The Dr. Brighten Show

Is your child a picky eater, struggling with anxiety, ADHD, or frequent illnesses? Their gut health could be playing a bigger role than you think! In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Elisa Song, a Stanford-trained holistic pediatrician, breaks down how the gut microbiome influences everything from immunity and hormones to brain development and mood. We also dive deep into PANS/PANDAS, a terrifying yet underdiagnosed autoimmune brain condition affecting 1 in 200 children, and what parents need to know to get proper treatment. If you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver, this episode is a must-watch. Learn how to support your child’s gut health, identify hidden nutrient deficiencies, and advocate for the right medical care. This Episode Is Brought to You By: Chorus: http://chorusforlife.com/drbrighten and receive 10 percent off your order or subscription Dr. Brighten Essentials: https://drbrightenessentials.com use code POD15 for 15% off 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED: 🔹 Dr. Elisa Song’s Website: https://healthykidshappykids.com/ 🔹 Dr. Song’s Book: https://amzn.to/3EsfeuI 🔹 PANS/PANDAS Testing: https://www.moleculera.com/about-autoimmune-brain-panel/ 🔹 Dr. Brighten’s Prenatal (Choline-Rich for Brain Health!): https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/prenatal-plus?selling_plan=995786786 🔹 Executive Function Workbook for Kids: https://amzn.to/3Es2Z14 🔹 ADHD Superpowers Class on OutSchool: https://outschool.com/parents/14cfe14d-4324-4309-8cd6-6327c182b1f1/30ced844-9ccf-4f83-b99b-2deb6622f6fe?signup=false&usid=HqoqZwXS&utm_campaign=share_invite_link 🔹 NoPo Dentist in Portland Oregon (dentist who offers ozonated water) https://nopokids.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to another powerful episode of The Dr. Brighten Show! Today, we’re diving into the truth about metabolic health—why most people are struggling with weight loss, energy crashes, and hormone imbalances despite doing all the “right” things. If you’ve ever been told to just "eat less, move more" and felt like that advice didn’t work for you, then you’re going to love this conversation. I’m joined by Pamela Berrondo, a leading expert in women’s metabolic health and co-founder of Mesa Sana, who has helped over 15,000 women reset their metabolism and reclaim their vitality. In this episode, we’re cutting through the confusion around insulin, blood sugar, and hormones to help you understand what’s really holding you back from feeling your best. You’ll also learn how to boost your metabolism with simple yet powerful lifestyle changes. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: We start by breaking down the myths around diet and weight loss, including why the old "calories in, calories out" model is incomplete. Pamela explains why insulin resistance is one of the most underdiagnosed conditions affecting women today and how it plays a massive role in PCOS, infertility, perimenopause, and stubborn weight gain. We also discuss why most doctors miss early signs of metabolic dysfunction and how women can advocate for better testing and personalized nutrition. Pamela shares her personal journey with PCOS, insulin resistance, and hypothyroidism—and the exact lifestyle changes that helped her transform her health. If you’ve ever felt frustrated by slow progress or confused by conflicting health advice, this episode will empower you with clear, actionable steps to take control of your health, optimize your hormones, and finally achieve metabolic balance. You’ll also discover how to boost your metabolism naturally by making small but impactful changes to your daily habits. This Episode Is Brought to You By: Chorus: http://chorusforlife.com/drbrighten and receive 10 percent off your order or subscription Dr. Brighten Essentials: https://drbrightenessentials.com/ use code POD15 for 15% off 🛍 Get Dr. Brighten’s Favorite Supplements for Metabolism: Myo Inositol Plus https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/myoinositol-plus 📚 Links Mentioned in This Episode: 👉 Mesa Sana Cookbook – https://www.amazon.com/Mesa-Sana-Hard-Cover/dp/6079995409 👉 Dr. Brighten’s Free Resources – https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit 👉 Recommended Supplements:  Berberine https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/adrenal-support Myo-Inositol https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/myoinositol-plus Omega-3 https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/omega-plus Magnesium https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/magnesium-plus Adaptogens https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/adrenal-support B Vitamins https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/b-active-plus 👉 Research Papers & Articles on Metabolic Health:  Metabolic Enhancers to Boost your Metabolism https://drbrighten.com/metabolic-boosters/  Inositol for Weight Loss and Metabolic Health https://drbrighten.com/inositol-for-weight-loss/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show, we take a deep dive into the powerful yet often overlooked hormone, GABA—your brain’s natural brake system. Joining me to discuss why women experience a decline in GABA as they age, the link between progesterone and brain health, and how to optimize your hormones for better mood, sleep, and resilience is hormone expert Dr. Carrie Jones. 💡 If you’ve been struggling with anxiety, sleep disturbances, or sudden mood swings, this episode is packed with science-backed insights and practical strategies you can start using today! This episode is brought to you by: Coconu https://drbrighten.com/coconu use code DRBRIGHTEN15 for 15% off your order Dr. Brighten Essentials https://drbrightenessentials.com/: use code POD15 for 15% off 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:  - Dr. Brighten’s Website https://drbrighten.com/ - Free Hormone Balancing Recipe Guide Resources https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ - Supplement for Sleep & Anxiety: Adrenal Calm https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/adrenal-calm - L-Theanine Sleep and Mood Support Article https://drbrighten.com/l-theanine-benefits/ - How Passion Flower Can Calm Anxiety Article https://drbrighten.com/passionflower-benefits/ - How to Boost Low Progesterone Article https://drbrighten.com/boost-low-progesterone/  - Dr. Amy Killen’s episode https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/hrt-for-menopause/ 👩‍⚕️Follow Dr. Carrie Jones: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.carriejones/ - Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drcarriejones - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drcarriejones - The Root Cause Medicine Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-root-cause-medicine-podcast/id1589219026 - Website: https://www.drcarriejones.com/ 👩🏻‍⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjolenebrighten - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten - Website: https://www.drbrighten.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you struggling with chronic illness, post-viral fatigue, or stress that just won’t quit? Wondering how ancient Chinese medicine can revolutionize your health? This episode of The Dr. Brighten Show is a deep dive into how time-tested practices can help you take control of your well-being. Dr. Brighten welcomes Dr. Crawford, an expert in traditional Chinese medicine and integrative health, for a conversation that bridges ancient wisdom and modern science. In it they discuss the power of breathwork, managing complex conditions like long COVID, fibromyalgia, and adenomyosis, along with the medical facts on parasite cleanses. This episode is packed with actionable insights to transform your health. From debunking medical myths to exploring cutting-edge research on diet, movement, and plant-based therapies, this conversation will leave you rethinking everything you thought you knew about your body and its resilience. This episode is brought to you by: Chorus: use code DRBRIGHTEN Sunlighten: Brief description with code/ link. Support our sponsors and help keep this show free and packed with amazing guests! Links Mentioned in Episode: Brehan Crawford’s Instagram: @crawford_wellness  Brehan Crawford’s Tik Tok: @crawford_wellness N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) Tibetan Foot Soak – An herbal remedy discussed by Dr. Crawford Beyond The Pill by Dr. Jolene Brighten – A must-read for women navigating hormone health and coming off hormonal birth control. The Stress of Life by Hans Selye Is This Normal by Dr. Jolene Brighten – A guide to understanding what’s normal in women’s health and what’s not. Near Infrared Light Therapy Sunlighten Infrared Saunas – A home-friendly option for full-spectrum heat therapy. Electrolyte Replenishment – Dr. Crawford recommends ensuring proper hydration with natural electrolyte solutions, such as LMNT. Dr. Ram Cabrera – Mentioned for his expertise in endometriosis and adenomyosis Dr. Lora Shahine – Mentioned for her expertise in reproductive endocrinology Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you ready to reimagine the way you think about ADHD, mental health, and the neurodivergent brain? Today, we’re diving deep into the science, personal experiences, and practical strategies to thrive in a world designed for the neurotypical. I’m joined by Ludovico, a brilliant PhD researcher and advocate who discovered his ADHD while in grad school. Together, we unpack the complex layers of neurodivergence, hormonal interplay, and how our environment shapes our mental health. If you’ve ever felt misunderstood, overwhelmed, or simply curious about what makes your brain tick, this episode is for you. This Episode is Brought to You By Dr. Brighten Essentials use code POD15 for 15% off your order Fygg Toothpaste: use code DRBRIGHTEN for 15% off Links Mentioned in This Episode Ludovico on Instagram: @brain.curiosities Ludovico on Tik Tok: @brain.curiosities Ludovico’s book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DR7DX64Z  Recommended research: Dr. Oscar Lau’s genetic study on ADHD origins: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32451437/ Tools for sleep: Melatonin, Adrenal Calm, and binaural beats. Is This Normal by Dr. Jolene Brighten Study on bilingualism and cognitive benefits: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3820916/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wonder what it takes to age gracefully and thrive through every stage of life? In this episode, Dr. Amy Killen joins me, Dr. Jolene Brighten, for a no-holds-barred conversation on women’s health, longevity, and the game-changing science that's empowering women to live their best lives. From busting myths about hormone therapy to unveiling cutting-edge research on aging, we’re diving deep into the information every woman deserves to know. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: This episode isn’t just a conversation—it’s your toolkit for thriving at every age. Dr. Killen and I cover powerful strategies, surprising science, and actionable advice for reclaiming your health and vitality. This Episode is Brought to You By: Dr. Brighten Essentials use code POD15 for 15% off  Coconu use code DRBRIGHTEN15 for 15% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get ready to redefine your skincare and wellness game with today’s episode of The Dr. Brighten Show! Join me, Dr. Jolene Brighten, as I sit down with America’s holistic plastic surgeon, Dr. Tony Youn, to uncover the science-backed secrets of aging gracefully—without going under the knife. Dr. Youn, a social media sensation and best-selling author of Younger for Life, shares his revolutionary approach to skincare, nutrition, and regenerative health that’s changing the lives of millions. Whether you’re in your twenties looking to preserve your youthful glow or navigating menopause with grace, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. This episode is brought to you by: Dr. Brighten Essentials use code POD15 for 15% off Links mentioned in this episode: Dr. Tony Youn’s book: Younger for Life Follow Dr. Tony Youn on social media for daily tips - Website, Instagram,  Tik Tok, Youtube Youn Beauty – Dr. Youn’s skin care line Resources on menopause and hormone replacement therapy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to another episode of The Dr. Brighten Show! This week, we’re delving into one of the most misunderstood and underdiagnosed conditions affecting women globally: endometriosis. Joined by world-renowned minimally invasive surgeon Dr. Ramiro Cabrera Carranco, we uncover groundbreaking insights about this multisystemic inflammatory disease. With over 200 million women affected worldwide—and nearly half undiagnosed—this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to better understand endometriosis or support someone navigating it. If you’ve been told that your pain is “normal” or suspect endometriosis might be part of your story, don’t miss this empowering conversation. Together, we break down myths, explore advanced diagnostic tools, and provide actionable steps for improving quality of life. This Episode is Brought to You By: Dr. Brighten Essentials use code POD15 for 15% off Sunlighten Infrared Saunas Thank you to our sponsors for making this content possible and accessible to all! Links Mentioned in This Episode: Dr. Ramiro Cabrera’s Institute: Doyenne Institute Supplements Discussed: Vitex, Cat’s Claw, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Magnesium Glycinate. Books: Beyond the Pill by Dr. Jolene Brighten Podcast Episodes: Check out the endometriosis excision surgery prep protocol Be sure to subscribe, leave a comment, and share this episode with anyone who could benefit from it. Together, we’re changing the conversation around women’s health! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to The Dr. Brighten Show, where we empower women with science-based tools to take control of their health. In today’s episode, we tackle a topic that resonates with many: endometriosis excision surgery preparation. Dr. Jolene Brighten shares her deeply personal journey with endometriosis, blending her expertise in hormone health with firsthand insights. Whether you're considering surgery, exploring non-surgical options, or simply want to understand this condition better, this episode is packed with strategies, stories, and solutions. In this episode, you’ll learn the nitty-gritty details of surgical preparation. Dr. Brighten emphasizes the need to tailor plans to individual needs, diving into the role of nutrition, supplements, and mindset in recovery. She shares personal anecdotes, like her experience managing anxiety and the challenges of navigating medical systems as both a doctor and patient. The conversation highlights the lack of funding for endometriosis research, driving home the importance of self-advocacy and education. This Episode Is Brought to You By: Dr. Brighten Essentials use code POD15 for 15% off Links Mentioned in This Episode: Download Dr. Brighten’s Post-Op Guide at DrBrighten.com/endometriosis. Episode with Dr. Ram Cabrera on endometriosis surgery. Recommended books: Beyond The Pill and Is This Normal by Dr. Jolene Brighten Products mentioned: (Prenatal Plus, Adrenal Calm & Women's Probiotic)  How to find relief from endometriosis  Endometriosis flare-up strategy  Compression socks and hospital must-haves: Amazon list. Don’t miss this empowering conversation. If you or someone you know is navigating endometriosis or considering surgery, this episode offers invaluable insights and actionable steps. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s episode, I sit down with McCall McPherson, founder of the Modern Thyroid Clinic and advocate behind Thyroid Nation. Together, we dive deep into the nuances of thyroid health, GLP-1 medications, and how these new treatments are revolutionizing metabolic health for women worldwide. Whether you're dealing with weight challenges, autoimmune conditions, or simply curious about cutting-edge solutions, this episode is packed with life-changing insights you won’t want to miss. McCall and I explore the complexities of GLP-1 medications, like their history as diabetes treatments and their rise as weight loss game-changers. We also break down how they work, their anti-inflammatory benefits, and their potential role in reversing metabolic dysfunction. The discussion turns personal as we address the stigma women face when seeking help for thyroid or weight challenges, highlighting the critical need for better diagnostic tools and customized care. Whether you're struggling with autoimmune issues, managing postpartum thyroiditis, or curious about how these meds could improve your quality of life, we’ve got you covered. What will you learn? We’re cutting through the media noise, debunking myths, and giving you the tools to navigate your health with confidence. This episode is brought to you by: Dr. Brighten Essentials use code POD15 for 15% off Lumebox Support our sponsors and help keep this show free and packed with amazing guests! Links Mentioned in This Episode: McCall McPherson’s Instagram: @mccallmcphersonpa McCall McPherson’s Tik Tok: @mccallmcpherson McCall McPherson’s Youtube Modern Thyroid Clinic – Personalized care for thyroid and metabolic health. Modern Thyroid Lab Guide– McCall’s free resource for understanding thyroid lab tests and optimal ranges. Modern Weight Loss – Nationwide telemedicine program for metabolic health and weight management.  Article on GLP-1 medications for weight loss Article on thyroid medication options Common Thyroid Tests – TSH, Free T4, Free T3, Reverse T3, TPO Antibodies, and Thyroglobulin Antibodies Thyroid Health in Postpartum Women – Addressing risks like postpartum thyroiditis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did you know that the health of your mouth can affect your entire body—your immune system, sleep, and even your risk for diseases like Alzheimer’s? In today’s episode, I sit down with Dr. Victoria Sampson, a trailblazing dentist and oral health researcher, to explore the incredible connection between your oral microbiome and overall health. From the surprising ways your diet impacts your teeth to the fascinating link between gum disease and COVID complications, this conversation will completely change the way you think about oral health. In this fascinating discussion, we uncover how your oral microbiome is a mirror for your overall health and why keeping it in balance is critical for your well-being. Dr. Sampson explains how the foods we love—like lemon water, kimchi, and apple cider vinegar—can secretly harm our enamel and what you can do to mitigate the damage. We also dive into the role of oral health in women’s health, including how hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause can make women more susceptible to gum disease and inflammation. You’ll learn practical, science-backed strategies to protect your teeth, boost your oral microbiome, and even improve your sleep and mental clarity. This episode is brought to you by: Fygg Toothpaste: use code DRBRIGHTEN for 15% off Dr. Brighten Essentials: use code POD15 for 15% off Support our sponsors and help keep this show free and packed with amazing guests! Links Mentioned in This Episode: Dr. Victoria Sampson on Instagram: @Dr.VictoriaSampson The Health Society (London clinic): https://www.thehealthsociety.co.uk/victoria-sampson Oralis One (Oral Microbiome Test): https://thslabs.co.uk/products/oralis-1 Beekeeper’s Naturals Propolis Products: https://drbrighten.com/beekeepersnaturals Research on Gum Disease and Covid: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41415-020-1747-8 Weston Price Foundation: https://www.westonaprice.org/#gsc.tab=0 Is This Normal by Dr. Jolene Brighten: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feeling the effects of hormonal shifts? You're not alone. Perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause, can bring on a cascade of symptoms beyond hot flashes. From brain fog and fatigue to sleep disturbances and mood swings, this episode of The Dr. Brighten Show explores the complexities of perimenopause. Join Dr. Jolene Brighten as she unravels the mysteries of this phase, empowering you with the knowledge and tools to navigate these changes with grace and ease. Perimenopause can begin years before your last period, often with subtle yet impactful symptoms. This phase is characterized by hormonal fluctuations that can significantly impact your physical and emotional well-being. Understanding the nuances of these hormonal shifts, such as the decline in progesterone and the rise of FSH, is crucial for recognizing and addressing perimenopausal challenges. By tracking your cycles and identifying your unique symptom patterns, you can gain valuable insights into your body's changing needs and work with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized plan for navigating this transition. This Episode is Brought to You By: Dr. Brighten Essentials use code POD15 for 15% off your order Coconu use code DRBRIGHTEN15 for 15% off your order Support our sponsors and help keep this show free and packed with amazing guests! Links Mentioned in the Episode: Dr. Brighten's Website Recommended books: Is This Normal by Dr. Jolene Brighten Products mentioned: Balance Women's Hormone Support, Omega Plus & Magnesium Plus Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this trailer for The Dr. Brighten Show, Dr. Jolene Brighten lays out her fresh approach to women’s health—drawing on her expertise as a naturopathic endocrinologist, nutrition scientist, and more. Expect expert interviews, science-backed insights, and actionable strategies for thriving. Hit subscribe and get ready to transform your well-being from the inside out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices