From Habits to Hormones - Five of My Favorite Health & Wellness Podcast Episodes
As we step closer to the new year, many of us are looking for ways to improve our health, boost our energy, and make positive changes that stick. Whether you’re trying to form better habits, lose weight, balance your hormones, or simply eat healthier, podcasts can be a powerful resource to inspire and guide you. I’ve rounded up five of my favorite health and wellness podcasts that provide science-backed advice, practical tips, and empowering insights—all perfect for those who want to prioritize their well-being this year.
If You Are Looking to Change Some Habits in the New Year
Brene with James Clear on Atomic Habits
Unlocking Us (Dr. Brene Brown)
“You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.”
In this classic two-part episode of Unlocking Us, Brené Brown sits down with James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, to talk about how small, consistent changes can lead to powerful results. Instead of focusing on big, overwhelming goals, James explains how creating simple, positive habits—like improving your routines or adjusting your environment—can help you stick with healthier choices.
If you’re ready to start fresh in the new year, this episode is packed with easy-to-follow tips on breaking bad habits, building better ones, and becoming the version of yourself you truly want to be.
If You Struggle to Lose Weight
The Science of Obesity with Dr. Layne Norton
The Dr. Gabielle Lyon Show
In this episode of The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, Dr. Lyon talks with Dr. Layne Norton about the real reasons behind weight gain and why many women struggle to lose weight, even when they're "doing everything right." They break down common myths about diets and weight loss, explain how your metabolism really works, and why hormones and lifestyle matter just as much as calories. You’ll also learn why resistance training and protein are key to getting results that last.
This episode is perfect if you are looking to break free from fad diets, better understand your body, and learn tips to achieve sustainable weight loss in a healthy, practical way. I especially appreciate Dr. Layne Norton’s science-backed, no-BS approach to health!
If You Are a Woman Over the Age of 30
How to Navigate Menopause & Perimenopause For Maximum Health & Vitality
Huberman Lab (Dr. Andrew Huberman)
In this episode of The Huberman Lab podcast, Dr. Andrew Huberman talks with Dr. Mary Claire Haver, an OB/GYN who specializes in women’s health, about what happens to your body during perimenopause and menopause. They explain the changes that can impact your weight, energy, mood, and overall health, and Dr. Haver shares simple, practical tools to feel better—like what to eat, how to exercise, and how to get better sleep. They also talk about hormone replacement therapy (HRT), clearing up confusion around its safety, and offer tips for managing common issues like hot flashes, weight gain, and bone health.
Dr. Mary Claire Haver is a game-changer in the world of women’s health! This episode is a must-listen for women looking to take control of their health and thrive during perimenopause and menopause!
If You Want to Learn More About Your Hormones
The Endocrine System: Focusing on Adrenals, Thyroid and Sex Hormones
The Drive (Dr. Peter Attia)
In this episode, Dr. Attia provides an easy-to-understand overview of the body's hormone systems, focusing on the thyroid, adrenal glands, and sex hormones for both men and women. He explains how these hormones work together to keep you healthy and discusses common issues that can arise when they're out of balance. Dr. Attia also talks about treatment options for hormone imbalances, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT), offering practical advice for those dealing with related health concerns.
This episode is especially helpful as a starting point for women seeking to understand how their hormones affect their health and well-being.
If You Are Wanting to Make Better Food Choices
A Turning Point For Ultraprocessed Foods
The Daily - The New York Times
In this episode of The Daily, the discussion centers around the increasing prevalence of ultraprocessed foods in the American diet, and how these foods are linked to a higher risk of obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses. The episode focuses on a recent study that demonstrated that people who consumed the most ultraprocessed foods tended to eat more calories overall while getting fewer nutrients and gaining weight, compared to those on a whole-food diet.
This episode is particularly insightful for those aiming to make healthier dietary choices, offering a deeper understanding of how food processing affects nutrition and well-being.
Here’s to a Happy and Healthy New Year!
Carin Nielsen, MD
Are you ready to supercharge your health and wellness journey? I can help! As a board-certified Integrative & Functional Medicine physician, I can help you “think outside of the box and dig deeper with a variety of laboratory testing to help uncover the underlying root causes of your symptoms and create a plan personalized for you that goes beyond the prescription pad to incorporate diet/lifestyle change, nutritional supplements, holistic therapies, health coaching and more! Contact us to get started!