#73 - From Disordered Eating to Fertility Freedom: Haley Smith’s Holistic Journey

What if your fertility struggles were actually the start of your empowerment? In this episode of Telemedicine Talks, Haley Smith joins hosts Dr. Leo Damasco and Phoebe Gutierrez to discuss her journey into women’s health and fertility. A functional nutritionist and certified fertility awareness practitioner with a master’s in nutrition from the National University of Natural Medicine, Haley founded the Holistic Fertility Clinic and hosts the Fertility Freedom Podcast. She opens up about overcoming disordered eating, limiting family beliefs around entrepreneurship, and the “insane” decision to start her own practice with no roadmap. The conversation covers the power of taking imperfect action, unwinding negative self-talk, the freedom (and challenges) of practicing in a less-regulated holistic space, and how telemedicine has allowed her to serve clients worldwide. Haley also explores her interest in expanding her clinic through a PC MSO model to bring on PAs/NPs, provide more comprehensive care (including diagnostics and prescriptions when needed), and maintain the heart-centered approach her patients love. Listeners will hear powerful success stories of women conceiving after years of struggle and gain insight into root-cause, whole-person fertility care. Top 3 Takeaways: Take Imperfect Action: You learn the most by starting before you feel ready. You can’t fail if you don’t quit  consistent small steps and “winks from the universe” compound over time. Overcome Limiting Beliefs: Family narratives and internalized self-doubt are major barriers for first-generation entrepreneurs. Building self-trust and positive self-talk directly fuels business growth. The Third Door in Telemedicine: Virtual care removes traditional overhead and geographic limits. Collaborative models (like MSOs) allow holistic providers to partner with licensed clinicians for well-rounded, patient-centered care while staying compliant. About the Show   Telemedicine Talks explores the evolving world of digital health, helping physicians navigate new opportunities, regulatory challenges, and career transitions in telemedicine.   About the Guest Haley Smith is a functional nutritionist, fertility awareness practitioner, and podcaster. She is the founder of the Holistic Fertility Clinic and host of the Fertility Freedom Podcast. With a master’s degree in nutrition from the National University of Natural Medicine, Haley helps women communicate with their bodies, understand their cycles, and overcome fertility challenges through a holistic, root-cause approach. Connect with Haley Smith on: Instagram: @haleysmith.hfc New Official Clinic Page: @HolisticFertilityClinic About the Hosts: Dr. Leo Damasco – Pediatrician and emergency medicine doctor turned telemedicine advocate, helping physicians transition to digital health. Phoebe Gutierrez – Former state regulator turned telehealth executive, specializing in compliance and sustainable virtual care models.   Connect with Phoebe Gutierrez:  https://www.linkedIn.com/in/pkgutierrez/   [email protected]   (mailto:[email protected]) The information provided in Telemedicine Talks is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, legal, or financial advice. While we discuss best practices, industry trends, and real-world experiences, every situation is unique. Listeners should consult with qualified professionals before making decisions related to telemedicine practice, compliance, contracts, or business operations. The views expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of any organizations they may be affiliated with. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.