PODCAST · health
The Dr. Brighten Show
by Dr. Jolene Brighten
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.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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The Dr. Brighten Show is entering a new chapter
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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
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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
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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
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163
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
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162
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
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161
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
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160
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
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159
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
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158
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
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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
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156
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
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155
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
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154
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
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153
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
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152
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
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151
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
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150
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
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149
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
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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
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147
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
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146
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
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145
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
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144
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
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143
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
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142
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
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141
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
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140
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
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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
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138
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
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137
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
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136
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
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135
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
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134
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
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133
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
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132
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
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131
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
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130
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
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129
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
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128
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
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127
Divorce Rate in America: Why Women File & What Menopause Has to Do With It
Let’s talk about the divorce rate in America without the blame games, the “men are trash” hot takes, or the tired advice that sounds good on a mug but falls apart the minute a kid pukes at 2 a.m. Here’s the reality: divorce is common, but it’s not random. Patterns show up again and again—especially in midlife. And if you’re hearing more conversations about menopause and divorce, that’s not because hormones “ruin women.” It’s because midlife can amplify everything that was already fragile: emotional disconnection, uneven mental load, and intimacy that feels more like pressure than connection. The full article (which is based on my conversation with therapist Leann Borneman on The Dr. Brighten Show) can be found here https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/menopause-and-divorce/ with all the links mentioned in this episode. 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/ 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 Leann Borneman resources: Leann Borneman’s website resources: Partner Intimacy Menu https://www.bornemancoaching.com/product-page/partner-intimacy-menu and ADHD-informed Bedroom Check-in https://www.bornemancoaching.com/product-page/adhd-informed-bedroom-check-in-digital-pdf-download Leann Bourneman’s Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bornemanpsychotherapy Leann Bourneman;s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bornemanpsychotherapy/ Leann Bourneman’s Website: https://www.bornemancoaching.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
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126
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
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ABOUT THIS 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.
HOSTED BY
Dr. Jolene Brighten
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