this episode is a must-listen. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. Shop now https://drbrighten.com/radiant/ Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten OneSkin Founded by an all-woman team of PhD-level scientists, OneSkin is revolutionizing aging with the OS-01™ peptide, the first ingredient proven to reverse skin’s biological age by targeting cellular senescence. The result? Skin that looks, feels, and acts younger. It’s never too early — or too late — to invest in your skin health. Shop now https://oneskin.pxf.io/c/1950532/2885132/31050 🔥 Follow Max Lugavere: 💻 Website: https://www.instagram.com/maxlugavere/?hl=en 📸 Instagram: https://www.maxlugavere.com/ ⭕ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/maxlugavere 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 25 Nov 2025 - 101 - Why your PCOS Got WORSE after 30 and How to FIX it | Dr. Fiona McCulloch
PCOS symptoms often intensify after 30 due to compounding insulin resistance, adrenal stress patterns, and brain–ovary signaling changes. As estrogen and progesterone begin subtle shifts in the mid-30s, many women experience more anovulatory cycles, higher cortisol responses, and worsening androgen symptoms. This episode takes a whole-system view of PCOS across the lifespan and reframes the condition not as a failure—but as a genetically programmed survival adaptation interacting with a modern environment that our biology wasn’t built for. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. And for a limited time, when you order Radiant Mind, you’ll also receive a free bottle of our best-selling Magnesium Plus—the perfect partner for restorative sleep and steady mood. Learn more at http://drbrighten.com/radiant. Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten OneSkin Founded by an all-woman team of PhD-level scientists, OneSkin is revolutionizing aging with the OS-01™ peptide, the first ingredient proven to reverse skin’s biological age by targeting cellular senescence. The result? Skin that looks, feels, and acts younger. It’s never too early — or too late — to invest in your skin health. Shop now https://oneskin.pxf.io/c/1950532/2885132/31050 🌟 Follow Fiona McCulloch : 💻 Website: https://drfionand.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfionand/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 20 Nov 2025 - 100 - The Hidden Link Between Your Gut Issues and Endometriosis | Dr. Jill Ingenito
If you’ve ever wondered why your “IBS,” nausea, bowel pain, or gut flare-ups always seem to sync with your cycle, this conversation will feel like someone finally turned the lights on. In this episode, chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis specialist Dr. Jill Ingenito breaks down the deeply misunderstood connection between gut symptoms and endometriosis—why so many women are misdiagnosed, how prostaglandins wreak havoc on digestion, and what conventional gynecology is still getting wrong. If you’ve been dismissed, gaslit, or told “everything looks normal,” this episode is your roadmap to real answers. Overview of What You’ll Learn Using real patient stories, surgical insights, and the latest understanding of endometriosis biology, we unpack why gut symptoms are often the earliest sign of endo, how imaging fails women, and why the right kind of specialist matters. You’ll leave with an informed, empowered approach to your symptoms—plus clarity on what’s normal, what’s not, and what to do next. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. And for a limited time, when you order Radiant Mind, you’ll also receive a free bottle of our best-selling Magnesium Plus—the perfect partner for restorative sleep and steady mood. Learn more at http://drbrighten.com/radiant Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten OneSkin Founded by an all-woman team of PhD-level scientists, OneSkin is revolutionizing aging with the OS-01™ peptide, the first ingredient proven to reverse skin’s biological age by targeting cellular senescence. The result? Skin that looks, feels, and acts younger. It’s never too early — or too late — to invest in your skin health. Shop now https://oneskin.pxf.io/c/1950532/2885132/31050 💫 Follow Dr. Jill Ingenito: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drpelvicpaindo/ 👥 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086744101466&ref=_xav_ig_profile_page_web 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.com/@drpelvicpaindo 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 18 Nov 2025 - 99 - Fertility Awareness Method Explained: What Doctors Don’t Teach About Ovulation and Birth Control | Lisa Hendrickson-Jack
What if nearly everything you were taught about your menstrual cycle—and when you can actually get pregnant—was wrong? In this powerful episode, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with fertility awareness educator Lisa Hendrickson-Jack to expose myths that have shaped women’s health for generations. From the six-day fertile window to the real science behind ovulation, this conversation dismantles decades of misinformation about birth control, fertility, and how the medical system continues to fail women. You’ll never think about your cycle—or your doctor’s advice—the same way again. For full show notes and transcript see: https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/fertility-awareness-method/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 13 Nov 2025 - 98 - What Your Chronotype Reveals About Your Hormones, Sleep, and Energy | Dr. Elisa Sacal
Have you ever felt like your body is running on the wrong schedule—wide awake at night, exhausted mid-morning, and wired by 10 p.m.? You’re not lazy or broken; you may just be living out of sync with your biology. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with sleep and hormone specialist Dr. Elisa Sacal to decode the science of chronotypes and hormones—how your genetics, gut health, and hormonal rhythms determine the best times to sleep, eat, and think clearly. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. And for a limited time, when you order Radiant Mind, you’ll also receive a free bottle of our best-selling Magnesium Plus—the perfect partner for restorative sleep and steady mood. Learn more at http://drbrighten.com/radiant. Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten OneSkin Founded by an all-woman team of PhD-level scientists, OneSkin is revolutionizing aging with the OS-01™ peptide, the first ingredient proven to reverse skin’s biological age by targeting cellular senescence. The result? Skin that looks, feels, and acts younger. It’s never too early — or too late — to invest in your skin health. Shop now https://oneskin.pxf.io/c/1950532/2885132/31050 Follow Dr. Elisa Sacal: 💻 Website: https://draelisasacal.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dra.elisasacal/ 👥 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dra.elisasacal/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 11 Nov 2025 - 97 - What Is a TSH Lab Test? Decode the Thyroid Numbers Your Doctor Overlooked
Feeling foggy, forgetful, or like your brain has lost its edge? You’re not imagining it. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten explains what your TSH lab test really tells you and what it doesn’t. Most doctors stop testing after TSH, but this brain-to-thyroid signal is only one piece of your hormonal story. You’ll learn how thyroid hormones influence energy, metabolism, mood, and focus, why women are far more likely to struggle with thyroid disorders, and which labs and nutrients can help you finally clear the brain fog for good. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Thyroid Support https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/thyroid-support — featuring selenium, zinc, coleus forskohlii, and tyrosine to support healthy thyroid hormone production and conversion. Also mentioned: Women’s Twice Daily https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/womens-twice-daily multivitamin (for vitamin A, B2, and manganese) Vitamin D https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/vitamin-d3-k2 & Omega Plus https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/omega-plus for immune and thyroid balance Beyond the Pill https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/beyond-the-pill and Is This Normal? https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/is-this-normal by Dr. Jolene Brighten 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 06 Nov 2025 - 96 - ADHD and Hormones: Why Women Are Misdiagnosed for Decades | Andrew Robinson
If your focus, mood, and memory seem to fluctuate with your menstrual cycle, or your brain fog worsened during perimenopause, you’re not imagining things. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with ADHD therapist and educator Andrew Robinson, MSW, to uncover how hormones directly influence ADHD symptoms — and why so many women are still being overlooked, dismissed, or misdiagnosed. You’ll learn how ADHD can cut 8 years off life expectancy when untreated, why stimulant medications save lives, and how tracking hormonal shifts can reveal patterns that help you manage your brain instead of fighting it. Dr. Brighten and Andrew share the science, the stories, and the strategies women need to finally understand their brains — not blame them. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. And for a limited time, when you order Radiant Mind, you’ll also receive a free bottle of our best-selling Magnesium Plus—the perfect partner for restorative sleep and steady mood. Learn more at http://drbrighten.com/radiant. Follow Andrew Robinson: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myadhdcounselor/?hl=en 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@myadhdcounselor 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.com/@myadhdcounselor?igshid=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 04 Nov 2025 - 95 - Thyroid Problems in Women Skyrocket During Perimenopause + What to Do About It | Dr. Christine Maren
When your body starts changing in your late 30s and 40s, fatigue, weight gain, and brain fog are often blamed on “just perimenopause.” But the truth? Your thyroid is probably struggling too. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten and Dr. Christine Maren expose why thyroid issues surge during perimenopause, how gut health plays a surprising role, and what real hormone balance looks like when you stop being dismissed by conventional medicine. This Episode Is Brought to You By: Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now → https://drbrightenessentials.com 💫 Follow Dr. Christine Maren: 💻 Website: https://drchristinemaren.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drchristinemaren/?hl=en 👥 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrChristineMaren/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 30 Oct 2025 - 94 - Why 79% of Parents Are Getting It Wrong (and How to Fix It) | Ann-Louise Lockhart
Are you tired of hearing that the teenage years are guaranteed to be a struggle? What if the traditional advice about raising teens is actually making things harder? In this revealing episode, pediatric psychologist Dr. Ann-Louise Lockhart uncovers why 79% of Gen Z parents are stepping in to solve their kids’ problems—and what this trend exposes about modern parenting. If you’ve been feeling disconnected from your teen or unsure how to support their mental health, this conversation will reshape how you understand and navigate adolescence. You’ll learn practical, science-based strategies to help your teen build confidence, resilience, and emotional independence—while strengthening your relationship so they’ll actually open up about the tough stuff, from anxiety and depression to academic pressure and identity challenges. 💫 Follow Ann-Louise Lockhart: 💻 Website: https://www.anewdaysa.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.annlouise.lockhart 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@dr.annlouise.lockhart 👥 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dr.annlouise.lockhart/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 28 Oct 2025 - 93 - A Pediatrician’s Unfiltered Take on Pharma, Research, and Real Health— Why Medicine Needs Transparency Now | Dr. Joel “Gator” Warsh
Can we still trust modern medicine? In this eye-opening episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten speaks with integrative pediatrician Dr. Joel “Gator” Warsh about how the pharmaceutical industry influences medicine, research, and public health. Together, they expose where the system puts profit over people—and share how transparency, prevention, and empowerment can help rebuild real trust in healthcare. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials 🧠 Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied Affron® saffron, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. And for a limited time, when you order Radiant Mind, you’ll also receive a free bottle of our best-selling Magnesium Plus—the perfect partner for restorative sleep and steady mood. Learn more at http://drbrighten.com/radiant. Links Mentioned in This Episode JAMA Network Open: Trends in Public Trust in the U.S. Health Care System, 2020–2024 https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2821693 World Health Organization: Vitamin A Supplementation in Measles Treatment https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/vitamin-a-supplementation-in-measles The Flexner Report (1910) https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3178858/ Consumer Reports: Heavy Metals in Infant Formula https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/baby-formula/baby-formula-contaminants-test-results-a7140095293/ NIH Review: Effects of Food Dyes on Children’s Behavior https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9052604/ Associate Attorney General Tom Perrelli at Pfizer Settlement Press Conference https://www.justice.gov/archives/opa/speech/associate-attorney-general-tom-perrelli-pfizer-settlement-press-conference?utm_source=chatgpt.com 🩺 Follow Dr. Joel Gator Warsh: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjoelgator/?hl=en 🏥 Clinic: https://integrativepediatricsandmedicine.com/about/ 📖 Book: https://amzn.to/4opx82D 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 23 Oct 2025 - 92 - The Science of Better Sex: How to Improve Your Sex Life with Dr. Tara, Top University Sex Professor
Ever wondered why your sex life changes over time — or why what once worked no longer lights you up? In this powerful episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Tara Suwinyattichaiporn, a tenured professor of sexual communication at California State University, Fullerton, joins Dr. Jolene Brighten to share the science of sexual personality and the psychology of pleasure, communication, and confidence. Together, they explore what it really takes to improve your sex life, deepen intimacy, and understand your partner on a whole new level — using data-driven insights and decades of research in sexual mindfulness, relational communication, and women’s sexual well-being. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. And for a limited time, when you order Radiant Mind, you’ll also receive a free bottle of our best-selling Magnesium Plus—the perfect partner for restorative sleep and steady mood. Learn more at http://drbrighten.com/radiant. Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten OneSkin Founded by an all-woman team of PhD-level scientists, OneSkin is revolutionizing aging with the OS-01™ peptide, the first ingredient proven to reverse skin’s biological age by targeting cellular senescence. The result? Skin that looks, feels, and acts younger. It’s never too early — or too late — to invest in your skin health. Shop now https://oneskin.pxf.io/c/1950532/2885132/31050 ❤️🔥 Follow Dr. Tara: 💻 Website: https://www.luvbites.co/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/luvbites.co/?hl=en 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@luvbites.co ⭕ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrbW6PCKjgcxkq3dTvjjeyQ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 21 Oct 2025 - 91 - The Loneliness Epidemic Is Worse Than You Think | Neuroscientist Dr. Ben Rein Explains
Human connection isn’t optional—it’s a biological survival mechanism. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, neuroscientist Dr. Ben Rein exposes the shocking truth about the loneliness epidemic—how chronic isolation alters your brain, weakens your immune system, and increases your risk of death. Together, we explore the neuroscience of empathy, the hormonal roots of connection, and why the modern world is quietly reshaping our ability to feel for one another. This episode is brought to you by: Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. And for a limited time, when you order Radiant Mind, you’ll also receive a free bottle of our best-selling Magnesium Plus—the perfect partner for restorative sleep and steady mood. Learn more at http://drbrighten.com/radiant. Follow Dr. Ben Rein: 💻 Website: https://www.benrein.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.benrein/?hl=en 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.benrein 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJoleneBrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 16 Oct 2025 - 90 - The Hidden Causes of Perimenopause Exhaustion: Stress, Hormones, and Your Brain
Feeling like your energy has been hijacked lately? You’re not imagining it — perimenopause exhaustion is real, and it’s not just about getting older or not sleeping enough. In this powerful conversation, Dr. Jolene Brighten, board-certified naturopathic endocrinologist and author of Is This Normal?, sits down with Dr. Mariza Snyder, bestselling author of The Perimenopause Solution, to uncover why so many women in their 30s and 40s suddenly feel depleted, foggy, and unlike themselves. Together, they reveal how shifting hormones, chronic stress, and brain rewiring collide in midlife and what you can do to rebuild your energy, resilience, and joy. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. And for a limited time, when you order Radiant Mind, you’ll also receive a free bottle of our best-selling Magnesium Plus—the perfect partner for restorative sleep and steady mood. Learn more at http://drbrighten.com/radiant. Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind? At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten OneSkin Founded by an all-woman team of PhD-level scientists, OneSkin is revolutionizing aging with the OS-01™ peptide, the first ingredient proven to reverse skin’s biological age by targeting cellular senescence. The result? Skin that looks, feels, and acts younger. It’s never too early — or too late — to invest in your skin health https://oneskin.pxf.io/c/1950532/2885132/31050 Follow Mariza Snyder: Dr. Mariza Snyder’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmariza/?hl=en Dr. Mariza Snyder’s Website: https://drmariza.com/ Dr. Mariza Snyder’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drmarizasnyder/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJoleneBrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 14 Oct 2025 - 89 - Brain Fog Treatment: What’s Really Behind It and How to Get Your Clarity Back
Have you ever forgotten mid-sentence what you were saying, or walked into a room only to wonder why you went there in the first place? You’re not alone and it’s not “just aging.” In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten explains how hormonal shifts, poor sleep, and chronic stress can steal mental clarity and shares practical, evidence-based strategies to reverse it. This episode is brought to you by: Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. And for a limited time, when you order Radiant Mind, you’ll also receive a free bottle of our best-selling Magnesium Plus—the perfect partner for restorative sleep and steady mood. Learn more at https://drbrighten.com/radiant/. Shop now: http://drbrighten.com/radiant 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJoleneBrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 09 Oct 2025 - 88 - Endometriosis Diet That Stopped 20 Years of Pain | Khush Sra
What if your doctor told you endometriosis was just “bad periods” — and the only solution was surgery or the pill? In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, functional nutritionist and former engineer Khush Sra shares how she went from five surgeries and two decades of endometriosis pain to living pain-free for 20 years. Her transformation came not from another prescription, but from a whole-body, anti-inflammatory endometriosis diet, nervous system repair, and gut-healing nutrition. You’ll discover why this condition isn’t just hormonal — it’s a full-body immune imbalance — and how a few simple, science-backed lifestyle changes can help you reclaim energy, reduce inflammation, and restore balance. View the full show notes, studies, and resources at https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/endometriosis-diet/ This episode is brought to you by: Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. And for a limited time, when you order Radiant Mind, you’ll also receive a free bottle of our best-selling Magnesium Plus—the perfect partner for restorative sleep and steady mood. Learn more at http://drbrighten.com/radiant. Shop now http://drbrighten.com/radiant Follow Khush Sra: 💻 Website: https://khushsra.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endonutrition/?hl=en 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 07 Oct 2025 - 87 - Natural Remedies for Hot Flashes, Brain Fog & Sleepless Nights
Hot flashes can feel overwhelming—leaving you drenched in sweat at 2 AM, exhausted during the day, and wondering if relief is even possible. The good news? There are natural remedies for hot flashes that go beyond quick fixes and are backed by science. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, we uncover simple, effective strategies that not only ease hot flashes but also support clearer thinking, steadier moods, and deeper sleep during perimenopause and menopause. You’ll leave this conversation with practical solutions, supplement strategies, and mind-body tools you can start exploring right away. View the full show notes, studies, and resources at https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/natural-remedies-for-hot-flashes/. This Episode is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. And for a limited time, when you order Radiant Mind, you’ll also receive a free bottle of our best-selling Magnesium Plus—the perfect partner for restorative sleep and steady mood. Learn more at http://drbrighten.com/radiant. Shop now 🎧For the entire show notes + links mentioned in the episode, please visit: https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/natural-remedies-for-hot-flashes/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 02 Oct 2025 - 86 - Hidden Symptoms of PMDD & PMS: How Progesterone, Birth Control & Brain Chemistry Shape Your Mood | Dr. Sarah Hill
Struggling with mood swings, anxiety, or depression before your period and wondering if it’s more than just “PMS”? You’re not alone. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, I sit down with Dr. Sarah Hill, trailblazing researcher and author of This Is Your Brain on Birth Control and The Period Brain, to uncover the hidden symptoms of PMDD and PMS that most doctors miss. We dive deep into how hormones shape your brain, why birth control may not be the fix you think it is, and the groundbreaking science behind progesterone, progestins, and your mental health. This conversation reveals the truth about hormone sensitivity, trauma, neurodivergence, and perimenopause, offering insights that could transform the way you understand your body and your brain. View the full show notes and resources mentioned in this episode at https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/pmdd-symptoms/ If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. This Episode Is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life http://drbrighten.com/radiant Sunlighten Saunas - at Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten Support our sponsors and help keep this show free and packed with amazing guests! Follow Dr. Sarah Hill: 💻 Website: https://www.sarahehill.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahehillphd/?hl=en Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 30 Sep 2025 - 85 - Top AuDHD Expert: Shocking Risks of Undiagnosed Female ADHD & Autism | Dr. Samantha Hiew
ADHD in women is often misunderstood and autism in women is even more invisible. In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Dr. Samantha Hiew, award-winning speaker, researcher, and author of Tip of the ADHD Iceberg. Together, we break down the myths, the biology, and the lived experience that medicine has ignored for too long. In this episode, you’ll discover why so many women are dismissed in assessments, how hormones play a role in ADHD and autism, and what you can do if medication isn’t working for you. View the full show notes, links, and resources at https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/female-adhd/. This Episode is Brought to you By: Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/radiant-mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life. If you’ve ever felt the brain fog of perimenopause or noticed how ADHD can amplify challenges with focus, memory, mood, or sleep, you’re not alone. Radiant Mind combines clinically studied saffron extract, Bacognize® Bacopa, Cognizin® Citicoline, and zinc to help nourish your brain chemistry and support clarity, calm, and resilience. And for a limited time, when you order Radiant Mind, you’ll also receive a free bottle of our best-selling Magnesium Plus—the perfect partner for restorative sleep and steady mood. Learn more at http://drbrighten.com/radiant. Shop now → https://drbrightenessentials.com 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 25 Sep 2025 - 84 - The New Perimenopause Weight Loss Approach | Tara LaFerrara
Kick the “eat less, move more” myth to the curb. In this episode, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with strength coach Tara LaFerrara to explain why resistance training is the queen for perimenopausal and menopausal women who want real results—better body recomposition, stronger bones, steadier energy, and less belly fat—without living on a treadmill or wrecking their hormones. You’ll learn how to train smarter (not harder), what to change in your 30s, 40s, 50s+, and how sleep, stress, and mobility quietly make or break your progress. We dig into walking, Pilates vs. strength, why the scale lies, and the mindset shift from motivation to disciplined routines that carry you through messy days. This episode is brought to you by: Dr. Brighten Essentials Radiant Mind—a science-backed formula created to support women’s brain health through every stage of life http://drbrighten.com/radiant Shop now → https://drbrightenessentials.com Founded by an all-woman team of PhD-level scientists, OneSkin is revolutionizing aging with the OS-01™ peptide, the first ingredient proven to reverse skin’s biological age by targeting cellular senescence. Shop now → https://oneskin.pxf.io/c/1950532/2885132/3105 LUME Box delivers professional-grade LED light therapy in a sleek, easy-to-use device that targets fine lines, pigmentation, and dullness at the cellular level. Shop now → https://drbrighten.com/lumebox use code drbrighten for our exclusive community discount on your purchase. Support our sponsors and help keep this show free and packed with amazing guests! Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Tara LaFerrara – Broads App & Coaching (strength, mobility, programming for women) https://www.broads.app/midlife-broad-program Perimenopause Weight Loss Action Plan - Free Guide https://drbrighten.com/plan/ Article: How to Lose Weight in Perimenopause https://drbrighten.com/how-to-lose-weight-during-perimenopause/ Mental Load & Relationships with Dr. Vanessa Marin — Learn how the hidden mental load impacts intimacy, stress, and even your ability to prioritize self-care https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/92-vanessa-and-xander-marin-your-sex-drive-isnt/id1710024779?i=1000712224524 Perimenopause? How to Lose Weight (without starving yourself) https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/perimenopause-how-to-lose-weight/ ADHD, Executive Function & Perimenopause with Dr. Jolene Brighten — Why ADHD symptoms often intensify in perimenopause and practical strategies to support brain health, focus, and daily routines https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/menopause-and-adhd/ Follow Tara LaFerrara: 💻 Website: https://www.taralaferrara.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taralaferrara/ 🎥 TikTok :https://www.tiktok.com/@taralaferrara?lang=en 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 23 Sep 2025 - 83 - Peptides for Hair Loss & Skin Aging Reversal: OneSkin Review
Interested in trying OneSkin for yourself Visit http://oneskin.co/BRIGHTEN and use code BRIGHTEN for 15% off your first purchase. Discover the best skincare products for aging skin and the science behind peptides that target “zombie cells” to support hair growth and skin longevity. View full show notes and all links at https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/oneskin/. Chapters — Key Moments 00:00 — Episode Trailer (Skin Aging Control) 01:24 — Show Welcome 02:12 — Topical Retinol & Inflammation 07:49 — How to Cycle Retinol Safely 10:48 — Zombie (Senescent) Cells Explained 14:28 — What Are Peptides? 16:55 — Not All Peptides Are Equal—OS01 17:19 — OS-01: Validated Results 22:09 — OneSkin Benefits Over Time 23:56 — OneSkin Review of Outcomes 25:37 — Menopause-Focused SkinCare 27:23 — How to Preserve Collagen 29:28 — Lowering Systemic Inflammation (Cytokines) 32:09 — Skin Fragility With Age 37:16 — Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Aging 39:54 — Blue Light Damages Skin 40:58 — Best Antioxidants for Skin Health 43:45 — Smart Sun Exposure Guidelines 47:50 — Can You Reverse Sun Damage? 50:03 — Best Skincare Routine for Over 50 54:13 — Eye Cream Clinical Trial Results 55:58 — Best Skincare in Your 20s 57:13 — Pregnancy & Melasma Treatment 59:53 — Hidden Causes of Skin Aging 01:06:55 — Stress and Hair Loss 01:10:35 — How to Improve Hair Density & Thickness 01:15:18 — How to Regrow Hair 01:18:25 — Scalp Microbiome Health 01:23:51 — Biggest Skin-Aging Misconception 01:27:16 — Episode Outro Dr. Brighten’s OneSkin Review I always want to know if a product actually delivers on its promises before recommending it to my community. I tried OneSkin’s OS-01 peptide moisturizer and eye cream myself, and I was impressed. As someone with sensitive skin, I’m cautious with new products, but I noticed the eye cream made a real difference during a hectic back-to-school week when my sleep was lacking. My skin looked more hydrated and less tired than I felt. What stood out most to me is that OneSkin’s peptide technology isn’t just about appearance—it’s about skin health and resilience. That’s what makes it different from many other products I’ve tested over the years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 18 Sep 2025 - 82 - SIBO vs IBS vs Leaky Gut: Tests, Treatments, and How to Heal Fast | Dr. Carolina Gonzalez
If you’ve ever struggled with bloating, brain fog, or unexplained fatigue, you’ve probably wondered: Is it IBS, SIBO, or something else? In this episode of the Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with gut health powerhouse Dr. Carolina Gonzalez to uncover the truth about digestive disorders that are often misdiagnosed. They cut through the noise around parasite cleanses, leaky gut, and probiotics for SIBO—so you’ll know what really works, what doesn’t, and how to take the first steps toward true healing. You’ll also learn why up to 70% of people told they have IBS actually have SIBO, how stress and sleep impact your microbiome, and what every woman should know about gut health, hormones, and long-term well-being. This episode is brought to you by: Dr. Brighten Essentials: https://drbrightenessentials.com use code POD15 for 15% off Chorus: use this link http://chorusforlife.com/drbrighten and and receive 10 percent off your order or subscription OneSkin: https://oneskin.pxf.io/c/1950532/2885132/31050 Support our sponsors and help keep this show free and packed with amazing guests! 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Dr. Brighten Essentials Women’s Probiotic https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/womens-probiotic Dr. Brighten Essentials Adrenal Calm https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/adrenal-calm Carolina Gonzalez’s website https://www.ctnaturalhealth.com/ Carolina Gonzalez’’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegoodgutdoc/ Carolina Gonzalez’s Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goodgutdoc Podcast: Gut Health Probiotics https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/gut-health-probiotics/ Article: SIBO Part I https://drbrighten.com/sibo-symptoms-what-is-it-how-do-i-know-if-i-have-it/ Article: SIBO Part II: https://drbrighten.com/sibo-treatment-natural-diet/ Article: The Surprising Cause of IBS https://drbrighten.com/the-surprising-cause-of-ibs/ Article: Histamine Intolerance https://drbrighten.com/histamine-intolerance/ Podcast: Natural Treatments for Eczema | Jen Fugo https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/natural-treatments-for-eczema/ Podcast: Cortisol Face, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Insulin Resistance | Alaia Baldwin https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/cortisol-face/ Podcast: Hashimoto’s Hypothyroidism. Dr. Izabella Wentz https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/hashimotos-hypothyroidism/ Podcast: Top Foods That Delay Menopause | Dr. Kara Fitzgerald https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/how-to-delay-menopause/ Clean 15 & Dirty Dozen produce guide (EWG) https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 🎧 Subscribe to the Podcast: Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dr-brighten-show/id1786362161 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5VWcYWJFzi3OnwidT25IXi?si=481df20ef0a6417 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 16 Sep 2025 - 81 - Menopause Brain Fog Is Real: 7 Science-Backed Ways To Clear It | Dr. Jolene Brighten
Menopause brain fog is the short-term difficulty with focus, word-finding, and memory that can show up in perimenopause and early postmenopause. It’s driven by estradiol fluctuations, declining progesterone/allopregnanolone (ALLO), and sleep fragmentation from hot flashes. The good news? It’s usually reversible with symptom treatment and daily habit shifts. Listen to this episode for the full brain-chemistry tour and a practical plan to feel clearer, calmer, and more you. Chapters 00:00:00 Menopause Brain Fog: Who This Episode Helps 00:03:00 Perimenopause Timeline: 7–10 Years 00:06:00 Hormones that affect sleep 00:07:00 Women’s Testosterone: Drive, Initiation, Libido 00:09:00 HRT “Critical Window” + Insulin Resistance 00:11:00 Menopause Brain Fog Explained: “Software Update” Model 00:13:00 Endocrine Age vs Chronological Age: Why It Matters 00:14:00 My Story: Mood Crash & Lost Mental Edge 00:19:00 Menopause Brain Fog vs ADHD: Executive Function Clues 00:26:00 Hormone Stage Drives Brain 00:28:00 Estrogen, Dopamine, GABA: Memory & Focus Pathways 00:33:00 Signs to Look Out For 00:39:00 Hot Flashes Fragment Deep & REM Sleep (Here’s Why) 00:46:00 Will Brain Fog Go Away? SWAN Data & Adaptation 00:48:00 Medical Conditions That Cause Brain Fog 00:50:00 Focus Tools 00:55:00 Sleep Protocol: Fix Wake Time, Morning Light, Cool Room 00:57:00 Exercise & Brain Health 00:58:00 Saffron (Affron®): Mood, Sleep, Libido Support 01:01:00 Citicoline (Cognizin®): Attention & Mental Energy 01:04:00 Bacopa (Bacognize®): Memory & Calm Focus 01:08:00 Magnesium & Brain Health: Sleep, Migraines, Aging 01:18:00 Nervous System Downshift 01:22:00 CBT-I/ACT for Midlife Brain Fog & Rumination 01:23:00 Surgical Menopause & Dementia Risk 01:31:00 Key Takeaways 🎧For the entire show notes + links mentioned in the episode, please visit: https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/menopause-brain-fog/ 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 11 Sep 2025 - 80 - Natural Treatments for Eczema That Actually Work: Creams, Moisturisers & More | Jen Fugo
Natural treatments eczema, eczema moisturisers, and dyshidrotic dermatitis—what actually helps and what quietly makes skin worse. View the full show notes and all links mentioned at https://drbrighten.com. This episode is brought to you by: Dr. Brighten Essentials Use the Code: POD15 to save 15% on your order https://drbrightenessentials.com/ Chorus Exclusive for podcast listeners: http://chorusforlife.com/drbrighten and and receive 10 percent off your order or subscription OneSkin Shop now → https://oneskin.pxf.io/c/1950532/2885132/31050 Links Mentioned in This Episode Jennifer Fugo’s Healthy Skin Show Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-healthy-skin-show/id1449210022 Quell Shop: Skincare and supplements for chronic skin conditions https://www.quellshop.com Episodes Mentioned Is It Really Histamine Intolerance? with Jen Fugo — on histamine, skin rashes, and hidden gut triggers https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/is-it-really-histamine-intolerance/ Struggling with Sleep & Anxiety? Dr. Carrie Jones https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/struggling-with-sleep-amp-anxiety/ The Best Skincare for Aging Skin| Dr. Sara Cherem https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/best-skincare-for-aging-skin/ The Best Skincare Products for Aging Skin| Dr. Tony Youn https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/best-skincare-products-for-aging-skin/ What Every Woman Needs to Know to Balance Hormones https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/gut-health-probiotics/ Articles: What is Histamine Intolerance https://drbrighten.com/histamine-intolerance/ 12 Natural Treatments for Hyperthyroidism https://drbrighten.com/natural-treatments-hyperthyroidism/ The Thyroid Gut Connection https://drbrighten.com/thyroid-gut-connection/ Topical Estrogen Face Cream https://drbrighten.com/estrogen-face-cream/ Studies & Research Mentions Reviewing the Evidence Base for Topical Steroid Withdrawal Syndrome in the Research Literature and Social Media Platforms: An Evidence Gap Map: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11662184 Topical Steroid Withdrawal (Red Skin Syndrome): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK603718/ Topical Steroid Withdrawal in Atopic Dermatitis: Patient-reported Characterization from a Swedish Social Media Questionnaire: https://medicaljournalssweden.se/actadv/article/view/40187 Psoriasis https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMra0804595 Interleukin-17 and Interleukin-23: A Narrative Review of Mechanisms of Action in Psoriasis and Associated Comorbidities https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8019008 Proinflammatory Cytokine IL-17 Shows a Significant Association with Helicobacter pylori Infection and Disease Severity https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5748147 Global Prevalence of Helicobacter pylori Infection and Incidence of Gastric Cancer Between 1980 and 2022 https://www.gastrojournal.org/article/S0016-5085%2823%2905687-1/fulltext Global prevalence of Helicobacter pylori infection between 1980 and 2022: a systematic review and meta-analysis https://www.thelancet.com/journals/langas/article/PIIS2468-1253%2823%2900070-5/abstract Revisiting the Roles of Filaggrin in Atopic Dermatitis https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9140947 Filaggrin gene mutations with special reference to atopic dermatitis https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7880084 Follow Jen Fugo: 💻 Website: https://www.jenniferfugo.com 📸 Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/jenniferfugo 💻 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/jenfugo 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jenniferfugo 👩🏻⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 09 Sep 2025 - 79 - The Hidden Costs of People Pleasing: Why ADHD Women Struggle + How to Break Free | Meredith Carder
If you’ve ever found yourself saying “yes” when you desperately wanted to say “no,” you’re not alone—especially if you’re a woman living with ADHD. In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, I sit down with ADHD coach and author Meredith Carder to uncover why chronic people pleasing in ADHD women is so common, how it connects to masking, guilt, and burnout, and most importantly—how you can break free. You’ll hear practical tools, fresh perspectives, and science-backed insights that will make you feel seen, supported, and empowered. This episode is brought to you by: Dr. Brighten Essentials: https://drbrightenessentials.com use code POD15 for 15% off Support our sponsor and help keep this show free and packed with amazing guests! Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Meredith Carder – [Author & ADHD Coach] https://www.instagram.com/hummingbird_adhd/ Meredith’s community, The Hummingbird Hive https://meredith-rose-carder.mykajabi.com/group-membership Meredith’s book It All Makes Sense Now https://amzn.to/45XHvTN Research referenced: study on higher mortality risk in ADHD women Dr. Ann Louise Lockhart’s episode on parenting and emotional regulation (for further listening) https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/raising-kids-with-big-feelings/ Diet for ADHD: How Nutrition Shapes Focus, Mood, and Brain Health | Timothy Frie https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/diet-for-adhd/ Mouth Breathing, ADHD & the Cavity Conspiracy: What Your Dentist Isn’t Telling You | Dr. Staci Whitman https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/mouth-breathing-in-children/ ADHD Types and Hormones: The Unexpected Link You Need to Know | Ludovico Saint amour di Chanaz https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/adhd-types-and-hormones/ ADHD, Sleep & Hormones: Why Your Brain Won’t Shut Off at Night https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/adhd-sleep-hormones/ ADHD Burnout? Your Hormones Might Be Sabotaging You https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/adhd-burnout/ How Hormones and Menopause Affect ADHD: What No One’s Telling You https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/menopause-and-adhd/ ADHD Endometriosis Connection: What You Should Know If You’re Diagnosed with ADHD https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/adhd-endometriosis-connection/ Article: Exploring Natural Solutions for Adult ADHD — How To Find Relief https://drbrighten.com/natural-remedies-adhd/ Follow Meredith Carder: Website https://meredithcarder.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hummingbird_adhd/ Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: Website: https://www.drbrighten.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 04 Sep 2025
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