Autoimmunity and the Good Girls: Behind-the-Page with Sara Hirsh Bordo

Have you ever ignored a gut feeling or a signal from your body?  We have absolutely all been there. Learning to embrace the wisdom and power of our own bodies is a life long journey but it is extremely important for our health and well being as women.  This week’s episode features a few very precious highlights from my multi-hour interview with fellow eldest daughter, fellow multi-time diagnosed and trauma survivor, entrepreneur and writer Michal Ann Morrison.  In this episode, we cover: How early life messages around obedience and shame influence chronic illness The impact of societal and religious conditioning on women's health and self-identity How anger and unresolved emotions manifest as physical illness The importance of trusting bodily cues as sources of truth Strategies for women to reframe their relationship with their bodies and intuition The eldest daughter experience and its relevance to women with autoimmune conditions Strategies for reframing the relationship between your body, faith and self-care This episode delves into the deeply personal journey of redefining womanhood, health and self-trust through the lens of autoimmune experiences and spiritual reconnection.   Ready to go deeper? Pre-order my new book, AUTOIMMUNITY & THE GOOD GIRLS, now! Available June 2, 2026 in the U.S., and July 28 internationally. Find it wherever books are sold. A portion of my proceeds support the Society for Women’s Health Research.  Learn more: www.goodgirlsbook.com Resources & Links: IG: @michalann  Threads: @michalann   A WOMEN RISING® PRODUCTION Written, Directed and Produced by Sara Hirsh Bordo Editor and Consulting Producer: Eric Larner Post-Producer: Caroline Aylward  “Metamorphosis” by MILCK, Licensed courtesy of Resin8 Management

Have you ever felt like your body is working against you instead of for you? Do you struggle to trust your intuition—or wonder if you even have access to it? In this deeply expansive conversation, I chat with Stacie Codino, Angelic Shamanic Practitioner, NLC-P, EP, with a specialization in Spiritual Connection through Natural Lifemanship. Together, we explore the soul-level lens of autoimmune illness and what it’s here to teach us. We unpack the hidden ways resistance, victimization and conditioning keep us stuck and how shifting into trust, intention and self-permission can begin to open pathways toward healing. In this episode, we cover: The spiritual dimension of autoimmune illness and healing Overcoming resistance and victim mentality for health transformation Connecting with intuition and inner power during health challenges Societal roots of "good girl" conditioning and its impact on wellbeing Breaking ancestral and patriarchal patterns How to recognize relief signals from your body as guidance Tools and frameworks for cultivating self-trust and spiritual connection This episode invites you to consider a new possibility: That your body isn’t betraying you, it’s communicating with you. It invites women to step into their power and trust their body's messages as a vital part of their autoimmunity journey.   Ready to go deeper? Pre-order my new book, AUTOIMMUNITY & THE GOOD GIRLS, now! Available June 2, 2026 in the U.S., and July 28 internationally. Find it wherever books are sold. A portion of my proceeds support the Society for Women’s Health Research.  Learn more: www.goodgirlsbook.com   Resources & Links: www.staciecodino.com   A WOMEN RISING® PRODUCTION Written, Directed and Produced by Sara Hirsh Bordo Editor and Consulting Producer: Eric Larner Post-Producer: Caroline Aylward  “Metamorphosis” by MILCK, Licensed courtesy of Resin8 Management

Have you tried what feels like everything you can think of to support your health but are still struggling? Do you often prioritize the needs of your family or friends over yourself?    Self-permission, or prioritizing your own well-being, is a crucial and often overlooked element of health, specifically for women with autoimmune conditions.    Episode 5 features Dr. Kelly Green, a clinical addiction and relationships psychologist and author who has taught everywhere from Harvard Medical School to Rutgers to St Edwards in the US and now is leading a new practice in Australia.   We discuss the roots and impacts of the 'good girl' and caretaker identities that women like me have often adopted from a young age and how conditioning influences self-worth, addiction patterns and the importance of self-permission to foster genuine wellness and authenticity.   In this episode, we cover: The formation of caretaker and 'good girl' identities in childhood The impact of conditioning on women's self-worth and behaviors How societal norms shape our permission and conditioning Practical steps for women to reclaim their innate self and reduce caregiver guilt This conversation promises a transformative insight into how societal norms directly undermine women’s wellness.   Ready to go deeper? Pre-order my new book, AUTOIMMUNITY & THE GOOD GIRLS, now! Available June 2, 2026 in the U.S., and July 28 internationally. Find it wherever books are sold. A portion of my proceeds support the Society for Women’s Health Research.  Learn more: www.goodgirlsbook.com Resources & Links: Website: www.restorativepsychology.com.au Instagram: @drkellyegreen Link to article: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/addiction-and-relationships/202301/the-power-of-restorative-feminism   A WOMEN RISING® PRODUCTION   Written, Directed and Produced by Sara Hirsh Bordo Editor and Consulting Producer: Eric Larner Post-Producer: Caroline Aylward  “Metamorphosis” by MILCK, Licensed courtesy of Resin8 Management

Are you struggling to prioritize your health amidst the demands of work, family and everyday life? Do you find it difficult to set boundaries or put yourself first? If so, this episode of Behind the Page is for you. Episode 4 features Sharon Lim, MS, CNS, LDN, a fellow eldest daughter navigating Hashimoto’s, who is making a powerful impact in the world of nutrition and autoimmune health. As the founder of the Nourishing Center and a certified nutrition specialist, Sharon helps women better understand and support their bodies through complex health journeys. In this conversation, we explore how many women, especially those in caretaker roles, delay prioritizing their health while waiting for permission, validation or a breaking point. Sharon shares how shifting this pattern is essential for true healing. She opens up about her own experience learning to say “no,” setting boundaries in both family and professional spaces and untangling the identity of being “the one who holds it all together.” Together, we unpack how these deeply ingrained roles can contribute to chronic stress and impact autoimmune conditions. In this episode, we cover: How eldest daughter and cultural expectations shape health behaviors The link between caretaker identity and immune system dysregulation Why boundary-setting is essential for healing Letting go of obligations that drain your energy Building self-worth and giving yourself permission to prioritize your health Practical tools to support your healing journey Prioritizing your health isn’t selfish... it’s essential. When you begin to recognize inherited roles, set clear boundaries, and choose yourself consistently, you create the conditions for real, lasting wellbeing.   Ready to go deeper? Pre-order my new book, AUTOIMMUNITY & THE GOOD GIRLS, now! Available June 2, 2026 in the U.S., and July 28 internationally. Find it wherever books are sold. A portion of proceeds supports the Society for Women’s Health Research.  Learn more: www.goodgirlsbook.com   Resources & Links: Society for Women’s Health Research Reparenting the Inner Child by Dr. Nicole LaPera Nourishing Center — www.nourishingcenter.com   A WOMEN RISING® PRODUCTION Written, Directed and Produced by Sara Hirsh Bordo Editor and Consulting Producer: Eric Larner Post-Producer: Caroline Aylward  “Metamorphosis” by MILCK, Licensed courtesy of Resin8 Management  

Did you know there is a direct connection between the trauma you experience as a child and your health as an adult? And that you can work with your nervous system to rewire old patterns and help boost your immune system?    It’s not just about what happens to us; it’s about how we process and heal from those experiences. The nervous system plays a crucial role in our health and learning to nurture it is key to reclaiming our well-being.    If you’re struggling with chronic illness or just want to better understand your body, this conversation is for you.    Episode 3 features Somatic Trauma Specialist, Trauma-Informed Reiki Izzy Swanson, TCYM. In this conversation, we explore the profound connection between trauma, energy work and autoimmune conditions.    I’d like to share a compassionate warning for the content ahead: The following conversation includes brief references to trauma I experienced as a young girl and in my 20s. I invite you to step away at any moment should you find it too sensitive and I thank you for choosing to protect yourself- now and always.   Main Topics: The use of Reiki and trauma-informed techniques to treat energy blockages related to trauma and autoimmunity How childhood trauma and cumulative stress influence physical health and autoimmune diseases The role of the nervous system in trauma responses and health outcomes The impact of societal and familial "good girl" conditioning on women’s health and trauma Intergenerational trauma, mother wounds, and their influence on self-regulation and healing How reprogramming self-beliefs can lead to remission of autoimmune symptoms The scientific basis linking chronic trauma, nervous system dysregulation and immune system crises Practical ways to create safety and healing through energy work and self-awareness Izzy’s work helps empower women to prioritize their well-being and foster healing.    Ready to dive deeper?   Pre-order now! Available June 2, 2026 in the U.S. and in 10 other countries on July 28th.  Get your copy wherever your favorite books are sold. A percent of the author's proceeds will benefit the Society for Women's Health Research. More about the book can be found at: www.goodgirlsbook.com   Resources and Links: Izzy’s Website: www.transformationreiki.com  Instagram: @transformationreiki   A WOMEN RISING® PRODUCTION Written, Directed and Produced by Sara Hirsh Bordo Editor and Consulting Producer: Eric Larner Post-Producer: Caroline Aylward  “Metamorphosis” by MILCK, Licensed courtesy of Resin8 Management

Have you ever put your needs last because you were too busy helping others? Have you had health concerns that fell by the wayside or felt dismissed?  Episode 2 features Dr. Kimberlee Sullivan, PT, head of clinical at Origin Physical Therapy. She is a compassionate practitioner, sharing her expertise and personal stories on healthcare, trauma and empowerment.  In today’s fast-paced world, many women, especially those raised to be 'good girls,' prioritize their responsibilities over their health, often neglecting their own needs. Our chat emphasizes that healing starts with awareness, compassion and advocating for oneself, especially in systems that often overlook women's layered health needs. Remember, your voice and self-care are powerful tools for transformation.   Main Topics: The impact of systemic healthcare shortcomings on women’s health How trauma manifests in the body and long-term health consequences The societal pressures and shame affecting women seeking care Practical tools for healthcare providers to process trauma and support patients The important role of self-advocacy and self-care in recovery and health outcomes How women’s health issues are often dismissed or misdiagnosed Dr. Sullivan’s insights remind us that the journey to wellness starts with self-advocacy and empowerment. It’s time to prioritize your health.    Ready to dive deeper?   Pre-order the book now! Available June 2, 2026.  Get your copy wherever your favorite books are sold. A percent of the author's proceeds will benefit the Society for Women's Health Research. More about the book can be found at: www.goodgirlsbook.com Resources and Links: Dr. Kimberlee Sullivan's work and practice Instagram: @theoriginway Shelby Haddon's short animated documentary "Tightly Wound"   A WOMEN RISING® PRODUCTION Written, Directed and Produced by Sara Hirsh Bordo Editor and Consulting Producer: Eric Larner Post-Producer: Caroline Aylward  “Metamorphosis” by MILCK, Licensed courtesy of Resin8 Management 

What if I told you that the pain you’re experiencing is actually a protective mechanism that can be healed? Or that your chronic symptoms can be alleviated entirely?    Episode 1 features highlights from my interview with the incredible Nicole Sachs, LCSW: a best-selling author, psychotherapist, and internationally recognized leader in MindBody medicine.    She is the creator of JournalSpeak®, a groundbreaking practice that has transformed the lives of thousands struggling with chronic pain, anxiety, and other conditions. And as the host of the podcast The Cure for Chronic Pain and founder of BreakAwake, Nicole has created a global community for healing.   We met for the first time last summer. I asked for her approach on working with women like me, with autoimmune disease- how she explains how we might have arrived at our diagnosis, how empowerment fits into the experience of that diagnosis, and how compassion for where we’ve been can help us make new decisions for how we want to live differently going forward.   Pre-order now! Available June 2, 2026 in the U.S. and in 10 other countries on July 28th.    Get your copy wherever your favorite books are sold. A percent of the author's proceeds will benefit the Society for Women's Health Research. More about the book can be found at: www.goodgirlsbook.com   Main Topics: Empowerment in autoimmune health and breaking free from societal programming Reframing autoimmune diagnosis as a system working perfectly in protective mode The importance of understanding normal developmental responses to emotional and physical stress Strategies for women to set boundaries and reclaim their power amidst social and familial pressures How societal collective shifts can accelerate women’s healing journeys Discover how shifting perspectives from blame to empowerment can transform living with autoimmune disease.   FOR MORE ON NICOLE: JournalSpeak The Cure for Chronic Pain Podcast Nicole Sachs' Website Mind Your Body - the book   Substack: https://nicolesachs.substack.com/ Instagram @nicolesachslcsw TikTok @nicolesachslcsw YouTube @thecureforchronicpain   A WOMEN RISING® PRODUCTION Written, Directed and Produced by Sara Hirsh Bordo Editor and Consulting Producer: Eric Larner Post-Producer: Caroline Aylward  “Metamorphosis” by MILCK, Licensed courtesy of Resin8 Management

Welcome to “Behind the Page”- a limited podcast series for my first book "Autoimmunity and the Good Girls: How the Permission to Put Ourselves First Has the Power to Keep Us Well" (HarperOne, June 2nd, Available Now for Pre-Order).   I’m your host Sara Hirsh Bordo. For the last 12 years, I’ve been a documentary filmmaker telling real stories of women and girls. I’m also an autoimmune diagnosed, lifelong recovering "good girl" and a recovering eldest daughter diagnosed with Hashimoto's.  For the first time, I’m coming out from behind the camera and the story I’m telling is mine. The story of what being raised to be good as a girl can do to our health as women.  Over the last many years, I have been speaking experts spanning science to soul, other daughters raised to be good and self-compromising as I was, and conducted my own research across 1000 autoimmune diagnosed American women. But I don’t want you to have to wait until June 2nd to read all what I think might be in service of you now. So I’m sharing a few favorite moments from my expert interviews in a handful of 15-20 minute episodes.  More about my book can be seen at www.goodgirlsbook.com. I will be donating a percentage of my proceeds from every book sale to the Society for Women’s Health Research. If what you heard might be in service of a friend or a family member, please share it.  Take care and I hope to see you next week for Episode One with Nicole Sachs, LCSW.