Mind Body Besties

In this episode, we’re joined by relationship therapist and intimacy coach, Ayala Parker, to unpack the truth about intimacy, obligation sex, and emotional disconnection in modern relationships. We talk about why many women have sex when they don’t want to and why sexual problems are often rooted in deeper emotional needs. We also explore how intimacy changes after kids, the role of the mental load, and why even “good” relationships can struggle in the bedroom. If you’ve ever felt disconnected, low desire, or confused about your sex life, this conversation will give you clarity and practical insight.Connect with Ayala: https://www.instagram.com/loveandsexpert/Follow Mind Body Besties:https://www.instagram.com/mind.body.besties/

What if your symptoms weren’t just something to fix—but something to listen to? What if symptoms were messages, and not just problems?In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Erin Hayford, a naturopathic doctor and somatic experiencing practitioner, to explore a powerful mind-body approach to chronic illness. Erin shares how the body communicates through symptoms, how trauma and emotions can be stored physically, and how learning to “talk” to your body can open the door to deeper healing.We also dive into empowerment in the healing journey, the balance between medical treatment and mind-body work, and how to start building a more connected relationship with your body.What You’ll LearnWhat it actually means to “talk to your body”How symptoms can be messages—not just problemsThe connection between trauma, emotions, and chronic illnessWhy your body isn’t working against youHow somatic experiencing helps access subconscious patternsThe difference between understanding vs. embodying healingWhy healing isn’t about blame—but about awareness and agencySimple ways to start listening to your body todayConnect with Dr. Erin:Website: https://www.aurorasomatic.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drerinhayford/Substack: https://drerinhayford.substack.comPodcast: Sacred Illness Podcast

If therapy isn’t working for you, it doesn’t mean you’re broken—or that you’ve “failed” at healing. In this episode, we break down the most common reasons therapy can feel stuck, frustrating, or ineffective, even when you’re showing up and doing the work. You’ll learn what might be missing from your current approach and how to tell if it’s time to shift strategies, modalities, or expectations. We’ll also talk about the difference between insight and real change, and why that gap keeps so many people feeling stuck. If you’ve ever wondered “why isn’t this helping?”—this episode is for you.

In this episode, Dr. April Jones (ND) joins Caty Miller (licensed therapist) and Dr. Rachel Yeager (ND) to unpack what actually impacts fertility—and what most people aren’t being told about fertility prep, cycle tracking, stress & nervous system regulation, supplements for egg quality, and integrative approaches to fertility. From why it can take months (or longer) to prepare the body for pregnancy, to the emotional toll of trying and the overlooked factors like stress, nutrition, and subtle hormone imbalances, this conversation blends science with real-life experience. Whether you’re actively trying to conceive or just want to better understand your body, this episode offers both practical insights and a refreshing dose of hope. Contact infoFollow April on Instagram: @drapriljonesndWebsite: ⁠www.apriljonesnd.com⁠Book a no-cost 15-minute alignment call (for Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan residents) via her website

In this episode, we break down what PMDD actually is, why it happens, and how it impacts both your mind and body. We explore a root-cause approach to healing, looking beyond symptom management to the deeper hormonal, nervous system, and lifestyle factors at play. You’ll also learn how therapy can serve as a powerful support—helping you navigate the emotional intensity, build resilience, and feel more in control throughout your cycle. If you’ve ever felt like you’re a different person each month, this conversation will help you feel seen and give you a path forward.Follow us on Instagram ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.Follow us on Youtube ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.

If your mood shifts throughout the month—feeling clear and grounded one week, then anxious, irritable, or low the next—this isn’t random.In this episode, we’re unpacking how hormone patterns influence your brain, your emotions, and your energy on a much deeper level than most women are ever taught.We walk through what’s actually happening across your cycle, why certain phases can feel so different, and how to tell the difference between what’s common… and what your body is trying to signal.We also get into the labs that are often overlooked—but can completely change how you understand your symptoms when interpreted correctly and timed properly.Inside the episode, we cover:how estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone shape mood, motivation, and emotional regulationwhy ferritin and thyroid function are foundational (and frequently missed)how hormone ratios matter just as much as individual levelswhy testing on the wrong day can give you misleading resultswhat changes when you’re on—or coming off—birth controlIf you’ve ever felt like a different version of yourself at certain points in your cycle, this will help you understand why—and what to actually look at next.Follow us on Instagram ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.Follow us on Youtube ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.

Neurotransmitters play a key role in mood, focus, sleep, and overall mental health—so why don’t we look at these more in the therapy world? This episode reveals how a simple urine test can help you gain additional insight into your brain chemistry (yes you read that right)! If you’re curious about the science behind brain chemistry and new tools being used in integrative mental health then this episode it for you! Work with Rachel: https://www.drrachelyeager.com/Follow us on Instagram ⁠here⁠.Follow us on Youtube ⁠here⁠.

What can Olympians and reality TV stars possibly teach us about mental health?A lot more than you think.In this episode, we unpack what happens when women live under extreme pressure — whether that’s training for gold medals or performing for millions on camera. We explore mental discipline vs. emotional wellbeing, identity wrapped up in performance, the nervous system cost of being watched, and what high-achieving women reveal about burnout, validation, attachment patterns, and hormones.From Simone Biles-level boundaries to reality TV relationship dynamics, we’re breaking down the psychology behind the spotlight — and what it can teach us about our own lives.Because even if you’re not competing in the Olympics or starring on Love Island… many of us are still performing.Let’s talk about what that does to your mind, body, and identity.Follow us on Instagram here.Follow us on Youtube here.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the psychology of people-pleasing and the hidden forces that drive us to prioritize others at our own expense. We explore how social conditioning, fear of conflict, and the desire for approval shape this pattern over time.We unpack why setting boundaries can feel so difficult, what gets in the way of asserting ourselves, and how to begin communicating limits in a healthier, more confident way. If you’ve ever said “yes” when you meant “no,” this conversation will help you understand the deeper patterns at play.Follow us on Instagram ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.Follow us on Youtube ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.

In this episode, we’re diving into the world of Botox, fillers, breast implants, and beauty trends with curiosity, not judgment. We break down how these procedures work, who might be more prone to side effects, and what the real health considerations are (including autoimmune reactions and breast implant illness).We also get honest about body image in the age of filters, why cosmetic work looks so natural now, and how to know if you’re doing it for the right reasons.Plus, we kick off our new Health Trend Audit of the Week by unpacking the hilarious (and painfully accurate) millennial stereotypes around therapy, narcissism, ADHD, and blaming our parents.If you’ve ever wondered whether cosmetic procedures are empowering, risky, overhyped—or all of the above—this conversation is for you.

In this episode, we unpack what the mental load really is and why it leaves so many of us feeling constantly tired. We share what’s on our own mental load lists—from the big responsibilities to the tiny things that never seem to leave our brains. We talk honestly about what helps us manage it, and just as importantly, the habits and patterns that make it heavier than it needs to be. Along the way, we explore how resilience shows up not as “doing it all,” but as learning when to ask for help, let things go, and stop expecting the impossible from ourselves.Follow us on Instagram ⁠here⁠.Follow us on Youtube ⁠here⁠.

Fluoride sits in one of the biggest gray areas in modern health—some real benefits, some potential concerns, and a lot of strong opinions in between. In this solo episode of Mind Body Besties, naturopathic doctor Rachel takes a grounded, non-fear-based look at fluoride and why it continues to spark so much debate.We zoom out on the history of water fluoridation, how fluoride actually works for teeth, what we know (and don’t know) about long-term, low-dose exposure, and how it may interact with thyroid health, the nervous system, and mineral balance. We also cover practical alternatives like hydroxyapatite toothpaste, water filtration, and how to think about fluoride in a way that supports informed consent—not anxiety.This episode is for health-curious humans who want context, nuance, and balanced information so they can make choices that feel right for their own body.Grab your coffee, get cozy, and let’s reset together.Follow us on Instagram here.Follow us on Youtube here.

In this episode, we sit down with holistic fitness creator and entrepreneur Marisa Maas (formerly Marisa Chaela) (@missfitandnerdy) to explore how strength training supports longevity, what healing from topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) really looks like, and why the skin microbiome plays a critical role in skin health. Marisa shares her personal healing journey alongside the science behind muscle, metabolism, and microbiome-based skincare, including the inspiration behind her new probiotic skincare line. This conversation offers a nuanced look at bio-individuality, resilience, and whole-body healing—and is for anyone navigating chronic skin issues, fitness with intention, or a deeper understanding of how the body truly heals.You can follow Marisa on Instagram hereYou can follow her on Youtube hereCheck out SymbioSkin probiotic skincare hereMindBodyBesties Podcast:Follow us on Instagram here.Follow us on TikTok here.Follow us on Youtube here.

In this episode, we dive into PANS and PANDAS—what they are, how they show up, and why they’re so often misunderstood. We explore the different treatment approaches, from mental health support to functional and medical interventions, and why addressing both is essential for real healing. We also talk about the challenges families face when these conditions aren’t widely recognized in mainstream medicine. And we break down an important truth: just because there isn’t a single definitive test doesn’t mean PANS and PANDAS aren’t real or devastatingly impactful.Follow us on Instagram ⁠here⁠.Follow us on TikTok ⁠here⁠.Follow us on Youtube ⁠here⁠.

In this episode, we have an uncancelled conversation about vaccines—exploring the questions many people quietly have but rarely feel safe asking. We break down how vaccines work, why schedules are designed the way they are, and common concerns like overvaccination, potential harms, and individual risk. Rachel brings a biological and clinical lens, while Katie offers insight into navigating fear, uncertainty, and polarized health narratives. This episode is about understanding the questions, the context, and the nuance—so you can think more clearly and make informed decisions without pressure.Resources: The Vaccine-Friendly Plan: Dr. Paul's Safe and Effective Approach to Immunity and Health-from Pregnancy Through Your Child's Teen YearsFollow us on Instagram here.Follow us on TikTok here.Follow us on Youtube here.

In this episode, Dr. Emily Rea, Doctor of Chinese Medicine, joins us to explore how acupuncture and Chinese medicine can support fertility and reproductive health. We discuss what conventional medicine often overlooks, including fertility workups that are often done too late. Dr. Rea also sheds light on male infertility factors that are frequently ignored, as well as the potential risks of testosterone replacement therapy when it comes to fertility. Together, we dive into holistic, whole-body approaches that address root causes and truly support reproductive health. If you’re navigating fertility challenges or curious about integrative care, this conversation offers insight, clarity, and hope.Contact Dr. Emily: nwafertility.comFollow her on IG: @nwafertilityFollow us on Instagram ⁠here⁠.Follow us on TikTok ⁠here⁠.Follow us on Youtube ⁠here⁠.

What if the language of “energy” in healing isn’t mystical—it’s biological? In this episode of Mind Body Besties, we explore how your body’s electromagnetic field, cellular light emission, and natural vibration influence mental health, brain function, and overall health and healing.We dive into why your mood shifts with your environment, why some people or spaces feel “draining” or “energizing,” and how frequency is the physics behind what many of us already sense. We talk about light therapy, the healing properties of water, and more! From skeptics to curious, we unpack how energy medicine has real scientific roots in brain and body health.If you’re interested in energy healing, bioenergetic medicine, mental health, brain healing, chronic illness, and holistic wellness, this episode is your bridge from skepticism to curiosity.Follow us on Instagram here.Follow us on TikTok here.Follow us on Youtube here.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Orie Quinn — the doctor whose unconventional approach didn’t just transform Caty’s daughter’s health, but also helped him survive a medical mystery that traditional medicine couldn’t unravel.And no, the unconventional part isn’t chiropractic. It’s applied kinesiology — also known as muscle testing — a method of communicating with the body that can identify things like inflammation triggers, nutrient deficiencies, or food sensitivities in seconds, without labs.Dr. Quinn shares how this surprising technique revealed the hidden cause behind his debilitating seizures in chiropractic school and became the key to his own healing. We also dive into how he uses this same approach to help infants, including the gentle cranial and neurological work that resolves babies’ reflux and latch issues in just a few visits.We break down: ✨ What muscle testing actually is — and why it works ✨ How it uncovered what doctors and labs completely missed ✨ The mineral imbalance that changed his life ✨ How babies respond to cranial + neurofascial work ✨ Why so many “mystery symptoms” improve when the body is finally heard.If you’ve ever wondered whether your symptoms have a deeper root — or if the body really can “speak” — this episode will make you rethink how healing works.You can contact Dr. Quinn at @ozarkholisticcenter or https://www.ozarkholisticcenter.comFollow us on Instagram here.Follow us on TikTok here.Follow us on Youtube here.

Today we’re unpacking the wellness trends everyone is talking about in 2025: raw milk, mocktails, electrolytes, mouth taping, and yes… even Ozempic. We talk about what we’ve tried, what we’re curious about, and what we’re not touching. From legit benefits to questionable hype, we’re sorting through it all so you don’t have to. Tune in for a fun and honest breakdown of what’s actually worth the buzz.Follow us on Instagram ⁠here⁠.Follow us on TikTok ⁠here⁠.Follow us on Youtube ⁠here⁠.Shop our favorite products here

Why do you feel anxious, irritable, foggy, or emotionally “off” before you even realize you’re getting sick? In this episode, Caty and Rachel dive into the fascinating mind-body science behind how common infections—earaches, sinus bugs, UTIs, lingering viruses, and even low-grade inflammation—can quietly hijack your mental health before and after symptoms show up. We also cover natural treatment options!We break down what’s really happening in your brain when your immune system kicks into gear, why your mood can tank even when you don’t have a fever, and how inflammation can biologically cause anxiety and low mood. Caty shares real-life stories from life with baby Ivy (aka the cutest germ factory), and Rachel explains the biology of cytokines, sickness behavior, and why your brain wants you to be antisocial when you’re fighting an infection.You’ll learn the red flags that your “bad mental health day” might actually be your body waving an SOS, the surprising infections that can impact mood, and the simple tools—both natural and science-backed—that can support your system when you’re feeling off.If you’ve ever thought “Why do I feel like a different person when I’m sick?” this episode will make everything click.Follow us on Instagram here.Follow us on TikTok here.Follow us on Youtube here.Check out Urinary Defense and a powerful Vitamin C: create a free account here for a 10% discount at Fullscript (like the professional-grade version of Amazon, where supplements are actually sourced directly from the manufacturer and stored in a temperature-controlled warehouse for potency). Once logged in, check it out here!

In this episode, we dive into how to lower your toxic load physically, mentally, and energetically using realistic wellness habits and sustainable lifestyle changes. We break down easy low-tox product swaps and non-toxic home upgrades, all while sharing how the 80/20 rule keeps a healthy lifestyle more balanced and achievable. We also get honest about the areas we’re working to improve on as we reduce stress, inflammation, and everyday toxin exposure. Tune in for practical tips and non-toxic living inspiration you can start using today to feel lighter, clearer, and more aligned.Favorite BrandsTruly FreeBranch Basics7th GenerationClean Living AppsEWG Healthy LivingYukaConnect with us!Follow us on Instagram here.Follow us on TikTok here.Follow us on Youtube here.

The topic everyone’s curious about but nobody wants to admit they’re curious about. Spoiler: if you’re human, you probably have parasites. We break down the types, where they hide, what symptoms look like (you’d be surprised at what common symptoms can be caused by hidden parasites!), how to get rid of them (safely!), and why Caty can’t stop imagining tiny creatures crawling around. Meanwhile, Rachel stays weirdly calm.Follow us on Instagram⁠ ⁠here⁠⁠.Follow us on TikTok⁠ ⁠here⁠⁠.Follow us on Youtube⁠ ⁠here⁠⁠.

In this solo episode, Caty dives into what chiropractic care is really all about — it’s so much more than just cracking backs. Chiropractors provide holistic, functional care that supports the body’s natural ability to heal and stay in balance at every stage of life. From caring for infants and supporting healthy pregnancies to addressing posture, pain, and even those mysterious symptoms that often get overlooked by conventional medicine, chiropractic care offers a whole-body approach to wellness. Tune in to learn how this hands-on, holistic practice can help you feel your best from the inside out.Follow us on Instagram ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.Follow us on TikTok ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.Follow us on Youtube ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.

In this episode, we dive into the heated debate over whether sunscreen might actually cause skin cancer or if it’s still your best defense against it. We break down the key differences between mineral and chemical sunscreens, how each works, and what the latest science really says. With misinformation spreading online and health influencers weighing in, it’s hard to know what to believe. Stay tuned to find out if your daily SPF is saving your skin or secretly sabotaging it.Follow us on Instagram ⁠here⁠.Follow us on TikTok ⁠here⁠.Follow us on Youtube ⁠here⁠.Our sunscreen recs:⁠Pipette⁠⁠Babyganics ⁠MyCHELLE

Feeling unmotivated, drained, or just… flat? You’re not alone—and it's not laziness. In this episode, therapist Caty and naturopathic doctor Rachel dive into the neuroscience behind dopamine—the brain’s “feel-good” chemical—and how modern life is frying our reward systems.From social media scrolling and binge-watching to endless notifications and online shopping, we explore how overstimulation leaves us anxious, numb, and searching for that next quick hit. Katie and Rachel share real-life stories, the mental health science behind dopamine burnout, and their favorite ways to reset—through nutrition, mindfulness, boundaries, and finding joy in the small stuff again.Grab your coffee, get cozy, and join us for a conversation that’ll help you feel more human, more grounded, and a little more you again.Follow us on Instagram here.Follow us on TikTok here.Follow us on Youtube here.Inositol supplement: create a free account here for a 10% discount at Fullscript (like the professional-grade version of Amazon, where supplements are actually sourced directly from the manufacturer and stored in a temperature-controlled warehouse for potency). Once logged in, check out Rachel's favorite brand of inositol here!

In this episode, Caty shares her personal journey through recurrent pregnancy loss, offering a raw and honest look at the emotional and physical toll of trying to conceive. Rachel joins the conversation to discuss fertility testing and treatment options that many medical providers overlook, shedding light on paths to answers that are often missed. This is a must-listen for those seeking understanding, validation, and next steps.Follow us on Instagram here.Follow us on TikTok here.Follow us on Youtube here.

In this mind-blowing episode, we dive deep into the incredible power of the brain and its influence on physical healing, strength, and overall health.Did you know that mentally rehearsing a skill — even without moving — can reinforce muscle memory and keep neural pathways sharp?Or that visualizing your recovery can actually reduce muscle loss and speed up healing?And what about the science behind how thinking positively can boost your immune system and even activate disease-fighting genes?And how open-label placebos (yes, even when you know it's a placebo!) can still trigger real physiological effectsThe message is clear: your brain is not just in your head — it’s shaping your entire body.Follow us on Instagram here.Follow us on TikTok here.Follow us on Youtube here.

DescriptionIn this episode, we break down what OCD really is, how it’s often misunderstood, and the deeper biological, emotional, and neurological roots behind obsessive thoughts and compulsions. Rachel shares the latest science on neurotransmitters, brain inflammation, and natural supports, while Caty offers real-life insight from her personal experience working with clients. Whether it’s you or someone you love, this episode sheds light on OCD subtypes, treatment options, and how to truly help—not hurt—someone who’s struggling.Follow us on Instagram here.Follow us on TikTok here.Follow us on Youtube here.NAC supplement: create a free account here for a 10% discount at Fullscript (like the professional-grade version of Amazon, where supplements are actually sourced directly from the manufacturer and stored in a temperature-controlled warehouse for potency). Once logged in, check out NAC here!

Feeling anxious, exhausted, or brain-fogged? It might be mold—not your mental health. Over 50% of U.S. homes and workplaces contain toxic mold levels that go undetected by standard testing, often mimicking anxiety, depression, fatigue, and even ADHD. In this episode, Rachel shares her personal story of mold illness misdiagnosis, the truth about remediation failures, how to test your home and body properly, and what actually works for healing. Learn how mold impacts your brain, immune system, and emotions—and why most doctors miss it.

Struggling to focus? ADHD symptoms? It might be ADHD—or something else entirely. We explore the rise in adult ADHD diagnoses, especially in women, and how to tell the difference between ADHD, trauma, anxiety, hormonal imbalances and inflammation. Learn how testing, therapy, medication, and natural tools like balancing your brain chemistry can help. Whether diagnosed or just curious, this episode helps you understand what’s really going on with your brain.Follow us on Instagram here.Follow us on TikTok here.Follow us on Youtube here.NuAdapt supplement (unavailable, so I have substituted Energy Xtra: create a free account here for a 10% discount at Fullscript (like the professional-grade version of Amazon, where supplements are actually sourced directly from the manufacturer and stored in a temperature-controlled warehouse for potency). Once logged in, check out Energy Xtra here!

Welcome to Mind Body Besties — your go-to podcast for holistic mental health and whole-body healing. Caty, a therapist, and Rachel, a naturopathic doctor, share their personal stories, what brought them together, and why they’re passionate about the intersection of physical, mental and spiritual health. Rooted in both holistic health and mental wellness, this podcast dives into the messy, beautiful intersection of mind, body, and spirit. From burnout to boundaries, gut health to grounding practices, we’re covering it all — with heart, humor, and zero judgment.Welcome to Mind Body Besties — your go-to podcast for holistic mental health and whole-body healing. Caty, a therapist, and Rachel, a naturopathic doctor, share their personal stories, what brought them together, and why they’re passionate about the intersection of physical, mental and spiritual health. Rooted in both holistic health and mental wellness, this podcast dives into the messy, beautiful intersection of mind, body, and spirit. From burnout to boundaries, gut health to grounding practices, we’re covering it all — with heart, humor, and zero judgment.Follow us on Instagram here.Follow us on TikTok here.Follow us on Youtube here.