Fit + Fueled Life Podcast

In this episode, I chat with Jennifer Woodward about my experience experimenting with peptides over the years. We get into what actually helped, what didn’t go as planned, and some unexpected side effects along the way. I’m sharing the good, the bad, and what I’ve learned about dosing, protocols, and why working with someone who knows what they’re doing matters. Here’s what you’ll learn: - The peptide that made Tina's leg swell up like an egg and why she injected it again anyway - The senescent-cell peptide protocol that started magical and ended with headaches and GI issues - The peptide that took Tina from "operating at 20%, hating everyone" to 80% better in two injections - Why the same peptide can work spectacularly for one person and do nothing for the next - The difference in how Tirzepatide and Retatrutide actually felt in Tina's body and why she switched between them - The unexpected way practitioners are now using GHK-Cu, straight on the skin, not injected - Why "the dose makes the poison" might be…

In this episode, Tina sits down with Jennifer Woodward to get honest about their experiences with gut-focused peptides, including BPC-157, TB-500, KPV, and GLP-1s. After years of testing, protocols, supplements, and peptides, they talk about what helped, what didn’t, and why neither of them found the “magic fix” they were hoping for.They also explore the bigger picture behind gut health, including chronic stress, nervous system regulation, and the pressure to constantly do more. Tina and Jennifer share how scaling back, setting boundaries, making time for hobbies, and learning to actually relax may have made a bigger difference than another supplement or peptide ever could. Here’s what you’ll learn: - The gut peptide Tina swore was "the most magical thing" until it stopped working - The real reason GLP-1s and peptides stop working for some women (it's not the dose) - The archetype of person peptides tend to fail on (and why Tina and Jennifer fit it themselves) - Why "food noise" fear might be sabotaging your…

In this episode, Tina sits down with Samantha Lander about the numerous ways alcohol can affect women’s health particularly hormones, gut function, nutrient status, mood, and metabolism. Drawing on Samantha’s personal shift from her “wild child” years to her work in functional nutrition, they look beyond the immediate effects of a drink and explore what can happen hours later: disrupted neurotransmitters, depleted minerals, impaired methylation, estrogen clearance, brain fog, and changes in the gut microbiome. They also dive into addiction, GLP-1 medications, and how the two may be connected. Here’s what you’ll learn: - From allergies and being sick as a kid to discovering functional nutrition, her health story is anything but straightforward. - How recreational drug use in college escalated into selling drugs, getting arrested, and spending time in jail - Why addiction needs to be viewed as a disease and how changing that perspective can change the way we approach recovery - The turning point that finally…

In this episode, Tina welcomes back integrative medicine practitioner Curtis Gillespie Sayers for an honest, nuanced conversation about why fat loss can feel so difficult, even when you feel like you’re doing everything “right.” Drawing from Tina’s own experience with ulcerative colitis, chronic stress, and the process of learning to pay attention to her nervous system, they explore metabolic resistance, perimenopause, gut health, GLP-1 medications, keto days, carbohydrate timing, and popular peptides including MOTS-C and NAD+. Here’s what you’ll learn: - How your nervous system may influence the severity of your perimenopause symptoms and earlier menopause - The surprising connection between stress, detoxification, and stubborn belly fat - Why stress can wreak havoc on digestion, bloating, and SIBO symptoms - Why combining GLPs can produce better results - How strategically using keto days may support metabolic flexibility and insulin sensitivity - The relationship between insulin and cortisol that so many…

If you’re 40+ and wondering what you should be doing now to feel stronger, healthier, and more like yourself as you get older, this episode is for you. Tina shares 9 things she wishes she had started at 40—from the health habits she overlooked to the things that have made the biggest difference in how she feels, looks, and approaches aging today. These aren’t about chasing perfection or trying to turn back the clock. They’re the things Tina wishes she had known sooner and the things she would tell any woman in her 40s who wants to feel her best for the next decade and beyond. If you’re 40, 45, 50 or beyond, press play… you might just find a few things you want to start sooner rather than later! Here’s what you’ll learn: - Why I wish I had paid attention to progesterone sooner instead of assuming every new symptom was just part of getting older - The hormone I used to think of as a “male hormone” that I now pay much more attention to for muscle, strength, and healthy aging - Why glutathione became part of my…

In this episode, Tina sits down with Carrots ‘N’ Cake client Meghan to talk about what can happen when you stop chasing quick-fix diets and start focusing on strength, muscle, and long-term health. Meghan shares her experience with reverse dieting, macro tracking, GLP-1 microdosing, and functional testing, along with the everyday habits and mindset shifts, including letting go of all-or-nothing thinking, that helped her get stronger, feel better, and finally feel more at home in her body. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Meghan's journey from chronic dieter to feeling confident in her body again - What motivated her to join Fit + Fueled after years of doing all the "right" things - How years of Weight Watchers, low-calorie diets, and food rules kept her stuck - The surprising reason eating more was the key to finally making progress - The mindset shift that helped her stop letting the scale determine her success - Why building muscle (not chasing weight loss) became her biggest game changer - The timeline shift…

In this episode, Tina chats with Kerri Axelrod about why perimenopause can throw your digestion off, from bloating and constipation to changes in your gut health. They talk about how hormone shifts in perimenopause, stress, under-eating, food additives like sugar alcohols and gums, and your nervous system all play a role in how your gut feels. Plus, Kerri shares simple, practical strategies to support better digestion and make meals work better for your body. Here’s what you’ll learn: - The moment Kerri realized her hormones weren't actually the problem - Why perimenopause feels so much harder for some women than others - The reason HRT works wonders for one woman and does nothing for the next - The real reason digestion seems to fall apart after 40 - Why bloating suddenly becomes a whole different beast after 40 - The everyday habit that could be making your bloating worse - Could your stress be showing up in your gut? - Constipated? Your gallbladder might be trying to tell you something - Signs your…

In this episode, Tina sits down with perimenopause weight loss coach Kayla Johnson to unpack why so many women in midlife are struggling with metabolic health and why microdosing a GLP-1 may be the missing piece for some. Kayla breaks down what's actually happening in your body during this stage of life, so you can make informed decisions that support both your health and how you feel day to day. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Kayla was doing everything "right," so why did perimenopause hit her so hard? - The dementia research that made Kayla completely change her mind about GLPs - Why so many women call GLPs a "shortcut" when it might be their smartest move - The one responsibility nobody mentions before you start peptides - What microdosing actually does to your muscle - The sourcing mistake that can ruin your whole GLP experience - Why doing GLPs alone is risky, and what coaching changes - GLPs done right vs. GLPs gone wrong "GLPs are too expensive." Why that excuse doesn't hold up - The real cost of…

In this episode, Tina chats with Jennifer Woodward and gets real about their experience with retatrutide, tesamorelin, and KPV: the wins, the surprises, and the moments that made them rethink their approach. They highlight that more isn't always better and to be paying attention when your body starts sending signals that something isn't working. Here’s what you’ll learn: - The symptom at week 4 that finally made Tina stop Reta (and it wasn't nausea) - Why Jennifer tried retatrutide twice and went back to tirzepatide both times - What a triple agonist GLP actually does to your nervous system and why women feel it differently than men - The dosing mistake most people make with Reta and the protocol that works better - Why tesamorelin + KPV hits differently than tesamorelin + ipamorelin - The one peptide both of us said we'd probably never stop using - Why taking a 2-3 week break between GLPs might actually make them work better when you go back - What vivid dreams on growth hormone peptides are telling you…

In this episode, Tina sits down with Curtis Gillespie Sayers to challenge some of the most common assumptions about belly fat and explain why the issue is often far deeper than food and fitness. He shares how gut health, liver function, hormones, inflammation, stress, and nervous system regulation all influence where and why the body stores fat. He also discusses why so many women get trapped in cycles of restriction and over-exercising, and what needs to happen before the body feels safe enough to let go of excess weight. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Why the thing most women do first to lose belly fat is the exact reason it's not working - What belly fat after 40 is actually a symptom of and why treating it like a food and exercise problem keeps you stuck - The surprising connection between your liver, gut, and hormones and why belly fat won't budge no matter what you eat - What your bloating, puffiness, and stubborn belly fat are actually trying to tell you - The one thing you have to fix before…

In this episode, Tina sits down with Curtis to dig into what’s really behind weight loss resistance after 40. Because for a lot of women, it’s not just about calories, macros, or workouts. It’s everything happening underneath: chronic stress, inflammation, under-eating, nervous system overload, and a body that’s quietly shifting into protection mode in midlife. They also talk about why fat loss can suddenly stall, what most people miss when they try to “push harder,” and how things like detox pathways, recovery, and unresolved stress load all show up in body composition. If you’ve been doing more and getting less back, this conversation helps connect a lot of those dots. Here’s what you’ll learn: - The real reason you can't lose weight has nothing to do with your macros or your workouts - Why your body is literally designed to hold onto fat and what has to happen before it will let go - The connection between unresolved trauma and weight loss resistance that Curtis sees in almost every woman who has tried…

In this episode, Tina sits down with fellow FDN, Gina Harney where she shares a closer look at the deeper connections between lupus, gut health, hormones, and chronic inflammation, and why these issues rarely exist in isolation. Gina discusses how stress, gut dysfunction, nutrient depletion, and hormone shifts can all influence autoimmune patterns over time. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Why “random” symptoms (fatigue, skin issues, hormones, gut problems) are often connected, especially with lupus - How functional testing can uncover root causes when conventional answers fall short - The surprising way an eye infection sparked a deeper path into autoimmune healing - Why exercise intolerance isn’t just “being out of shape” and how it could be making symptoms worse - The link between histamine intolerance and worsening hormone symptoms (plus common high-histamine foods) - How gut dysbiosis and nutrient deficiencies can quietly drive autoimmune flares - The difference between healing your body vs. chasing fat…

In this episode, I sit down with nurse practitioner Danielle Brandt to talk about the misconceptions around testosterone for women and why the conversation is way more nuanced than social media makes it seem. We cover common signs of low testosterone in perimenopause, the different therapy options available, who might benefit, and how to know if it’s actually something worth considering for you. If you’ve been curious about testosterone but also overwhelmed by all the conflicting information online, this conversation will help you think about it in a much more informed way. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Why testosterone gets labeled a “male hormone” and why that’s misleading - The role testosterone plays in energy, mood, libido, and muscle for women - Signs your testosterone might be low (that you might be brushing off) - Why you can feel “off” even if your labs are technically “normal” - The barriers women face when trying to even test or treat low testosterone - Different ways testosterone is used (creams,…

If you've been doing the work (lifting, eating well, staying consistent), but your body still isn't responding the way you expect, this episode is for you! I sat down with coach Katie Hardie to talk about something that doesn't get nearly enough attention in the body composition conversation: cortisol. Not in a vague, stress-is-bad, you need a “cortisol coach” way, but in a real, specific, this-might-be-exactly-what's-happening-in-your-body way. We get into how chronic stress, under-fueling, poor recovery, and a nervous system that never fully downregulates can quietly work against muscle growth, even when you're doing everything else right. We also talk about why doing more is often the worst thing you can do, how cortisol affects where your body stores fat, and what it actually looks like to support your body in a way that lets muscle develop over time.This one hit close to home for me. I think it will for a lot of you too. Here’s what you’ll learn: - The real reason you’re training hard but not seeing…

In this episode, Curtis Gillespie Sayers is back to explore one of the more overlooked (and often misunderstood) root causes of gut health: parasites. Drawing from client cases, functional testing insights, and his own evolving perspective, he shares how parasites can contribute to bloating, fatigue, skin issues, stalled fat loss, and more, especially when other interventions haven’t fully worked. He also addresses the nuance: when parasites are worth investigating, how testing like GI-MAP fits in, and why not every symptom points in this direction. Here’s what you’ll learn: - The surprising reason women over 35 may be more susceptible to parasites - Why parasites are rarely the root cause, but still a piece you can’t ignore - What trauma has to do with parasites and why this piece gets missed - The connection between mold, heavy metals, and parasites - The subtle clues on your bloodwork that could point to parasites - The biggest missing pieces in typical parasite protocols (and why they fail) - The…

Tina sits down with Anna Hartman to talk about what's really happening when injuries linger, recovery stalls, and nothing you try seems to work. Anna has spent years helping women understand that injuries aren't just a physical problem, they're feedback. And until you address what's driving them, you'll keep ending up back at square one. Here’s what you’ll learn: - The difference between an athletic trainer, physical therapist, and personal trainer - How Anna’s mom’s cancer diagnosis completely changed the trajectory of her career - Why physical therapy only works about 60% of the time (and what’s missing) - Why “I’ve tried everything” might be the exact reason you’re still stuck - What your posture reveals about your organs and nervous system - The surprising reason you should never treat the shoulder first - How your nervous system might be the real driver behind your injuries - What back cramps and menstrual symptoms are trying to tell you - The unexpected connection between foot pain and your sex…

In this episode, Tina is joined by fellow Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner, Margaret Powell, to explore microdosing GLP-1s and how it may support body composition and overall health (not just a lower number on the scale). Rather than relying on higher doses for rapid weight loss, they break down how a more strategic, lower-dose approach may help support appetite regulation, muscle retention, and metabolic health, while potentially minimizing some of the common side effects seen with standard dosing. Here’s what you’ll learn: - How stress impacts blood sugar, inflammation, and fat gain - The right way to use GLPs so you don’t wreck your metabolism - Why microdosing peptides and going slow leads to better results - How reverse dieting (eating more) helped her finally lose 20 pounds - The biggest mistake she made with training and what finally worked - How a constant “go, go, go” lifestyle was keeping her inflamed - Her exact microdosing protocol for improving her body composition Start your GLP…

In this episode, Tina brings the conversation back to strategy. Instead of focusing on which peptide to take next, Tina walks through how to approach using peptides the right way: with clear goals, proper stacking, and realistic expectations about progress. She shares where women often go wrong (guessing, dosing, stacking, or skipping foundations) and how to approach peptides as part of a bigger, more thoughtful health body plan. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Answered questions live and helped troubleshoot real-life situations women are actually dealing with - A holistic approach to figuring out which peptides actually make sense for your body - How to thoughtfully stack peptides to support fat loss, energy, metabolism, and recovery (without overdoing it) - The 3 biggest mistakes women 40+ make with peptides and how to avoid spinning your wheels - How to turn what you’re learning into real action steps so you can get started with peptides - Next best steps and how to get personalized support inside Fit +…

In this episode, Tina breaks down three main peptide categories she finds especially helpful for women over 40. She explains the top peptides to consider, how each one works, when it might make sense to use them, and why context (like stress, nutrition, and metabolic health) ultimately determines how effective they’ll be. Here’s what you’ll learn: - The top peptides that can support energy, recovery, and metabolic health after 40 - How these peptides work and mistakes women often make with them - The reason some peptides fail if foundational health isn’t addressed first - Which peptides might just change how your body responds to nutrition and exercise Subscribe: https://carrotsncake.substack.com EllieMD: https://elliemd.com/tinahaupert Peptide for Practitioners [$100 off]: https://www.carrotsncake.com/offers/TrVo7mCz?coupon_code=PFPTINA Connect with Tina Haupert: https://carrotsncake.com/ Facebook: Carrots 'N' Cake https://www.facebook.com/carrotsncake Instagram: @carrotsncake…

In this episode, Tina shares a different way to think about peptides and performance tools… what she’s calling your “Trust Your Body Era.” Instead of chasing quick fixes or stacking a bunch of things hoping something works, she breaks down how to actually use peptides in a way that makes sense for your body. She also gets real about how her own approach has shifted…moving away from over-optimizing everything and into more alignment (and honestly… better results). Because especially in perimenopause and menopause, stress is higher, recovery is different, and your body isn’t going to respond to the same “do more, try more” strategy. This episode is about doing things smarter, not harder. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Why most “quick fixes” for metabolism and weight loss fall flat for women over 40 - How paying attention to your body’s signals can actually improve energy, hormones, and fat loss - Why understanding your physiology matters way more than chasing the next trendy peptide - A more grounded, realistic…

In this episode, I’m back with Curtis Gillespie Sayers, and we dig into why GLP-1s don’t always work the way people hope, especially for women in their late 30s, 40s, and beyond. Curtis shares insights from years of working with clients in functional nutrition and explains how things like metabolic adaptation, hormone shifts, gut issues, chronic stress, and not-so-great nutrition can all get in the way of these medications doing their job. Plus, he offers insights and solutions to help your GLP-1 work better. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Why GLP-1 medications work for some people and not for others - The surprising reason many people hit a weight loss plateau on GLP-1s - What damaged GLP receptors have to do with stubborn weight loss - Why being in a chronic calorie deficit can actually make fat loss harder - The metabolic cascade that happens when cortisol rises and thyroid function drops - The overlooked role of digestion, stomach acid, and bile when using GLP medications - Why some people experience hair…

In this episode, Tina walks through her personal experience using the growth hormone-stimulating peptides tesamorelin and ipamorelin, which are often promoted for improving body composition, muscle growth, and stubborn belly fat in midlife. But instead of a success story, this conversation is about nuance: what happened when her body didn’t respond the way she expected, how factors like nervous system stress, blood sugar, and autoimmune history can influence outcomes, and why peptides are never a replacement for solid health foundations. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Why some women buy peptides online and get zero results - How I learned that peptides are not one-size-fits-all and why context is everything - How to use TESA + ipamorelin strategically as part of a full-body plan, not just chasing the next shiny thing - What happens when you start too aggressively - The real reason peptides don’t work as pills and why injections matter. - How I managed water retention, blood sugar, and cortisol while using…

In this episode, Tina sits down with functional nutrition coach Lois Hughey to dig into what’s really going on behind the scenes when it comes to fat loss in midlife — things like metabolic slowdown, chronic under-eating, estrogen imbalances, gut issues, and sluggish liver detox. They chat about why standard blood tests often miss the full picture, how functional tests like GI-MAP and DUTCH can give you deeper insights, and why sometimes fat loss needs to take a backseat to actual healing. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Why eating as little as possible trains your body to resist fat loss - What metabolic adaptation actually is and how it develops over time - The functional testing patterns she sees again and again in women who are stuck - How estrogen dominance shows up on stool testing and why it matters, especially before adding HRT - Why gut dysfunction often drives hormonal symptoms - Why you can’t shortcut healing or do things out of order - What realistic timelines for healing and body recomposition…

In this episode, Tina chats with homeopath Vanessa Baldwin about looking at hormone health in a totally different way. Vanessa opens up about her own journey, including chronic bladder issues, autoimmune struggles, weight ups and downs, burnout, and a major health crash and how homeopathy played a role in her healing. They break down what homeopathy really is (and isn’t), how it’s different from conventional medicine, why your mental and emotional patterns matter just as much as physical symptoms, and how this approach can help women dealing with perimenopause, autoimmune conditions, or stubborn hormone issues. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Vanessa’s journey: undereating, overexercising, and multiple autoimmune diagnoses - Discovering homeopathy as a path to healing - What is homeopathy and how does it work? - Who should consider working with a homeopath - How homeopathy can support women in perimenopause and menopause - Common hormonal states and patterns homeopathy addresses - How family history and lineage…

In this episode, Tina sits down with Dane Johnson, founder of Crohn’s Colitis Lifestyle, to break down the real differences between IBD and IBS and why confusing the two can keep people stuck. They dive into the emotional weight of chronic digestive symptoms, the fear around food, and what it truly means to “heal your gut.” From popular diets like SCD and AIP to digestive enzymes, peptides, and biohacking tools, they explore what actually helps. More importantly, they zoom out to the often-overlooked foundations: anatomy, digestion, nervous system regulation, mindset, and long-term sustainability. This conversation challenges the idea that food alone is the answer and offers a grounded, empowering perspective for anyone navigating Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis, or chronic gut inflammation. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Why food alone isn’t the full solution for Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis - The lifestyle factors that silently trigger inflammation and most patients ignore - Why your happiness and mindset are…

In this episode, Tina is joined by returning guest Jennifer Woodward to cut through the noise and have an honest, experience-driven conversation about peptides in midlife. Drawing from years of hands-on use, client work, and clinical education, they unpack why peptides can be powerful tools when used strategically, how they fit alongside foundational habits like nutrition and strength training, and where unrealistic expectations often derail results. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Safety and long-term effects of peptides in perimenopause and menopause - The best peptides for women over 40 - Realistic timelines for noticing results - Tackling stubborn midlife belly fat and weight resistance - Protecting muscle and metabolism with GLP-1 peptides - Best peptides for supporting energy, brain fog, sleep, mood, and libido - How to know which peptides are best for you and your goals - Peptides for Practitioners Certification + Live Cohort now open for enrollment! Certification course + live cohort (50% off):…

In this episode, Tina breaks down glutathione, one of the most overlooked tools in women’s health, especially during perimenopause and after 40. Glutathione plays a key role in detoxification, hormone balance, energy production, inflammation control, and fat loss, yet levels naturally decline with age. Tina explains how chronic stress, inflammation, and metabolic strain can quietly deplete glutathione and stall progress, even when you’re eating well and training consistently. You’ll also learn why many glutathione supplements don’t work, what actually supports glutathione production, and how low levels can show up as fatigue, stubborn weight gain, poor recovery, and hormone symptoms. This episode is for women who feel like they’re doing everything “right” but still feel tired, inflamed, or stuck and want real clarity instead of another wellness trend. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Why women over 40 are often running low on glutathione, your body’s master antioxidant - How oxidative stress silently sabotages…

In this episode, Tina sits down with Mackenzie, a nurse practitioner and Fit + Fueled client who was no stranger to health advice. She had the knowledge, the background, and was already doing many of the right things. But as she entered perimenopause, the strategies that once worked stopped delivering results. Inside Fit + Fueled, Mackenzie learned how to adjust her approach for this stage of life and use the right strategies and tools for her body. Together, they discuss why normal labs can be misleading, why foundations matter before advanced tools, and how thinking differently is what finally led to real progress. Here’s what you’ll learn: - What life looked like before joining, even with a strong health background - The moment she realized doing “all the right things” wasn’t enough - How Fit + Fueled is different from other programs she’d tried - The parts of the program that had the biggest impact - The tools, education, and support that actually changed her day-to-day life - How Fit + Fueled works for…

After nearly two decades in the online health space, Tina Haupert dives into the 7 biggest health trends she’s personally tried and why she ultimately changed her mind about them. From cycle syncing, celery juice, and The Bean Protocol, to parasite detoxes, functional testing, and peptides, Tina breaks down what actually worked, what backfired, and what she continues to use as a woman navigating perimenopause, metabolism changes, gut health, and autoimmune challenges. This episode is perfect for women over 35 who feel confused by conflicting health advice, burned by trendy “quick fixes,” and ready for a smarter, science-backed approach to energy, fat loss, and long-term wellness. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Why more exercise nearly wrecked my metabolism, hormones, and gut - Cycle syncing workouts: what I still use and what I don’t - The bean protocol and why soluble fiber became essential for my gut and hormones - Celery juice: what helped, what didn’t, and why it’s not a cure-all - The parasite protocols I…

In this episode, Tina shares her daily wellness routine for 2026. She walks through her day-to-day nutrition, training, and lifestyle habits, explaining how adequate calories, protein, and fiber, along with targeted supplements and peptides, support hormones, longevity, and overall health. Throughout the episode, Tina shares practical insights on maintaining energy, strength, and vitality, especially for women in their 40s and beyond. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Why “doing everything right” suddenly stops working after 35 - The weight-loss mistake I made for years that wrecked my metabolism - Exactly how I stay lean, strong, and energized in my 40s - The calorie range that works for muscle, hormones, and fat loss - Why carbs are the missing piece for muscle, metabolism, and recovery - The simple meal framework I rely on week after week - The strength training split that builds muscle without burnout - How I strategically use peptides, HRT, and longevity tools - Why higher-dose creatine transformed my…

In this episode, Tina talks with Dr. Emily Kiberd, founder of Thyroid Strong, about managing Hashimoto’s through nutrition, strength training, and lifestyle habits. Dr. Kiberd shares her personal journey, the root causes of Hashimoto’s, and practical strategies for fat loss, muscle maintenance, and symptom management. They also cover over-exercising, peptides, autoimmune triggers, and complex cases involving gut health and mold exposure, offering actionable advice for women who want to feel strong, energized, and in control of their thyroid health. Here’s what you’ll learn: - How Hashimoto’s impacts your energy and metabolism during exercise - The subtle signs of overtraining vs. normal fatigue with thyroid issues - Why thyroid hormone fluctuations can affect muscle recovery and strength gains - Which types of exercise help and which may hurt Hashimoto’s - Key workout signals that your thyroid may be overworked - Which thyroid labs are critical for women exercising regularly - How thyroid function changes…

In this episode, Tina and Curtis introduce their new mentorship, Practitioner Business Lab, a 12-week program designed to help health practitioners close the gap between being great clinically and actually building a successful business. Curtis dives into what he sees every day in practice, including common mistakes with peptides and why skipping the foundations often leads to poor client outcomes. Tina shares the business side of the equation: how to create content that connects, show up more effectively on social media, and build systems that support growth instead of burnout. Together, they talk about the importance of real-world experience and case studies (not just following generic protocols or signing up for another certification) to get better results for clients and more confidence as a practitioner. Early enrollment opens December 29th with a limited-time savings for those who join early. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Why peptides fall flat when clients should see incredible results - Why your…

In this episode, Tina chats with Dr. Maria Sophocles, a board-certified OBGYN who specializes in gynecology, menopause, and sexual health. They dive into the often-overlooked topic of sex and pleasure in midlife, including Dr. Sophocles’ concept of the “bedroom gap” and her upcoming book. They talk about the physical changes that affect libido, how to communicate with your partner, and which treatments are safe and effective for improving sexual health. Dr. Sophocles shares practical tips for reclaiming sexual pleasure and why it’s so important for overall health and well-being. Here’s what you’ll learn: - The surprising reasons midlife women lose desire and why it’s not your fault - The real definition of “the bedroom gap” and why it widens after 40 - The silent sexual symptoms of perimenopause most women don’t recognize - How weight changes, energy dips, and body confidence affect your sex life - Why communication about sex is so hard and how to start conversations - The evidence-based treatments that…

In this episode, Tina shares how our newly restructured one-on-one coaching helps women in perimenopause and menopause see real body composition changes after years of feeling stuck. Instead of cookie-cutter protocols and expensive testing upfront, we now build month-to-month, personalized strategies that actually move the needle: think toned arms, a flatter waistline, better sleep, fewer cravings, improved digestion, and more energy than you’ve had in years. Functional testing is used only when needed, and multi-phase protocols help repair metabolism, balance hormones, and build strength in a way that’s realistic and sustainable. If you’re doing “everything right” and still not seeing results, this episode will show you how the right strategy changes everything. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Why our 1:1 program is built specifically for women who’ve been burned before and how we put YOU back in control of the process - What I discovered when I realized “being stuck” had nothing to do with effort and…

In this episode, Tina sits down with Curtis Gillespie Sayers to dive into the world of bioregulators. They explore what bioregulators are, how they differ from peptides, and why understanding proper use is critical for safety and effectiveness. Curtis and Tina discuss who can benefit, the science behind genetic expression, and why some people respond to peptides while others don’t. Listeners will also learn where to source reputable bioregulators, which ones are particularly helpful for women 35+ navigating perimenopause and menopause, and what to expect in terms of timing and results. This episode provides practical, evidence-based guidance for using bioregulators to support optimal long-term health. Here’s what you’ll learn: - What are bioregulators and how they are different from peptides - The surprising origin story of bioregulators (hint: they’re not new) - The hidden reason some people respond to peptides while others don’t - How bioregulators address complex issues traditional peptides can’t touch -…

In this episode, Tina chats with Dr. Holly Wyatt, an endocrinologist with over 20 years of clinical experience in long-term weight loss maintenance. She discusses the complexities of weight regulation, the role of hormones, and transitioning from weight loss to maintenance. She emphasizes the importance of physical activity, proper meal timing, and a supportive environment in sustaining weight loss. She also deep dives into the impact of GLP-1 medications and strategies for maintaining weight after discontinuing these drugs. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Why “doing everything right” can still leave you stuck - The silent ways your environment shapes your metabolism - How living in fat-loss mode for too long backfires on your body - How to know when it’s time to move from fat loss to maintenance - The shift that separates short-term results from lifelong success - What to do before layering in advanced supports like peptides or hormones - Why meal timing might matter more than calorie math - The key mindset…

In this episode, Tina chats with Mikki Williden to explore essential nutrition strategies for women in midlife. She discusses the pitfalls of common dietary habits and the importance of balancing fat loss goals without compromising hormones or energy levels. Mikki explains what 'metabolic flexibility' means and offers tips on shifting the body to burn more fat efficiently. She dives into how much protein women need for muscle maintenance, weight loss, and metabolism optimization, detailing how to distribute protein throughout the day for best results. She also discusses the concept of 'low carb' diets and their place for women over 40, offer strategies for fueling workouts, and highlight key supplements that support hormone balance and metabolic health. She also shares her insights on nutrition myths that need to be dispelled and offers practical advice for improving overall health. Here’s what you’ll learn: - The most common nutrition mistakes women in midlife make and how to fix them - How to balance fat…

In this episode, Tina chats with Casey Young, a registered dietitian and certified personal trainer, who specializes in working with women over the age of 40. Casey shares her journey from clinical dietitian to running a successful virtual fitness and nutrition coaching business. The conversation covers the common belief that metabolism significantly slows after 40, the role of strength training for midlife women, strategies to stay motivated with home workouts, and the importance of tracking progress beyond the scale. Casey offers actionable advice to help women achieve sustainable health, including embracing compound lifts, managing non-negotiables during busy times like the holidays, and focusing on long-term goals rather than short-term perfection. They also discuss Casey's favorite pre-workout snacks, essential home workout equipment, and mindset shifts for consistency and lasting results. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Does your metabolism really slow down after 40? - The #1 exercise shift women need to…

In this episode, Tina addresses one of the most common questions about GLP-1: whether one needs to be on it forever. She shares her personal experience with microdosing GLP-1, the benefits she noticed in managing blood sugar issues, and why she decided to stop taking it. She includes insights into who should consider weaning off GLP-1, different strategies for tapering off, and the importance of a gradual approach to prevent rebound weight gain. She also covers signs of metabolic stability versus struggle during the transition, managing appetite and energy, and practical nutrition and lifestyle strategies to support the body through the weaning process. Tina also highlights consulting with a healthcare professional before making any changes to one's GLP-1 routine. Here’s what you’ll learn: - My experience with transitioning off a GLP - What weaning off a GLP-1 actually means - How long your taper should last and why slower is better - Options for tapering off and what to consider - Signs your metabolism is…

In this episode, Tina chats with Alli, a fellow FDN and ulcerative colitis patient, all about the Functional Diagnostic Nutrition (FDN) program. They explore what makes FDN different from other health coaching certifications, the comprehensive functional lab tests included, and how they set health coaches apart. Tina and Allie also talk about the program's structure, its flexibility for busy professionals, and the robust support system FDN provides, both during and after certification. Additionally, they highlight the practical and business tools FDN offers to help graduates confidently launch their practices, making the investment in the program highly worthwhile. Here’s what you’ll learn: - What makes FDN different from other health coaching certifications - Whether you need any prerequisites before enrolling in FDN - Who FDN is really designed for (and who might want to think twice) - The exact functional lab tests you’ll master and how they set you apart - How FDN trains you to think, assess, and act…

In this episode, Tina sits down with Paula Reed, an FDN Clinical Advisor, certified midlife specialist, and experienced wellness provider, to discuss hot topics in women's health. Paula shares her journey into the field, emphasizing the importance of bio-identical hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women in perimenopause and menopause. She deep dives into the differences between synthetic and bio-identical hormones, the benefits of microdosing GLP-1s, and the often overlooked need for testosterone therapy in women. Paula also offers practical advice for discussing HRT with healthcare providers. Here’s what you’ll learn: - The truth behind the fear and confusion around bio-identical hormone therapy - What the Women’s Health Initiative got wrong and how it still impacts women’s health today - Synthetic vs. bio-identical hormones: why the difference matters - Progestin, progesterone, progestogen: what’s the difference and why it’s important to know - Signs it might be time to consider bio-identical hormone…

In this episode, Tina sits down with fellow FDN practitioner Michele Scarlet for an honest conversation about women’s health, metabolism, and weight loss. Michele shares her personal story with breast implant illness and how the hidden toxic load on her body impacted her health. They discuss why “healthy habits” like 4 a.m. workouts, fasted training, and constant discipline and willpower can sometimes do more harm than good, and why the “calories in, calories out” approach fails without strong metabolic health. The conversation also dives into the real causes of bloating, the crucial role your liver plays in energy and fat loss, and how to naturally support it for better hormone balance. Michele helps clear up confusion around carbs, belly fat, and CGMs while offering practical strategies to help women achieve true, sustainable health. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Her personal story with breast implant illness and the hidden toxic load on her body - Why your 4 a.m. workouts, fasted training, and pushing…

In this episode, Tina sits down with Britani, a former CNC client, to share her journey with microdosing GLP-1. Despite doing all the “right things,” Britani found herself gaining weight, battling inflammation with a nagging injury, and feeling stuck. She opens up about what finally made her reconsider GLP-1s, the misconceptions she had at first, and the eye-opening benefits she experienced beyond weight loss, like better recovery, reduced pain, and more strength in the gym. Britani also breaks down her microdosing approach, the mindset shift that changed everything, and her advice for other women in perimenopause who are curious about trying a GLP-1 themselves. Here’s what you’ll learn: - How she suddenly started gaining weight despite doing all the right things - What finally prompted her to try a GLP-1 - Misconceptions and hesitations she had before starting - Results she noticed in the first week and surprising benefits outside of weight loss - Her step-by-step microdosing strategy and schedule - The…

Tina welcomes Meagan Zarba, FDN-P, the newest practitioner on the Carrots ‘N’ Cake team. Meagan opens up about her personal health journey, which began in high school with persistent gut issues that led to multiple diagnoses, including PCOS and depression. She shares how functional and integrative approaches helped her finally heal and transform her life. In this episode, you’ll hear how stress, gut health, and hormones often form a hidden vicious cycle and what you can actually do about it. From surprising symptoms of chronic stress to the overlooked role of the vagus nerve, Meagan explains how tiny daily actions and mindset shifts can create lasting changes in your body and overall well-being. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Signs it’s time to look beyond “normal” bloodwork - Why your doctor’s “wait and see” approach could be keeping you stuck (and sick) - Surprising symptoms of chronic stress most women overlook - How gut health, stress, and hormones form a hidden vicious cycle - The tiny daily actions that…

In this episode, Tina welcomes past clients Rita and Nicole to discuss their experiences with the Fit and Fueled program. They share their initial struggles, motivations for joining, and the significant changes they noticed in their health and fitness journeys. Both women mention how the HTMA test gave them super helpful data, from uncovering thyroid cancer to finally understanding the hidden stressors draining their energy. They talk about what it’s really like to juggle demanding careers, family life, and still prioritize themselves, and how Fit + Fueled gave them a framework they could actually live with. Fit + Fueled is so much more than losing weight; it’s about creating a lifestyle that feels doable and lasts forever. Fit + Fueled enrollment opens on Monday, September 29th. https://carrots-n-cake.mykajabi.com/fit+fueled Here’s what you’ll learn: - What life was like before Fit + Fueled, including low energy, stubborn weight, and frustration with past programs - The moment they decided it was time for a…

In this episode, Tina and Jennifer discuss their new certification course, Peptides for Practitioners. The course is designed for health coaches, practitioners, and anyone interested in the use of peptides for health and wellness. Tina and Jennifer discuss the educational content, including 15 common peptides, their uses, and real-life applications. The course includes resources like client protocols, lab marker cheat sheets, and guidance on legal and ethical practices for unlicensed practitioners. Available as a self-paced program, it aims to provide all the necessary tools for integrating peptides into professional practice with confidence. Here’s what you’ll learn: - Who this certification is actually made for and why it might be perfect for you - The secret to layering peptides with nutrition, lifestyle, and hormones for next-level client results - What most practitioners get wrong about safety, legal, and ethical peptide use and how to do it right - Done-for-you tools that let you start using peptides…

In this episode, Tina is joined once again by integrative practitioner Curtis Gillespie Sayers to explore the role of peptides in managing ulcerative colitis (UC) and other autoimmune conditions. Curtis shares his expertise on how specific peptides can help reduce inflammation, support immune balance, and improve mitochondrial function. Together, they discuss why optimizing mitochondrial health is essential in UC management and outline practical considerations for incorporating peptides into a personalized healing plan. The conversation also covers potential side effects, the importance of individualized protocols, and why professional guidance is key for safe and effective use. Here’s what you’ll learn: - How peptides fit into the bigger picture of gut and immune system healing - The key immune-supportive peptides that can calm inflammation - Which peptides may help during a flare and how to use them safely - The best peptides for chronic, stubborn inflammation - The "Wolverine Stack"—what it is and why…

In this episode, Tina returns from a summer break to discuss her experience with microdosing GLP-1, particularly with the peptide Tirzepatide. She shares insights on GLP-1's misconceptions, its benefits for metabolism, and its impact on women in perimenopause and menopause. Emphasizing the importance of individualized medical advice, she shares details of her journey using peptides for her chronic condition, inflammatory issues, and appetite control. Additionally, she introduces her preferred telehealth provider and upcoming programs to support women considering peptide usage. Here’s what you’ll learn: - How my ulcerative colitis journey led me to try peptides - The mistakes I made buying and mixing peptides at home - The misconceptions I had about GLP-1s and what I learned instead - Why microdosing a GLP-1 might help with inflammation, blood sugar, and appetite - The surprising benefits for women in perimenopause and menopause - How my eating habits completely changed in just eight weeks - Why caffeine and…

In this episode, Tina sits down with Ryan Monahan, FDN-P, to uncover his 20-year battle with mystery symptoms, and how functional nutrition and testing finally gave him the answers he needed. Ryan dives into why relying solely on TSH testing can be misleading and explains the growing link between perimenopause and rising thyroid disorders. He breaks down the most common thyroid symptoms, why medication alone may not be enough for full recovery, and the key steps to naturally support thyroid health. Plus, he unpacks the role of leaky gut and gluten in autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s disease and what you can do to take back control of your health. If you’re struggling with thyroid issues or suspect something is off, you won’t want to miss this conversation! Here’s what you’ll learn: - Ryan’s 20-year struggle with mystery symptoms and how functional nutrition and testing provided answers - Why relying solely on TSH testing provides minimal insight - The surprising connection between perimenopause and the…

In this episode, Tina speaks with Carrots ‘N’ Cake coach and FDN Practitioner, Jennifer Woodward, about the importance of functional testing for women during their perimenopausal years. Jennifer provides clarity around some of the imbalances that women might experience in perimenopause and some of the common markers we see on functional tests. Jennifer discusses: - Common symptoms in perimenopause - The importance of functional lab testing - How the GI-MAP and DUTCH can provide clues - Minerals as the spark plugs of the body - Intermittent fasting and whether it’s helpful or harmful - Cardio as an extra stressor - And more… Connect with Tina Haupert: https://carrotsncake.com/ Facebook: Carrots 'N' Cake https://www.facebook.com/carrotsncake Instagram: carrotsncake https://www.instagram.com/carrotsncake YouTube: Tina Haupert https://www.youtube.com/user/carrotsncake Pinterest: Carrots 'N' Cake Hormone Testing & Nutrition Coaching https://www.pinterest.com/carrotsncake/ About Tina Haupert: Tina Haupert is the…